Minimally Invasive Surgery Specialist

What is minimally invasive surgery?

Minimally invasive surgery, also called laparoscopic surgery, offers many advantages over traditional, open-incision surgery. It's performed using only a few tiny incisions. Dr. Breit inserts a tube with a video camera attached through one incision. As the camera transmits a magnified 3D image, the procedure is performed using instruments inserted through the other incisions.

Laparoscopic surgery offers benefits such as:

• Less pain
• Less blood loss
• Lower chance of infection
• Quicker recovery
• Smaller incisions and minimal scarring

What is the da Vinci Surgical System?

The da Vinci Surgery System is a sophisticated robotic surgical system that enables Dr. Breit to perform laparoscopic procedures with enhanced dexterity and precision. With the da Vinci system, she can precisely control the instruments and camera affixed to the robotic arms from a nearby computer console.

Dr. Breit has improved visualization thanks to the high-definition and zoom capabilities of the da Vinci camera. The robotic arms respond intuitively to her control, moving with incredible dexterity. They’re also small enough to work in areas that are unreachable by human hands.

What types of minimally invasive procedures are performed at the Center for Women’s Health?

Minimally invasive gynecologic surgery offers women the procedures they need, performed in the comfort of our offices. For most patients, in-office procedures are also less expensive than outpatient surgery at a hospital. The minimally invasive procedures we offer on-site include:

Endometrial ablation: Dr. Breit performs this procedure for patients with abnormal, painful, irregular, or heavy bleeding. Ablation removes the lining of the uterus in a procedure that takes about five minutes and requires minimal recovery time. Following surgery, most women have little to no menstrual bleeding.

Hysteroscopy: Using a device called a hysteroscope, which includes a small camera, Dr. Breit can see inside the uterus to diagnose and treat abnormal uterine bleeding. During the procedure, she can remove and test a sample from the uterine for precancerous or cancerous lesions, fibroids, or polyps. Or, she could perform a dilation and curettage (D&C).

Colposcopy: Dr. Breit performs a colposcopy when a Pap test has shown abnormal results. The colposcope lets her closely examine the cervix, vagina, and vulva for signs of disease.

Cervical polyp removal: Cervical polyps are commonly found on the cervix and usually not cancerous.

Condyloma removal or destruction: Condyloma, or genital warts, are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They’re easily removed or treated in the office.

Vulvar biopsy: When lesions are found on the vulva, Dr. Breit performs a biopsy in the office so she can examine a piece of the tissue for disease.