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.