Visit preparation

vNOTES and single-port laparoscopy through the navel

vNOTES accesses the pelvis through the vagina. Transumbilical single-port laparoscopy uses a cut near the navel. Confirm what condition is being treated and what the operation would involve, then discuss feasible routes, alternatives if the plan changes and recovery.

SinoCareHub Content Team·November 7, 2026·4 min

Where each route enters the body

vNOTES stands for vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery. The doctor creates an access point through the vagina to perform the planned pelvic operation using an endoscope. In transumbilical single-port laparoscopy, a camera and instruments pass through one cut near the navel. Each route creates a surgical wound. The doctor may need to add an incision or change routes during the operation. [1,2,3]

Confirm what the operation would involve

Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center reported one total hysterectomy with removal of both fallopian tubes. Tang Xiang and Abraham Morse performed it together through the vagina using endoscopy. The same hospital website describes a transumbilical single-port procedure for an ovarian cyst. The two operations treated different organs and conditions. Ask which tissues the doctor plans to treat and whether the uterus or ovaries can be kept, then ask which routes are feasible. [1,2]

Who do the trial results apply to?

A single-centre randomised trial compared vNOTES with conventional total laparoscopic hysterectomy in patients having their uterus removed for benign disease. Both groups completed surgery using their assigned route. The trial also found a difference in discharge timing. For ovarian cysts, other procedures or suspected cancer, discuss the specific condition and extent of the operation with your doctor. Ask them how your imaging and previous pelvic operations affect the plan, and what they would do if they encountered adhesions or bleeding. [3,4]

What to ask before surgery

Ask where incisions would be made, what might prompt a change in route, what tissue would be kept or removed, and when to have follow-up and review the pathology results. Ask which symptoms should prompt you to contact the hospital promptly. Use the checklist of questions before confirming a treatment plan to prepare. SinoCareHub can help organise your reports and questions for the treating team.