Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery Specialist

What is minimally invasive gynecologic surgery?

Minimally invasive surgery refers to surgical procedures performed using several small incisions rather than the one large incision typically used in conventional surgery. Minimally invasive procedures are possible thanks to a unique device called a laparoscope.

Laparoscopic surgery utilizes long, thin instruments that are inserted through ports placed through small incisions. Each port allows for various tools.

One port contains a high-intensity light and a high-definition camera that provides exceptional images from inside the body.

Other ports hold surgical tools that are controlled by the doctor. Using these components, Dr. Mahller can diagnose problems, take biopsies, and perform surgical procedures.

What are the benefits of minimally invasive surgery?

Thanks to small incisions, minimally invasive surgery, or laparoscopic surgery, offers significant health benefits:

• Less pain
• Less blood loss
• Quicker recovery and healing
• Reduced risk of infection
• Minimal scarring
• Outpatient options for more procedures

What procedures are performed using minimally invasive surgery?

Minimally invasive gynecologic surgery allows women to undergo procedures in an outpatient surgical center rather than checking into the hospital for an overnight stay. Some conditions Dr. Mahller treats with laparoscopic surgery include:

Uterine fibroids

These noncancerous tumors are common, especially in African-American women. Fibroids cause heavy periods, pelvic pain, and frequent urination.

Ovarian cysts

Each month, an ovary produces a follicle with a developing egg. After the egg is released into the pelvis, the follicle sometimes accumulates fluid and forms a cyst. Ultrasound imaging or blood tests are used to determine whether ovarian cysts should be removed using minimally invasive surgery.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis develops when cells that normally reside within the uterus begin to grow outside the uterus. These cells may grow around the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, intestines, bladder, and abdominal wall. Symptoms include pelvic pain, painful intercourse, painful periods, and abdominal pain. Laparoscopy is used to diagnose endometriosis, destroy endometriosis implants and to remove scar tissue.

Abnormal uterine bleeding

A minimally invasive procedure called hysteroscopic endometrial ablation is used to treat women with irregular, painful, and heavy bleeding. Ablation cauterizes the lining of the uterus, which stops menstrual bleeding.

What is hysteroscopy?

Hysteroscopy is another minimally invasive procedure performed by Dr. Mahller. He inserts the hysteroscope through the vagina and cervix into the uterus. It can be used to diagnose problems and to perform procedures such as a uterine biopsy and removal of fibroids, polyps, and cancerous lesions.