Minimally invasive surgeries (MIS) describes any surgical procedure where traditional abdominal incisions (laparotomy) are avoided by the use of either very small incisions or no incisions at all. Traditionally laparoscopes were used through 5-10 mm insicions (<1/2 inch) or procedures were done vaginally.  New technology such as operative laparoscopes, hysteroscopes, and the DaVinci Robot have expanded minimally invasive surgeries (MIS) to new frontiers. As a result, most hysterectomies, myomectomies (removal of fibroids), urologic surgery (for incontinence and pelvic relaxation) can be done through MIS technique.  Endometosis and pelvic pain can also be treated through these MIS technologies.  Examples of MIS hysterectomies include: vaginal hysterectomy, laparoscopic hysterectomy (LAVH, LSH, TLH) and Robot assisted hysterectomy (DaVinci).  Most hysterectomies do not require removal of the ovaries avoiding hormonal changes after surgery.

We use Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) to achieve the smallest incisions thereby reducing pain, scarring and recovery time for the patient. Currently, 70% of all hysterectomies performed nationwide are achieved through traditional abdominal incisions which have longer hospitalizations and recovery times as well as higher pain scales for the patient. Dr. Wheeler has consistently performed over 85% of his hysterectomies through minimally invasive surgical techniques, reducing pain, scarring and recovery time for the patient.

Minimally invasive surgeries are employed in the treatment of uterine fibroids, endometriosis, chronic pelvic pain, abnormal uterine bleeding (menorrhagia), sterilization (Essure®) and endometrial ablation (Novasure®, Thermachoice®). Dr. Wheeler has strived to employ minimally invasive surgeries to all aspects of gynecologic surgery.  Many of these procedures are now performed in the office with little need for anesthesia and the patients are able to leave the office unassisted, thus avoiding the need for general anesthesia and the cost of operating rooms.