The Cost of Myomectomy as Uterine Fibroids Treatment
It is expensive to be sick and in need of treatment. Not getting the treatment that you need will be more costly in the long run, not only in terms of money but also in time and energy. If you have uterine fibroids, it would be advisable to review your options and research on costs so you can prepare accordingly. Your doctor should be able to guide you on what’s available for your particular case and what you can expect from each option.
While most doctors would tell you that fibroids are not dangerous and could be left untreated, there are those who will push for more aggressive treatment to stop further fibroids growth and to prevent more damage to the uterus and other organs. One of the common procedures that are used for treating fibroids is laparoscopic and robotic myomectomy. As opposed to open or conventional myomectomy, there are differences in cost and recovery time for this more modern procedure.
Money Matters
The initial challenge for many people who are presented with the option of getting surgical treatment is the financial impact of the procedures. It’s not always advisable to go for the cheaper option without weight the benefits first and ascertaining if it will indeed solve your fibroids problem.
Cost-wise, a laparoscopic and robotic myomectomy is comparable to open laparoscopy and even a hysterectomy. A patient in the United States can expect to spend about $15,000 to $20,000 for the procedure alone. This estimate does not include doctors’ fees yet. Additional costs to consider include post-operative medication, routine diagnostics and pelvic examinations, and special care requirements.
Physical Factors
The mind and the body should be prepared for any surgical procedure. Ensuring that the body is ready for the laparoscopic and robotic myomectomy to remove uterine fibroids takes more than just a few days. Aside from monitoring blood pressure levels, the patient should stop all pain medication and blood thinners at least a week before surgery. Smoking and drinking are to be avoided during same the period as well.
The procedure itself takes a few hours and does not require more than a day in the hospital. Although getting up and moving will hasten recovery, any strenuous activities should be avoided. The recovery period could stretch for a month to a month and a half. During recovery, pain relievers could be prescribed. Light bleeding could be expected post-operatively.
Reality Check
A laparoscopic and robotic myomectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that presents less risks of complications than an open myomectomy. Time on the operating table is shorter. There is less blood loss and recovery time is shorter as well. But, there are downsides to this procedure as well.
Complications and allergic reactions could happen on the table like any other surgical procedures that use general anesthesia. There is also the possibility of recurrence and the need to have another myomectomy several years down the road. Consider these factors too when you weigh the cost and recovery time for laparoscopic and robotic myomectomy versus other uterine fibroids treatment options.
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