Overview

Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery

Light cameraMinimally invasive gynecologic surgery refers to surgical techniques performed with a digital camera connected to a telescope that is inserted either into your abdomen (laparoscopy) or through your cervix into the uterine cavity (hysteroscopy). A surgeon uses the lighted camera, as well as a variety of small instruments, to complete the procedure. The camera provides the surgeon with a clear view of the procedure, which is projected on high definition digital video monitors located throughout the operating room. Robotic surgery (using the da Vinci® robot) is a form of minimally invasive surgery. Minimally invasive procedures have a number of advantages over traditional procedures, including:

  • Minimal scarring
  • Lower risk of infection
  • Decreased blood loss and fewer blood transfusions
  • Reduced pain post-procedure
  • A shorter or fully eliminated hospital stay
  • Quicker return to normal daily activities and work
  • Improved quality of life

Light Camera MonitorThroughout Northwestern Medicine, our Women’s Health specialists* are dedicated to offering less invasive alternatives to traditional gynecologic procedures in both the operating room and office setting. By integrating research, education and clinical expertise, we give you the ability to receive treatment for a wide range of benign gynecological conditions in an environment that addresses your unique needs and concerns.

The Northwestern Medicine Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery Program is staffed with Northwestern Medicine Group physicians. The program is located in the Galter Pavilion of Northwestern Memorial Hospital in the Streeterville section of downtown Chicago. This location includes the outpatient office, where you will have your initial evaluation and subsequent outpatient visits.

Meet the Teams

The Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery Teams are staffed by highly trained and caring physicians and advanced practice nurses specializing in all phases of women's healthcare.

Conditions

Northwestern Medicine specialists offer a comprehensive array of medical and surgical treatments and are dedicated to working closely with the patient to determine the most appropriate approach for her condition. The Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery Program treats various women's health conditions, including:


Treatments

As clinical and academic leaders, our specialists remain at the forefront of surgical innovation and are able to offer the most advanced surgical techniques and technologies. The Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery Program offers multiple minimally invasive surgical procedures, including:


Research

Northwestern Medicine physicians not only provide excellent clinical care, but also perform research and participate in medical education locally and nationally. The Northwestern Medicine Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology is currently ranked #4 in the nation for funded research projects from the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Our specialists lead and participate in a variety of research activities which are constantly evolving into the next generation of clinical treatments, with a particular focus on research pertaining to the Northwestern Medicine Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery Program, including:

  • Leading research in aromatase inhibitors, antiprogestins and disparities in access to care
  • NIH merit award in endometriosis (Northwestern is the only center in the U.S. with this award.)
  • NIH center grant, which led to the development of the only fibroid research center in the country

Learn more about our Obstetrics and Gynecology work at the Feinberg School of Medicine.

Locations & Contact Information
    *

    In the spirit of keeping you well-informed, some of the physician(s) and/or individual(s) identified are neither agents nor employees of Northwestern Memorial HealthCare or any of its affiliate organizations. They have selected our facilities as places where they want to treat and care for their private patients.