Shared decision making and informed consent for hysterectomy

This article provides an overview of the components of the informed consent process for surgery including the components specific to hysterectomy. Shared decision making and informed consent for hysterectomy rely on a mutual understanding by the patient and surgeon of the goals, risks, benefits, and alternatives as well as the choice of hysterectomy technique. The importance of a patient-centered approach is emphasized with an explanation of several communication methods and resources for decision aids that will help to ensure that patients have a good understanding of the items listed above and are able to provide informed consent.