Gyn

LESSINVASIVE.COM

An Online Resource for Less Invasive
& Minimally Invasive Procedures & Surgeries

Many gynecological procedures performed today employ minimally invasive techniques under laparoscopic visualization. Using this specially designed laparoscope, the surgeon can directly visualize and gently manipulate the anatomy, and perform minimally invasive procedures and surgery through "key- hole" sized incisions. The enhanced visibility of the internal anatomy afforded by minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, assists the surgeon in restoring the body’s anatomy as closely as possible, aiding in maintaining pelvic floor support. Using minimally or less invasive techniques, patients will experience significantly less trauma, bleeding, potential for infections and recovery times. In addition to those benefits, patients will also appreciate the aesthetic benefit of having smaller surgical scars. A large portion of minimally invasive gynecological procedures can be performed in an outpatient setting and patients can return to normal function within a few weeks. Two new studies reveal benefits of laparoscopic surgery for uterine cancer, read more...

Robotic assistance has also entered the less invasive gynecologic arena. The Intuitive Surgical's da Vinci robot provides the gynecologic surgeon with enhanced precision, dexterity and 3 dimensional visualization of the anatomical structures. The da Vinci robot does not elimate the surgeon's role during less invasive surgery, it can potentially improve the result of the surgery. The da Vinci approach offers the same reported benefits as non robotic assisted minimally invasive gynecologic procedures such as: reduced hospital stay, less pain and scarring, less risk of wound infection, less blood loss and the need for transfusions, uterine preservation, faster recovery times. The da Vinci robot is currently being used for hysterectomy and myomectomy. To find physicians and hospitals that are currently employing the da Vinci for less invasive gynecological procedures, click here. Although less invasive gynecological procedures generally require more time to perform, risk is minimal compared to conventional open surgery.

During minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, “key hole” incisions are made in the skin and slim laparoscopes and other small surgical equipment are passed through the abdominal wall, enabling instruments to be transferred through them to perform the surgery. The majority of these minimally invasive procedures can be performed on an out-patient basis. In some cases, patients may go home on the same day. Not all patients are appropriate for minimally invasive gynecological surgery. Check with your own health care provider to see if you are a candidate for a minimally invasive gynecologic procedure.

Many hospitals and outpatient surgery centers are able to perform a variety of minimally invasive gynecological surgeries/ procedures including: hysterectomy, hysteroscopy, myomectomy, ovarian cyst removal, diagnostic laproscopy, tubal surgery including cyst removal and sterilization, and treatment for: endometriosis, fibroids, adhesions, infertility, pelvic pain, pelvic prolapse, ectopic pregnancy, persistent bleeding, urinary incontinence ( bladder suspension surgery ). Frequently asked questions about less invasive gynecologic surgery, more..

Less invasive hysterectomy - removal of the uterus for the treatment of symptomatic uterine fibroids, endometriosis, and cancer. Laparoscopic hysterectomies are are subdivided into 3 approaches: laparoscopically assisted vaginal (LAVH), total laparoscopic (TLH) and laparoscopic supracervical (LSH). Less invasive hysterectomy may also be performed with robotic assistance, resulting in a more precise outcome. Read more on the Intuitive Surgical website.

Less invasive myomectomy - alternative treatment for uterine fibroids which leaves the uterus intact. This minimally invasive procedure is a practical option for women who want to maintain their fertility. This procedure can also be performed hysteroscopically via the cervix and vagina without incisions .

da Vinci myomectomy - a common minimally invasive, robotically assisted alternative to conventional myomectomy.
Laparoscopic uterine artery ligation (LUAL) - a minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of uterine fibroids. This less invasive procedure limits blood supply to the uterus, which also restricts blood flow to the fibroids placing them in a state of dormancy. This less invasive procedure treats the pain and excessive bleeding associated with uterine fibroids.

Uterine fibroid embolization - a minimally invasive procedure for symptomatic fibroid tumors in which specially engineered particles are injected into the uterine arteries. The injected particles cause a reduction in blood flow to the fibroids, subsequently the fibroids shrink and symptoms may subside .

Less invasive endometrial ablation - an outpatient procedure performed via hysteroscope in which all or part of the endometrial lining is destroyed or removed. This minimally invasive procedure is employed in an effort to improve vaginal bleeding.

Non-Invasive Ablation gives durable relief for uterine fibroids. A non-invasive treatment for uterine fibroids provided effective and durable pain relief in more than 85% of women treated, researchers say, read more...

Hysteroscopy - less invasive procedure in which laparoscopic instrumentation (hysteroscope) is introduced into the uterus to diagnose problems within the cavity, and possibly treat them at the same time. Hysteroscopy is performed to diagnose the cause of abnormal bleeding, uterine abnormalities, cancer, fibroid tumors or intrauterine polyps. Uterine fibroids can also be removed via the cervix using this minimally invasive procedure.

Laparoscopic Burch Procedure (colposuspension) - minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of stress incontinence. With this procedure there is 80-95% success rate and offers the same benefits of minimally procedures. Continence Plus Prolapse Surgery Cut Post-op Stress Incontinence, read more...

Tension free vaginal tape placement - a less invasive outpatient procedure for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence. This minimally invasive procedure involves placing mesh tape under the neck of the bladder (urethra) which supports it during moments of stress ie: sneezing, laughing or coughing.

Interstim - a less invasive procedure for the implantation of a bladder neurostimulation device for urinary control, read more...
Minimally invasive pelvic prolapse repair - less invasive repair of the endopelvic fascia and ligaments that support the pelvic structures. This minimally invasive procedure relieves pelvic pain and pressure and urinary incontinence.

Less Invasive gynecological procedures are currently improving the quality of life for women with gynecologic cancers who need surgical intervention. Frequently, minimally invasive laparoscopy is performed to remove tumors as well as lymph nodes if necessary. Laparoscopic uterosacral nerve ablation - a less invasive gynecologic procedure in which uterine nerves are removed to decrease the discomfort related to the cancer.

Less invasive laparoscopic and hysteroscopic techniques are currently used to diagnose and treat infertility, including endometriosis andobstructed fallopian tubes. Minimally invasive techniques are also employed to reverse a past tubal ligation, which has left a woman unable to become pregnant.

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