An “Open” Procedure is a procedure that is generally done in the operating room; it is a 4 -6 inch incision made in the lower abdomen. Probably one of the most commonly known “open” procedures is the Cesarean Section “Bikini” incision.

 

“Minimally Invasive” procedures, on the other hand, are a recent collection of advanced surgical procedures that are much less invasive than open procedures. These procedures allow the surgeon to remove uterus, fibroids, ovaries, and/or other gynecological abnormalities without the large incision required by the open procedure.

 

The surgeon gains access to the abdomen either through the vagina or through a small (1/2 – 1 cm) incision in the abdomen. Both approaches often result in much less post operative pain and a quicker recovery. Although not all; many patients are able to undergo an operation such as a hysterectomy in the morning, and then are able to go home in the afternoon. Most are able to return to their normal activities within 1-2 weeks.

 

Our Providers are trained in even the most advanced of these procedures. Additionally, they are also involved with the training of Providers who are at this time trying to learn to do these procedures.

 

Although there are others, some of the more commonly known “Minimally Invasive Procedures” include:

• Laparoscopic Total Hysterectomy (TLH)

• Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy (LSH)

• Laparoscopic Tubal Ligation (“Tie the Tubes”)

• Laparoscopic Myomectomy (Removal of Fibroids of the Uterus)

• Laparoscopic Pelvic Evaluation (Diagnostic Laparoscopy for evaluation of the contents of the pelvis that may be causing pain, preventing pregnancy or look abnormal when seen on the Ultrasound)

• Vaginal Hysterectomy (VH)