Definition

Noun: A radical hysterectomy is a major surgical procedure. It involves the removal of the uterus, cervix, the upper part of the vagina, and the tissues (parametrium) and lymph nodes surrounding these organs. This operation is typically performed to treat certain gynecological cancers, most commonly cervical cancer.

Usage

This term is used in medical contexts to specify a comprehensive surgical treatment for cancer. * The oncologist recommended a radical hysterectomy to ensure complete removal of the cancerous tissue. * Compared to a simple hysterectomy, a radical hysterectomy is a more extensive operation.

Advanced Usage

• The procedure is formally known as a radical hysterectomy with bilateral pelvic lymphadenectomy, highlighting the removal of lymph nodes.
• It may be performed via different surgical approaches, such as an open radical hysterectomy (through a large abdominal incision) or a minimally invasive radical hysterectomy (using laparoscopy or robotics).

Variants and Related Words

• Simple Hysterectomy (n): Surgical removal of the uterus and cervix only.
• Total Hysterectomy (n): Often synonymous with a simple hysterectomy, removing the uterus and cervix.
• Hysterectomy (n): The general term for the surgical removal of the uterus.
• Trachelectomy (n): A fertility-sparing surgery that removes the cervix and upper vagina but leaves the uterus in place.

Synonyms

• Wertheim's operation: A historical term for this procedure.
• Radical trachelectomy: A related but distinct fertility-sparing procedure for cervical cancer.

Related Phrases

• To undergo a radical hysterectomy: The phrase describing the patient's experience.
  • She will undergo a radical hysterectomy next month.

Noun

1. surgical removal of the uterus and the ovaries and oviducts and cervix and related lymph nodes