Variation in hysterectomy rates across small geographic areas of Massachusetts

Article Abstract:

A fivefold variation in the hysterectomy rate across small geographic areas of Massachusetts. Analysis of hospital discharge reports from 1982 to 1987 and 1989 indicated that eight areas had higher rates than expected and five had lower rates. For the years studied, the mean, age-adjusted hysterectomy rate was close to three hysterectomies per 1,000 women per year. When the hysterectomy rate was calculated for the 172 geographic areas in Massachusetts, it varied from one to five per 1,000 women. Age-adjusted rates are used to calculate the number of surgeries that would have occurred if the age range of the population in a certain geographic area reflected the age range in the state as a whole. Factors that may affect the variability in hysterectomy rates include physician opinion about indications for surgery, sociodemographic factors and the supply of health care resources.

Health aspects, Demographic aspects, Massachusetts

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Quality of life, health care utilization, and costs among women undergoing hysterectomy in a managed-care setting

Article Abstract:

A vaginal hysterectomy appears to be the most cost-effective way to do a hysterectomy. Researchers compared costs and patient outcomes in a study of 287 women who had a hysterectomy. Women who had a vaginal hysterectomy had the best outcomes and lowest costs compared to those who had an abdominal hysterectomy or a laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomy.

Methods, Medical care, Cost of, Health care costs

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Assessing symptoms before hysterectomy: is the medical record accurate?

Article Abstract:

Many medical records may not accurately describe a woman's symptoms from excessive uterine bleeding, according to a study of 497 women. This could lead to overtreatment or undertreatment, depending on the discrepancy.

Surgery, Medical records, Menorrhagia

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