A hysterectomy is an operation to remove the uterus. There are several types of hysterectomy. In a total hysterectomy, the cervix and uterus are removed. A less common type of hysterectomy, called a supracervical hysterectomy, removes the uterus, but leaves the cervix in place. A radical hysterectomy or a modified radical hysterectomy is usually performed for a cancerous condition. It removes the uterus, cervix, portion of the vagina, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and lymph nodes. (On rare occasions, one of the ovaries may be left, depending upon the age of the woman and the actual medical condition that is being treated.) Doctors can find out how far the cancer has spread through this operation.

A hysterectomy can be done with a traditional incision in the lower abdomen or pelvis in what is called an open procedure. It can be performed through the vagina, in a so-called vaginal hysterectomy. It can be performed with smaller incisions by using a tubular device called a laparoscope, which allows surgeons to view inside the body. This is called a laparoscopic hysterectomy. And, more recently, a robot can aid the surgeon in performing the hysterectomy.

If a radical hysterectomy or modified radical hysterectomy is to be performed, generally an open incision is used, but the newer surgical techniques are gaining in popularity.