Stacey South, MD specializes in gynecologic oncology and is a provider with Manatee Physician Alliance, an affiliate of Manatee Memorial Hospital. Dr. South joined the medical staff of Manatee Memorial Hospital in 2008 and was the Chief of Staff from 2021-2022. She attended medical school at Loyola University Medical Center and completed her residency at Roswell Park Cancer Center. Dr. South helped to launch the robotic surgery program at the hospital.
What made you initially pursue Women’s Health?
I initially thought I was interested in neurosciences, but I quickly realized that with gynecologic oncology, you get the best of both worlds. There is a component of primary care, and there is also surgery. I saw a great opportunity with this specialty to truly be involved in with a patient’s life and make a difference in his or her care.
What are the treatments available for gynecologic oncology?
There are the traditional treatments of chemotherapy and radiation. There is also surgery. We are starting to look at cancer in a different light and trying to identify mechanisms on a more individualized basis. Our main goal for patients is to target the cancer cells and minimize side effects. Our group follows the standard of care guidelines of the Society of GYN Oncologists and the National Cancer Comprehensive Network guidelines for after-treatment.
What surgeries do you perform most often?
Robotic-assisted laparoscopic total hysterectomy, cancer debulking, exploratory laparotomy, diagnostic laparoscopy, hysteroscopy, endometrial ablation, vulvectomy, robotic-assisted laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy are usually part of a typical day for me. Any type of procedure that can be the least invasive is what I choose with my patients long- term goals in mind.
Are robotic surgeries new?
I have been doing robotic surgeries since 2005. I am very fortunate with the training that I had as I was able to learn open surgery, laparoscopic surgery, and robotics. Many procedures are not done as open surgeries anymore, and the robot is a great tool that has allowed us to perform minimally invasive surgery. We have been focusing on replacing those open surgeries where we can.
How have robotic-assisted procedures advanced over the years?
Robotic surgery was started 25 years ago with a needle placement for a CT-guided brain biopsy. It has now progressed into a multitude of specialties utilizing automated technology. In 2002, the da Vinci® robot was used for the hysterectomy. The robot was found to be superior, allowing better visualization over conventional surgery and offering a high level of hand dexterity. This provides the opportunity to perform more precise removal of cancer tumors. Robotic-assisted surgeries can also lessen recovery time and bleeding.
What does a typical recovery time look like?
The normal recuperation period is, on average, 3-4 weeks, but depending on the surgery, patients can have surgical restrictions for up to 6-8 weeks. Narcotics are rarely needed for pain management. A patient will feel and see the improvement each week after a robotic surgery.
What does the future for obstetrical/gynecologic cancers look like?
As time and surgery evolve, we need to be sure the changes we are making continue to provide the same quality care for cancer patients. We are constantly looking at data and research. Medicine is always changing, and we keep changing with it. There are various concepts coming to light and five years down the road, there will be even more advancements.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. South, call 941-746-7507.
Manatee Memorial Hospital
(941) 746-5111
manateememorial.com
Individual results may vary. There are risks associated with any surgical procedure. Talk with your doctor about these risks to find out if minimally invasive, robotic surgery is right for you. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice, visit our website.
Physicians are on the medical staff of Manatee Memorial Hospital, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Manatee Memorial Hospital. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians.