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A radical hysterectomy removes the uterus, cervix, part of the upper vagina, and surrounding tissues and ligaments. It is more extensive than a simple hysterectomy. Nearby lymph nodes may also be assessed or removed, depending on the cancer plan. Removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes is a separate decision.
read more about radical hysterectomy ...Radical hysterectomy may be used to treat selected cases of cervical cancer. Removing tissue around the cervix helps address cancer that may extend beyond the cervix itself. The cancer stage, tumor features, and overall health guide the choice of treatment. Some patients may receive another treatment instead of surgery or need treatment afterward.
The surgeon removes the uterus and cervix along with a portion of the upper vagina and tissue beside the cervix. Lymph nodes may be checked or removed to assess whether cancer has spread. The operation is commonly performed through an abdominal incision, though the oncology team determines the approach. The removed tissue is examined to guide further care.
Hospital care and the recovery timeline depend on the surgical approach and extent of treatment. A urinary catheter may remain in place while the bladder recovers. The care team gives instructions about wound care, activity, and when to resume vaginal intercourse. Follow-up includes a review of the tissue results and any need for additional cancer treatment.
Risks include bleeding, infection, blood clots, and injury to nearby organs. Surgery around the cervix can affect bladder function, including the ability to empty the bladder. Changes in sexual function or swelling related to lymph node removal may also occur. Removing both ovaries before natural menopause causes surgical menopause.
A radical hysterectomy removes tissue around the cervix and part of the upper vagina in addition to the uterus and cervix. A simple hysterectomy removes less surrounding tissue.
No. Whether to remove the ovaries depends on the cancer diagnosis, age, and surgical plan.
No. Removing the uterus makes carrying a pregnancy impossible.
That depends on the examination of the removed tissue and the cancer stage. Some patients need radiation, chemotherapy, or both after surgery.
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Hysterectomy. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/hysterectomy. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.
Ovarian management during radical hysterectomy in the premenopausal patient. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8336862/. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.
Surgery to remove the womb (radical hysterectomy). Cancer Research UK. https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/cervical-cancer/treatment/surgery/surgery-remove-womb-radical-hysterectomy. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.