Laparoscopic surgery is a newer technique that allows for tiny navel and abdominal incisions through which smaller instruments can be introduced. It is less invasive than traditional “open” surgery, therefore, reducing trauma and pain, and shortening the recuperative period.
Dr. Quartell trained extensively in the special skills needed for these procedures, and was among the first physicians to perform laparoscopic hysterectomy. He spends one or two days per week in the operating room, and has performed thousands of laparoscopic procedures, including laparoscopic hysterectomy and laparoscopic myomectomy. He is one of the few OB GYN Surgeons performing robotic assisted laparoscopic hysterectomies and myomectomies.
Minimally invasive surgery is an option for most, but not all, patients. Dr. Quartell will determine which surgical approaches are right for you, based on your individual circumstances. You can then make an informed choice.
No, many other options are available. Please make an appt if you are interested.
Yes, you will be given general anesthesia.
Laparoscopic hysterectomy usually requires an overnight stay – you will go home the following morning. Other laparoscopic procedures may allow you to go home the same day as your surgery.
Dr. Quartell and Nurse Practitioner Kelly Calleros will see you throughout your pregnancy, supported by the entire medical practice staff, and a team of board certified OB/gyns who cover Dr. Quartell’s practice when needed.
You will be seen once a month through 28 weeks, once every two weeks through 36 weeks, and weekly until delivery. There may be a need for additional visits under special circumstances.
Each visit will include:
Urine specimen
Blood pressure and weight assessment
Fetal heart tone by Doppler machine
Possible ultrasounds (several insurance companies do not allow these to be performed in an office setting (ie: Cigna), therefore; you must check with your insurance first)
For your convenience, all bloodwork can be drawn in our office at an onsite lab.
Prenatal labs will be drawn at your first visit or second visit. They include: blood type, complete blood count, HIV testing, genetic testing, and hepatitis and rubella status. A urine culture will also be done.
AFP testing will be preformed at your 16 week visit.
Gestational diabetes screening will be performed between weeks 26-28.
Group B Strep testing, CBC, and repeat HIV are performed at 36 weeks. This is a vaginal culture.
Additional testing may be performed at the recommendation of your physician.
An ultrasound will be performed here, at your first prenatal visit, if allowed by your insurance company. A “Level II” ultrasound (a detailed study of fetal anatomy) will be performed at Saint Barnabas Medical Center at 18 weeks. If recommended, an amniocentesis will also be performed at 18 weeks.
Feel free to call with any questions or unusual symptoms, but always call if you experience:
Vaginal Bleeding
Pain that is unusual or does not subside
Chills & Fever
Vomiting, if you are unable to hold down fluids
Burning when urinating or trouble voiding
Leaking fluid that is not urine
Decreased fetal movement
Excessive swelling
Rash
No, many other options are available. Please make an appointment if you are interested.
You may take acetaminophen (like brand-name Tylenol) for aches and pains. We will advise you regarding other medications for colds, coughs and other common ailments. We strongly advocate the use of chicken soup as a cold remedy.
In uncomplicated pregnancies, domestic air travel is generally safe up to 36 weeks – check with us. You should drink plenty of fluids, and walk frequently due to the risk of blood clots. Security detectors are safe for pregnant women.
Single-process hair coloring is not safe during pregnancy.
You may have your hair highlighted after 12 weeks of pregnancy.
Call if:
You experience either a gush or slow leaking of clear (amniotic) fluid.
Your contractions are getting stronger and occurring no more than 5 minutes apart.
You are experiencing decreased fetal movement.
You are supposed to have a cesarean section.
You experience any other unusual symptoms.
You may experience contractions that are not strong and do not follow a time pattern. They may not signal the onset of labor. You may have thick, blood tinged mucous prior to, or during labor. This mucous plug is normal, and may not signal the onset of labor.
