Op. Dr. Gizem Boz İzceyhan, Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynecology, stated, "Advancements in medical technology prioritize not only saving lives but also preserving patients' quality of life. The Vaginal Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery (V-NOTES) method, known colloquially as 'scarless surgery' draws attention because it can be performed without leaving any incision or scar on the body."

What is V-NOTES?

Explaining the advantages of this technique beyond surgeries requiring large incisions and laparoscopic interventions, Op. Dr. Gizem Boz İzceyhan from Yeditepe University Hospitals answered the question, "What is V-NOTES Surgery?" as follows: "V-NOTES is a closed surgical technique performed without making incisions on the abdominal wall, using the body's natural orifices. With V-NOTES surgery, advanced, high-resolution cameras and surgical instruments are introduced through natural pathways, not through the abdominal skin. In other words, from an external perspective, there isn't even a single stitch mark to prove that a surgery took place."

What are the Advantages of V-NOTES?

Discussing the advantages of V-NOTES surgery, İzceyhan said, "Ninety percent of post-operative pain is caused by incisions made in the abdominal muscles and skin. Since there are no incisions with this method, patients feel significantly less pain, and the aesthetic integrity of the body is completely preserved with the V-NOTES technique. Most patients are discharged on the evening of the surgery or the following day. Because the abdominal wall is not opened, the risk of future 'incisional hernia' is completely eliminated with this method. Instead of spending a week in bed, patients can return to their daily lives and work within a few days.

In Which Cases Can V-NOTES Surgery Be Applied?

İzceyhan stated, "We can perform hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), removal of ovarian cysts, tubal ligation, ectopic pregnancy surgeries, and even some uterine prolapse operations with this method. However, every surgical method is not a magic wand for every patient. In patients with significant abdominal obesity or those with extensive abdominal wall adhesions due to previous surgeries, V-NOTES surgery provides us with a much safer and clearer field of view.

For Whom is the V-NOTES Technique Not Suitable?

Noting that the method may not be applied in some cases, İzceyhan explained: "If the uterus or fibroids have reached a very large size, or if there is a very advanced, deep endometriosis (chocolate cyst) condition that has adhered all the organs together, then classical closed or robotic methods may be preferred. Additionally, because the method is applied through the natural vaginal route, it is not suitable for patients who have not yet experienced sexual intercourse."