Q: What is a hysterectomy and when is it usually recommended?
A: Hysterectomy is surgical removal of the uterus. Your doctor may recommend a hysterectomy for a condition such as: endometriosis, heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, fibroids, pelvic prolapse, adenomyosis, and gynecologic cancers of the uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes and or ovaries.
Q: What are the different types of hysterectomies?
A: Vaginal hysterectomy, abdominal hysterectomy, and laparoscopic hysterectomy are the hysterectomy options. An abdominal hysterectomy is invasive and requires the uterus and other organs be removed through a large abdominal incision compared to a minimally invasive laparoscopic hysterectomy. Laparoscopic surgery allows the surgeon to operate through several small incisions using a tiny camera.
Q: What is da Vinci Robotic Surgery?
A: da Vinci Robotic surgery is laparoscopic surgery with added technology. Both da Vinci robotic surgery and traditional laparoscopic surgery are minimally invasive and FDA cleared. The surgeon operates through just a few small incisions vs. creating a large open incision. The da Vinci system utilizes a 3D high-definition imaging system to view highly magnified images providing the surgeon with increased precision and control compared to traditional 2D laparoscopic surgery.
Q: Is the surgeon in the room?
A: The surgeon performing the surgery is located at a console in the operating room near the patient and the surgical support staff.
Q: What are the benefits of da Vinci robotic surgery vs. traditional laparoscopic surgery?
A: The surgeon has better visualization of the internal structures allowing greater precision and control in addition to less blood loss during surgery. Recovery time with da Vinci robotic surgery compared to traditional laparoscopic surgery is typically the same.
Q: Does my insurance cover da Vinci robotic surgery:
A: Any insurance that covers laparoscopic hysterectomy typically covers da Vinci robotic hysterectomy. However, coverage depends on your insurance plan and benefit package. Our surgery scheduling staff verifies coverage and obtains prior authorization as needed.
Q: Will I have to take hormones after a hysterectomy:
A: The term hysterectomy refers to removal of the uterus. If the surgeon decides the ovaries can remain, you would not need to begin hormone replacement. If the ovaries are removed (which can be performed robotically), some women do begin taking a form of hormone replacement. This is decided prior to surgery.
da Vinci Robotic Hysterectomy Q&A:
