Dubai, UAE – Aster Hospital Al Qusais, recently ranked No. 14 in the UAE on Newsweek’s “World’s Best Hospitals 2025” list and among the top 350 globally, has achieved a medical milestone by performing the UAE’s first Vaginal Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery (vNOTES) hysterectomy. The groundbreaking, scar-free procedure was conducted on 56-year-old Indian national Sarojadevi Selvaraja, marking a leap forward in minimally invasive gynecological care.**
Selvaraja, who suffered postmenopausal bleeding for two years, was diagnosed with precancerous uterine changes after a severe episode in January. With a history of hypertension and prior gynecological interventions, she sought a less invasive solution. Led by Dr. Fathima Safa, Specialist in Obstetrics & Gynecology, the Aster Hospital team opted for vNOTES—a technique avoiding abdominal incisions by accessing the uterus through the vaginal canal. Using a specialized device, camera, and micro-instruments, surgeons removed her uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries with minimal bleeding and maximal precision.
Innovation Over Tradition
Unlike traditional hysterectomies requiring abdominal cuts, vNOTES eliminates visible scarring, reduces pain, and accelerates recovery. Selvaraja was discharged within 24 hours and resumed daily activities swiftly, a stark contrast to weeks-long recovery periods linked to conventional surgery.
“vNOTES merges the precision of laparoscopy with the benefits of natural orifice surgery,” explained Dr. Fathima Safa. “It’s a paradigm shift—no external scars, reduced complications, and faster return to normal life.” Dr. Aysha Salam, Obstetrics & Gynecology Specialist at Aster Hospital Sharjah, added, “This is transformative for women’s healthcare, particularly for those prioritizing minimal downtime and aesthetic outcomes.”
Patient Experience and Global Relevance
Selvaraja praised the team’s expertise: “I feared surgery, but vNOTES eased my worries. No scars, minimal pain—I’m grateful to the doctors.” Studies highlight vNOTES’ advantages, including shorter operation times and lower complication rates compared to laparoscopy. Approved by the U.S. FDA in 2019, the technique is now used globally for ovarian cyst removal, ectopic pregnancy treatment, and pelvic repair.
While not suitable for patients with severe endometriosis or prior pelvic radiation, vNOTES offers a cutting-edge alternative for eligible candidates. Aster Hospital Al Qusais continues to champion medical innovation, reinforcing its commitment to advanced, patient-centric care in the UAE and beyond.