Hysterectomy options exist for benign diseases with the route of hysterectomy influenced by several factors.  A variety of surgical approaches exist for the removal of the uterus, including vaginal, abdominal, or minimally invasive.  The size and shape of the uterus, and the indication for removal determine the most optimal approach for the patient. An abdominal hysterectomy is an operation to remove the uterus and cervix with or without the ovaries and fallopian tubes via the abdominal route.  This abdominal laparotomy approach requires opening the abdominal wall for tissue removal.