Hysterectomies and Medical Errors
Many women undergo hysterectomies for benign, non-life-threatening reasons, including fibroids, endometriosis, and prolapse. Physicians may express to their patients that a hysterectomy does not pose long-term health risks. A new study, however, suggests that women who undergo a hysterectomy, even when they keep their ovaries, develop a greater risk for heart disease and other health issues.
The study compared almost 2,100 women who underwent a hysterectomy, all whose ovaries remained intact, against women who had not undergone surgery. They found that those who had the procedure had increased risks for the following:
- 14 percent higher risk for abnormal blood fat levels
- 13 percent higher risk for high blood pressure
- 18 percent higher risk for obesity
- 33 percent higher risk for heart disease
For younger women, the association was even more pronounced. Women who had the surgery under the age of 35 had a 4.6-fold higher risk of congestive heart failure, and a 2.5-fold higher risk for coronary artery disease, which is a buildup of plaque in the arteries. Researchers encourage women to consider nonsurgical therapies when possible due to the risks associated with a hysterectomy. Bleeding and fibroids are common reasons for a hysterectomy. However, there are alternatives, including endometrial ablation and uterine fibroids embolization.
If you or someone you love has been injured by a medical error or an unnecessary medical procedure, please call the New Jersey medical malpractice lawyers at Eichen Crutchlow Zaslow, LLP at 732-777-0100, or contact us online for a free consultation. Our offices are centrally located in Red Bank, Toms River, and Edison, New Jersey, and we serve clients throughout the state.
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