Minimally Invasive Surgery and the da Vinci System

About Minimally Invasive Surgery

Minimally Invasive Surgery has redefined the field of surgery. The elimination of large open incision based procedures through Laparoscopy, Endoscopy or Robotic has led to decreases in recovery time, pain and scarring– Getting you back to life quickly.

The Robotic Method - daVinci Surgical System

If it’s been determined that you need surgery, you may have several options to consider. One minimally invasive option is da Vinci Surgery. With the da Vinci System, Dr. Kafali-Nazarof is able to operate through just a few small incisions. The da Vinci System represents the latest in surgical and robotics technologies. The surgeon is 100% in control of the da Vinci System at all times. da Vinci technology translates hand movements into smaller, precise movements of tiny instruments inside your body.

Procedures

  • Urethral Sling

    The most common treatment for urinary incontinence is a urethral sling, surgically inserted to support the base of the urethra. Urinary incontinence affects 1 in 4 women over the age of 18, and far too many of these women accept it as normal. Dr. Kafali-Nazarof performs urethral sling surgeries that have the potential to vastly improve comfort.

  • Prolapse Repair

    Dr. Kafali-Nazarof uses advanced minimally invasive methods that are safe and effective. We want to offer our patients peace of mind by helping them fully understand the condition, treatment options, and expectations for recovery. Due to the potential negative long-term effects, we do not use synthetic mesh during cystocele and rectocele repair.

  • Hysteroscopy

    Hysteroscopy is a procedure in which a long thin camera is inserted into the uterus through the vagina. The procedure can be diagnostic or operative. When performing a hysteroscopy procedure at Advanced Women’s Health of Chicago, our goals are to have the smallest and least amount of incisions possible, to best minimize risk of complications, and help you recover faster with less pain.

  • Resection of Endometriosis

    Resection (or excision) of endometriosis preserves the uterus, tubes & ovaries for women who wish to maintain fertility, or who have milder disease. By using techniques that can help with medical management to extend the length of pain control. Excision is a conservative surgery that can improve pain, though there is no cure for endometriosis.

  • Ovarian Cystectomy

    Ovarian cysts are relatively common, but surgical treatment depends on whether you wish to maintain fertility, and also the condition of the cyst. When you visit AWH we will ensure that you are aware of all of your treatment options, as well as the potential risks and side effects of each.

  • Laparoscopic Hysterectomy

    Dr. Kafali-Nazarof is a known pioneer in the field of GYN surgery, and is an expert in laparoscopic hysterectomies. She has developed powerful laparoscopic hysterectomy procedures that consistently get patients back to their life in no time. Her reputation has been earned, so you know you are in the care of a professional you can trust

FAQ's

  • How are STDs treated?
    STD treatment depends on the type and severity of the disease. Dr Kafali-Nazarof uses antibiotics to treat most bacterial STDs, like syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia. Other infections like HIV & herpes never go away, but can be managed with antiviral drugs. Depending of your case, you may be able to reduce your viral count to virtually undetectable levels. Even if your STD is under control, it is still transmittable, so be sure to discuss safe-sex methods with Dr Kafali-Nazarof. And remember, there is no need to feel shame or embarrassment over an STD, at AWH, Dr Kafali handles every personal health concern with discretion and compassion.
  • Does robotic surgery eliminate the need for a real surgeon?
    No, the surgeon is in control of the entire surgical system throughout the procedure. Although the robot allows the surgeon to make more precise hand and wrist movements, it cannot be programmed to perform surgery on its own. All maneuvers must be performed by a qualified surgeon who has been specifically trained and precepted in robotics. In addition, a resident/assistant and surgical scrub are at the bedside with the patient to assist the surgeon and change instruments as needed.
  • How is robotic surgery different from traditional surgery?
    A traditional open GYN surgery requires either a low transverse incision (like a cesarean incision) or a vertical incision from the pubic bone to just above the navel. This size of this incision can result in a lengthy recovery of approximately six weeks and an increased risk of infection for some patients. Patients are also often left with a large scar and some abdominal muscle weakness following the procedure. Both laparoscopy and robot-assisted surgery require smaller incisions, which result in a quicker recovery for the patient and decreased risk of infection. The tools used to perform laparoscopic procedures are rigid and do not allow for the extended range of mobility offered by the instruments used during robot-assisted surgery. As a result, procedures that are often challenging to perform with laparoscopy are made easier with robot-assisted surgery.
  • How safe are robotic surgeries?
    Performing a GYN surgery using robotics is as safe as other accepted surgical techniques. This surgical technology has been approved by the FDA since 2005. Since then, more than 100,000 robot-assisted hysterectomies have been performed throughout the United States.