Female pelvic disorders and prolapse

Benefits of minimally invasive surgery

Compared to traditional "open" surgery, the benefits of minimally invasive surgery may include:

• Significantly less pain

• Fewer complications

• Less blood loss

• Less risk of infection

• Less scarring

• Shorter recovery time

• Quicker return to everyday activities

Our minimally invasive surgery techniques

Laparoscopy
A laparoscope, used in laparoscopy procedures, consists of a long, slender lens with a miniature camera attached to it. The laparoscope is most often inserted through the bellybutton since it provides the shortest distance from the skin to the inside of the abdomen and will easily hide the scar. Two to three additional small incisions allow for insertion of other delicate surgical instruments, which provide the surgeon with dexterity, precision and control.

Robotic surgery
Robotic surgery uses state-of-the-art technology that allows the surgeon's hand movements to translate into extremely precise movements within the operative site. The magnified, three-dimensional view and small, robotic instruments enhance the surgeon's ability to perform complex procedures through small incisions.

Vaginal-approach surgery
Vaginal-approach surgery allows for surgical intervention without incisions in the abdomen by performing the procedure directly through the vagina. Procedures such as pelvic floor reconstruction and prolapse surgeries can be performed in this way.

Our minimally invasive surgeries for pelvic organ prolapse

Hysterectomy
The surgical removal of the uterus is used to treat uterine prolapse, among other conditions. This type of surgery can be performed through the vagina or the abdomen.

Sacrocolpopexy
This procedure involves removing the uterus, leaving the cervix in place and correcting the supportive structures of the vagina. Pelvic mesh or a "sling" of tissue may be used to support the pelvic structures. The procedure can be done laparoscopically or robotically.

Vaginal vault suspension
A vaginal vault suspension may be used to correct vaginal vault prolapse. During the procedure, the vagina is attached to strong tissue in the pelvis or to the sacrum (a bone at the base of the spine).

Colpectomy and colpocleisis
For women who are no longer sexually active, this procedure removes the vaginal lining (colpectomy) and closes off the vaginal canal (colpocleisis) to prevent further prolapse.

A surgical option for urinary incontinence

Urine leakage can be treated during pelvic organ prolapse surgery. This can be done through the abdomen, the vagina or both. In some cases, sutures are used to attach the vagina to strong tissue in the pelvis. A "sling" of tissue may be used to help support the bladder and urethra.

We love what we do and it shows

Our women's services change lives every single day. We've seen active lifestyles reborn after gynecologic surgery — and tough female health conditions treated quickly with fast recoveries. We offer the very best in nationally recognized procedures, technology and care teams, ensuring the personalized, exceptional experience you've come to expect from Sharp.

You don't have far to go

We offer minimally invasive surgery close to home at the following Sharp hospitals:

• Sharp Chula Vista Center for Women & Newborns

• Sharp Grossmont Hospital for Women & Newborns

• Sharp Mary Birch Hospital for Women & Newborns

Learn more about minimally invasive women's surgery at Sharp.

For more information about Sharp's women's surgery services or to find a Sharp-affiliated doctor, search for a doctor who specializes in female pelvic health or call 1-800-82-SHARP (1-800-827-4277), Monday through Friday, 7 am to 7 pm.