Surgeons at Northside Hospital Cherokee are now performing vNOTES, another minimally invasive option for women requiring gynecologic (GYN) surgery, including hysterectomy procedures.
Dr. Lisa McLeod was the first physician to utilize the technology at Northside Cherokee, performing a tubal ligation on July 24, 2024. Dr. Michael Litrel performed the first hysterectomy on Dec. 11.
How it works: vNOTES (vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery) is a minimally invasive technique that provides patients with benefits, including reduced surgical times, shorter hospital stays, reduced postoperative pain, no visible scars and faster recovery.
A hysterectomy, the removal of the uterus, is often necessary to treat conditions like fibroids, endometriosis, heavy bleeding, uterine or cervical cancer and severe prolapse. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), hysterectomies are among the most common surgeries performed in the United States.
Unlike traditional minimally invasive procedures that require multiple small abdominal incisions, vNOTES uses the vagina as the access point. This allows the surgeon to reach the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries without external cuts. Carbon dioxide is used to inflate the abdomen, creating space for the surgeon to work, using a camera and specialized instruments.
Expert opinions: “vNOTES surgery is great for patients because with both laparoscopic surgery and vaginal surgery the surgeon gets great visualization with less invasive incisions,” said Dr. Litrel. “This means a faster recovery with less pain.”
"As physicians, our highest priority is ensuring that patients have access to the most advanced, minimally invasive options that promote faster recovery, reduce discomfort and have overall better surgical outcomes,” added Dr. McLeod. “Introducing the VNotes procedure at Northside Cherokee was an important step toward expanding safe, effective and innovative options for women’s health. I am deeply committed to staying at the forefront of advancements in gynecologic surgery, and I am proud to be part of a team that values progress and patient-centered care."
Continuing leadership in GYN care: ACOG and the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists recommend vaginal hysterectomy as the preferred approach when possible.
Northside Hospital, a recognized leader in women’s health care, offers a range of minimally invasive gynecologic surgery options, including laparoscopic, robotic and single-incision techniques. In 2010, Northside was the first hospital in Georgia to perform a radical hysterectomy using robotic technology. With the introduction of vNOTES, Northside continues to deliver innovative, patient-centered care.
Northside also offers vNOTES technology at Northside Atlanta.
Learn more about gynecologic surgery at Northside Hospital.
