Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery in New Jersey
What Is Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery?
Minimally invasive gynecologic surgery (MIGS) treats gynecologic conditions through small incisions — typically 5 to 12 millimeters — using specialized cameras and instruments, rather than the large abdominal opening required in traditional open surgery. The result is the same surgical effectiveness with shorter recovery, less post-operative pain, reduced complications, and better cosmetic outcomes.
At Hackensack CMIGS, Dr. Adam Shoman holds a Designated Focus Practice in Minimally Invasive Gynecologic & Pelvic Surgery. Every patient at our Hoboken and Hasbrouck Heights locations is evaluated with a minimally invasive approach as the first-line surgical option.
| Same-Day Discharge | Hospital Stay | Return to Desk Work | Incision Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| 95%+ of CMIGS laparoscopic patients go home the day of surgery | 0–1 days (vs. 2–4 for open surgery) | 5–7 days for desk work; 2–4 weeks for physical activity | 5–12 mm (vs. 10–15 cm for open surgery) |
Our Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques
The appropriate technique is selected based on the condition being treated, procedure complexity, and the patient’s anatomy and surgical history.
| Technique | How It Works | Best For | Recovery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Laparoscopy | 2–4 incisions, 5–12mm; CO₂ insufflation; HD camera | Endometriosis excision, fibroid removal, ovarian cysts, tubal ligation, adhesion lysis | Outpatient; desk work in 5–7 days |
| Robotic (Da Vinci) | 3–5 incisions, 5–12mm; 3D HD, 360° wristed instruments | Deep infiltrating endometriosis, complex fibroids, prolapse repair, hysterectomy, reoperations | Outpatient or 1-night stay; return to work in 7–10 days |
| Operative Hysteroscopy | No incisions — through the cervix | Uterine polyps, submucosal fibroids, endometrial ablation, Asherman's syndrome, uterine septum | Light sedation; 30–60 min; home within hours; normal activity next day |
The Da Vinci robot does not make decisions or perform surgery independently. Dr. Shoman is in complete control throughout every procedure.
Conditions Treated with Minimally Invasive Surgery
Dr. Shoman uses minimally invasive techniques across the full spectrum of gynecologic conditions — from common presentations to complex, recurrent cases.
| Condition | Procedure | Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Endometriosis | Laparoscopic or Robotic Excision | Laparoscopic / Robotic |
| Uterine Fibroids | Laparoscopic, Robotic, or Hysteroscopic Myomectomy | All three modalities |
| Ovarian Cysts | Laparoscopic Cystectomy or Oophorectomy | Laparoscopic |
| Pelvic Organ Prolapse | Robotic Sacrocolpopexy / Uterosacral Ligament Suspension | Robotic / Laparoscopic |
| Urinary Incontinence | Laparoscopic Burch Colposuspension / Mid-Urethral Sling | Laparoscopic |
| Chronic Pelvic Pain | Diagnostic + Operative Laparoscopy, Adhesion Lysis | Laparoscopic / Robotic |
| Abnormal Uterine Bleeding | Hysteroscopic Polypectomy / Endometrial Ablation | Hysteroscopic |
| Hysterectomy | Laparoscopic, Robotic, or Vaginal Hysterectomy | Laparoscopic / Robotic / Vaginal |
| Tubal Ligation | Laparoscopic Tubal Ligation | Laparoscopic |
| Infertility (surgical) | Laparoscopic or Hysteroscopic Evaluation & Treatment | Laparoscopic / Hysteroscopic |
Da Vinci Robotic Surgery: Precision at a New Level
The Da Vinci Surgical System is the most advanced platform available for minimally invasive gynecologic surgery. Dr. Shoman uses it for complex cases where its precision, visualization, and range of motion directly translate into better surgical outcomes.
| Advantage | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| 3D High-Definition Vision | 10x magnification in true 3D — clearer anatomical detail than standard laparoscopy. |
| 360° Wristed Instruments | Exceeds human wrist range of motion — critical for suturing in tight pelvic spaces near the ureter, bowel, and bladder. |
| Tremor Filtration | Natural hand tremor eliminated — every movement is smooth and precise. |
| Motion Scaling | Console movements are scaled into microscopic instrument movements inside the body. |
| Same Small Incisions | All precision benefits with the same 5–12mm incisions and outpatient recovery. |
When Robotic Surgery Is the Right Choice
Dr. Shoman recommends robotic-assisted surgery when its specific advantages are indicated by the case:
- Deep infiltrating endometriosis — lesions involving the bowel, bladder, or ureter
- Complex or multiple fibroids in difficult locations requiring extensive reconstruction
- Pelvic organ prolapse repair — sacrocolpopexy requiring precise suturing and mesh placement
- Hysterectomy — enlarged uteri, dense adhesions, or limited laparoscopic access
- Reoperative pelvic surgery — prior surgeries with scar tissue that make standard laparoscopy technically challenging
- Higher BMI patients — where robotic range of motion and visualization offer clear advantages
Minimally Invasive vs. Traditional Open Surgery
The difference between going home the same day versus a multi-day hospital stay — and returning to work in a week versus six — is a meaningful clinical and quality-of-life advantage for every eligible patient.
| Metric | Open Surgery | Minimally Invasive (CMIGS) |
|---|---|---|
| Incision Size | One large incision: 10–15 cm | 2–4 small incisions: 5–12 mm each |
| Hospital Stay | 2–4 days inpatient | Same-day discharge |
| Post-Op Pain | Significant — IV pain management | Mild to moderate — oral medication |
| Return to Desk Work | 3–6 weeks | 5–7 days |
| Return to Full Activity | 6–8 weeks | 2–4 weeks |
| Infection Risk | Higher — larger wound surface | Lower — minimal tissue exposure |
| Blood Loss | Greater | Significantly reduced |
Week-by-Week Recovery Timeline
Recovery after minimally invasive surgery at CMIGS is significantly faster than open surgery. Individual timelines are discussed with Dr. Shoman before and after your procedure.
| Timeline | Minimally Invasive Surgery | Open Surgery |
|---|---|---|
| Day of Surgery | Outpatient; 1–4 small incisions; go home same day. | 2–4 day hospital stay; large abdominal incision. |
| Days 1–3 | Mild soreness; light walking encouraged; oral pain medication. | Significant pain; IV management; restricted mobility. |
| Days 4–7 | Light activities; incisions healing; CO₂ bloating dissipates. | Continued rest; wound care required. |
| Week 2 | Return to desk work; follow-up appointment with Dr. Shoman. | Gradual return to limited activity; fatigue common. |
| Weeks 3–4 | Full normal activity and driving for most patients. | Beginning to return to sedentary work. |
| Week 6+ | Full recovery for most procedures. | Full recovery for uncomplicated open cases. |
Dr. Shoman provides personalised post-operative instructions specific to your procedure and lifestyle. Our team is available throughout recovery for any questions or concerns.
Why Patients Choose Hackensack CMIGS
Subspecialty focus: Designated Focus Practice credential in Minimally Invasive Gynecologic & Pelvic Surgery — not general OB/GYN.
- 20+ years of experience: Practicing at Hackensack Meridian Health since 2003, with thousands of minimally invasive procedures performed.
- Robotic surgery expertise: Advanced Da Vinci capability for the most complex gynecologic cases.
- Outpatient-first: The vast majority of procedures are performed outpatient — patients recover at home from day one.
- Two convenient NJ locations: Hoboken and Hasbrouck Heights, serving Northern NJ and the greater New York metro area.
- Nationally recognised: Patient’s Choice Award (2022–2024); America’s Most Honored Doctors — Top 1% (2021–2024).
- Board certified: American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology; active licences in New Jersey, Florida, and Texas.
Two Locations Serving Northern New Jersey
| Hoboken Office | Hasbrouck Heights Office |
|---|---|
| Address: 104 Hudson St, Suite 2C, Hoboken, NJ 07030 Hours: Mon–Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Sat: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM Serving: Jersey City, Weehawken, Union City, Kearny, Manhattan | Address: 777 Terrace Ave, Suite 302, Hasbrouck Heights, NJ 07604 Hours: Mon–Sat: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Serving: Hackensack, Lodi, Wallington, Little Ferry, Ridgefield |
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I a candidate for minimally invasive surgery?
Most gynecologic conditions that once required open surgery can now be treated minimally invasively. Patients with prior pelvic surgeries are often excellent candidates — particularly for robotic surgery. Dr. Shoman evaluates each case individually.
How long does surgery take?
Operative time ranges from 20–30 minutes for diagnostic laparoscopy to 1–3 hours for hysterectomy or extensive endometriosis excision. Total time at the facility, including pre-op and recovery, is typically 4–6 hours.
Is minimally invasive surgery as thorough as open surgery?
Yes. In experienced hands, it is equally or more thorough. The magnified camera often provides clearer anatomical visualization than the naked eye during open surgery.
Will I have visible scars?
Incisions are 5–12mm and placed at or below the bikini line, fading significantly within 6–12 months. Hysteroscopic procedures leave no external scars.
What is the difference between laparoscopic and robotic surgery?
Both use small incisions and a camera. Robotic surgery adds 360° wristed instruments, a 3D HD view, and greater precision for complex procedures — with the same outpatient recovery.
Does insurance cover minimally invasive gynecologic surgery?
Most major plans cover medically necessary gynecologic surgery, including laparoscopic and robotic procedures. Our staff verifies your benefits before your procedure.
How do I schedule a consultation?
Visit hackensackcmigs.com or call our Hoboken or Hasbrouck Heights offices, available Monday through Saturday. Dr. Shoman will review your history and recommend the right approach for your condition.
Schedule Your Consultation
Dr. Adam Shoman | Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery Specialist
hackensackcmigs.com | Hoboken & Hasbrouck Heights, NJ | Mon–Sat