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Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery

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.

What Conditions Can MIGS Treat?

You might be a good candidate for this procedure if you experience any issues caused by any of the following conditions:

  • Fibroids - A condition where non-cancerous (benign) growth develops in the uterus
  • Endometriosis - An often-painful condition in which tissue that is similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus
  • Adenomyosis - A condition that occurs when tissue from the lining of your uterus grows into your uterine wall, that can cause pelvic pain and/or heavy vaginal bleeding
  • Ovarian masses and cysts - A condition that causes cysts or fluid-filled sacs to form in or on the ovaries
  • Endometrial polyps - A condition when cells of the inner lining of the uterus overgrow
  • Dysmenorrhea - The medical term for painful menstrual periods
  • Chronic pelvic pain - A condition that causes pain in the area below the bellybutton and between the hips that lasts 6 months or longer
  • Abnormal uterine bleeding - A condition that causes bleeding between monthly periods, prolonged bleeding, or an unusually heavy period

Request a Consultation

Experiencing pain or wondering if you are a candidate for a MIGS procedure? Please fill out the consultation form below.

Minimally Invasive Surgical Treatment Options

Depending on your specific condition, one of the following minimally invasive surgeries may be a good treatment option for you.

Laparoscopic/Robotic Surgery

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

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.

Surgical Procedures
  • Laparoscopic Hysterectomy - A surgical procedure to remove the uterus
  • Hysteroscopy - Diagnostic and operative: a minimally invasive procedure that allows a physician to visualize the inside of the uterus
  • Laparoscopic excision of endometriosis - A minimally invasive surgical procedure that identifies and removes endometriosis
  • Laparoscopic myomectomy (fibroid removal) - A minimally invasive surgical procedure that removes fibroids from the uterus, while sparing the uterus
  • Laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy - A minimally invasive surgical procedure that removes a cyst on an ovary, while sparing the ovary
  • Endometrial ablation - Minimally invasive procedure that destroys the lining of the uterus and is used to treat excessive menstrual bleeding
  • Laparoscopic salpingo-oophorectomy - A minimally invasive surgical procedure that removes the ovary and fallopian tube
  • Laparoscopic trachelectomy - A minimally invasive surgical procedure that removes the cervix
  • Acessa laparoscopic radiofrequency fibroid ablation - A minimally invasive surgical procedure that uses laparoscopic guidance to target and destroy uterine fibroids by delivering heat directly into the fibroid tissue through radiofrequency energy, while sparing the uterus

Care Provided by Our MIGS Surgeons

Personalized Treatment Plans

  • Procedures tailored to each patient’s specific needs, ensuring the least invasive and most effective surgical approach is used

Highly Skilled and Experienced Providers

  • Expert physicians with years of experience (no residents or fellows perform MIGS procedures)
  • Trusted within Community Health Network and referring physicians across central Indiana
  • Completed a high volume of minimally invasive gynecologic surgeries and skilled at performing the most complex cases
  • You can trust that whoever completes your consultation will perform your surgery and will be with you every step of the process

Exceptional Treatment Outcomes

  • Smaller incisions and less scarring
  • Shorter recovery time and hospital stays
  • Decreased risk of infection, bleeding and hospital re-admission 

Comprehensive and Accessible Care

  • Focus on patient-centered care, ensuring that the patient is supported throughout the process, from pre-operative counseling to post-operative follow-up
  • Offer virtual consultations for patients who are outside the Indianapolis area
  • Records can be sent to providers beforehand (ultrasound, office notes, biopsy if applicable) to review the information to see if you are a candidate
  • Most procedures are completed within 2-3 months of your consultation

Meet the Physicians

Sylvia Ertel, MD

Sylvia Ertel, MD, minimally invasive gynecologic surgeonDr. 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.

Sonja T. Voelkel, MD

Sonja T. Voelkel, MD, minimally invasive gynecologic surgeonDr. 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).

Request a Consultation

Experiencing pain or wondering if you are a candidate for a MIGS procedure? Please fill out the consultation form below.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Should Patients Consider a Minimally Invasive Approach to Surgery?
  • Reduced recovery time - smaller incisions mean quicker recovery time, allowing patients to return to their daily activities faster compared to traditional open surgery
  • Less pain - smaller incisions generally lead to less postoperative pain
  • Lower risk of infection - lower chance of infection compared to larger incisions typically used in traditional surgery
  • Cosmetic benefits - smaller incisions used in MIGS lead to less scarring
  • Shorter hospital stay - many minimally invasive procedures can be done on an outpatient basis or with a shorter hospital stay, helping patients avoid extended hospital stays
  • Faster return to normal activities - shorter recovery time, patients can usually resume normal daily activities and work more quickly than with traditional open surgery
Why Choose a MIGS Surgeon?
  • Expertise in advanced surgical techniques - MIGS surgeons are highly skilled at using the latest technologies to achieve the best outcomes
  • Improved precision - MIGS surgeons use advanced tools, including robotic systems, which allow for greater precision and control during the surgery resulting in improved outcomes and better visualization of the surgical area
What Can Patients Expect on Their First Visit?
  1. Comprehensive medical history review - The provider will review patient's medical history, including any previous surgeries, ongoing health conditions, medications, and family history. This helps the surgeon understand the patient’s overall health and determine whether a minimally invasive approach is appropriate.
  2. Discussion of symptoms and concerns - The provider will listen carefully to the patient's concerns, asking clarifying questions to gather more specific information about the symptoms.
  3. Physical exam - The physical exam may include a pelvic exam, which can help the provider understand the symptoms and concerns. If relevant, the provider may also discuss and perform any additional diagnostic exams, such as a pap smear, ultrasound, or other imaging tests.
  4. Review of previous diagnostic tests (if applicable) - The provider will review any previous imaging tests, lab work, or other diagnostic procedures (like ultrasounds or MRIs). If the patient hasn’t had any tests, the surgeon may order some to get a clearer picture of the problem.
  5. Discussion of treatment options - The provider will explain the possible treatment options, including conservative approaches, medications, and, if necessary, surgery.
  6. Discussion of surgical plan if applicable - The provider will explain how the surgery will be performed, the technology that will be used (e.g., robotic-assisted surgery), and what the patient can expect during the procedure. This includes pre- and post-operative care.
  7. Discuss any questions - Patient can ask questions about the surgery, the surgeon’s experience, recovery time, potential complications, and any other concerns. It’s important for patients to feel informed and comfortable with the treatment plan.
  8. Educational materials - Patients may be provided with brochures, websites, or videos to help them better understand their condition, the procedure, and the recovery process.