Minimally invasive gynecologic surgery
Team-based surgical excellence for complex gynecologic conditions
While we always strive to treat gynecologic conditions with a conservative approach, sometimes surgery is the best option to restore your health. Our gynecologic surgeons have renowned expertise in minimally invasive surgical procedures, including laparoscopy and robotic-assisted surgery. We receive referrals from doctors all over the region to help people with complex conditions receive the care they need.
Our multidisciplinary approach to your care gives you access to specialists in gynecology, urogynecology, and gynecologic oncology, when appropriate. We can also coordinate procedures with different specialists to perform multiple procedures during one surgery if needed.
Conditions we treat
Specialized gynecologic surgery for complex fibroids
The Penn Center for Integrated Fibroid Care provides expert surgical treatment for large or complex uterine fibroids. Our multidisciplinary team of dedicated fibroid experts—including surgeons, radiologists, and fertility specialists—works with you to develop a plan that fits your life. Visit us at our convenient Philadelphia and Radnor locations.
Our surgical techniques and approaches
We offer advanced procedures for gynecologic conditions, including minimally invasive techniques and traditional open surgery when necessary. A minimally invasive procedure helps you avoid a large abdominal incision. Our procedures require only small incisions measuring less than an inch each. The benefits include faster recovery, less pain, smaller scars, and a shorter hospital stay.
Your provider may recommend one of these options, depending on your condition:
Hysteroscopy is an incision-free, outpatient procedure. Your provider inserts a thin, lighted camera through your vagina and into your uterus to diagnose and treat uterine conditions.
During hysteroscopy, your provider can remove polyps (abnormal growths), scar tissue, fibroids, and IUDs. They can also diagnose or rule out conditions like endometrial cancer or uterine sarcoma.
During pelvic laparoscopy, a surgeon makes very small abdominal incisions and inserts a camera and surgical tools into your pelvic area. Laparoscopy can help us diagnose the cause of pelvic pain. We can also use the procedure to:
- Perform a hysterectomy (removal of your uterus) or tubal ligation (blocking your fallopian tubes for permanent birth control)
- Remove uterine fibroids or ovarian cysts
- Treat an ectopic pregnancy, where a fertilized egg grows outside your uterus
Robotic technology allows our surgeons to perform delicate or complex procedures with greater precision. Like laparoscopy, robotic-assisted surgery uses very small incisions. Robotic arms hold the camera and surgical tools, and your surgeon guides them through the procedure from a nearby computer console.
Vaginal surgery is a minimally invasive approach where the surgeon performs the procedure entirely through the vaginal canal. Because there are no external incisions, this method typically results in the fastest recovery time and no visible scarring.
While we prioritize minimally invasive techniques, some complex conditions may require open abdominal surgery. In this procedure, the surgeon makes a single larger incision (either vertical or horizontal along the bikini line) to gain direct access to the pelvic organs.
An open approach may be necessary for:
- Large or complex uterine fibroids
- Advanced gynecologic cancers
- Extensive scar tissue from previous surgeries
Our doctors
Our providers work with you to plan and deliver exceptional treatment and personalized care.
Locations
Our hospitals, multispecialty medical centers, pharmacies, labs and more offer outstanding, personalized care for patients all across the region.
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Patient stories
An unexpected ovarian cancer diagnosis
“I’m thankful for the support and many prayers from my family and friends. I appreciate that I received care close to home and grateful that Dr. Soriano found my cancer,” said Donna Frandsen.
Genetic knowledge helps catch cancer early
“I didn’t know about BRCA at all before my sister’s diagnosis—it was a total learning curve,” Trudy Orthey said. “If you know that your family carries this gene mutation, don’t be afraid to talk about it. I did and it saved my life. It also has a ripple effect to your family and future generations.”
A senior survivor of uterine cancer at 87
"I felt I was in exceptional hands,” said Mimi Reed. Diagnosed with uterine cancer at 86, Reed found care personalized to her goal of maintaining her independence through specialized geriatric oncology care at Penn Medicine Princeton Medical Center.
Living and giving back for gynecologic cancer patients
Dalia Jakas wanted to live in spite of a uterine cancer recurrence in her 80s, but she wouldn’t accept any compromises on the quality of her life. After her proton therapy treatment, Jakas is now giving back by funding research to help other patients. “I am eternally grateful to Dr. Taunk and his competent team for saving my life,” she said.