Robotic myomectomy is one of the modern surgical options most commonly researched by women who have uterine fibroids and especially wish to preserve their uterus. Although fibroids are generally benign, they may cause problems such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, anemia, a sensation of pressure, frequent urination, infertility, or recurrent pregnancy loss. In Prof. Dr. İsmail Mete İtil’s approach to obstetrics and gynecology, the aim is to evaluate the location and number of fibroids, their relationship with the uterus, and the patient’s pregnancy expectations together to develop a personalized surgical plan.
What Is Robotic Myomectomy?
Robotic myomectomy is a surgical procedure in which uterine fibroids are removed with the assistance of a robotic surgical system while preserving the uterus. Myomectomy differs from hysterectomy: in a hysterectomy, the uterus is removed, whereas a myomectomy aims to remove only the fibroids.
The robotic system does not perform the operation independently. The surgeon controls the surgical instruments from a console. This system may provide more precise movement in confined areas, three-dimensional visualization, and greater control during suturing.
What Is a Fibroid?
A fibroid is a benign tumor that develops from the muscular layer of the uterus. A patient may have a single fibroid or multiple fibroids. Whether a fibroid causes symptoms depends on its size, location, and proximity to the uterine cavity.
Fibroids located close to the uterine cavity may increase menstrual bleeding. Fibroids that grow outward may cause pressure, abdominal swelling, or frequent urination.
Who Is Suitable for Robotic Myomectomy?
Robotic myomectomy may be considered for suitable patients who wish to preserve their uterus and experience symptoms caused by fibroids. Preserving the uterus may be particularly important for women planning a future pregnancy.
Robotic myomectomy may be considered in the following situations:
- Heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Anemia caused by fibroids
- Pelvic pain or a sensation of pressure
- The presence of fibroids in a patient planning pregnancy
- Fibroids affecting the uterine cavity
- Rapidly growing fibroids or fibroids causing concerns during follow-up
- Seeking a minimally invasive alternative to open surgery
How Is Robotic Myomectomy Performed?
Robotic myomectomy is generally performed under general anesthesia. Several small incisions are made in the abdomen. A camera and robotic surgical instruments are inserted through these incisions. The surgeon carefully separates the fibroids from the uterine tissue and appropriately repairs the uterine wall.
One of the most important stages of this operation is securely suturing the uterine tissue. Particularly in patients planning pregnancy, safe repair of the uterine wall is a critical part of surgical planning.
What Are the Advantages of Robotic Myomectomy?
Robotic surgery may allow the operation to be performed through smaller incisions in suitable patients. Compared with open surgery, this may make the recovery process more comfortable. However, robotic surgery is not suitable for every patient.
Potential advantages include smaller scars, more precise suturing, clearer visualization, a shorter hospital stay, and an earlier return to daily activities. Nevertheless, the outcome depends on the characteristics of the fibroids, the surgeon’s experience, and the patient’s overall health.
What Is Recovery Like After Robotic Myomectomy?
The recovery period varies depending on the extent of the operation, the number of fibroids removed, and the patient’s general health. Mild pain, abdominal swelling, shoulder pain, fatigue, and vaginal spotting may occur during the first few days.
Patients should wait for their doctor’s advice before lifting heavy objects, performing strenuous exercise, or resuming sexual intercourse. Follow-up examinations are important for assessing uterine healing and planning a future pregnancy.
Can Pregnancy Be Planned After Robotic Myomectomy?
Pregnancy is possible after robotic myomectomy; however, the appropriate timing should be determined under medical supervision. It may be necessary to wait for a certain period to allow the uterine wall to heal. This period may vary depending on the location of the fibroids, the depth of the uterine incisions, and the method of repair.
A cesarean delivery may be recommended for some patients in a future pregnancy. This decision is based on the condition of the uterine wall and the patient’s surgical history.
What Are the Risks of Robotic Myomectomy?
Robotic myomectomy is a surgical procedure and is not entirely risk-free. Potential risks include bleeding, infection, injury to surrounding organs, adhesions, the development of new fibroids, conversion to open surgery, anesthesia-related complications, and uterine risks during a future pregnancy.
Appropriate patient selection, detailed imaging, surgical experience, and postoperative follow-up are essential for reducing these risks.
Robotic Myomectomy With Prof. Dr. İsmail Mete İtil
Robotic myomectomy is not merely the removal of fibroids. It is a specialized surgical procedure requiring careful consideration of uterine preservation, bleeding control, suture quality, and future pregnancy plans. Prof. Dr. İsmail Mete İtil evaluates the location and number of fibroids, their relationship with the uterine cavity, the patient’s age and symptoms, and her fertility expectations as a whole.
The aim is to provide suitable patients with a safe, personalized, modern surgical approach that preserves the uterus. Do not postpone seeking care for symptoms caused by fibroids; schedule an appointment for an evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Robotic Myomectomy Remove the Uterus?
No. The aim of robotic myomectomy is to remove the fibroids while preserving the uterus.
Is Robotic Myomectomy Suitable for Every Fibroid?
No. The decision is based on the number, size, and location of the fibroids, as well as the patient’s overall health.
Can Fibroids Recur?
Yes. New fibroids may develop after myomectomy. Regular follow-up is important.
Is Robotic Myomectomy Painful?
The operation is performed under anesthesia. Mild to moderate pain may occur afterward and can usually be controlled with medication.
When Can I Return to Work After Robotic Myomectomy?
The time required to return to work depends on the extent of the operation and the nature of the patient’s job. The decision should be made following the doctor’s assessment.
Can Fibroids Prevent Pregnancy?
Some fibroids may affect the likelihood of pregnancy. Fibroids that affect the uterine cavity are particularly important.
Is Vaginal Delivery Possible After Robotic Myomectomy?
A cesarean delivery may be recommended for some patients. The method of delivery is determined according to the uterine repair and the course of the pregnancy.
Can Fibroids Be Treated Without Surgery?
Some fibroids can be monitored, or medical treatment options may be considered. Not every fibroid requires surgery.
Are Robotic Myomectomy and Laparoscopy the Same?
Both procedures are performed through small incisions. In robotic surgery, the surgeon controls the instruments through a robotic surgical system.
Which Doctor Should I Consult for Robotic Myomectomy?
A patient should consult an obstetrician and gynecologist for the evaluation of fibroids, uterus-preserving surgery, and pregnancy planning.
This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical diagnosis or treatment.