Publication:

Changing trends, indications and outcomes of hysterectomy: a six-year retrospective study at a tertiary care center (2020–2025)

Background Hysterectomy remains one of the most commonly performed gynecological surgeries worldwide. Evaluating institutional trends helps improve surgical decision-making and patient outcomes. To analyze trends, indications, surgical approaches, complications and postoperative recovery among women undergoing hysterectomy over a six-year period.

Methods A retrospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary care teaching hospital. Data from women who underwent hysterectomy between January 2020 and December 2025 were reviewed. Variables analyzed included surgical volume, type of hysterectomy, indications, age distribution, complications and recovery outcomes.

Results A total of 1,061 hysterectomies were performed during the study period. Abdominal hysterectomy was the most common surgical approach (51.93%), followed by vaginal hysterectomy (38.40%) and laparoscopic hysterectomy (9.6%). Abnormal uterine bleeding and pelvic organ prolapse were the leading indications. The majority of patients were aged 40–49 years. A total of 103 complications were documented, with complication rates of 10.9% for abdominal, 7.8% for vaginal and 10.8% for laparoscopic hysterectomy. The association between surgical route and complications was statistically significant (p=0.004). Most patients were discharged within five days and selected postoperative recovery parameters improved over the study period. Postoperative symptom data were available from routine follow-up documentation but were not assessed using a validated quality-of-life instrument. Decreased sexual desire (60%) and sleep disturbance (45%) were more frequently documented.

Conclusions Hysterectomy trends in our institution demonstrate a predominance of abdominal surgery with gradual improvements in postoperative recovery. Expanding minimally invasive surgical approaches and strengthening perioperative care may further enhance patient outcomes.