For patients considering a hysterectomy, Lakeside Women’s Hospital INTEGRIS Health now offers an advanced surgical option that combines the benefits of minimally invasive and traditional vaginal approaches, with less pain, faster recovery and no visible scarring.

For patients considering a hysterectomy, Lakeside Women’s Hospital INTEGRIS Health now offers an advanced surgical option that combines the benefits of minimally invasive and traditional vaginal approaches, with less pain, faster recovery and no visible scarring.
The hospital recently performed its first vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (vNOTES) procedure, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing commitment to innovative, patient-centered care.
vNOTES is a minimally invasive technique used for certain hysterectomies and gynecologic procedures. Unlike traditional surgical methods, vNOTES does not require external abdominal incisions. Instead, surgeons access the surgical site through the vagina using a specialized port, a high-definition camera and advanced laparoscopic instruments.
This new approach, performed by D. Nelson Fong, M.D., medical director of Lakeside Women’s Hospital and OB/GYN Elizabeth Pinard, M.D., represents the next evolution of vaginal surgery. It offers enhanced visualization and improved access to pelvic organs while minimizing physical impact on the patient.
“Our gynecologic surgeons introduced vNOTES to expand minimally invasive options for our patients,” said Fong. “This innovative technique offers shorter recovery times, less pain and no abdominal scarring, making it an excellent choice for those who are good candidates.”
Key Benefits of vNOTES
Patients who are candidates for vNOTES may experience:
For more information about vNOTES or to determine if this procedure is right for you, please call 405-936-1500 or visit lakeside-wh.com.
Compassionate care and specialized women’s health services are at the core of everything we do at Lakeside Women’s Hospital INTEGRIS Health.