“In some hospitals because of the danger of this procedure to the mother, an operation like a miniature Caesarean section called a hysterotomy has to be performed.”

“Review of the operative report from previous hysterotomy or myomectomy should be documented in detail.”

“But while a caesarean is carried out to save the life of a baby, a hysterotomy has as its aim to eliminate it.”

“The patient's medical history was significant only for prior cholecystectomy, total hysterectomy and oophorectomy.”

“The multicenter study enrolled women more than 40 years of age who had undergone hysterectomy or oophorectomy.”

“The study enrolled women between 31 and 56 years of age who had undergone hysterectomy and bilateral oophorectomy before natural menopause.”

“Several of the other cases relate to allegedly unnecessary Caesarean hysterectomies carried out some years ago.”

“And this was being used for other types of surgery including hysterectomies, laparoscopies and prolapse repairs.”

“Being aware of this very substantial fall in hysterectomies is important and may be helpful in counselling patients before referral.”