Surgical Services

The Couri Center offers a variety of gynecologic related surgeries.

Abdominal Hysterectomy

Abdominal hysterectomy is the removal of the uterus and/or ovaries through an abdominal incision. This approach is used in cases of large pelvic masses such as large uterine fibroids, large ovarian masses or severe pelvic scarring making laparoscopic or vaginal approaches undesirable.

Vaginal Hysterectomy and Correction of Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Vaginal hysterectomy (removal of the uterus and/or ovaries through the vagina) is the preferred approach for hysterectomy in cases of pelvic organ prolapse (“dropped uterus or bladder”). Vaginal hysterectomy is minimally invasive and is usually only associated with a 1 day hospital stay after surgery. In the case of bladder prolapse or incontinence, Dr. Couri with work in conjunction with a Urologist to correct the defects and restore you to optimal health.

Endometrial Ablation

Endometrial ablation is an outpatient procedure performed for heavy periods. The lining of the uterus is cauterized to minimize menstrual bleeding. This option allows women to return to normal daily activities within a day or two. This is an excellent option for women that want to avoid hysterectomy if possible.

Hysterscopy

Hysteroscopy is an outpatient procedure in which the uterine cavity is evaluated with a very small lighted scope. It allows the diagnosis and treatment of uterine polyps, small uterine fibroids, abnormal uterine bleeding and abnormalities of the uterine cavity shape.

D&C – Dilation (or dilatation) and curettage

(D&C) refers to the dilation (widening/opening) of the cervix and surgical removal of part of the lining of the uterus and/or contents of the uterus by scraping and scooping (curettage). It is a therapeutic gynecological procedure as well as a way to treat first trimester miscarriage.

Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery

Laparoscopy is an outpatient procedure in which the pelvic cavity is evaluated with a very small lighted scope through a tiny incision in the belly button. It is commonly performed for pelvic pain, infertility, and to evaluate and/or remove ovarian masses or cysts. Laparoscopy is also used to diagnose and treat endometriosis.

Laparoscopic Hysterectomy

Laparoscopic hysterectomy is a minimally invasive hysterectomy that enables women to return to their active lifestyles much sooner and is associated with significantly less pain compared to abdominal hysterectomy. It is done through 3 tiny incisions on the abdomen allowing for much shorter recovery times. Laparoscopic hysterectomy is indicated for abnormal uterine bleeding, heavy and painful periods, uterine fibroids, endometriosis, and other disorders of the uterus. If surgery is indicated, consider laparoscopic hysterectomy as a safe and effective approach.

Sterilization

We perform laparoscopic tubal ligation (“tying the tubes”) as well as the Essure procedure (placing fallopian tube coils). Both procedures are minimally invasive and outpatient. We also place IUDs (intrauterine devices) in the office.

Here are some helpful notes when preparing for your surgery:

Pre-Operative Care Instructions

If you and your physicians has deemed it necessary for you to have gynecological surgery, you will sit down with Alyce, our Surgery Scheduler and receive a packet of information. We encourage you to read through all of this information well before the day you need to go to the hospital. With the exception of your surgery date and time, most of that information is also posted here.
If you need pre-op testing (including blood work), report to the Outpatient Registration Department 1-2 weeks prior to your surgery date to have that done. No appointment is necessary and they are open Monday – Friday 6:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon. Click here for
2 Weeks Before Surgery:

  • Call the office if you develop a cough, cold, sore throat, or vomiting especially if accompanied by a fever
  • Avoid taking aspirin or ibuprofen (Motrin) for two weeks before your surgery unless we instruct you otherwise
  • Try to stop smoking (or decrease as much as you possibly can) two weeks before surgery to get your lungs as healthy as they can be at this time
  • Have pre-op testing done

The Day Before Surgery:

  • Do not drink alcohol for 24 hours prior to surgery
  • Eat a light dinner before 9 p.m. No solid food after this time
  • Do not eat or drink anything after midnight. Eating or drinking after the instructed times will delay your surgery and may even require rescheduling!
  • Avoid smoking after midnight
  • Bathe the night before or the morning of surgery

The Day of Surgery:

  • When you brush your teeth the morning of surgery, be sure not to swallow any water
  • Please take necessary medications with a sip of water the morning of surgery: blood pressure, heart, seizure or breathing medications including inhalers. Consult with your provider for insulin dosing the day of surgery
  • Wear comfortable, casual clothing that allows for easy dressing and undressing
  • Do not wear make-up, nail polish, perfume, skin cream or use aerosol spray
  • Bring your insurance card, a list of your medications, and any lab results or medical records you may have in your possession with you to the hospital
  • Dentures, contacts and glasses may not be worn during surgery. Bring a case to store eyewear
  • Do not bring valuables (jewelry, large amounts of money, etc…) with you
  • If you are staying over night, bring a small bag with robe, slippers, toiletries, etc…
  • If you are having outpatient surgery, you must arrange for someone to bring you home after your surgery. There are no exceptions to this rule. Outpatient surgery cannot be performed without responsible adult transportation to bring you home. A cab or bus will not be acceptable. Please arrange for someone to be with you until the morning after your surgery.
  • Arrive in admitting one to two hours before your scheduled surgery

Post-Operative Care Instructions

FAQ Hysterectomy

Post-Op Hysterectomy Orablation

Post-Op Laparoscopic Hysterectomy

Post-Op Laparoscopy

Post-Op Major Abdominal Surgery

Post-Op Major Abdominal Vaginal Surgery

Post-Op Vulvar Surgery