What surgical procedure is performed to remove the uterus?

The surgical procedure specifically designated for the removal of the uterus is a hysterectomy. This procedure can be performed through different approaches, such as abdominal, vaginal, or laparoscopic methods, but fundamentally, it focuses on excising the uterus from the body for various medical reasons, such as fibroids, endometriosis, or uterine cancer.

In contrast, laparoscopy refers to a minimally invasive surgical technique that allows for visualization and access to the abdominal cavity but is not a procedure designed solely for the removal of the uterus. Colposcopy is a diagnostic procedure that involves examining the cervix using a special magnifying instrument, primarily for screening and diagnosing cervical conditions, rather than any form of surgical removal. Curettage involves scraping the uterus's lining but is typically a part of procedures like dilation and curettage (D&C) rather than a standalone procedure to remove the uterus itself.

Thus, the definition and purpose of a hysterectomy clearly identify it as the correct answer among the options provided.