Minimally Invasive Surgery

Endoscopic surgery is frequently used to diagnose and manage conditions of the reproductive organs, including endometriosis, ovarian cysts, fibroids, adhesions, and uterine diseases. It can also be used to check for ectopic pregnancy, causes of pelvic pain, and tumors. This technique is used to remove polyps and fibroids, perform selective biopsies and address scarring in the endometrial cavity. Hysterectomy, removal of ovaries, and sterilization can be performed endoscopically.

In one kind of endoscopy, called laparoscopy, the abdomen is insufflated with carbon dioxide gas to create a working and viewing space, essentially blown up like a balloon (insufflated), elevating the abdominal wall above the internal organs like a dome. The gas used is CO2 (carbon dioxide), as it is common to the human body and can be removed by the respiratory system if it absorbs through tissue. It is also non-flammable, which is important considering that electrosurgical devices are commonly used in laparoscopic procedures.

The other commonly employed endoscopic surgery is called hysteroscopy, or looking inside the uterus. In this procedure, the scope is inserted via the vagina into the cavity of the uterus (endometrial cavity). Using fluid to distend the uterine walls, the lining of the uterus is evaluated and any abnormalities often can be surgically removed through the hysteroscope. D&C (dilation and curettage), biopsies, and endometrial ablations are also commonly done via the hysteroscope.

The newest approach to gynecologic surgery is with the DaVinci robot. In this method, the surgeon places the laparosope and attaches instruments that will be used during the procedure. The surgeon then goes across the room and while seated at a console, remotely performs the necessary surgery. This allows much more manipulation than other endoscopic procedures and means that more women who would otherwise have to have abdominal surgery and have a less invasive approach.

Tyler OBGYN is dedicated to providing women with these advanced surgical techniques, both for diagnostic and treatment purposes. This approach minimizes the "invasiveness" of the surgery resulting in less post-operative pain and quicker return to daily living.

Advantages of laparoscopic and minimally invasive approaches:

• Early recovery
• Decreased post-operative pain
• Faster recovery and back to work
• Decreased blood loss
• Precise view of anatomy and detail identification for the surgeon

What if I still have questions about endoscopic surgery?
Please feel free to discuss all of your questions with any of the doctors at your regular scheduled appointments. You may also contact us for more information.