Many women put off the often-called "female surgery" because of fears of pain, a large scar and a lengthy recovery time.

But there's good news for local women facing this decision, as the Regional Medical Center now offers an innovative, minimally invasive option for women who need a hysterectomy.

Orangeburg gynecologists Dr. Jerome Degen and Dr. Richard Richardson are among the many physicians around the country and only four in the South Carolina Midlands who perform total laparoscopic hysterectomies. The procedure was developed to shorten the recovery, reduce the pain and complications and minimize the scarring traditionally associated with the surgery.

Women who choose to have a total laparoscopic hysterectomy typically have an easier physical experience, most returning home in a few days and back to work and other normal activities in about two weeks. Traditional hysterectomies require an average hospital stay of three days, and complete recovery may take up to two months.

"Historically, gynecologists have been trained to perform traditional open hysterectomies, which often are harder on patients," Richardson said. "Now, thanks to minimally invasive options, women do not need to be sidelined by hysterectomies. They can return to their normal lives in a much shorter time and experience a less painful recovery."

The recently developed procedure uses a laparoscope, a fiber optic instrument that is inserted into the abdomen through a small incision. The laparoscope allows gynecologists to examine the inside of the abdomen and guide the surgical procedure while removing the uterus and cervix. The small incisions used for a laparoscopic hysterectomy are typically made in the navel or on the abdomen.

The majority of gynecologists still perform open hysterectomies that involve removing the uterus and cervix through a four- to six-inch incision that can leave a noticeable scar. Research indicates that minimally invasive options are better for the patient and result in fewer complications, less pain and quicker recoveries.

Degen said women should discuss their treatment and recovery goals with their gynecologist when preparing to undergo a hysterectomy and ask if minimally invasive surgery is an option.

"Many women research every possible treatment option before agreeing to a hysterectomy," he said. "However, once the decision is made, they may not investigate their surgical alternatives or question the options presented to them. As a result, many do not know minimally invasive hysterectomy is an option unless their physician brings it up."

Both gynecologists agree that high risk patients, especially those who are obese, have less risk of infection with the minimally invasive procedure.

According to the doctors, this innovative surgery is a team effort. Both of them participate in each of these surgeries, as does the same team of nursing staff members.

Geraldine Johnson of Orangeburg just had a hysterectomy two months ago and said she feels great.

After suffering from pain and other discomforts of menopause for some time, the 49-year-old Johnson said she discussed the new laparoscopic procedure with Degen, her physician.

"After much thought and prayer, I decided the new procedure was the answer I had been awaiting," she said. "I knew I needed to have a hysterectomy for a while but decided to wait it out. ... Living in fear of having an 'accident' from heavy bleeding, coupled with severe pain, led me to take action.

"Dr. Degen explained about the benefits of laparoscopic surgery, and I decided the new procedure was right for me. And it certainly was; I would do it again."

Johnson said the surgery took a little over an hour to complete, and the healing process was fast.

"Within two weeks, I felt much improved," she said. "In fact, my daughter told me that she could tell I was feeling great. I was back to my household chores. Of course, it's important to listen to the doctor and not try to do too much too soon -- recovery is a gradual process. My doctor also explained the necessity of continuing annual pap examinations. I've been back at work about a month and feel completely recovered.

"Just recently, I saw about this new option in surgery on a national television program and thought, 'Our local hospital is far ahead of many others in South Carolina and on the national level in offering this new option in surgery to our community.'"

Stacy Cook of Lexington said having the new laparoscopic surgery has relieved her of the pain that severely impacted her life.

"After my twins were born, I began to have problems with endometriosis and suffered with much pain," the 36-year-old said. "My doctor, Dr. Degen, and I discussed options, including hysterectomy. I stayed home with the babies for more than two years, and when I chose to re-enter the workforce, I found it very difficult to work and bear the constant pain I was experiencing. Some of the treatment options helped alleviate the pain temporarily, but it became evident that a hysterectomy was necessary to rid me of the pain on a permanent level.

"Due to fear of a large incision and an anticipated long recovery period, I had been putting off having surgery. I began researching about hysterectomy procedures and learned of the laparoscopic alternative, and when I went for the next consultation with my doctor, I received the sign I was hoping for and needed. We began discussing my options, and he told me about a new procedure that he was performing, and that was a 'hallelujah' moment for me. I had the surgery at the end of February, and that was the best decision I ever made. I feel so much better. After an overnight stay at the Regional Medical Center, I was home the next day.

"Other than being sore a few days, there was no other discomfort. I had three small incisions, and that was it. When I went for a check up recently, I told my doctor how good I feel and that I would like to be a testament to others about this procedure. It's great to be free of pain and able to really enjoy life every day."

As with any surgical procedure, there are some potential risks associated with minimally invasive surgeries. A woman who is a candidate for a hysterectomy should discuss all surgical options with her physician.

"Minimally invasive hysterectomies are an option for most women considering the procedure," Richardson said. "Women need to be informed so they will know to ask about their options. Undergoing the procedure can be emotionally and physically challenging enough without unnecessary pain and recovery time."

For more information about minimally invasive hysterectomy options, call Richardson's office at 803-534-0033 or Degen's office at 803-536-9390.

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