Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery (MIGS)

Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery in Central Massachusetts and Beyond

UMass Memorial Health is home to a level of expertise that’s not widely available in the region. Experienced specialists with advanced training in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery (MIGS) deliver your care. We offer tailored solutions for routine and complex gynecologic concerns, such as fibroids and endometriosis.

What Is MIGS?

This advanced surgical approach is for conditions affecting the uterus, ovaries and other female reproductive organs. Using a variety of techniques, we perform procedures through the smallest necessary incision, using a special camera and tiny instruments. This approach leads to less postoperative discomfort. Many patients go home the same day.

Conditions We Treat Using MIGS

Our MIGS surgeons care for people with a wide range of gynecologic concerns, including:

• Gynecologic cancers
• Heavy or prolonged uterine bleeding (menorrhagia)
• Endometriosis
• Ovarian cysts and benign masses
• Pelvic organ (uterine) prolapse
• Pelvic pain
• Uterine fibroids

Services

UMass Memorial offers a range of MIGS services to help you feel your best. You have access to:

Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgeries

We offer nearly every type of MIGS surgery, including: 

• Endometrial ablation creates scar tissue in the lining of the uterus to halt heavy bleeding.
• Laparoscopic surgery involves small incisions in the abdomen through which we pass a camera and surgical instruments.
• Myomectomy is a fertility-sparing option that removes uterine fibroids without taking out the uterus.
• Robot-assisted surgery involves special technologies that enhance surgical precision and control.
• Traditional vaginal surgery enables surgeons to access surgical areas by sending surgical instruments through the vagina.  
• vNOTES (vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery) is similar to traditional vaginal surgery. However, surgeons also pass a tiny camera through an incision in the abdomen for enhanced views and precision.

Gender-Affirming Hysterectomy

Our MIGS surgeons are among only a few in the region performing gender-affirming hysterectomies. We frequently use the vaginal approach and offer other options as well, selecting the procedure that is best for your needs.

Advantages of the vaginal method include:

• Better cosmetic outcomes: Because there are no abdominal incisions, you avoid external scarring and other changes that occur with time.
• Support for patients on testosterone therapy: With testosterone therapy, tissue can become firmer, making some surgical approaches more difficult. However, it’s not necessary to pause testosterone therapy during surgery or recovery.

Gender-affirming hysterectomy is one of many services available at UMass Memorial. Find out more about LGBTQIA+ specialty care.

Coordinated MIGS Surgery for Complex Cases

If your condition is complex or involves nearby organs, you have access to any specialist you might need. Our MIGS surgeons often collaborate with other experts during the same procedure to give you safe, comprehensive care. We frequently partner with:

• Colorectal surgeons for endometriosis or other conditions affecting the bowel
• Urologists for issues involving the bladder or tubes that carry urine out of the body (ureters)
• Anesthesiologists who use advanced techniques to support pain control and faster recovery