Can endometriosis adhesions still occur after a total hysterectomy?
Yes, adhesions can still develop or persist after a total hysterectomy. While hysterectomy removes the uterus, it doesn't always eliminate all endometriosis tissue or prevent adhesions from forming.
Here's what can happen:
Adhesions from surgery itself Show Full Answer
Can endometriosis adhesions still occur after a total hysterectomy?
Yes, adhesions can still develop or persist after a total hysterectomy. While hysterectomy removes the uterus, it doesn't always eliminate all endometriosis tissue or prevent adhesions from forming.
Here's what can happen:
Adhesions from surgery itself:
- Any pelvic or abdominal surgery, including hysterectomy, can lead to new adhesion formation
- Studies show adhesions occur in up to 95% of open surgeries and about 5% of laparoscopic surgeries
- These are bands of scar tissue that cause organs to stick together
Remaining endometriosis tissue:
- If endometriosis tissue wasn't completely removed during surgery, it can continue causing inflammation and adhesions
- Some members report finding endometriosis in multiple areas even years after hysterectomy
- About 21.6% of people experience return of severe endometriosis pain after 37 months or more
Important to know:
A hysterectomy isn't considered a cure for endometriosis. The surgery must carefully remove all endometriosis tissue to lower the chances of pain returning. If you're experiencing symptoms after hysterectomy, it's worth discussing with your doctor whether remaining endometriosis or new adhesions might be the cause.
February 20
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