While many gynecological problems can be treated in an office setting, some require surgery. For our surgeries we typically utilize laparoscopic or total laparoscopic surgery that provides a smaller scar, quicker recovery and less pain.
Most are done on an outpatient basis at Henry Community Health, and you usually can go home the same day. You are sedated so you will be comfortable during the procedure. If an overnight stay is required you are admitted to the hospital’s Women and Children’s Unit.
D&C
A D&C removes abnormal tissues in the uterus. It is done through your vagina to reach your uterus. A D&C may be recommended to diagnose or treat abnormal uterine bleeding, as part of infertility testing or to find cancer or after a miscarriage.
Endometrial Ablation
Endometrial ablation is done through your vagina and removes a thin layer of tissue (endometrium) that lines the uterus. It is done to stop or reduce heavy menstrual bleeding for women who don’t plan to have any children in the future.
Hysterectomy
Unless an abdominal (traditional) hysterectomy is needed because of the size of the fibroid or suspected cancer, a Total Laparoscopic Hysterectomy (TLH) can be the best option. Over 90% of our patients receive a total laparoscopic hysterectomy with a smaller scar, quicker recovery and less pain. The surgery removes the entire uterus and is performed through small “band aid” openings rather than one large incision. Recovery is usually 2 – 3 weeks rather than 6 – 8 weeks with traditional surgery for hysterectomy.
Hysteroscopy
A hysteroscopy examines the inside of the cervix and uterus. A thin, lighted, flexible tube called a hysteroscope is inserted through the vagina to take a tissue sample or to remove polyps or fibroid tumors. It also can be used to prevent bleeding by destroying tissue using electric current, freezing, heat, or chemicals
Laparoscopy
Laparoscopies involve making small cuts in the abdomen allowing the insertion of a small video camera and surgical instruments.
Diagnostic Laparoscopy
A diagnostic laparoscopy is sometimes done to diagnose endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease. It also is used to find the cause of pelvic and abdominal pain, examine a tissue mass or look for blockage of the fallopian tubes or for other causes of infertility.
Laparoscopic Surgery
Often called “minimally invasive surgery” it has many benefits over traditional abdominal surgery as women have smaller scars, can often leave the hospital the same day, have less pain and recover more quickly.
Myomectomy
Myomectomies use minimally invasive surgical techniques to surgically remove the fibroids from the uterus and provide an opportunity for future healthy pregnancies.