Modern Options for Quick Recovery
Our practice considers the development of modern surgical robotic equipment to be one of the greatest advances in surgical technology. We believe deeply in the noble Hippocratic principle of “First, do no harm.” Accordingly, we always seek to avoid any unnecessary medications, interventions, or surgery. When our patient’s condition does require surgery, we strive to perform this surgery in a safe manner that causes as little pain and scarring as possible.
Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) is a wonderful example of modern technology at the service of human individuals. These surgical tools allow women to now have even complex surgeries completed laparoscopically. In the past this would have required much larger abdominal incisions procedures such as difficult hysterectomies, myomectomies (removal of fibroids), removal of extensive scar tissue, and removal of severe endometriosis.
Not all patients are ideal candidates for minimally invasive surgery, however our doctors are always willing to discuss these options with you should your course of treatment require them.
Some of the benefits of minimally invasive surgery include: smaller incisions, less scarring, less pain, shorter hospital stay, faster recovery, earlier return to normal daily activities.
In line with our Code of Ethics, Acadiana OB/GYN uses the latest MIS techniques. One example is that of laparoscopic procedures performed through a small incision in the umbilicus (“navel”). This technique has the advantage of a nearly invisible scar hidden in the wrinkles of the navel, less pain, and still the quick recovery characteristic of modern laparoscopic procedures. Since these procedures are unique and difficult to learn, Dr. Cudihy is one of the few gynecological surgeons in the region currently performing them. He has used this technique in the past for such varied cases as hysterectomies, removal of abnormal ovaries, removal of endometriosis, and for treatment of ectopic pregnancy.
Our approach to endometriosis is first of all that of surgical excision (or removal) of all diseased tissue. With the modern surgical instruments available (daVinci robot), we rarely (if ever) have a need for the larger “cesarean-like” surgical incisions as had been more common in recent years for significant or severe endometriosis.
We often find that PCOS can be treated with non-invasive (medical) treatments alone. However, when medications are not sufficient, we are able to perform ovarian wedge resection procedures laparoscopically for women who require this procedure.