Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery (MIGS)
Minimally invasive gynecologic surgery (MIGS) uses small incisions – or no incisions – to treat gynecologic conditions, often with less pain and faster recovery than traditional surgery. MIGS may help treat conditions including uterine fibroids, endometriosis, abnormal uterine bleeding and chronic pelvic pain. Our gynecologic surgeons are trained in advanced techniques to provide the right surgical approach for your condition.
Schedule a Gynecologic Surgery Consultation
To make an appointment with a gynecologic surgery provider, call 216-844-3941 today.
Quick Facts
- MIGS uses small incisions or minimally invasive techniques to treat a range of gynecologic conditions.
- Offers smaller incisions, less pain, lower infection risk and faster recovery than open surgery.
- Performed as outpatient procedures, often with same-day discharge.
- Not all conditions can be treated with MIGS – your surgeon will determine the best approach.
- UH provides comprehensive gynecologic surgery care with personalized support.
What Is Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery (MIGS)?
MIGS uses small incisions or accesses the body through the vagina to treat gynecologic conditions. During MIGS procedures, your surgeon uses specialized instruments and imaging to visualize the surgical area and perform the procedure. Most MIGS procedures are performed in an outpatient setting or with a short hospital stay, allowing you to recover at home.
The goal of MIGS is to treat gynecologic conditions while minimizing the impact of surgery on your body. MIGS is a category of several types of surgical techniques – including laparoscopy, robotic surgery, hysteroscopy and vaginal surgery – that your surgeon may recommend based on your condition and needs.
When Is MIGS Recommended?
If you and your doctor have determined that surgery is the right treatment for your gynecologic condition, MIGS may be an option to consider. Your surgeon will evaluate your specific diagnosis, symptoms and treatment goals to determine whether a minimally invasive approach is appropriate for you.
Benefits of MIGS include:
- Smaller incisions and less scarring than open surgery.
- Reduced pain and discomfort.
- Lower risk of complications such as infection.
- Shorter hospital stays or same-day discharge.
- Faster return to daily activities and work.
- Common Conditions Treated with MIGS
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MIGS may be recommended for many gynecologic conditions, including:
- Abnormal uterine bleeding
- Adenomyosis
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Endometriosis
- Hysterectomy
- Ovarian cysts or pelvic masses
- Pelvic adhesions/scarring (Asherman’s syndrome)
- Uterine fibroids (myomectomy)
MIGS is often used to treat conditions that may contribute to infertility. Treatment depends on your specific diagnosis, symptoms and goals. Not all patients are candidates for MIGS, and your gynecologic surgeon will discuss whether a minimally invasive approach is appropriate for your condition and what to expect from treatment.
- MIGS vs. Traditional Open Gynecologic Surgery
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Traditional gynecologic surgery may require a larger abdominal incision to access and treat the condition. MIGS uses smaller incisions or accesses the body through the vagina, reducing the disruption of healthy tissue and speeding recovery time.
However, not all gynecologic conditions can be treated with MIGS. Your surgeon will determine the most appropriate surgical approach based on your diagnosis and the complexity of your condition. In some cases, open surgery may be recommended as the safest and most effective option.
Types of MIGS
MIGS includes several surgical techniques, each designed to treat different gynecologic conditions with minimal the least invasive approach.
- Laparoscopic Surgery
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Laparoscopic surgery uses one or more small abdominal incisions through which your surgeon inserts a thin camera and specialized instruments. The camera provides a magnified view of your pelvic organs so your surgeon can perform the procedure. This technique is commonly used for conditions such as fibroids, endometriosis and ovarian cysts.
- Robotic-Assisted Surgery
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Robotic-assisted surgery combines laparoscopic access with robotic technology to enhance precision and visualization. Your surgeon controls the robotic instruments, and 3-D imaging provides a detailed view of the area. This technique may be recommended for complex gynecologic conditions that require extra precision.
- Hysteroscopic Surgery
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Hysteroscopic surgery requires no abdominal incisions. Your surgeon accesses the inside of the uterus through the cervix using a thin camera and instruments. This approach is often used to treat conditions like abnormal uterine bleeding, pelvic adhesions/scarring, polyps, and fibroids within the uterus.
- Vaginal Surgery
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Vaginal surgery, which includes hysteroscopic procedures, uses the vaginal opening as a natural access point, avoiding any incisions. This technique is often used for hysterectomy, fibroid removal, endometriosis treatment and other procedures, and typically allows for faster recovery and less postoperative pain compared to open abdominal surgery.
What to Expect During MIGS
Understanding what happens before, during and after your MIGS procedure can help you prepare for surgery and feel more comfortable with the process. Here’s what the experience typically looks like.
Pre-Surgical Evaluation
Before your surgery, you’ll have a consultation with your gynecologic surgeon to plan your procedure. This includes imaging and diagnostic testing to fully understand your condition, a review of your symptoms and medical history, and a discussion of your treatment options and what to expect. Your surgeon will also review any medications you’re taking and provide specific instructions for preparing for surgery, such as fasting requirements.
The Surgical Procedure
Your MIGS procedure will be performed under anesthesia to keep you comfortable. Your surgeon will use specialized instruments and imaging to carefully access and treat your gynecologic condition. Because MIGS uses small incisions or natural body openings, procedures may take less time than traditional open surgery.
Recovery and Follow-Up
Many MIGS procedures are performed in an outpatient setting, so you can go home the same day or after a short stay. You’ll be advised about returning to normal activities as you heal, and your surgeon will provide specific guidance about when it’s safe to resume exercise and work. During follow-up visits, your surgeon will monitor your healing and address any questions or concerns you may have.
Choosing a Gynecologic Surgery Specialist
Choosing the right surgeon is an important decision when considering MIGS. Look for a fellowship-trained gynecologic surgeon who has completed advanced training in minimally invasive surgical techniques including laparoscopy, robotic surgery and hysteroscopy. This specialized training ensures your surgeon has the expertise to evaluate your condition and determine the most appropriate surgical approach for you.
Look for a gynecologic surgery specialist who:
- Has extensive experience performing minimally invasive gynecologic procedures.
- Takes time to discuss your condition, treatment options, and what to expect.
- Listens to your concerns and involves you in decision-making.
- Can explain why they recommend a particular surgical approach for your situation.
At University Hospitals, our gynecologic surgeons are fellowship-trained in advanced minimally invasive techniques and committed to providing individualized treatment planning tailored to your needs and goals.
Broader Fertility Considerations
Some gynecologic conditions requiring surgery – such as endometriosis or fibroids – can affect fertility. Depending on your condition and fertility goals, your surgeon may prioritize an approach that preserves your reproductive organs and supports future fertility.
If you’re planning to become pregnant or have concerns about how treatment might affect your fertility, discuss this with your gynecologic surgeon. Our team can coordinate care with fertility specialists when needed to ensure your treatment supports both your immediate health goals and your long-term family-building plans.
Safety and Risks of MIGS
Like all surgical procedures MIGS carries some risks, though serious complications are rare. Risks of surgery may include bleeding, infection, or injury to nearby organs. Recovery varies by procedure and depends on individual factors – some patients heal quickly while others may need more time.
Not all gynecologic conditions can be treated with MIGS. In some cases, your surgeon may determine that traditional open surgery is the safest and most effective approach for your specific situation. Your surgeon will discuss the risks and benefits of recommended approaches and help you understand what’s best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery
- What is MIGS?
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MIGS uses small incisions or accesses the body through the vagina to treat gynecologic conditions with less pain and faster recovery than traditional open surgery. Your surgeon uses specialized instruments and imaging to perform the procedure with as little impact on surrounding areas as possible.
- What conditions can MIGS treat?
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MIGS can treat many gynecologic conditions including uterine fibroids, endometriosis, abnormal uterine bleeding, ovarian cysts, chronic pelvic pain, uterine scarring or adhesions, and adenomyosis. Your surgeon will determine whether MIGS is appropriate for your specific condition.
- Is robotic gynecologic surgery the same as laparoscopic surgery?
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Both are minimally invasive techniques, but robotic surgery uses robotic technology controlled by your surgeon to enhance precision and 3-D visualization. Laparoscopic surgery uses a camera and instruments through small incisions. Your surgeon will recommend the technique best suited to your condition.
- How long is recovery after MIGS?
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Recovery time varies depending on the procedure and individual factors. Many MIGS procedures are outpatient, allowing you to go home the same day or after an overnight stay. Most patients return to normal activities within one or two weeks, though your surgeon will provide specific guidance on your situation.
- Who is a candidate for MIGS?
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Whether you are a candidate for MIGS depends on your diagnosis, the complexity of your condition and your individual health factors. Not all patients are candidates for MIGS – your gynecologic surgeon will evaluate whether a minimally invasive approach is right for you.
- What is the difference between MIGS and traditional surgery?
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Traditional surgery may require a larger abdominal incision to access and treat a condition. MIGS uses smaller incisions or natural body openings, resulting in less tissue disruption, reduced pain, lower infection risk and faster recovery. However, in some cases open surgery may still be recommended as the safest approach.
- Do I need a specialist for gynecologic surgery?
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A fellowship-trained gynecologic surgeon has advanced training in minimally invasive surgical techniques and extensive experience treating gynecologic conditions. While not all gynecologic surgeries require a specialist, consulting with one ensures you receive expert evaluation and the most appropriate surgical approach for your condition.
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Learn More and Find a Specialist
Understanding your condition and exploring treatment options is an important step toward achieving your health goals. University Hospitals provides comprehensive gynecologic surgery services with fellowship-trained surgeons and personalized support throughout your journey.
Ready to discuss whether minimally invasive gynecologic surgery may be right for you?
To schedule a surgery consultation, call 216-844-3941.
Learn More About Related Services
Your gynecologic care may involve additional treatments and services. Explore these resources to understand your full range of care options.
- Fertility Services: If you’re concerned about how your gynecologic condition and care may impact your fertility, learn more about fertility treatment options at UH.
- Types of MIGS Surgery: Learn more about specific MIGS procedures including hysterectomy, robotic myomectomy for fibroids and robotic surgery.
- Women’s Health Services: Access comprehensive women’s health care at UH.