Minimally invasive gynecologic surgery is the technique used to perform surgery for gynecologic conditions in a manner which eliminates the need for a large abdominal incision. During many minimally invasive gynecologic surgeries, a surgeon uses specialized instruments along with a camera and fiber-optic lights to display images on a high-definition monitor while they perform your surgery.

Minimally invasive gynecologic surgery includes specialized procedures such as:

• laparoscopy:  Involves placing a camera and specialized instruments through 2 or 3 very small (5-10mm) incisions on the abdomen to perform pelvic surgery. Affords surgeons the ability to perform complex surgeries with minimal trauma on surrounding tissues.
• hysteroscopy:  Uses a camera/instrument device which is placed through the vagina and into the uterus to visualize, evaluate, and treat inside the uterus without the need for any incisions. 
• vaginal surgery:  Encompasses surgical procedures which are able to be performed within the pelvis by approaching the area from a vaginal approach. Eliminates the need for any abdominal incisions.  

Dr. Worley and Dr. Silva have expertise in minimally invasive surgical techniques to treat a wide range of gynecologic conditions, such as:

• fibroids
• endometriosis
• ovarian cysts
• pelvic adhesions
• pelvic pain
• heavy bleeding
• painful periods
• postmenopausal bleeding
• pelvic organ prolapse
• urinary incontinence
• ectopic pregnancy
• miscarriage
• undesired fertility

Some of the complex laparoscopic procedures they perform for patients, include:

• hysterectomy: removal of the uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes
• oophorectomy: removal of one or both ovaries
• myomectomy: removal of uterine fibroids with reconstruction of the uterus
• ovarian cystectomy: removal of ovarian cysts
• fulguration/excision of endometriosis: removal of endometriotic implants and scar tissue with restoration of anatomy and function of organs
• tubal ligation: sterilization by cutting, burning, or removing the fallopian tubes to permanently prevent pregnancy
• pelvic organ prolapse repair: reattachment procedures to reposition pelvic organs back into their proper positions; can include uterine prolapse (uterus falling out), a cystocele (bladder hernia), and rectocele (rectal hernia) 
• bladder sling: procedure which uses material to provide support to the urethra (bladder neck) in order to treat stress urinary incontinence
• ablation: procedure that uses heat or cold energy to destroy the inner lining of the uterus in order to reduce or prevent vaginal bleeding

Minimally invasive gynecologic surgeries offer a safe and effective alternative to traditional open surgery and have been shown to improve outcomes while reducing pain discomfort and inconvenience.  With minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, patients experience:

• smaller incisions (if any)
• less blood loss
• less pain and need for medication
• shorter hospital stay (if any)
• faster recovery and return to work/activities
• reduced scar tissue

Since only small incisions may be necessary, minimally invasive gynecology surgery results in less trauma to the body than extensive open incisions, thus speeding up the recovery process.  Often, these surgeries can be performed as an outpatient procedure, avoiding hospital admission and reducing cost.

Our surgeons work closely with each patient to determine if minimally invasive surgery is appropriate.  The type of procedure depends on the condition being treated, symptoms being experienced, your overall health, and other factors.