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There was a time when a hysterectomy would mean painful surgery, an abdominal scar, a hospital stay and a long recovery.

No more, thanks to advanced surgical technology available at NorthBay Health.

“My patients who have had a hysterectomy can go home the same day, and frequently with just Tylenol or ibuprofen, and no narcotics,” said Obstetrician/Gynecologist Kalie Li, D.O., who has added hysterectomies and other gynecologic procedures to the long list of surgeries available with the da Vinci Xi Robotic Surgical system.

The prospect of uterine surgery of any kind is not one a woman would relish, but for some, who have suffered from years of painful menstruation, cysts, fertility or hormone issues or even cancer, it may be the only recourse. Knowing that a less painful and invasive option is available is a reassurance for her patients, Dr. Li noted.

The da Vinci’s advanced technology allows surgeons to perform complex and delicate procedures with exceptional precision, but in a minimally invasive fashion. The system includes mechanical arms with surgical instruments attached, and a view of the surgical field through a 3D high-definition camera. The surgeon controls the mechanical arms while seated at a computer console near the operating table, with rest of the surgical team at the patient’s bedside.

“With the da Vinci, I can use a 360 degree wrist motion; tactically, it’s more satisfying. I can also zoom in. I have a 3D image, and I can get in close with the camera and get a good view. And, for the patients, there’s less pain because there has been less manipulation that might occur with laparoscopy,” said Dr. Li. “When my patients learn their recovery is going to be quicker, with less blood and less post-op pain, they are naturally excited about that!”

NorthBay Health Women's Services currently has two surgeons who are certified to use the da Vinci, Dr. Li and Marlene Freeman, M.D.; Stella Huang, D.O. and Shanna Snow, both NorthBay OB/GYNs, are certified to assist. Two Sutter Health OB/GYNs, Denise Veloria, D.O., and Iram Zubair, M.D., are also certified to use the da Vinci.

Learn more about the providers and services available through NorthBay Health Women's Services or by calling (707) 646-4100.