Related Experiment Videos
Relation between hysterectomy and the irritable bowel: a prospective study
A Prior1, K M Stanley, A R Smith
1Department of Gastrointestinal Physiology and Nutrition, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield.
Gut
|June 1, 1992
Summary
Hysterectomy can improve existing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms in many women. However, new IBS symptoms develop in 10% of patients after surgery, with constipation being most common.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Gynecology
- Surgical Outcomes
Background:
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder.
- Some women report symptom onset following hysterectomy.
- The impact of hysterectomy on IBS requires prospective investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively assess the incidence of new-onset gastrointestinal symptoms after hysterectomy.
- To evaluate the effect of hysterectomy on pre-existing IBS symptoms.
- To identify specific symptom patterns arising post-surgery.
Main Methods:
- Prospective cohort study involving 205 women undergoing hysterectomy.
- Symptom questionnaires administered pre-surgery, at six weeks, and six months post-surgery.
- Analysis of gastrointestinal symptomatology, including IBS-suggestive symptoms.
Main Results:
- Pre-existing IBS symptoms improved in 60% of women post-hysterectomy.
- New IBS-suggestive symptoms developed in 10% of previously asymptomatic women.
- Constipation-predominant IBS was the most frequent new symptom complex (5% incidence).
Conclusions:
- Hysterectomy offers symptom improvement for many women with pre-existing IBS.
- A significant minority of women develop new IBS symptoms post-hysterectomy.
- Gastroenterologists should anticipate and manage post-hysterectomy gastrointestinal issues.