With such a complicated reproductive system, women often find themselves in need of surgery for any number of gynecological issues. But, thanks to minimally invasive surgery (MIS), gone are the days of the potential dangers and downtime related to traditional surgery.

In the past, surgical procedures for the treatment of such conditions as pelvic pain, endometriosis, and ovarian cysts required large incisions in the abdomen, days if not weeks in the hospital, and a lengthy recovery time. In the past, these surgeries also had increased risk of infection, bleeding, and the development of scar tissue.

During minimally invasive surgery, such as that offered by Kelsey-Seybold Clinic, several small incisions are made in the skin and an endoscope, or miniature camera, is passed through one of the incisions. The images from the endoscope are shown on monitors in the operating room, and specialized tools are passed through the other incisions that allow the surgeon to perform any necessary surgical procedures.

At Kelsey-Seybold Clinic, we're proud to use the highly sophisticated da Vinci® robotic surgery system during many of our gynecological surgical procedures.

Minimally invasive surgery allows for:

• Lower risk of excessive bleeding and infection
• Less pain after surgery
• Shorter hospital stays
• Faster recovery time
• Potentially lower costs

Minimally invasive surgery is generally safer than traditional surgery, but as with all surgeries, there are risks involved that may include infection and complications with anesthesia.