Robotic & Laparoscopic Hysterectomy in Katy, TX

Minimally Invasive Approaches: Laparoscopic vs. Robotic Surgery

Traditional hysterectomies once required a large abdominal incision (open surgery), resulting in several days in the hospital and weeks of limited mobility. Today, Dr. Ann Bertles utilizes modern minimally invasive robotic gynecologic surgery whenever clinically appropriate, avoiding large incisions entirely.

Laparoscopic Hysterectomy

During a standard laparoscopic hysterectomy, small keyhole incisions (typically less than a half-inch each) are made in the abdomen. A thin camera (laparoscope) and specialized miniature instruments are inserted, allowing the surgeon to visualize the pelvic organs in detail on a monitor and safely remove the uterus with minimal tissue trauma.

da Vinci® Robotic Hysterectomy

For cases requiring heightened dexterity and precision, such as a large uterus, complex fibroids, or dense scar tissue, Dr. Bertles utilizes the da Vinci surgical system. During hysterectomy robotic surgery, the surgeon sits at an ergonomic console beside the patient, controlling robotic arms that translate delicate hand motions into micro-movements inside the pelvis.

Key advantages of a robotic laparoscopic hysterectomy include:

• High-Definition 3D Vision: Magnified, three-dimensional views of pelvic nerves, blood vessels, and adjacent anatomy.
• EndoWrist® Technology: Instruments that bend and rotate far beyond the capabilities of the human hand, allowing precise dissection in tight spaces.
• Reduced Tissue Trauma: Decreased blood loss, minimal scarring, and a lower risk of postoperative infection.

Who Is a Candidate for Robotic or Laparoscopic Hysterectomy?

Women with uterine fibroids, endometriosis, abnormal uterine bleeding, or uterine prolapse may be candidates for hysterectomy when other treatments have not provided sufficient relief. Whether robotic or conventional laparoscopic surgery is appropriate depends on the diagnosis, uterine size, medical history, and overall health. 

At Progressive Women’s Care in Katy, TX, Dr. Ann Bertles evaluates these factors to recommend an appropriate surgical approach.

Benefits of Robotic and Laparoscopic Hysterectomy

For patients who are candidates for minimally invasive surgery, laparoscopic and robotic hysterectomy may offer several advantages over traditional open surgery:

• Smaller incisions: Small abdominal incisions typically result in less visible scarring than a large abdominal incision.
• Less postoperative discomfort: Many patients experience less pain after minimally invasive surgery compared with open hysterectomy.
• Shorter hospital stays: Some patients can return home the same day or after a brief hospital stay, depending on their procedure and recovery.
• Earlier return to daily activities: Recovery is generally faster than with open abdominal surgery, although the timeline varies by patient.
• Enhanced surgical visualization: Robotic systems provide a magnified view of the surgical area, helping the surgeon perform the procedure with controlled instrument movements.

What to Expect During Robotic or Laparoscopic Hysterectomy

During a laparoscopic or robotic hysterectomy, the surgical team administers general anesthesia. Dr. Bertles makes small incisions in the abdomen to insert a camera and surgical instruments. For a da Vinci robotic hysterectomy, she controls the robotic instruments from a console while viewing a magnified image of the surgical area. The uterus is then removed using the planned surgical technique.

The procedure and hospital stay vary depending on the complexity of the surgery and your individual circumstances. Before your operation, the team at Progressive Women’s Care in Katy, TX, will explain the preparation instructions and what to expect on the day of surgery.

Recovery Expectations

Minimally invasive procedures generally allow patients to resume daily activities sooner than open abdominal hysterectomy, although full recovery still takes time.

During the initial recovery period, you may experience fatigue, mild abdominal discomfort, or light vaginal bleeding. Dr. Ann Bertles will provide instructions for managing discomfort, caring for your incisions, and gradually returning to normal activities. You will also need to avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and vaginal intercourse until your surgical team confirms it is safe to resume them.

Many patients return to routine activities within a few weeks after minimally invasive hysterectomy, but complete recovery may take longer. Follow-up appointments at Progressive Women’s Care in Katy, TX, allow Dr. Bertles to assess your healing and address any concerns. 

Choose an Experienced Robotic Hysterectomy Surgeon in Katy, TX

Dr. Ann Bertles brings extensive experience in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery to Progressive Women’s Care, including performing robotic procedures with the da Vinci Surgical System since 2006. 

She is board-certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology, certified on the da Vinci robotic system, and trains other physicians in its use. This specialized experience allows her to evaluate complex gynecologic conditions and determine whether robotic hysterectomy, conventional laparoscopic hysterectomy, or another surgical approach is appropriate.

For women in Katy, Cypress, Houston, and Fulshear, Dr. Bertles offers dedicated surgical consultations and second opinions to ensure every patient thoroughly understands her options before making a surgical decision.

Frequently Asked Questions