Robotic surgery: A less invasive alternative to traditional open hysterectomy for women in Katy TX

Robotic Surgery at Jenkins Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Medicine in Katy TX Area

Hysterectomies are among the most common surgeries for women in the United States; for every three women, one woman will have this procedure before her 60th birthday, according to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Jenkins Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Medicine offers a less invasive alternative to traditional open hysterectomy: robotic surgery at the Katy TX office.

The hysterectomy procedure

There are abundant reasons a woman may choose to have her uterus and/or cervix removed. Most commonly, patients are motivated to undergo this surgery for uterine fibroids — noncancerous growths that frequently develop during a woman’s childbearing years. Hysterectomy surgery is the only proven, lasting solution to treat fibroids and their accompanying symptoms: heavy, long periods; anemia; and persistent pain.

A small percentage of hysterectomies are for the treatment of malignant gynecologic cancers, including early-stage endometrial and cervical cancer. Many women also undergo the surgery due to quality of life issues, such as chronic pelvic pain, excessive bleeding, incontinence and low libido related to uterine prolapse.

Traditionally, hysterectomies were either performed through the vaginal opening or the lower abdomen with incisions. Laparoscopy may also be used as an advanced, less invasive alternative to traditional open surgery. Instead of making a six- to 12-inch incision in the abdominal wall, laparoscopic hysterectomy is performed using a tiny camera system, and through a series of small incisions of around one-half inch in length.

The specialists at Jenkins Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Medicine use these and other advanced instruments to perform a hysterectomy in a way that:

Minimizes post-operative pain
Reduces blood loss
Speeds up healing, shortens downtime

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New patients please call:
855-346-8610

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281-347-2600

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The advanced tools used in robotic-assisted hysterectomy also allow for greater precision, flexibility, and control when compared to conventional techniques and surgical instruments.

Robotic hysterectomy surgery: the process

Robotic Hysterectomy Surgery: The Process at Jenkins Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Medicine in Katy TX Area

If Dr. Jenkins determines robotic hysterectomy is the best option for treatment, they discuss changes to the medications you take in the days leading up to your procedure (as needed). Certain prescriptions, as well as OTC meds, supplements, and herbal products, can increase your risk of surgical complications – including bleeding. So, it’s important to follow instructions as directed by your doctor. And, although recovery with robotic surgery is faster than with conventional open procedures, you still need to arrange for transportation after you’re able to go home, and you may need assistance with basic activities in the days following your surgery. It’s still important to take it easy, which aids with healing.

During treatment, the doctor passes a high-tech camera that renders very clear, 3-Dimensional images, as well as slender surgical tools, through tiny incisions. As part of the da Vinci Surgical System, control devices are used our specialists to direct the camera and surgical instruments. Depending on your needs, just the uterus may be removed during this time, or your surgeon will also remove one ovary (or both ovaries) and the fallopian tubes. Your anesthesia, comfort, and safety are monitored throughout, and adjusted as appropriate.

Adhering to post-operative instruction is also important to assure a healthy, complication-free recovery. Generally, patients appreciate robotic hysterectomy surgery as healing is better tolerated and shorter than with open surgery, and the approach is associated with a lower risk of infection and other surgical complications. “Self-care” is critical. Stay active, but refrain from heavy lifting or strenuous physical exertion until your doctor gives you the OK. Many of our patients quickly appreciate how much the surgery enhances their lives; they no longer have to worry about heavy periods or miss out on family or social activities due to pelvic pain.

Likewise, Jenkins Obstetrics, Gynecology, & Reproductive Medicine understands that women experience mixed emotions – a sense of sadness, guilt, or even loss alongside relief. We encourage you to schedule an appointment with one of our caring providers in Katy TX. Call 855-346-8610.

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We offer general care, gynecology, and obstetrics services that span all stages of a woman's life. Dr. Taryll L. Jenkins, MD, received his undergraduate degree from Louisiana State University and his Doctorate of Medicine from Meharry Medical College School of Medicine, TN. He completed his residency training at the University of Texas and Hermann Hospital, TX and is Board-certified from the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, with years of research experience.

Having graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Chemistry in 2011, Dr. Stephanie Roy received her Doctor of Medicine Degree in 2015 from the University of Texas Medical Branch. Today, she is a leading Board-certified physician who works hard to provide you and your family with high-quality services. In addition to spending time at the practice, Dr. Roy possesses extensive volunteer experience in the community. She was also a tutor at the Medical Careers Diversity Program in 2012 and, since then, has spent her free time volunteering for the St. Vincent’s Clinic.

Dr. Tiffany Ikwuagwu is passionate about caring for the diverse communities in Katy, TX. Having completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Houston, her medical degree at the Baylor College of Medicine, and her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at the McGovern Medical School, she worked as principal investigator on a research project with Dr. Nana Ankumah at UT Houston. A member of the American Medical Association, Texas Medical Association, and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Dr. Ikwuagwu has served in several leadership roles and has made many contributions to the community.

Yara Ramirez, MD, earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Baylor University and her doctorate in medicine from the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston, where she also completed her residency. She won the Resident Teaching Award from UTMB’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology for two consecutive years.
Dr. Ramirez has researched extensively on many obstetrics-related topics. She has been a Junior Fellow Representative for the UTMB Residency Program and a Medical Student Education Committee Member at the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. She has volunteered for various local and foreign community programs. Her fluency in Spanish and French is an asset to her organization.

Nadia Alexander is a Board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science degree in Nursing from the University of Texas Health Science Center. With seven years of experience in women’s health and a focus on obstetrics and ambulatory gynecology (vaginitis, UTI, and vaginal bleeding), she provides quality, compassionate care to patients in various stages of reproductive life. She is fluent in English and Spanish and is the lead contact for our Telehealth service.