Is da Vinci Hysterectomy Right for You?
If your physician recommends hysterectomy, you may be a candidate for a new minimally invasive surgical procedure called da Vinci Hysterectomy.
Approaches to Hysterectomy
Women who experience chronic pain, heavy bleeding, or other disabling symptoms from gynecologic conditions are often treated with hysterectomy – the surgical removal of the uterus. This procedure is the second most common surgical procedure for women in the United States. An estimated one third of all U.S. women will have a hysterectomy by age 60.
Hysterectomy can sometimes be performed through the vagina. If the uterus is large or internal scarring exists, abdominal hysterectomy is usually performed. Traditionally, abdominal hysterectomies are performed with open surgery, which requires a wide incision below the navel.
da Vinci Hysterectomy offers an alternative to open hysterectomy. Rather than one large incision, four small incisions are made, each roughly the diameter of a pencil. Tiny surgical instruments are inserted through these incisions.
How da Vinci Surgery is Performed
Surgeons at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City use the da Vinci Si Surgical System, one of the latest innovations in minimally-invasive surgery. The da Vinci System provides surgeons with enhanced capabilities, including high-definition, three-dimensional vision and a highly magnified view of the surgical site.
Your surgeon controls the da Vinci system, which translates his or her hand movements into extremely precise movements of tiny instruments placed inside your body. The system’s wristed instruments have a greater range of motion than the human hand, offering extreme accuracy and dexterity.
Although it is often called a "robot," da Vinci cannot act on its own; the surgery is performed entirely by your surgeon. The technology provides the surgeon with several clinical advantages that allow him to perform complex procedures through a few tiny incisions, roughly the diameter of a pencil.
Important Considerations
Surgery with the da Vinci Surgical System may not be appropriate for every individual and results may vary. While hysterectomy is a relatively safe procedure, it may not be appropriate or necessary for all individuals or conditions. Alternative treatments that preserve the uterus may be available. Always ask your physician about all treatment options, as well as the risks and benefits.
I Feel Better Than I've Felt in Years
Julie Challender, a 41-year-old mother of four with a full life, worried about the pain and long recovery associated with open Hysterectomy surgery. She put it off as long as possible.
To hear about her experience with da Vinci Hysterectomy, view this three-minute video.
Is da Vinci Hysterectomy Right for You?
Your surgeon controls the da Vinci system, which translates his or her hand movements into extremely precise movements of tiny instruments placed inside your body. The system’s wristed instruments have a greater range of motion than the human hand, offering extreme accuracy and dexterity.