Frequently Asked Questions – Dr. Gina Ranieri, DO

If you’re exploring options for endometriosis surgery, fibroid removal, or pelvic pain treatment, you may have questions about what to expect. Below, Dr. Gina Ranieri — a Mayo Clinic fellowship-trained minimally invasive gynecologic surgeon (MIGS) — answers some of the most common questions about her approach, techniques, and what sets her care apart.

What does it mean to be a fellowship-trained MIGS surgeon?

MIGS stands for Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery. As a Mayo Clinic–trained MIGS specialist, Dr. Ranieri completed advanced fellowship training focused on treating complex gynecologic conditions through laparoscopic and robotic surgery. This level of training allows her to perform procedures with smaller incisions, less pain, and faster recovery — even for advanced cases of endometriosis, fibroids, or pelvic pain.

What is excision surgery for endometriosis?

Endometriosis excision surgery is the gold standard for long-term relief. Rather than burning lesions on the surface (ablation), Dr. Ranieri carefully removes the disease at its root, excising all visible endometriosis from affected tissues while preserving healthy structures. This precise approach can relieve pain, improve fertility, and reduce recurrence.

How do you approach treatment for pelvic pain?

Pelvic pain can stem from many causes — including endometriosis, fibroids, adhesions, or pelvic floor dysfunction. Dr. Ranieri takes a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach combining advanced imaging, minimally invasive techniques, trigger point injections, medical therapies, and collaboration with pelvic floor physical therapists and pain specialists. Her goal is to identify the root cause and create a personalized plan for lasting relief.

What are fibroids and how are they treated?

Fibroids (also called leiomyomas) are noncancerous growths of the uterus that can cause heavy bleeding, pelvic pressure, and infertility. Dr. Ranieri offers minimally invasive fibroid removal (myomectomy) using laparoscopic or robotic techniques, preserving the uterus when desired and promoting quicker recovery than traditional open surgery.

What’s the difference between traditional laparoscopy and robotic surgery?

Both are minimally invasive, but robotic-assisted surgery offers enhanced 3D vision, wristed precision, and better control for complex cases.
• Laparoscopy: The surgeon uses long instruments guided by a 2D camera.
• Robotics: The surgeon controls robotic arms from a console for greater dexterity.
Dr. Ranieri is expertly trained in both approaches and selects the best one for each patient’s anatomy and goals.

How do you manage pelvic pain when surgery isn’t the first step?

Not all pain requires surgery. Dr. Ranieri often begins with conservative and integrative treatments, such as hormonal and non-hormonal therapy, pelvic floor physical therapy, trigger point injections, nerve pain modulation, or anti-inflammatory approaches. When surgery is appropriate, it’s part of a broader care plan.

What makes minimally invasive surgery different from traditional open surgery?

Minimally invasive gynecologic surgery uses small incisions and specialized tools to reduce pain, hospital stay, blood loss, and recovery time. Compared to open surgery, patients typically experience less discomfort, shorter hospital stays, and faster return to normal activities.

How do I know if I’m a candidate for minimally invasive surgery?

Most women are candidates, even those with large fibroids, prior surgeries, or advanced endometriosis. During consultation, Dr. Ranieri reviews your history, imaging, and goals to determine the safest, most effective plan.

What is recovery like after minimally invasive gynecologic surgery?

Most patients go home the same day, return to light activity in a few days, and recover fully in 2-6 weeks. Dr. Ranieri provides detailed instructions and close follow-up to ensure a smooth, supported recovery.

Can endometriosis come back after surgery?

While complete excision offers the lowest risk of recurrence, endometriosis can sometimes return. Dr. Ranieri’s goal is long-term relief through precise surgical removal and ongoing symptom management when needed.

What are the signs I might have endometriosis or fibroids?

Common symptoms include painful or heavy periods, pelvic pain during or after intercourse, painful bowel movements, constipation, urinary symptoms, bloating, fatigue, and difficulty getting pregnant. If your pain affects your quality of life, it’s time to see a specialist like Dr. Ranieri.

When should I see a specialist for pelvic pain?

If your pain is persistent, limits your daily life, or hasn’t improved with treatment, it’s time to see a fellowship-trained pelvic pain specialist. Early evaluation can prevent progression and improve outcomes.

How do I schedule a consultation?

Dr. Ranieri is not yet accepting new patients. Follow this page and her social accounts for updates.