Author: Manisha Purohit, M.D., FACOG

Every year, thousands of women undergo hysterectomy (the surgical removal of the uterus). As surgical technologies rapidly develop and spread across the United States, many women elect to have a minimally invasive robotic hysterectomy.

During a robotic hysterectomy, the surgeon sits at a machine just a few feet away from the operating table where he/she can move a set of precision-engineered controls that power the actual surgical robot’s arms.

The benefits of robotic hysterectomy include:

• less blood loss
• quicker recovery period
• shorter hospital stay
• fewer complications
• less pain

With benefits like those, who wouldn’t choose a robotic hysterectomy?

Why Robotic Hysterectomy Isn’t the Only Option

While the benefits do sound impressive, a robotic hysterectomy isn’t always in the best interest of the patient. Reasons why you might not have this type of minimally invasive hysterectomy include:

• You are pregnant or morbidly obese.
• You bleed easily and/or have abnormal blood clotting.
• Traveling to a surgeon who performs robotic hysterectomy is not an option for you.
• Your surgeon does not have sufficient experience and/or training in performing this type of hysterectomy.
• Robotic surgery can be more expensive than other hysterectomies, such as the abdominal, vaginal, and laparoscopic approach.

There are other reasons why your physician may or may not suggest robotic hysterectomy. Despite advances in this surgical approach, other methods still provide reliable and effective results. Talk to your physician to learn more about which type of hysterectomy is right for you.

Robotic Hysterectomy at AZ Associates for Women’s Health

Our practice offers robotic surgery for hysterectomies and other gynecological conditions for qualifying patients. Surgeries are performed at either Mountain Vista Medical Center or Tempe St. Luke’s Hospital, depending on OR suite availability and the patient’s preference.

For more information about minimally invasive robotic hysterectomy, call Arizona Associates for Women’s Health at 480-257-2700. Or, schedule an appointment online.
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