557: Standing on the Shoulders of Giants: Innovations That Changed Women's Health Forever
Sunday, November 14, 2026
3:15 PM-4:15PM
Room: 311

Chair: Assia Stepanian
Faculty: Leila Adamyan, Liselotte Mettler, Camran Nezhat, Harry Reich

Description: Modern gynecologic surgery exists today because visionary surgeons challenged established dogma and developed new techniques, technologies, and approaches that transformed the care of women worldwide. From the introduction of operative video laparoscopy and laparoscopic hysterectomy to advances in reproductive surgery, endometriosis management, and fertility-preserving treatment of complex uterine disease, these innovations have fundamentally reshaped surgical practice.

In this unique session, internationally recognized pioneers will share the stories behind their landmark contributions, the challenges they overcame, the lessons learned through decades of innovation, and their perspectives on the future of gynecologic surgery. Through historical insights, surgical videos, and expert discussion, attendees will gain a deeper appreciation of how modern surgery evolved and how future generations can continue advancing care for women.

Learning Objectives: After attending this session, the participant will be able to: 1) Describe the landmark innovations that transformed modern gynecologic surgery; 2) Apply enduring surgical principles developed by pioneering surgeons to contemporary practice; and 3) Identify future opportunities for innovation in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery and reproductive surgery.

COURSE OUTLINE

3:15 PM From Innovation to Legacy: Lessons Learned from the Pioneers of Modern Gynecologic Surgery
A. Stepanian

3:20 PM The First Laparoscopic Hysterectomy: How a Revolutionary Idea Became Standard of Care
H. Reich

3:32 PM Video-Laparoscopy and the Transformation of Endometriosis Surgery
C. Nezhat

3:44 PM Reproductive Surgery and Fertility Preservation: A Lifetime of Innovation
L. Mettler

3:56 PM Advanced Reconstructive and Fertility-Preserving Surgery: Building on a Legacy of Innovation
L. Adamyan

4:08 PM Discussion, Questions & Answers

4:15 PM Adjourn