Howard Jones, MD

What are some of the specific conditions you treat?

I specialize in the treatment of abnormal bleeding due many causes. Fibroids are a special interest and I offer minimally invasive (laparoscopic) treatment of very large fibroids as well as alternative management strategies tailored to the patients goals. I also focus on treatment of pelvic pain and endometriosis and ovarian masses. I have extensive experience treating a multitude of complex gynecologic and surgical problems. Whatever your particular gynecologic problem, I can offer a successful and satisfying treatment.

What techniques or procedures do you use in your practice?

I utilize the daVinci Robotic surgery platform as well as the latest laparoscopic techniques. The most current robotic technology available in the Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery suite including at daVinci Xi platform using 3D visualization, haptic feedback, enhanced dexterity, field magnification, and increased surgical precision. I have performed nearly 1000 cases using the DaVinci system. All of my surgical candidates enjoy the benefits of the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) pathway that I pioneered at The Valley Hospital with the collaboration of the Anesthesia Department. ERAS combined with robotic and traditional laparoscopic surgical approaches offer the patient faster recovery and are the new paradigm in integrated surgical patient management.

Describe some of your professional highlights.

I trained at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital and then completed a fellowship in Laparoscopic Gynecologic Surgery and Pelvic Pain at Vanderbilt University, before joining the Valley Medical Group. I had the fortune of learning from the nation's premier laparoscopic and robotic surgeons during my training. Currently I am the director of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery and Chair of the Robotic Surgery Committee. I am proud to be named as one of Bergen counties top doctors. However, my greatest joy is helping patients get their lives back after suffering from abnormal bleeding or chronic pelvic pain. I have hundreds of satisfied patients. I have accomplished many laparoscopic surgeries that other physicians thought "could not be done" using laparoscopic techniques. I routinely remove fibroids laparoscopically weighing more than 1000g and have removed specimens up to 4000g!

What would you like patients to know about your approach to care?

I am focused on meeting the patients goals through shared decision making. I realize that everyone has different priority and concerns and therefore may need different interventions for the same problem. I also have access to novel treatments and techniques and work to apply them to every patient's unique conditions. I believe in a compassionate and goal directed care, striving to meet patients where they are in their treatment pathway. I pay particular attention to patient education and take time with every patient to explain what the problem is and what options are available. I also feel strongly that the quality and safety of patient care are paramount and work with my staff and the hospital towards these goals. I am a member of the Safety Committee and Physician Advisory Group for Information Technology at The Valley Hospital.

What inspired you to become a doctor?

I come from a strong family background of women's physicians. My grandmother and grandfather were both OB/GYN's and pioneered many medical breakthroughs, including In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). My father was an accomplished Gynecologic Oncologist. Despite this strong family history, it was a series of events starting with the 9/11 attack that propelled me on my path. After the attack I volunteered for the Red Cross in downtown NYC and other non-profits after that. Inspired by my volunteering I decided to pursue a career in medicine to provide care for those in need. Helping others gives my life meaning and fulfillment to this day.

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