Many women continue to put off having the often referred to as “female surgery” due to fear of pain, a large scar and a long recovery time. Now there is good news for women in the Grapevine area who are facing this decision. Comprehensive Women's Healthcare is offering an innovative, minimally invasive option for women who need a hysterectomy.

Comprehensive Women's Healthcare physicians, are among the many physicians around the country who perform this minimally invasive surgery, known as total laparoscopic hysterectomy. The procedure was developed to shorten recovery, reduce pain and complications, and minimize scarring.

Women who choose to have a total laparoscopic hysterectomy typically have an easier physical experience, most returning home in a few days and can be back at work and other normal activities in about two weeks. Traditional hysterectomies require an average hospital stay of three days and complete recovery may require up to two months.

Historically, gynecologists have been trained to perform traditional open hysterectomies, which often are harder on patients.  Now, thanks to minimally invasive options, women do not need to be sidelined by hysterectomies. They can return to their normal lives in a much shorter time and experience a less painful recovery.

Women should discuss their treatment and recovery goals with their gynecologist when preparing to undergo a hysterectomy and ask if minimally invasive surgery would be an option.. Many women research every possible treatment option before agreeing to a hysterectomy. However, once the decision is made, they may not investigate their surgical alternatives or question the options presented to them. As a result, many do not know minimally invasive hysterectomy is an option unless their physician brings it up.

Physicians have noted that high risk patients, especially those who are obese, have less risk of infection with the minimally invasive procedure. A significant number of overweight or obese women hold off on surgery because of fear of the pain often associated with a large incision. The minimally invasive procedure is a wonderful alternative for these patients. According to the doctors, this innovative surgery is a team effort; both of them participate in each of these surgeries as do the same team of nursing staff members.

The majority of gynecologists still perform traditional open hysterectomies that involve removing the uterus and cervix through a four- to six-inch incision that can leave a noticeable scar. Research indicates that minimally invasive options are better for the patient and result in fewer complications, less pain and quicker recoveries.

“I feel great!’ commented Geraldine Johnson, 49, of Orangeburg, who just two months ago had a hysterectomy. After suffering from pain and the other discomforts of menopause for some time, she discussed the new laparoscopic procedure with her physician.. “After much thought and prayer, I decided the new procedure was the answer I had been awaiting,” Johnson said. “I knew I needed to have a hysterectomy for a while but decided to wait it out until living in fear of having ‘an accident’ from heavy bleeding, coupled with severe pain, led me to take action. Once it was explained to me about the benefits of laparoscopic surgery, and I decided the new procedure was right for me. And it certainly was; I would do it again!”

Johnson shared that the surgery took little over an hour, and the healing process was fast. “Within two weeks I felt much improved, in fact, my daughter told me that she could tell I was feeling great. I was back to my household chores. Of course it’s important to listen to the doctor and not try to do too much too soon – recovery is a gradual process. My doctor also explained the necessity of continuing annual pap examinations. I’ve been back at work about a month and feel completely recovered. 

The recently developed, minimally invasive, total laparoscopic hysterectomy uses a laparoscope, a fiber optic instrument that is inserted into the abdomen through a small incision. The laparoscope allows gynecologists to examine the inside of the abdomen and guide the surgical procedure while removing the uterus and cervix. The small incisions used for a laparoscopic hysterectomy are typically made in the navel and/or on the abdomen.

Minimally invasive hysterectomies are an option for most women considering the procedure.  Women need to be informed so they will know to ask about their options. Undergoing the procedure can be emotionally and physically challenging enough without unnecessary pain and recovery time.

As with any surgical procedure, there are some potential risks associated with minimally invasive surgeries. A woman who is a candidate for a hysterectomy should discuss all surgical options with her physician.