Many women of all ages struggle with fibroids, polyps, and other gynecological issues. Fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop in the uterus and come with uncomfortable symptoms, such as cramping, heavy bleeding, and fatigue. For these reasons, many patients start thinking about the myomectomy procedure, also known as uterine fibroids removal surgery. There are different types of it, including minimally invasive myomectomy and da Vinci myomectomy, which uses modern technology to make the procedure less invasive and more accurate. 

If you are in the area and are considering getting it done, look no further; our gynecologist in Sarasota, FL, would be happy to assist you in getting the quality of your life back. Many women come to our clinic at University Park OBGYN with the same issue and are delighted with the results. We take pride in our individualized approach that is tailored to every patient’s needs. In addition to da Vinci myomectomy, we offer a range of services that can boost your confidence and let you retake control of your reproductive health. 

What Is Myomectomy?

Woman Patient Visiting Female Doctor at Clinic Office. Medical Work Writes a Prescription on a Table in a Hospital.

Fibroids, commonly referred to as leiomyomas, are benign growths that form in the uterine lining, both inside and outside of it. They can range in size from tiny, pea-sized nodules to enormous masses the size of a grapefruit. Depending on their dimensions and location, fibroids can present with a variety of symptoms. Heavy menstrual blood, discomfort during sexual intercourse, or abdominal pressure are all possible signs. In certain circumstances, fibroids can also lead to infertility or pregnancy difficulties. Myomectomy surgical procedure removes the fibroids from the uterus without damaging it.

For women who have these problems, myomectomy is a popular therapy choice. This surgery comes in various forms, including minimally invasive myomectomy and da Vinci one, which removes leiomyomas using a robotic surgical system. The physician delicately removes the fibroids during a myomectomy, leaving the uterus unharmed. In a hysterectomy, the whole womb is surgically removed, which is quite different. Myomectomy could be a better choice than a hysterectomy for women who want to retain their hormonal balance or keep their fertility.

Most women see a considerable improvement in the symptoms after uterine fibroids removal. However, it’s important to remember that there is always a chance that they will come back in the future. In order to get the treatment you need and help detect any new leiomyomas, regularly visit your gynecologist and discuss any concerns or symptoms you might have.

What to Expect Before, During, and After Myomectomy?

Before undergoing this procedure, there are several vital steps to remember. Firstly, your gynecologist will perform a physical exam to determine the size, location, and number of your fibroids. Your doctor may request an ultrasound or other imaging procedures to obtain a fuller image of them and their effect on your reproductive system. They will recommend a particular kind of myomectomy surgery depending on the above-mentioned factors. 

For instance, a hysteroscopic myomectomy, which means removing the fibroids through the cervix using a tiny device, may be used to remove smaller leiomyomas. A laparoscopic or robotic myomectomy, which involves making tiny incisions in the abdomen to remove fibroids, may be necessary for larger or more difficult ones.

Before the surgery, you will be given a general anesthetic to ensure you are relaxed and pain-free. The surgeon will gently remove the fibroids from the womb while maintaining its integrity using refined instruments. To remove bigger fibroids, it may be necessary to make a tiny incision in the uterus. 

After it is over, patients are usually required to stay in the facility for a few hours before being permitted to go home. You will probably be able to continue your usual activities in a few days, depending on the type of myomectomy you had, or you may need to take several weeks off of work to recover completely.

Types of Myomectomy Surgery

There are three types of myomectomy, each with advantages and disadvantages of their own: 

  1. Minimally invasive myomectomy (laparoscopic or robotic myomectomy)
  2. Hysteroscopic myomectomy
  3. Abdominal myomectomy (open myomectomy)

Several factors affect the doctor’s decision for the procedure, such as:

  • Size of fibroids
  • Their location
  • Their number

Not every woman will be a good candidate for minimally invasive myomectomy; those with severe symptoms and bigger fibroids usually need open myomectomy due to the complexity of the issue. 

Minimally Invasive Myomectomy

There are three different kinds of minimally invasive myomectomy, each with a unique strategy and advantages:

  1. Laparoscopic or robotic myomectomy – During this procedure, tiny incisions are made in your belly, and the uterine fibroids are removed from the body using a small, illuminated tube with a camera called a laparoscope. Some doctors even use a robot called the da Vinci system that can control the movements during this surgery. Compared to open surgery, this method reduces discomfort and hospital stays and speeds up recovery. For women who have small to medium-sized fibroids outside of the womb, laparoscopic myomectomy is very beneficial. 
  2. Hysteroscopic myomectomy – This process doesn’t involve any incisions. The surgeon inserts a hysteroscope (a small, illuminated tube with a camera) through the cervix and vagina into the uterus to inspect the leiomyomas and remove them using special tools. It is done quickly, there is less discomfort, and you may expect a fast recovery.
  3. Single-port myomectomy – This is the newest technique out of these three. A single tiny incision is made near your belly button, and the doctor removes the fibroids using surgical tools and a camera. Compared to a regular laparoscopic myomectomy, it causes less scarring and has a quick recovery time. However, depending on the size and location of the leiomyomas as well as other personal characteristics, single-port myomectomy may not be appropriate for all individuals. 

Open Myomectomy

Male Doctor and Female Patient Talking on the Office Desk Showing Health Problem Communication Between Patient and Doctor.

This type of myomectomy involves making a bigger incision in your abdomen to help your surgeon reach the uterus and remove fibroids. Since it gives them a better view of the surgical area and easier access too, this method may be required for larger fibroids. 

Nevertheless, open myomectomy often includes a longer recovery period and a higher risk of complications compared to minimally invasive procedures like laparoscopic or da Vinci myomectomy. As for the recovery time, you may need to stay in the hospital for a few days. Patients are usually ready to go back to work after six weeks.

Am I a Good Candidate for da Vinci Myomectomy?

For the majority of women with uterine fibroids who are looking for a minimally invasive surgical alternative, it is considered to be safe and successful. Not all individuals, however, could be good candidates for this surgery. 

Patients with leiomyomas who are experiencing symptoms like heavy blood flow, discomfort, or pressure and who have not responded to various non-surgical therapies are often ideal contenders for this procedure. Da Vinci myomectomy may also be suitable for ladies who want to maintain their fertility since it has a shorter recovery period and a reduced risk of adhesions and scarring than a standard open myomectomy.

On the other hand, women who suffer from larger fibroids, or those that have them in specific regions of the uterus, might not be suitable to undergo this surgery. Your doctor will assess your unique situation and decide if da Vinci myomectomy is the right course of action for you. While making this advice, they could also consider your age, general health, and history of prior surgeries.