Advanced keyhole surgery care with vNOTES at North Mid
Words by Dr Wai Cheong Yoong
I am incredibly proud to be part of a team that is leading the way in gynaecological surgery by offering the vNOTES (vaginal Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery) technique for suitable patients. We are one of only around 15 gynaecology units in the UK—and the only one in North London—providing this cutting-edge, minimally invasive procedure. vNOTES represents a significant advancement in patient care, allowing us to perform keyhole surgery through the vagina, completely avoiding abdominal incisions.
The Benefits of vNOTES
vNOTES offers numerous benefits that have transformed the way we care for our patients:
- Minimal Pain : Patients experience significantly less pain compared to traditional laparoscopic surgeries, which means a much smoother recovery.
- No Visible Scars : One of the most remarkable aspects of vNOTES is that it leaves no visible scars in the abdomen as instruments and camera used are introduced through the vagina.
- Quicker Recovery : Most of my patients are able to go home in less than six hours after the procedure, which is a testament to the efficiency and effectiveness of this technique.
How We Use vNOTES
I have used vNOTES to treat a range of conditions, including ectopic pregnancies, removing ovarian cysts, performing female sterilisation, and conducting hysterectomies. It is particularly advantageous for patients with a high BMI, where conventional keyhole surgery can be more complex. We are also expanding its use by working closely with our breast surgery colleagues to offer the vNOTES route for the removal of ovaries and fallopian tubes in women who carry the BRCA gene (carriers of this gene have a 60% increase in risk of ovarian cancer), providing a less invasive option for those at higher risk of cancer. Understanding your BRCA status can be vital for making informed decisions about your health, including considering preventive surgeries like those we offer using the vNOTES technique.
Celebrating Milestones
Recently, we celebrated our 104th vNOTES case at North Mid, and I’m pleased to share that almost all of these patients were able to go home the same day. It is incredibly rewarding to see how this technique has positively impacted out patients' recovery times and overall experience.
By choosing North Middlesex University Hospital for your gynaecological care, you are choosing the latest in medical innovation, ensuring that your surgical experience is as safe, comfortable, and efficient as possible. I am proud to be part of a team that is making such a meaningful difference in the lives of our patients. With each successful case, we continue to advance the standard of care, and I look forward to helping even more patients experience the benefits of vNOTES in the future.