Tag Archives: Robot- assisted hysterectomy

What to Expect After Robotic-Assisted Hysterectomy

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Robotic-assisted hysterectomy in Flushing New York

A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus and in some instances the cervix.  

Hysterectomies are performed by surgeons to treat several gynecological conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids, uterine collapse or cervical cancer. The operation can be done vaginally or through the abdomen.

Depending on the reason for surgery, you may be a candidate for robotic-assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy.  During this minimally invasive procedure, surgeons operate by making small incisions into the abdomen; utilizing the aid and precision of a robot to control tiny surgical instruments.  Surgery may last between three to four hours.  Times can vary as each patient’s case is unique. After surgery, your doctor may recommend that you stay at least one night in the hospital for observation.

A complete recovery post-surgery can take anywhere between six to eight weeks. During this time you may experience:

  • Vaginal bleeding  or a dark-brown discharge for a few days  or weeks 
  • Little or no pain  
  • Tiredness
  • A poor appetite
  • A swollen or puffy belly
  • Discomfort at the incision site
  • Burning or itching around the incision
  • A sense of loss ( It is not unusual for some women  to temporarily feel a sense of loss or depression)

It is highly recommended that you seek medical attention if you are experiencing a fever over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, swelling or drainage of the incision,  bright red vaginal bleeding, severe pain, vomiting or nausea, frequent urination, difficulty urinating or a burning sensation during urination.

As your body heals it is important to follow self-care guidelines your doctor provides. This may include refraining from lifting objects greater than 20lbs for up to six weeks after surgery, keeping the incision site clean and dry, waiting at least four weeks before submerging in the tub, refraining from vaginal intercourse or inserting objects into the vagina for eight weeks.

Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s expert team of surgeons is highly trained in performing hysterectomies with the assistance of the da Vinci robotic surgery system. This highly advanced, minimally invasive technology can offer patients several benefits including minimal bleeding, shorter hospital stays and recovery periods.

To schedule an appointment with a surgeon at Flushing Hospital who specializes in minimally invasive robotic surgery, please call 718-670-3135.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Fibroids- Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

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Patient with doctorUterine fibroids are abnormal growths that develop in or just outside the uterus.   They form when the smooth muscle cells of the uterus (myometrium) begin to grow rapidly and advance into tumors, which are typically non-cancerous. These tumors vary in size and can be as small as a pumpkin seed or as large as a grapefruit and in unusual cases, much larger.

Fibroids are very common. It is estimated that 70 to 80 % of women will develop tumors by the age of 50. Although the causes are unknown, there are factors that put some at a greater risk than others-they are:

  • Family history
  • Pregnancy
  • Being overweight
  • Having African American ancestry
  • Being over the age of 30

The symptoms of fibroids depend on the size, location and the number of tumors present.  Symptoms include:

  • Pelvic pain
  • Heavy bleeding and blood clots between and during periods
  • Increased urination
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Enlargement of the lower abdomen
  • Increased time of menstruation
  • Pressure or a feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen

Women who have very small tumors or are going through menopause may experience very little or no symptoms at all.

Fibroids are diagnosed by gynecologists by way of pelvic exams and ultrasound or MRI.   Your doctor will create a treatment plan based on symptoms and the advancement of the growth.  Treatment may consist of medication to regulate hormone levels, assist in shrinking the tumor or alleviate pain. Surgery may be performed laparoscopically to remove tumors, however, if your condition is extreme, your physician may recommend a hysterectomy.

Robotic surgeons at Flushing Hospital are board certified or board approved and have performed countless gynecologic procedures resulting in high rates of success.Procedures performed robotically by Flushing Hospital’s team of surgeons include hysterectomies, tubal re-anastomosis, dermoid cystectomy and more.

For more information about robotic surgery or procedures performed by our surgeons, please contact Flushing Hospital’s, Department of Obstetric and Gynecology at 718-670-8994.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.