Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery (MIGS)

Advanced care. Faster recovery. Compassionate expertise.

Minimally invasive gynecologic surgeons (MIGS) are gynecologists with advanced fellowship training in complex gynecologic surgery. They focus their practice on diagnosing and treating challenging benign gynecologic conditions using the least invasive approaches available.

GBMC's surgeons specialize in advanced laparoscopic, robotic, and hysteroscopic techniques that offer faster recovery, less pain, and improved outcomes.

The multidisciplinary team is dedicated to providing excellent outcomes to every patient, every time. If necessary, patients have access to experts in anesthesia, urogynecology, GYN oncology, colorectal surgery, thoracic surgery, interventional radiology, and urology.

Advantages of Minimally Invasive Surgery

Our surgeons use advanced techniques and state-of-the-art technology to provide safe, effective care with the least disruption to your life. Minimally invasive approaches offer many benefits, including:

• Shorter hospital stays, often allowing same-day discharge
• Faster recovery and quicker return to normal activities
• Less pain and reduced need for narcotic medications
• Lower risk of infection
• Small, cosmetic incisions (typically 5 mm)
• Reduced risk of internal scar tissue (adhesions)
• Less blood loss during surgery

Examples of Conditions Treated

Uterine & Menstrual Health

• Abnormal menstrual bleeding, including heavy bleeding and postmenopausal bleeding
• Uterine fibroids, including fertility-sparing treatment options
• Adenomyosis
• Uterine polyps
• Intrauterine adhesions (Asherman syndrome)
• Cervical stenosis
• Congenital uterine anomalies, including uterine septum and other Müllerian anomalies
• Cesarean scar defects
• Surgical optimization for infertility (e.g., treatment of submucosal fibroids, endometriosis, adhesions)

Endometriosis & Pelvic Pain

• Endometriosis, including deep infiltrating or advanced disease, managed collaboratively with colorectal, urology, and general surgery colleagues when needed
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Pelvic adhesive disease

Ovarian & Tubal Conditions

• Ovarian cysts and other adnexal masses
• Tubo-ovarian abscess
• Opportunistic or risk-reducing salpingectomy
• Hydrosalpinxes
• Essure Removal

Surgical Techniques

Hysteroscopy

A small camera is passed through the cervix to examine the inside of the uterus and treat abnormalities such as polyps or fibroids, all without any abdominal incisions.

Examples: Hysteroscopic polypectomy, myomectomy, septum resection

Laparoscopy / Robotic Surgery

Tiny incisions allow a camera and instruments to treat or remove pathology, including fibroids and endometriosis. This is all without the need for a traditional large incision.

Examples: laparoscopic hysterectomy, laparoscopic myomectomy, laparoscopic endometriosis excision

Acessa (Radiofrequency Ablation of Fibroids)

A laparoscopic technique that uses radiofrequency energy to shrink fibroids while preserving healthy uterine tissue.

Office procedures

Convenient treatments can be performed in the clinic including office hysteroscopy, polyp removal, IUD retrieval, and biopsy procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is minimally invasive gynecologic surgery?

Minimally invasive gynecologic surgery uses advanced techniques like laparoscopy, robotic surgery, and hysteroscopy to treat gynecologic conditions through small incisions or no incisions at all, rather than traditional open surgery.

How is this different from traditional surgery?

Unlike traditional open surgery that requires large incisions, minimally invasive surgery uses tiny incisions (typically 5 mm) or works through natural openings. This results in less pain, faster recovery, lower risk of infection, and smaller scars.

Am I a candidate for minimally invasive surgery?

Most patients with benign gynecologic conditions are candidates for minimally invasive surgery. Our surgeons will evaluate your specific condition and medical history to determine the best approach for you.

How long is the recovery time?

Recovery time varies depending on the procedure, but most patients experience faster recovery than with traditional surgery. Many procedures allow for same-day discharge, and most patients return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks.

Will I have visible scars?

Minimally invasive surgery results in much smaller scars than traditional surgery. Laparoscopic and robotic procedures typically use incisions of only 5 mm, and hysteroscopic procedures require no abdominal incisions at all.

How much pain will I experience after surgery?

Patients generally experience significantly less pain with minimally invasive surgery compared to traditional open surgery. This often means less need for narcotic pain medications and a more comfortable recovery.

Can fibroids be removed without removing my uterus?

Yes, we offer fertility-sparing treatment options for uterine fibroids, including laparoscopic myomectomy and Acessa (radiofrequency ablation). Our surgeons will discuss the best option for your specific situation and goals.

Do you treat endometriosis?

Yes, our surgeons specialize in treating endometriosis, including deep infiltrating and advanced disease. When necessary, we work collaboratively with colorectal, urology, and general surgery colleagues to provide comprehensive care.

What if I need a hysterectomy?

We perform minimally invasive hysterectomies using laparoscopic or robotic techniques whenever possible, which offer faster recovery and less pain than traditional open hysterectomy.

How do I schedule a consultation?

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Helou or Dr. Trieu, call our office at 443-849-2767. We have convenient locations at GBMC's main campus, GBMC Health Partners at Padonia, and GBMC Health Partners at Owings Mills.

Will my insurance cover minimally invasive surgery?

Most insurance plans cover medically necessary minimally invasive gynecologic surgery. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to verify your specific coverage and benefits.

What should I expect during my first visit?

During your initial consultation, your surgeon will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms and concerns, perform an examination if needed, and recommend the most appropriate treatment options for your condition.