Minimally invasive office-based surgeries have proved to be a valuable advancement in gynecology and obstetrics compared to older methodologies. These diagnostic and preventative processes benefit our patients in a number of ways at Women’s Health Specialists, which we’ll cover in today’s blog!
Diagnostic Procedures and Treatments
In our Germantown office, we offer a number of minimally invasive gynecological procedures, most of which are a step in testing for abnormalities. These can all have a significant impact on a woman’s health, often providing clarity surrounding conditions that will warrant future treatment. Here are some examples:
- Urodynamic Testing: For patients who might be experiencing urological issues, this can be an important test to determine the next steps. It assesses how the bladder and urethra store and release urine.
- Colposcopy: This process allows for a detailed view of a woman’s cervix to identify potential warning signs of underlying conditions.
- Cervical Biopsy: This simple procedure involves removing tissue from the cervix, which can then be tested to detect precancerous or otherwise abnormal tissue.
- Uterine Biopsy: A uterine biopsy involves retrieving a sample of the tissue from the lining of your uterus to check for endometrial conditions.
- Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP): This procedure is an incredible advancement in preventing cervical cancer in women. Our doctors are able to burn away precancerous cells from the cervix using a small electrical device, which can be performed under a local anesthetic.
Birth Control Treatments
The other category of our minimally invasive procedures at Women’s Health Specialists revolves around the application and removal of birth control devices, all of which can be performed in-office.
- IUD Placement and Removal: This is a widely-trusted version of birth control, which is planted in your uterus to avoid potential pregnancy.
- Nexplanon: Nexplanon is a small device housed in your upper arm, which can provide protection from pregnancy for up to four years.
The Benefits of Minimally Invasive Gynecological Procedures
Now that you know what these treatments entail, let’s discuss some of the many benefits of them! Most of these revolve around timeliness and minimized discomfort, which are very important to us.
- Prompt Treatment/Continuity of Care: We’re proud to offer these in-house procedures since they don’t warrant long wait times or referrals to other practitioners. This can be wonderful in that you will still be working with our doctors and team members, who already know you.
- High Precision: With specialized tools like robotics and laparoscopic cameras, our doctors can perform these procedures with extremely high accuracy and minimize complications.
- Smaller Incisions and Samples: Incisions and tissue samples taken in these procedures are very small, which means that the tissues around the incision experience less trauma. We’re able to use a camera to operate in a way that leaves the surrounding areas unaffected.
- Speedy Recoveries: Recovery is typically more comfortable and much faster for this manner of procedure. Smaller incisions allow for quicker healing and a quick return to regular daily activities.
- Less Adverse Effects: These minimally invasive procedures are especially beneficial for patients who might be at a high risk for complications. They are far less likely to result in blood loss or infection.
FAQs
Q: How do I know if I’m a good candidate for a minimally invasive gynecological procedure?
Your OBGYN will conduct a detailed evaluation of your overall health, specific condition, and medical history to determine if this approach is suitable for you—which it is for the majority of patients.
Q: How can I prepare?
Our team will review any specific instructions you might need prior to your procedure. This could involve avoiding certain medications and dietary restrictions or arranging for transportation after the procedure is done if it’s performed under anesthesia.
Q: What will my recovery look like?
It’s not uncommon to experience slight discomfort or swelling, depending on which procedure is performed. But this should never be serious or debilitating and can typically be managed by over-the-counter pain relief medications. You’ll likely be fully recovered within a few days to a week. That being said, it’s important to communicate with our office if you have any concerns during recovery.
Embracing Advancements
The medical field as a whole has come a long way in the past few decades, and our practice is constantly taking advantage of this progress to make your experience better as a patient. We hope that you’ll also embrace this accessible, enhanced range of treatment surrounding your reproductive health. Our Germantown team looks forward to welcoming you into our office soon!