Hysterectomy in Denmark 1977–2011: changes in rate, indications, and hospitalization

ObjectiveTo describe conditions regarding hysterectomy for benign indications during the past 35 years in Denmark.Study designPopulation-based register study of 167,802 women who underwent hysterectomy for benign conditions in the period 1977–2011. Patient data regarding operative techniques, hospitalization, indications, patient age, and geography were extracted from the Danish National Patient Register.ResultsThe overall rate of hysterectomy was around 180/100,000 woman years during the period. A rise in laparoscopic and vaginal hysterectomy was seen at the expense of abdominal hysterectomy. The indication of pelvic organ prolapse and abnormal uterine bleeding increased while the indication of fibroids decreased. The average age of women at time of hysterectomy increased from 46 years in 1977–1981 to 50 years in 2006–2011. The mean number of hospitalization days was reduced by 75%. Regional differences were detected regarding route of hysterectomy and hospitalization.ConclusionsThis study demonstrates a change in the pattern of indications for hysterectomy, increased age of the affected women, reduced length of stay in the hospital, and a rise in the percentage of minimal invasive surgical procedures.