Robotic Hysterectomy: Removing the Uterus Through Small Incisions
Robotic hysterectomy uses the da Vinci® surgical system to remove the uterus through small incisions — providing three-dimensional magnified visualization, wristed instrument articulation, and tremor-filtered precision that make minimally invasive uterine removal possible even in anatomically complex cases.
The uterus can be removed through the vagina (vaginal), through small abdominal incisions (laparoscopic or robotic), or through a large abdominal incision (open). For the vast majority of women who need a hysterectomy, the robotic or laparoscopic approach is appropriate — avoiding the large incision, muscle disruption, and prolonged recovery that open hysterectomy requires.
Dr. Andrei performs robotic hysterectomy at McLaren Lapeer Hospital, McLaren Flint Hospital, and Henry Ford Rochester Hospital — all equipped with the da Vinci® platform. The robotic approach is recommended when it provides a clinical advantage over standard laparoscopy: larger uteri, anatomically complex pelves, significant adhesive disease, or cases requiring precise dissection near the bladder or ureters.
Indications for Robotic Hysterectomy
Dr. Andrei evaluates each patient individually. These are the most common indications for robotic hysterectomy at Lapeer Women’s Health.
Heavy uterine bleeding unresponsive to medical management
Menorrhagia from fibroids, adenomyosis, or endometrial pathology that has not responded to hormonal management, IUD therapy, or endometrial ablation.
Symptomatic uterine fibroids
Fibroids causing heavy bleeding, pelvic pressure, bladder or bowel symptoms, or pain — particularly larger uteri or multiple fibroids where myomectomy is not preferred.
Adenomyosis causing significant symptoms
Adenomyosis causing debilitating periods and pelvic pain that has not responded to medical management.
Uterine prolapse requiring hysterectomy
Symptomatic uterine prolapse where hysterectomy combined with vault suspension is the recommended surgical approach.
Endometrial pathology
Endometrial hyperplasia with atypia or early endometrial cancer appropriate for minimally invasive management.
Complex pelvic anatomy
Prior pelvic surgery, significant adhesions, or anatomical complexity where the da Vinci® system provides a meaningful advantage over standard laparoscopy.
Robotic vs. Open Hysterectomy — The Recovery Difference
Open abdominal hysterectomy requires a 5–8 inch incision, cutting through multiple muscle layers, days in the hospital, and a recovery measured in months. Robotic hysterectomy achieves the same result through incisions under a centimeter.
The clinical advantages of the robotic approach over open hysterectomy are well-established.
- Same-day or next-morning discharge vs. 2–4 days inpatient
- 2–4 week recovery vs. 6–8 weeks for open
- Significantly reduced blood loss and transfusion rate
- Lower wound complication and infection rates
- 10× magnified 3D visualization of the operative field
Robotic hysterectomy is performed at three affiliated Michigan hospitals. Lapeer County Surgery Center is not used for hysterectomy — this procedure requires a hospital.
- McLaren Lapeer Hospital — Lapeer, MI
- McLaren Flint Hospital — Flint, MI
- Henry Ford Rochester Hospital — Rochester Hills, MI
“Robotic hysterectomy is the procedure I perform most frequently. The combination of three-dimensional visualization, wristed instruments, and the ability to work precisely around the bladder and ureters makes it the approach I recommend for most patients who need a hysterectomy.”
From Consultation to Recovery
Robotic hysterectomy at Lapeer Women’s Health follows a structured pathway from evaluation through return to full activity.
Surgical Consultation
Dr. Andrei reviews your history, imaging, and prior treatments. She explains what type of hysterectomy is recommended, which hospital will be used, and what recovery will look like.
Pre-Operative Preparation
Lab work, medical clearance, and any additional imaging are coordinated. You receive specific pre-operative instructions including medication management and dietary restrictions.
Surgery and Hospital Stay
Under general anesthesia, Dr. Andrei performs the robotic hysterectomy. Duration is typically one to three hours. Most patients go home the same day or after one overnight stay.
Six-Week Follow-Up
Dr. Andrei sees you at two weeks post-operatively and at six weeks for full clearance. Return to all activities including intercourse occurs at six weeks after vaginal cuff healing is confirmed.
Recovery After Robotic Hysterectomy
Robotic hysterectomy recovery is significantly shorter than open hysterectomy — but requires a six-week pelvic rest period for vaginal cuff healing.
Most patients go home the same day or following morning. Pelvic cramping and fatigue are expected. Light walking is encouraged from day one.
Desk work and light household tasks are manageable. Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and intercourse throughout this period.
Dr. Andrei clears you for all activity at the six-week follow-up after confirming the vaginal cuff has healed completely.
Questions About Robotic Hysterectomy
Hysterectomy Is a Major Decision.
Get a Complete Consultation First.
Dr. Andrei reviews your history, imaging, and all alternatives before recommending hysterectomy. You leave the consultation knowing exactly what is involved and why it is or is not the right approach.
The information on this page is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual symptoms, diagnoses, and treatment options vary significantly. Reading this content does not establish a physician-patient relationship with Dr. Ramona D. Andrei or Lapeer Women’s Health. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for advice specific to your situation. Content reviewed by Dr. Ramona D. Andrei, MD PhD FACOG.
Gynecologic care for women of every age
Lapeer Women’s Health — Rochester Hills
2710 S Rochester Rd, Suite 2
Rochester Hills, MI 48307
Serving patients in Lapeer, Rochester Hills, and surrounding communities throughout Southeast Michigan.