Asst. Prof. Dr. Ermis, your name is almost a synonym for minimally invasive procedures in gynecology. What’s behind it?

Asst. Prof. Dr. Resmiye Ermis:

Even today, too many procedures are performed in Germany – too radically and with abdominal incisions that are too large. This is an unnecessary burden for patients. Although nearly all operations for benign gynecological conditions could be performed minimally invasively – and even most malignant ones. We are changing that. This particularly gentle and quickly healing approach is only part of what patients especially appreciate in the many positive reviews.

How does a recommendation rate of 91 percent come about?

No matter how innovative the technology and methods are – a woman immediately senses whether someone is sitting across from her who doesn’t just see her as a patient, but as a person. Perhaps it’s also a question of respect.

That sounds a bit like the cliché of putting the patient at the center. What does that mean concretely?

Asst. Prof. Dr. Resmiye Ermis:

Many women are uncertain. They have a suspicion or a diagnosis. But where do they get the certainty of a truly comprehensive assessment weighing the best gynecological options for them? And above all: Who asks about their wishes – and understands them?

The procedure as a wish list? Doesn’t the condition dictate the treatment?

There is no „the“ treatment on one side and „the“ patient on the other. Harmonizing both as best as possible is the art. I see my role as serving the person. It’s their unique body. So I feel obligated and responsible to accommodate wishes whenever possible. That’s why we generally first check if a procedure can be avoided altogether. The overriding goal is quality of life.

How is the quality of life of patients improved?

Conventional, so-called open procedures mean a significantly higher burden: The body must be opened more extensively, which usually involves more comprehensive anesthesia. The larger the wound, the higher the risk of complications and the longer the healing process. The hospital stay is generally longer. And then the scars, which many women have a problem with. Minimally invasive procedures are free of all that.

Is there a philosophy with which you operate?

Perhaps that for me it’s never a question of whether we achieve the goal of the surgery, but how we get there as quickly and gently as possible. I admit, I’m very ambitious about that – which can sometimes seem a bit demanding to others. And if a procedure is already quick and gentle, it should also be as scar-free as possible (laughs). A woman should not only be relieved afterward but also like what she sees in the mirror.

What final thought do you give to the women who come to you?

Health is a great gift. I believe we should become more aware of that again.