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Uterine fibroids and the benefits of da Vinci® robotic-assisted surgery

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Uterine fibroids are benign tumors that develop within the uterus and usually in women during childbearing years. They can be treated with surgical removal or myomectomy procedure. In a traditional myomectomy procedure, surgeons remove the fibroid tumors through a large incision in the patient’s abdomen, leaving the uterus in place. While this procedure is effective treatment for women who want to become pregnant, it requires a longer recovery time.

With the use of da Vinci® robotic-assisted surgery, a surgeon can perform the same operation with precision through a few small incisions. The patients usually go home within 24 hours instead of staying 2-3 days in the hospital and they are back to work in 1-2 weeks rather than a month with the traditional procedure.

What are the symptoms of uterine fibroids?

  • Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
  • Pelvic pressure or pain
  • Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder
  • Backache or leg pain

What are the benefits of da Vinci® myomectomy?

  • Minimally invasive
  • Fewer surgical complications
  • Less blood loss and pain
  • Less scarring following the procedure
  • Shorter hospital stay
  • Quicker recovery

Who is a good candidate for this procedure?

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with uterine fibroids, it may be time to talk to your doctor about this surgical option. In some cases, da Vinci® myomectomy may be the best option, especially as an alternative to hysterectomy.