MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center Performs Orange County’s First New Minimally Invasive Surgery – vNOTES – for Hysterectomy Patients

vNOTES Demonstrates Shorter Operating Time, Less Pain And Quicker Recovery For Hysterectomy Patients

LAGUNA HILLS, Calif. – A new minimally invasive option for hysterectomy procedures is now available to Orange County patients. Known as vNOTES (vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery), the advanced gynecologic technique provides many benefits to female patients, such as a shorter hospital stay, less postoperative pain, no visible scars, and a faster recovery time.[1]

Daniel Sternfeld, MD, a board-certified OB/GYN at MemorialCare Medical Group in Laguna Hills, successfully performed Orange County’s first vNOTES at The Women’s Hospital at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center on Monday, December 13. Dr. Sternfeld was specially trained on this innovative approach to hysterectomy and other common gynecologic procedures.

“Our patients entrust us in the medical community to provide them access to today’s most innovative and clinically proven surgical techniques,” said Dr. Sternfeld. “As a less invasive option, vNOTES is both safe and efficacious in providing patients a quicker recovery time, less pain and no visible scarring.”

The vNOTES technique, which uses the vagina as a surgical access route, is the newest approach to hysterectomy procedures. During the surgery, a vNOTES device known as the GelPOINT® V-Path transvaginal access platform is placed through the vagina into the pelvic cavity, giving access to the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. The vNOTES device is the means by which the abdomen is inflated with carbon dioxide gas to give the surgeon the space needed to see and operate. A high-definition camera and specialized instruments are inserted through the device, allowing surgeons to operate with the utmost precision and visualization. Once the surgery is completed, the vNOTES device is removed and the gas is evacuated.

“We are ecstatic that our first case was a success,” added Dr. Sternfeld. “The patient was in great spirits following the procedure, and she was released later that day and resting comfortably at home. This is an exciting day for MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center and more importantly, for our patients throughout Orange County who now have another outstanding surgical option when deciding to undergo a hysterectomy.”