Minimally Invasive Gynecological Surgery
Of the many women's health issues addressed through progressive programs at Mount Carmel, none is more personal than gynecological health. Through a series of services that ensure private, professional care, our team of medical professionals work to provide our patients with the best care available. Whether they're suffering some discomfort or have been diagnosed with a gynecological cancer, we're here to help with expertise and compassion.
At Mount Carmel, our women’s health experts perform a wide variety of minimally invasive gynecological procedures, including:
Endometrial Ablation
Endometrial ablation is used to control heavy, prolonged menstrual bleeding through the destruction of the uterine lining using laser beams, heat, electricity or freezing. It is an alternative for patients who do not want to have a hysterectomy or have other medical conditions that do not allow them to have a hysterectomy. Endometrial ablation usually causes sterility, so it is not an option for women who plan to have children. This procedure can be performed using the da Vinci Robotic Surgical System.
Vaginal Hysterectomy
In a vaginal hysterectomy, the uterus is removed through a small incision in the vagina. In a laparoscopic vaginal hysterectomy, one or more small incisions are made in the abdomen to insert instruments and the uterus is removed through a small incision in the vagina.
Hysterectomy
In a traditional laparoscopic hysterectomy, four or five incisions are made in the abdomen to insert instruments and remove the uterus. With this procedure, some physicians prefer to use the da Vinci Surgical System because of its 3-dimensional view of the surgical field, and it may enhance dexterity and speed of suturing. The patient experience and outcomes are the same with either surgical approach.
Hysteroscopy
Hysteroscopy can be used to diagnose a condition of the uterus or to treat it. The procedure is performed using a hysteroscope that is inserted through the cervix into the uterus. The hysteroscope, a thin telescope, is attached to a video camera and lights and are designed so that tiny instruments can be placed inside the scope to remove tissue samples for biopsies or to remove fibroids or tumors.
Laparoscopic Myomectomy
A myomectomy is the surgical removal of uterine fibroids. This gynecological procedure, which preserves the uterus, may be preferred by women who plan to have children or want to keep their uterus. In a traditional myomectomy, fibroids are removed through a large abdominal incision. Depending on the size, location and number of fibroids, minimally invasive techniques may be used. This procedure can be performed with a laparoscopic approach or robotically using the da Vinci Surgical System.
Pelviscopy
Pelvic laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure for examining and treating pelvic organs and conditions. This procedure can be performed with a laparoscopic approach or robotically using the da Vinci Surgical System.
Laparoscopic Uterus Suspension
Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the tissues and muscles that hold pelvic organs in place are stretched or weakened and the organs press against the vaginal wall. When the condition does not respond to non-surgical treatment and lifestyle changes, laparoscopic uterus suspension is a minimally invasive surgical treatment option. Laparoscopic uterus suspension places one or more small incisions in the abdomen to repair the affected organs. This procedure can also be performed using the da Vinci Robotic Surgical System.