Evolution of Hysterectomy Techniques: Robotic Verse Laparoscopic

About this episode

This episode discusses the evolution of hysterectomy techniques, comparing robotic and laparoscopic approaches in gynecologic surgery.

The Vagina Doctor Podcast with Duncan Turner MDHysterectomy Options: Open vs Vaginal vs Laparoscopic vs Robotic SurgeryThis episode discusses hysterectomy approaches and how gynecologic surgery has shifted over time. It explains that before 1990 most hysterectomies were done through a large abdominal incision (often like a C-section, and sometimes vertical to the belly button for larger uteri) or vaginally, with the vaginal approach offering quicker recovery but being technically harder and less commonly performed as surgical volumes changed. The conversation covers the rise of laparoscopic surgery in the late 1980s and 1990s using video laparoscopy and several small (under half-inch) incisions, with the uterus (often including cervix) removed through the vagina, and highlights benefits such as less blood loss, less pain, faster recovery, fewer infections, and fewer adhesions—while noting the training difficulty of “straight stick” laparoscopy and suturing/knot-tying. The guest describes early robotic assistance development in Santa Barbara (including scope-holding arms and the Zeus system), the later dominance of the Da Vinci robot after company and patent disputes, and its 2006…

People in this episode

Host: Duncan Turner MD

Topics covered

• hysterectomy techniques
• gynecologic surgery
• robotic surgery
• laparoscopic surgery
• surgical recovery
• medical advancements

Keywords

• hysterectomy
• robotic surgery
• laparoscopic surgery
• gynecology
• surgical techniques
• medical history
• patient recovery

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Da Vinci, Zeus system

Books & works: C-section

Places: Santa Barbara

More episodes of The Vagina Doctor Podcast w/ Duncan Turner M.D.

• Understanding Body Composition Scans in Weight Loss · June 11, 2026 · 5 min
• Dr. Naz on Foot Pain Misdiagnoses, Orthotics, and Building a Concierge Podiatry Practice in Santa Barbara · June 4, 2026 · 31 min
• Contamination in Labs: How Hormone Topicals Can Mislead · May 28, 2026 · 7 min
• Menopause & Labs: Bridging The Gaps Between Results · May 21, 2026 · 4 min
• Lexapro for Women’s Health: PMS/PMDD, Anxiety & Menopause · May 14, 2026 · 3 min
• From Salmon Sperm to Surgery: Cutting-Edge Regenerative Therapies · May 7, 2026 · 1h 19m