If you have a gynecologic condition or concern that requires a surgical solution, you are in good hands at The Woman’s Health Pavilion. We have experienced specialists in minimally invasive alternatives to major gynecologic surgery on our team of Long Island gynecologists. In fact, our director Dr. Andre Saad has been nationally recognized for excellence in minimally invasive surgery by the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists and the Council of Gynecologic Endoscopy. We are proud of the fact that we perform 90% of our major surgical procedures using minimally invasive techniques.
Even if you’ve been told that you’re not a candidate for a minimally invasive solution, we invite you to see us for a consultation. Request an appointment at one of our multiple gynecology offices in Queens or Long Island. Our OB-GYN specialists see patients 7 days a week and offer same-day appointments for urgent conditions.
What Makes Minimally Invasive Techniques Different?
Instead of using a large abdominal incision, minimally invasive techniques are performed using a laparoscope (a long, thin telescope inserted through a tiny abdominal incision) or hysteroscope (a long, thin telescope inserted into the uterus through the vagina). A camera attaches to these specialized telescopes, projecting magnified images of the surgical field onto a high-resolution video monitor. Using slender instruments, we can perform advanced surgical procedures without a large and painful abdominal incision.
Advantages of Minimally Invasive Surgery
Minimally invasive surgical techniques benefit patients in many ways. Compared to open surgery, these techniques are associated with:
- Less postoperative pain
- A much more rapid recovery
- Significantly smaller scars
- Shorter hospital stays (most patients are discharged same day)
- Fewer complications: minimally invasive techniques are typically associated with less blood loss, a lower rate of infection, and less internal scar tissue (adhesions) after surgery.
Why Don’t All Doctors Offer Minimally Invasive Procedures?
Many gynecologists lack the experience and expertise required to offer these alternatives to patients. Despite revolutionary advances in this specialty, most hysterectomies nationwide are still performed through a large abdominal incision!
At The Woman’s Health Pavilion, open surgery is always a last resort, performed only when patients are not candidates for a minimally invasive approach. We were one of the first practices in the country to be recognized as a Center of Excellence in Minimally Invasive Gynecology. Dr. Saad currently serves as the Director of Gynecology at Syosset Hospital, and Director of the Center of Excellence Program in Minimally Invasive Gynecology at Plainview Hospital.
We are proud to perform 90% of our major surgical procedures using
minimally invasive techniques. At The Woman’s Health Pavilion, open surgery is always a last resort.
Common Minimally Invasive Procedures
We offer minimally invasive alternatives for many procedures, including:
Hysterectomy
Women who suffer from conditions such as adenomyosis, endometriosis, fibroids, and uterine pre-cancer may be a candidate for laparoscopic hysterectomy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure that removes the uterus. For most women who are pre-menopausal, we do not need to remove the ovaries as part of this procedure. Our patients are typically discharged on the afternoon of surgery. Read more about laparoscopic hysterectomy.
Myomectomy
Fibroids, also called myomas or leiomyomas, are benign growths that occur in the muscular wall of the uterus. When fibroids cause significant pelvic pain, heavy periods, or other symptoms, we may recommend myomectomy, which is surgical removal of fibroids. We perform this procedure whenever possible using minimally invasive techniques. Patients are typically discharged on the afternoon of surgery. Read more about myomectomy.
Obturator Sling
Female stress incontinence is the medical term for leaking urine due to physical stress such as sneezing, laughing, and lifting. We use minimally invasive techniques to support the bladder and urethra, restoring continence with excellent long-term results. The procedure typically requires minutes to perform, and patients are discharged after a short stay in the recovery room. Read more about obturator sling.
Tubal Sterilization
Women who are certain they want to permanently prevent pregnancy may choose to have their “tubes tied” with laparoscopic tubal sterilization. During this procedure, the fallopian tubes are sealed off or removed to prevent sperm from fertilizing an egg. In most cases, the procedure results in one tiny scar in the belly button that is virtually unnoticeable after surgery. Read more about tubal sterilization.
May We Help You?
Would you like to find out more about our treatments and services? Are you looking for a second opinion on a diagnosis or treatment recommendation you received at another practice? The experienced team at The Woman’s Health Pavilion is happy to help. Just let us know how and when you would like to hear from us.