Hysterectomy
An interesting specimen we've received recently, showing the removed uterus along with its Fallopian tubes and ovaries, following a procedure known as Hysterectomy. The uterus is a hollow muscular organ that nourishes the developing baby during pregnancy. During the surgery the whole uterus is usually removed, along with adjacent structures. There are many reasons regarding of why it is performed, including an endometrial cancer, cancer of the cervix, adenomyosis (presence of ectopic glandular tissue within the myometrium, causing heavy painful periods), ovarian cancer and uterine prolapse (slipping of the uterus into the vagina). Removal of the uterus leaves the patient unable to bear children (as does removal of ovaries and fallopian tubes) and has surgical risks as well as long-term effects like hormonal imbalance, so the surgery is normally recommended as a last resort when other treatment options are not available or have failed. Photo credit : @barlassennur
