Updated October 08, 2005.

Question: What is a radical hysterectomy?

Answer: A radical hysterectomy is surgery used to treat forms of gynecological cancer. It is also used to treat other conditions, but more commonly used to treat cervical cancer.

A radical hysterectomy involves the removal of the uterus, cervix and upper part of the vagina. Tissues that support the uterus and lymph nodes are also removed.