Why are most hysterectomies performed open rather than laparoscopically?

Question

Currently, the most common way hysterectomies are performed in this country is through an open procedure called a total abdominal hysterectomy. This leaves a large visible 6-inch scar on the abdomen.

http://www.charlotte.com/mld/observer/news/local/states/north_carolina/counties/gaston/16182192.htm

Answer 1

Nice to know all these information from both of you.

Answer 2

First of all who says so? I have not seen statistics but I think today most of the hysterectomies are performed, if possible
by laparoscopy you can read here the reasons or explanations why one or the other procedure is used:
http://www.medicinenet.com/hysterectomy/page4.htm

I copied the page too:
Vaginal Hysterectomy

During this procedure, the uterus is removed through the vagina. A vaginal hysterectomy is appropriate only for conditions such as uterine prolapse, endometrial hyperplasia, or cervical dysplasia. These are conditions in which the uterus is not too large, and in which the whole abdomen does require examination using a more extensive surgical procedure. The woman will need to have her legs raised up in a stirrup device throughout the procedure. Women who have not had children may not have a large enough vaginal canal for this type of procedure. If a woman has too large a uterus, cannot have her legs raised in the stirrup device for prolonged periods, or has other reasons why the whole upper abdomen must be further examined, the doctor will usually recommend an abdominal hysterectomy (see above). In general, laparoscopic vaginal hysterectomy is more expensive and has higher complication rates than abdominal hysterectomy.

Laparoscopy-Assisted Vaginal Hysterectomy

This is similar to the vaginal hysterectomy procedure described above, but it adds the use of a laparoscope. A laparoscope is a very thin viewing tube with a magnifying glass-like device at the end of it. Certain women would be best served by having laparoscopy used during vaginal hysterectomy because it allows the upper abdomen to be carefully inspected during surgery. Examples of uses of the laparoscope would be for early endometrial cancer, to verify lack of spread, or if oophorectomy (removal of the ovaries) is planned. Compared to simple vaginal hysterectomy or abdominal hysterectomy, it is a more expensive procedure, is more prone to complications, requires longer to perform, and is associated with longer hospital stays. Just as with simple vaginal hysterectomy without a laparoscope, the uterus must not be excessively large. The physician will also review the medical situation to be sure there are no special risks prohibiting use of the procedure, such as prior surgery that could have increased the risk for abnormal scarring (adhesions). If a woman has such a history of prior surgery, or if she has a large pelvic mass, a regular abdominal hysterectomy is probably best.