1st Womb Removal Surgery Without Cuts In Malta Performed At Saint James Hospital

A surgical team at Saint James Hospital has performed the first minimally invasive hysterectomy in Malta’s private healthcare sector, introducing a procedure that can offer eligible women less pain, no external scarring and a faster recovery.

The six-member team, led by consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist Johann Craus, completed the hospital’s first Vaginal Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery (vNOTES), an advanced technique that allows surgeons to remove the uterus through the vagina using specialised instruments and a camera, without making abdominal incisions.

Dr Craus said the procedure represents a significant development in gynaecological surgery, with eligible patients expected to experience less postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays and quicker recovery times.

He said the operation was completed efficiently thanks to the expertise of the surgical team and the advanced technology available at Saint James Hospital, including its 4K laparoscopic imaging system.

According to Dr Craus, vNOTES procedures are generally quicker than conventional laparoscopic hysterectomies. The lack of abdominal incisions can improve cosmetic outcomes and help patients return to their daily activities sooner.

The technique may also be used for selected procedures involving the removal of ovarian cysts or fallopian tubes, although it is not suitable for all patients.

Those with complex conditions, such as advanced endometriosis, may require alternative surgical approaches.

Saint James Hospitals CEO Jean Claude Muscat said the introduction of vNOTES reflects the group’s commitment to expanding access to advanced minimally invasive procedures in line with international healthcare standards. He added that the technique will be made available to more eligible women who could benefit from it.

#MaltaDaily