Minimally Invasive Surgery
Minimally invasive surgery has become the mainstream in gynecologic operating rooms across the United States. Advances in computer technology and laparoscopic instruments have allowed us to offer a minimally invasive approach to a much broader range of patients.
Laparoscopy is a surgical technique where a small camera, usually between 5 and 10 mm (less than ½ inch), is inserted into a patient’s abdomen for the purpose of visualization of the pelvic and abdominal anatomy. The minimally invasive surgical approach frequently allows both diagnosis and treatment of a condition. Several small incisions (less than ¼ inch) are made in abdomen for the introduction of laparoscopic instruments, such as laparoscopic scissors, scalpel, etc.
Multiple gynecologic oncology procedures and surgeries that were once only performed by an open technique can be potentially done by laparoscopy, including:
- Hysterectomy (removal of the uterus)
- Oophorectomy (removal of the ovaries)
- Lymph node dissection and staging of malignancies
Robotic assisted laparoscopic surgery (daVinci) provides surgeons with enhanced true 3-D vision and unprecedented precision of tissue handling. Utilizing the daVinci surgical system allows us to perform advanced procedures with far more precision, flexibility and dexterity than traditional open or laparoscopic techniques.
We have demonstrated the benefits of robotic hysterectomy which include:
- Greatly reduced post-operative pain
- Decreased blood loss
- Faster recovery time
- Shorter hospital stays, often with same day discharge
- Quicker return to daily activities
The decision to offer daVinci robotic surgery for a specific condition is based on the extent of surgery required, patient size, and the health condition of the patient.
What to expect with laparoscopic or robotic surgery
If you are a candidate for laparoscopic or robotic surgery, our office will give you pre-operative instructions.
Prior to Surgery
- Most patients will be evaluated in the Pre-anesthesia Clinic prior to surgery. This evaluation will improve safety and allow any testing required by the anesthesiologist to be completed prior to the day of surgery.
Day before Surgery
- The day prior to surgery you will be asked to have a liquid diet that can include creamed soups.
- At noon prior to the day of surgery, we will request that you take a 10 oz. bottle of magnesium citrate to cleanse the bowel and facilitate surgery. Full instructions are found in the pre-operative handout.
Surgery
- Your surgeon will see you in the pre-operative area on the day of your surgery. At that time, you will be asked to provide permission for us to speak with any family or friends in the Waiting Area following your surgery.
- Once you are under anesthesia, 3-5 small incisions will be made for placement of the surgical instruments. The operating table will be placed at a steep angle for the surgery and may result in some swelling of your face for a short time after the surgery.
- Skin incisions are closed with absorbable sutures. If a hysterectomy is performed, sutures will also be placed at the top of the vagina.
Post-Surgery
- Immediately following surgery, you will be monitored in the Recovery Room for approximately two hours. Once you can tolerate a liquid diet and urinate without difficulty, you may be dismissed from the hospital. Medications and instructions will be provided upon dismissal.