Minimally invasive gynecologic surgery

Gynecologic surgeries help diagnose and treat endometriosis, abnormal vaginal bleeding, uterine fibroids and many other conditions. For most patients, surgery involves minimally invasive techniques rather than open surgery. Compared to open surgeries, minimally invasive surgeries lead to less pain and blood loss, a faster recovery and other benefits.

Minimally invasive techniques

Depending on your procedure and other factors, your surgeon may perform:

• Hysteroscopy – uses a thin tool with a light to examine or treat conditions inside the uterus, like heavy bleeding or polyps, without incisions
• Laparoscopic surgery –treats conditions like fibroids or endometriosis using small abdominal incisions for faster recovery and less
• Robotic (robot-assisted) surgery – offers greater precision for complex conditions like fibroids. The surgeon sits at a console in the operating room and controls robotic arms, performing precise movements through small incisions. The robotic system gives a magnified, 3D view of the surgical field.
• Vaginal surgical approach – removes the uterus or treats pelvic concerns through the vagina with no external cuts, leading to faster healing.

TriHealth gynecologic surgeons are board-certified and have advanced fellowship training in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery.

Benefits of minimally invasive techniques

Minimally invasive surgery reduces physical trauma to the body. Benefits include:

• Small or no incisions
• Less blood loss and scarring
• Less pain after surgery
• Lower risk of infections and complications
• Same-day treatment or a shorter hospital stay (many minimally invasive surgeries are outpatient, in-office procedures)
• Faster return to daily activities

Conditions we treat

• Endometriosis – a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing pain and sometimes fertility problems
• Benign pelvic masses – non-cancerous growth in the uterus, ovaries or pelvic organs that may cause pain or pressure
• Abnormal uterine bleeding – heavy, prolonged or unpredictable bleeding that interferes with daily life
• Ovarian cysts – fluid-filled sacs on the ovaries that can cause discomfort, bloating or changes in your menstrual cycle
• Uterine fibroids and polyps – non-cancerous growths in or on the uterus that may cause heavy bleeding, pain or pressure

TriHealth has Cincinnati’s largest network of women’s health specialists. Find one near you.

Minimally invasive gynecologic procedures

TriHealth’s expert gynecologic surgeons earn high patient satisfaction and deliver the best possible patient outcomes. We offer:

• Hysteroscopic surgery – this surgery uses a hysteroscope (a thin, lighted, flexible tube) to access the uterus through the vagina and cervix. It does not require external incisions.
• Robotic-assisted hysterectomy surgery – robotic hysterectomy offers many advantages. One benefit is better visualization. This is critical for complex hysterectomies.
• Robotic-assisted myomectomy of uterine fibroids – this procedure is less invasive and potentially more effective than other myomectomy surgeries. It gives surgeons a unique level of control, regardless of the size or location of the fibroids. [
• Robotic-assisted sacrocolpopexy long-term support of the vagina. The surgery requires tiny incisions in the abdomen.
• Transabdominal cerclage – this surgery prevents pregnancy loss. TriHealth was the first in the region to offer this procedure.
• Essure removal —Essure coils provide permanent birth control but may cause side effects.

Fibroid treatments

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous tumors. They grow inside the uterus or on the uterine wall. They are common, affecting between 25 and 30% of women in the U.S. Minimally invasive techniques avoid cutting into the uterus or removing it.

Medicine can help ease fibroid symptoms. But it won’t make the fibroids go away. Other treatments include:

• Embolization – the procedure cuts off blood supply to the fibroids, so they shrink over time, relieving symptoms without surgery.
• Hysterectomy – surgically removes the entire uterus to stop fibroid symptoms and prevent them from returning.
• Myomectomy – removes fibroids while keeping the uterus intact, an option for women who want to preserve fertility.
• Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) – destroys the fibroid using heat while leaving healthy tissue in place, with less impact on the uterus.

Every woman is unique, and no treatment is best for everyone. Your gynecologist can explain which option may be best for you.

Endometriosis care

Endometriosis is a common health problem in women. It can cause pain, cramping and heavy menstrual bleeding. Endometriosis also can make it more challenging to get pregnant.

Endometriosis happens when cells that should be in the uterus lining grow outside the uterus. These growths (or lesions) typically stay in the pelvic area. However, they can appear almost anywhere in the body.

Endometriosis can be a challenging condition to manage. But effective treatment is available. Treatment options include:

• Lifestyle changes for pain management – maintain a healthy weight, exercise and manage stress
• Medication – pain medication, hormone therapy (such as birth control pills) and other medicines can help
• Minimally invasive surgery to remove the lesions
• Physical therapy to improve pain symptoms
• Surgery to remove the uterus and/or ovaries

Your TriHealth gynecologist will provide a complete evaluation to identify the best treatment option for you.

Is minimally invasive surgery right for me?

Minimally invasive gynecologic surgery is an excellent option for many women. Benefits include smaller incisions and faster recoveries.

Open surgery may be safer and more effective if you need a complex or extensive surgery. Your gynecologist will walk you through what to expect before, during and after your procedure — so you can feel confident, informed and supported every step of the way.

How to schedule a consultation

TriHealth offers the full range of gynecologic care, from well-woman visits to advanced surgeries.

[Phone number button:] 513 862 1888

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