Laparoscopic Surgery

In the 21st century, with the advance of medical technology, the field of gynecology has seen an emerging trend of minimally invasive procedures (MIP). These advances result in a shorter recovery period, less pain, and less scarring for women than the traditional surgical procedures.

Laparoscopy is the surgical technique where a camera is placed through a small incision in the umbilicus. Two smaller incisions are used to insert the surgical instruments. Laparoscopy allows the surgeon to visualize the entire abdomen and pelvis without making a large incision on the patient’s abdomen.

The alternative to laparoscopy is the traditional surgery. In order to gain access to the inside of the body, the surgeon creates a large incision on the abdomen; this type of procedure is an “open procedure.” The risks of a traditional surgical approach can be muscle injury and post-operative incisional hernias, in addition to a longer, more painful recovery period.

Dr. Vahora skillfully performs minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery for a variety of patients, including a local woman for whom she removed a cancerous mass that was discovered after a car accident.

Laparoscopic Hysterectomy

Having a hysterectomy is a decision one in every three women in the United States will face. In fact, hysterectomy is the second most common major surgery among women in this country. Of those surgeries, approximately one-third will be performed as a minimally invasive procedure that can result in a shorter recovery and leave a smaller scar.

Women do not need to be sidelined by hysterectomies. Dr. Vahora introduces “Not Your Grandmother’s Hysterectomy®.” Those who have a minimally invasive procedure typically return to normal activities in a few weeks. Traditional hysterectomies require an average hospital stay of five to seven days, and complete recovery may require up to two months. In other words, if you are a candidate for a minimally invasive procedure, you could return to your normal life in a much shorter time and experience a less painful recovery. “Not Your Grandmother’s Hysterectomy®,” makes a monumental difference for patients.

Dr. Vahora adopts principles of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS®), a perioperative care pathway designed to achieve early recovery for patients undergoing major surgery. ERAS® replaces traditional practices with evidence­-based approaches, when necessary, and takes a comprehensive look at all areas of the patient’s journey through surgery and recovery. This pathway helps to create a well­-coordinated, team­-oriented approach to surgical care for better outcomes.

ERAS® was developed more than 15 years ago, and it signifies a shift in surgical care practices, removing the prolonged fasting and bowel preparation, introducing short­-acting anesthesia, and allowing patients to get back on their feet sooner post­-operation.

For Dr. Vahora, ERAS® practices begin before her patients come through the door, by continuously participating in medical education and reviewing the latest clinical evidence in order to promote an optimal state of health pre­surgery and the shortest recovery time post­-surgery.

  • Patient engagement and education: Dr. Vahora takes a personalized approach to each patient’s treatment. She engages with the patient in order to make them an active player in their care plan, alongside the entire team of professionals. In order to shorten recovery time, patient education on the process is essential.
  • Standardized anesthesia and pain management: ERAS® includes anesthetic and pain reliever protocol to minimize narcotic usage and manage post-operative nausea.
  • Post­-operative follow­-up: Close and personalized follow­-up is key to monitoring process and ensuring a fast and successful recovery. For robotic surgery patients, a procedure which Dr. Vahora specializes in, patients are usually able to leave the hospital the same day of treatment.

At her private practice in Trinity, Florida, Dr. Vahora takes a whole patient approach to treatment, meaning she collaborates with other physicians, consultants, and surgeons in order to provide the highest quality and most comprehensive care plan.

GIRLS Program

Dr. Vahora has spearheaded an enhanced recovery program for her laparoscopic hysterectomy patients. The Gynecological Innovative Recovery After Laparoscopic Hysterectomy Surgery (GIRLS) program is designed to ensure that patient outcomes continue to improve and evolve, along with patient satisfaction. The GIRLS protocol has patients take an active role in their post-surgical recovery. Dr. Vahora’s patients participating in GIRLS will continue to enjoy the speedy recovery times, non-narcotic pain relief, fewer side effects, and improved outcomes that Dr. Vahora is known for.

Laparoscopic Ovary Removal

Laparoscopic ovary removal, or oophorectomy, makes multiple small incisions in your abdomen through which special tools may remove your ovaries. Similar to laparoscopic hysterectomies, patients are able to enjoy minimal scars, shorter recovery times, and less post-treatment pain through this innovative, minimally invasive option.

Removal of Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition that occurs when endometrial tissue appears outside the uterus and causes pelvic pain. Dr. Vahora is able to remove endometriosis through laparoscopic methods, relieving patients of pain quickly and effectively.

Laparoscopic Tubal Ligation

A tubal ligation is a surgical sterilization procedure to either clamp, block, or seal a woman’s fallopian tubes, preventing eggs from becoming fertilized. This permanent method of sterilization is performed with laparoscopic methods to minimize scarring and recovery time.

Laparoscopic Myomectomy

A myomectomy is the surgical removal of fibroids, which are common, noncancerous growths on the uterus. Often, myomectomies give women a higher likelihood of becoming pregnant. Dr. Vahora is highly trained in this complex, minimally invasive surgery.

Laparoscopic Hysterectomy Q & A with Dr. Vahora

Laparoscopic Hysterectomy Q & A with Dr. Vahora

Most likely, if you’ve been considering surgical options for your upcoming hysterectomy, you’ve probably heard about laparoscopic hysterectomy, and you’ve got questions. Probably lots of them. Dr. Vahora has performed many minimally invasive laparoscopic surgeries and can answer all of your questions in detail.

In the meantime, to help you learn more about and most importantly, feel more comfortable with the procedure, the following are some typical questions ladies ask in the office.

I understand that laparoscopic hysterectomies are minimally invasive resulting in less pain, less scarring, and a shorter recuperation period.

Dr. Vahora: True! laparoscopic surgery is a state-of-the art procedure allowing your doctor a full view of all of the organs with precise control of the incision(s). The minimal incisions result in less pain, scarring, and speeds up the recovery time.  Laparoscopic hysterectomy can be done with the Da Vinci Robotic system as well.  Your surgeon will determine if you are a candidate for Robotic assisted surgery.

Is it possible to become pregnant after a hysterectomy?

Dr. Vahora: The short answer is no. A hysterectomy is the removal of the uterus.  However, surrogacy is an option as well as uterus transplantation.

If both ovaries are going to be removed, will I experience the symptoms of menopause?

Dr. Vahora: It’s possible. Your doctor may be give you non hormonal or hormone replacement therapy or both to ease the symptoms.  Usually ovaries are not removed unless there is a medical condition.  Your gynecologist will review this with you based on your medical conditions.

How is a radical hysterectomy different from a total hysterectomy?

Dr. Vahora: A total hysterectomy will remove all of the uterus and cervix. A radical hysterectomy is usually done for cancer and is more complex and is the removal of the uterus, adjacent tissues, cervix, and part of the vagina.

Will I have a long recovery time after laparoscopic surgery?

Dr. Vahora: Since laparoscopic surgery is minimally invasive, post-operative discomfort and recovery times are both much less than with a traditional “open” hysterectomy.

Can I go home the same day as the laparoscopic surgery?

Dr. Vahora: Most hysterectomies done via laparoscopy are done as outpatients, meaning you go home the same day as the surgery. However, dependent on your overall health, you may need to remain in the hospital for a day or two.

How long after surgery can I resume sexual relations?

Dr. Vahora: You won’t want to rush into having sex for at least six or more weeks. Your doctor will let you know when it’s okay.

What will my recovery at home be like? Will I be bedridden?

Dr. Vahora: You will need lots of rest and liquids, but you will be urged to begin walking as soon as possible after your surgery, as well as light household chores. Please refer to the postoperative instructions given to you by your Surgeon.

I’ve heard about the problem of post-surgery constipation. Will I experience that?

Dr. Vahora: You can prevent the constipation by walking, drinking lots of liquids, and eating a diet high in fiber. You want to avoid constipation since it can slow your recovery.

How long after surgery will I have to refrain from driving?

Dr. Vahora: If you aren’t taking pain medication, especially narcotics, you can most likely return to driving in two or three days after your surgery.