Is minimally invasive surgery (MIS) the right option for you? The surgery, offered by your San Dimas, CA, OB/GYN, Dr. Richard Williams of Williams OB/GYN & Associates, provides several important benefits.
What is MIS?
Unlike traditional surgery, MIS doesn't require large incisions. For example, during laparoscopic surgery, your San Dimas doctor makes a half-inch-long incision in your belly button in order to insert a tiny device called a laparoscope. This laparoscope contains a tiny camera that transmits images to a digital monitor. Your OB/GYN passes small instruments through several additional small incisions made in your abdomen to perform the surgery.
Hysteroscopy, another minimally invasive option, involves inserting a thin tube that contains a fiber optic camera into your vagina. The scope is passed through your cervix and into your uterus. After diagnosing abnormal bleeding, fibroids, or other issues, your OB/GYN inserts tiny instruments to treat the problem.
When is MIS recommended?
MIS can be used to:
- Diagnose and/or treat adhesions, scar tissue, fibroids, polyps, and certain uterine and vaginal malformations or structural issues
- Perform hysterectomies
- Treat endometriosis
- Perform surgery to treat uterine, ovarian, and cervical cancer
- Remove ovarian cysts
- Improve the position of a tipped uterus
- Support the bladder to relieve stress incontinence
- Treat heavy bleeding and ectopic pregnancy
What are the benefits of MIS?
Smaller incisions mean less pain after surgery and reduced reliance on pain medications. Furthermore, while scars are unavoidable after any surgery, they will be much smaller and less noticeable if you have MIS.
Downtime is also greatly reduced with MIS. Depending on the type of surgery you have, you may be able to return to work just a few days after your procedure.
MIS may also improve surgical accuracy. The miniaturized camera provides your doctor with an up-close, real-time view of organs and structures, which can make it easier to spot and treat problems.
Contact us
MIS offers an excellent surgical option for many women. If you're interested in learning if MIS would be an appropriate treatment for you, call your San Dimas, CA, OB/GYN, Dr. Richard Williams of Williams OB/GYN & Associates, at (909) 599-8677 to schedule an appointment.