Division of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery
Minimally 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:
- Lower risk of infection
- Minimal scarring
- 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
Throughout 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.
About Our Work
Education
Medical students and residents complete rotations with the division to gain an understanding of the competencies required in the various obstetrical, medical and surgical complications of pregnancy. The Division of MIGS also offers an outstanding fellowship program for one fellow each year. The fellowship incorporates research, education and clinical activities to prepare graduates for successful academic careers. Each fellow has a high-risk continuity clinic throughout their two years and rotates during their 12 months of clinical work on the inpatient clinical service.
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 & Gynecology is currently ranked No. 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 that 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
Patient Care
The clinical program is based at Prentice Women’s Hospital, the Obstetrics & Gynecology pavilion of Northwestern Memorial Hospital, which is the primary teaching affiliate of Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. Our diverse and large (over 12,000 deliveries annually) patient population provides excellent opportunities for challenging clinical care. We provide consultative services, total obstetric care and ultrasonography for high-risk pregnancies from throughout the Chicago metropolitan area.
