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Minimally invasive gynecologic surgery (MIGS) uses advanced, robotic-assisted surgical techniques to treat various gynecological conditions. The da Vinci robotic-assisted surgical system allows for smaller incisions, resulting in less pain, faster recovery and reduced risk of complications compared to traditional open surgery. Most patients who have a hysterectomy with the da Vinci surgical system go home the same day of the surgery.
At Community Health Network, our MIGS surgeons have completed a high volume of minimally invasive gynecologic surgeries and are skilled at performing even the most complex cases.
If you are outside of the Indianapolis area or cannot attend an in-person appointment, we offer virtual consultations to help determine if you are a good candidate for MIGS.
You might be a good candidate for this procedure if you experience any symptoms caused by the following conditions:
Experiencing pain or wondering if you are a candidate for a MIGS procedure? Please fill out the consultation form below.
Depending on your specific condition, one of the following minimally invasive surgeries may be a good treatment option for you:
Laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small laparoscope camera to look inside your abdomen or pelvis. Robotic surgery is a form of laparoscopy that uses a computer-controlled system of robotic arms to assist surgeons in performing complex procedures. The surgeon sits at a console and controls the robotic arms using joysticks and pedals. The robotic arms are equipped with small, precise instruments that can be inserted through tiny incisions. The surgeon's movements are translated into the robotic arms, allowing for enhanced dexterity and stability.
Hysteroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows surgeons to view the inside of the uterus. It eliminates the need for open surgery while treating conditions of the uterus.
Below is a full list of advanced surgical procedures that our Community Health Network MIGS surgeons offer.
Dr. James Cripe specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and recovery of women with complex benign and malignant gynecologic diseases. He has a special interest in minimally invasive robotic surgeries and complex open debulking surgery for gynecologic cancers. Dr. Cripe is a Community Health Network MD Anderson Cancer Center participating provider.
Prior to joining Community, Dr. Cripe trained in Chicago, California, Philadelphia and St. Louis, providing a wealth of experience in his field.
Dr. Cripe received his medical degree from Chicago Medical School, followed by fellowship training in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery and gynecologic oncology.
Dr. Sylvia Ertel grew up in Indianapolis and attended North Central High School. She completed her undergraduate education at Indiana University and then moved to New York City, graduating from New York University School of Medicine. She completed her residency in Houston, Texas, at Baylor University College of Medicine. In 2002, she moved back to Indiana where she joined Community Physician Network Ob/Gyn Care.
Dr. Ertel’s mission for patient care is to stay on the cutting edge of technology and medical research to provide the most knowledgeable and educated care plans with empathy and compassion. She enjoys a fulfilling practice educating women about their health. She was one of the first doctors to perform a laparoscopic hysterectomy at Community Hospital North.
Dr. Ertel is board certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and a fellow of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (FACOG). She is a member of the America Association of Gynecologist Laparoscopists. She has been named to Indianapolis Monthly’s Top Doctor list for more than 10 years.
Dr. Jeff Lowery specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and recovery of women with complex benign and malignant gynecologic diseases. He has a special interest in minimally invasive laparoscopic and robotic surgeries. Dr. Lowery serves as the Medical Director of Gynecologic Cancer Care for Community Health Network MD Anderson Cancer Center.
Prior to joining Community MD Anderson, Dr. Lowery was caring for gynecologic patients at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. He served as associate program director of gynecologic oncology fellowship program at Walter Reed, as well as director of robotic surgery. He previously served as a battalion surgeon in Ghazni, Afghanistan.
He is a member of the Society of Gynecologic Oncology and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
Dr. Voelkel received undergraduate degrees from Indiana University and her medical degree from Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis. She completed her residency at Indiana University Medical Center in Indianapolis. She is board certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and a fellow of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (FACOG).
Experiencing pain or wondering if you are a candidate for a MIGS procedure? Please fill out the consultation form below.
