Specializations |Gynecologic Robotic Surgery| Robotic-Assisted Myomectomy
Robotic-assisted myomectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to remove uterine fibroids. This procedure utilizes robotic technology, allowing the surgeon to perform the operation through small incisions in the abdomen. The surgeon controls robotic arms equipped with surgical instruments from a console, enhancing precision and dexterity.
Not all women are candidates for this procedure. Eligibility depends on factors such as the size and location of the fibroids, the presence of other gynecological conditions, previous abdominal surgeries, and the surgeon’s expertise. A thorough evaluation by a gynecologist is necessary to determine suitability.
Robotic-assisted myomectomy is typically performed to remove uterine fibroids, which are non-cancerous growths in the uterus. This procedure is used when fibroids cause symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, or pressure on the bladder or bowel.
Surgeons opt for this procedure because it offers several advantages over traditional open surgery. The robotic system provides enhanced visualization, precision, and control, allowing surgeons to perform delicate maneuvers with greater accuracy. This reduces the risk of complications and minimizes blood loss. Additionally, the minimally invasive nature of robotic surgery results in smaller incisions, less postoperative pain, and faster recovery times compared to open surgery.
A person may need a robotic myomectomy if they have symptomatic fibroids affecting their quality of life. Symptoms can include heavy or prolonged menstrual periods, pelvic pain, pressure or fullness in the lower abdomen, frequent urination, or difficulty emptying the bladder. Robotic-assisted myomectomy offers a safe and effective treatment option to relieve these symptoms while minimizing the impact on daily life.
Preparation involves several steps, including preoperative tests such as blood tests and imaging studies to evaluate overall health and assess the size and location of the fibroids. Patients may need to discontinue certain medications that increase the risk of bleeding during surgery and follow their surgeon’s instructions regarding dietary restrictions and fasting before the procedure.
This may be recommended to treat symptomatic uterine fibroids. Symptoms of fibroids can include heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure, urinary frequency, and constipation. If fibroids are causing significant symptoms that affect a patient’s quality of life and conservative treatments have been ineffective, a myomectomy may be necessary to remove the fibroids while preserving the uterus.
Post-surgery, patients are monitored in the recovery room until they wake up from anesthesia. They may experience some pain or discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medications. Most patients are able to go home the same day or the day after the procedure.
Recovery typically ranges from two to six weeks. During this time, patients may experience pain, fatigue, and vaginal bleeding. Most can return to work and normal activities within one to two weeks, but strenuous activities should be avoided for several weeks.
After this procedure, patients are typically monitored in the recovery room until they wake up from anesthesia. They may experience some pain or discomfort, which can be managed with pain medications prescribed by their surgeon. Most patients are able to go home the same day or the day after the procedure.
Like other surgical procedures, robotic-assisted myomectomy carries risks such as bleeding, infection, injury to surrounding organs or tissues, blood clots, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. There is also a risk of equipment malfunction specific to robotic surgery.
Recovery typically ranges from two to six weeks. During this time, patients may experience pain, fatigue, and vaginal bleeding. Most can return to work and normal activities within one to two weeks, but strenuous activities should be avoided for several weeks.
Patients typically start feeling better within a few days to a week after this procedure. Pain and discomfort gradually decrease during the recovery period, and most patients are able to resume light activities within one to two weeks. Full recovery may take several weeks, and individual experiences may vary.
After this procedure, patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and vigorous exercise for several weeks to allow the body to heal properly. Patients should also refrain from driving until they are no longer taking pain medications and feel comfortable operating a vehicle. Additionally, sexual intercourse and the use of tampons may need to be avoided for a few weeks to prevent complications.
The overall outlook after this procedure is generally positive. Most patients experience relief from symptoms such as pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and pressure on the bladder or bowels. The uterus is preserved in most cases, allowing for future pregnancies if desired. However, it’s essential to follow up with the surgeon for postoperative care and monitoring.
Recovery after a this procedure involves a gradual return to normal activities over several weeks. Initially, patients may experience some pain, fatigue, and vaginal bleeding. Pain medications may be prescribed to manage discomfort. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon are essential to monitor healing and address any concerns that may arise during recovery.
