• Troy, MI

Gynecologic Surgeon & Endometriosis Excision Specialist

Christopher Kliethermes, MD

PRM’s National Chairman of Surgery

Dr. Christopher Kliethermes is a gynecologic surgeon specializing in endometriosis excision surgery in Troy, Michigan. He operates in Corewell Health Beaumont Grosse Pointe Hospital, Corewell Health Beaumont University Hospital, Corewell Health Beaumont Troy Hospital, DMC Harper University Hospital/Hutzel Women’s and DMC Huron Vally-Sinai Hospital. He is dedicated to patient-centered, minimally invasive surgical care and has extensive training under experts including Dr. Patrick Yeung and Dr. Guan. He has performed over 700 surgeries in the past two years, including complex cases involving the bowel, bladder, and diaphragm.

He approaches each case with an individualized surgical plan tailored to patient goals, including fertility preservation, complication reduction, and treatment of advanced disease. Dr. Kliethermes is committed to achieving complete excision in every procedure and uses his surgical expertise to improve outcomes for patients with complex endometriosis.

Throughout his career, he has received multiple teaching awards and was recognized as an ACOG Mentor of the Year. He is also a video-vetted surgeon on Icarebetter and is regarded as one of Michigan’s leading endometriosis specialists.

At PRM, Dr. Kliethermes strongly supports the integration of pre- and post-surgical rehabilitation to improve recovery, reduce pelvic inflammation, and address musculoskeletal contributors to pain. His approach emphasizes comprehensive care aimed at long-term improvement in function and quality of life.

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Get To Know Your Surgeon

Dr. Kliethermes is passionate about contributing to PRM’s mission of reducing the time patients endure pelvic pain by delivering exceptional care and access to expert treatment options.

2017 Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery Fellowship
Baylor College Of Medicine, Houston, TX

2015 Internship/Residency
Saint Louis University Obstetrics and Gynecology Internship/Residency

2011 M.D.
Saint Louis University School of Medicine , St. Louis, MO

2006 B.A.
Lawrence University, Appleton, WI

Hospital Affiliations:

Corewell Health Beaumont Grosse Pointe Hospital – Grosse Pointe, MI

Corewell Health Beaumont University Hospital – Royal Oak, MI

Corewell Health Beaumont Troy Hospital – Troy, MI

DMC Harper University Hospital – Detroit, MI

DMC Huron Valley – Commerce Township, MI

I have a very patient-centered approach. Although I see extraordinary benefits with surgical management and do feel there is an over 90% cure rate with expert excision surgery, I counsel every patient on all the alternatives to surgery.

Not every patient is interested in surgical management, nor is it in the best interest for every patient depending on the individual. When it comes to surgery, the goal is 100% excision surgery, but there are a variety of surgical options depending on their individual situation.

Some may prefer a more conservative approach to preserve natural fertility or avoid any bowel resection, whereas others prefer a more aggressive approach. I feel it is important to provide all these options, while providing skilled care with very minimal complications and a significant amount of success.

Working with Dr. Leishear over the years, I have seen excellent results with patients who have done this. It is a great adjunct to surgery and especially great to patients who have developed musculoskeletal issues after dealing with endometriosis pains for many years.

I think anything that can improve women’s healthcare and the issues dealing with endometriosis is important. Any disease that causes severe pain or infertility, but takes 7 to 10 years to diagnose is atrocious and every way we can improve that statistic is important, whether its believing our patients, getting them access to care, or counseling them appropriately, etc.

Every one of my surgeries can preserve fertility. It just depends on aggressiveness during the surgery. My goal for patients who are hoping to achieve pregnancy is optimize their chances after surgery.

There are very rare cases where, unfortunately, there is not much that can be done to improve fertility, even with perfect excision surgery, but that occurs maybe once or twice a year.

When I started looking for a new job in Detroit, I knew exactly who to reach out to. I feel PRM has a great approach to patient care and model for growing a practice as I’ve seen them grow over the years nationally. Their reviews are stellar across the country and after working with leadership in the organization, I’m confident we’ll be able to provide exceptional care to all patients across Michigan.

Learning proper endometriosis excision surgery under Dr. Patrick Yeung and getting excellent surgical training from my residency program.
In fellowship, tackling extremely challenging surgeries and getting even more excellent training from Dr. Guan.

As an attending I have won multiple teaching awards and recently won an ACOG mentor of the year award from a couple of residents who I have mentored in their surgical training.

I also am honored to be video vetted on iCareBetter with some of the best endometriosis surgeons in the world.

Rostomian L, Kliethermes CJ, Hemmerling A. Knowledge and Attitudes Regarding Family Planning Options in Armenia. Womens Health Rep (New Rochelle). 2024 Apr 26;5(1):376-384. doi: 10.1089/whr.2024.0005. PMID: 39246306; PMCID: PMC11375319.

Kliethermes C, Blazek K, Ali K, Nijjar JB, Kliethermes S, Guan X. A Randomized Controlled Trial for Abdominal Binder Use after Laparoendoscopic Single-Site Surgery. J Minim Invasive Gynecol. 2018 Jul-Aug;25(5):842-847. doi: 10.1016/j.jmig.2017.12.021. Epub 2018 Jan 8. PMID: 29325967.

Walker C, Banning K, Ritchie C, Kliethermes C. Laparoscopic management of a degenerating cystic leiomyoma imitating an ovarian cyst: A case report. Case Rep Womens Health. 2020 Apr 20;27:e00205. doi: 10.1016/j.crwh.2020.e00205. PMID: 32368506; PMCID: PMC7190759.

Kliethermes C, Blazek K, Ali K, Nijjar JB, Kliethermes S, Guan X. Postoperative Pain After Single-Site Versus Multiport Hysterectomy. JSLS. 2017 Oct-Dec;21(4):e2017.00065. doi: 10.4293/JSLS.2017.00065. PMID: 29238155; PMCID: PMC5721145.

Kliethermes CJ, Shah M, Hoffstetter S, Gavard JA, Steele A. Effect of Vestibulectomy for Intractable Vulvodynia. J Minim Invasive Gynecol. 2016 Nov-Dec;23(7):1152-1157. doi: 10.1016/j.jmig.2016.08.822. Epub 2016 Aug 25. PMID: 27568225.

Kliethermes C, Walsh T, Guan Z, Guan X. Vaginal Tissue Extraction Made Easy. J Minim Invasive Gynecol. 2017 Jul-Aug;24(5):726. doi: 10.1016/j.jmig.2017.02.005. Epub 2017 Feb 14. PMID: 28232039.

Penick ER, Kliethermes C, Grimstad F, Chescheir NC. Connect the Dots-March 2017. Obstet Gynecol. 2017 Mar;129(3):578-579. doi: 10.1097/AOG.0000000000001921. PMID: 28178067.

Podium
International / National
1. Imperial, John Paul, Hsu, Rich^, Hruska, Justin, Kliethermes, Christopher. Abdominal Insufflation Effect on Transversus Abdominis Plane (TAP) Block Efficacy in Laparoscopic Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial; 11/2024

2. Hsu, R, Banning, K, Kliethermes, C. Application of AAGL Endometriosis Classification – An Innovative Tool withmAdditional Contributions. AAGL National Conference 2022; 12/2022 Video with new AAGL classificaiton system

3. Issaac, P, Matthews, A, Wilkinson, J, Kliethermes, C. Comparison of Self and Resident assessment of Obstetrics and Gynecology Attendings. AAGL National Conference 2020; 11/2020

4. Hsu, R, Banning, K, Kliethermes, C. Laparoscopic Myomectomy with Left Tubal Reanastomosis and Right Neosalpingostomy. AAGL National Conference 2020; 11/2020

5. Banning, K, Pearson, H, Kliethermes, C. Robotic Resection of a Non-Communicating Right Uterine Horn; 11/2020

6. Christopher J. Kliethermes, X Guan, Y Zhang, S Zou, K Blazek. Robotic- Assisted Single Incision Repair of Cesarean Scar Defect and Evacuation of Broad Ligament Hematoma. J Minim Invasive Gynecol; 12/2017
7. Christopher J. Kliethermes, X Guan, B Nijjar, K Blazek. Notes Surgery: Internal Cervical Mass Removal. J Minim Invasive Gynecol; 12/2017

8. Christopher J. Kliethermes, B Holloran Schwartz. Tips, Tricks, and Risks of Laparoscopic Myomectomy. Case of a Broad Ligament Fibroid; 12/2016
9. Christopher J. Kliethermes, X Guan. Single-Incision Robotic Hysterectomy with Anterior Cervical Fibroid. J Minim Invasive Gynecol; 12/2016
10. Christopher J. Kliethermes, Y Ma, J Gisseman, X Guan. Robotic Single-Site Sacrocolpopexy Using V-loc Anchoring and Peritoneal Tunneling Technique. J Minim Invasive Gynecol; 12/2016

11. Christopher J. Kliethermes, X Guan. Vaginal Tissue Extraction Made Easy. J Minim Invasive Gynecol; 12/2016
12. Christopher J. Kliethermes, B Holloran Schwartz. Total Laparoscopic Hysterectomy for a Didelphic Uterus with a 1cm Vaginal Septum. J Minim Invasive Gynecol; 12/2014

Posters International / National
1. Hsu, Rich, Kliethermes, Chris. Polypoid Endometriosis Mimicking Carcinomatosis on Laparoscopy. AAGL National Conference 2024; 11/2024

2. Hsu, Richard, Raush, Jessica, Kliethermes, Christopher. Laparoscopic Intraligamentous Broad Ligament Leiomyoma Myomectomy and Closure; 12/2022, CO, United States of America

3. Hsu, Richard, Banning, Kaitlyn, Kliethermes, Christopher. The Use and (Potential) Misuse of the AAGL Endometriosis Classification System. AAGL National Conference 2022; 12/2022

4. Contos, G, Banning, K, Fennell, B, Kliethermes, C. Excision of Stage IV Endometriosis Extending to the Diaphragm Following Removal of Seven Liters of Peritoneal Fluid. AAGL National Conference 2021; 11/2021; Austin, TX

5. Pearson, H, Richie, C, Kliethermes, C. Complication associated with Cesarean Scar Ectopic Pregnancies. AAGL National Conference 2020; 11/2020

6. Christopher J. Kliethermes, K Blazek, J Nijjar, L Chohan, C Tung, X Guan. Evaluation and Impact of Minimally Invasive Surgical Simulation on Cuff Closure in Laparoscopic Hysterectomies in a Gynecologic Residency Training Program. JMinim Invasive Gynecol; 12/2017

7. Christopher J. Kliethermes, J Lui, Y Zhang, X Guan. Robotic Single-Incision Laparoscopic Burch Colposuspension for Stress Urinary Incontinence. J Minim Invasive Gynecol; 12/2017

8. Christopher J. Kliethermes, K Ali, K Blazek, S Kliethermes, JB Nijjar, X Guan. Pain Outcomes in Single-Incision Laparoscopic Surgery Versus Multiport Hysterectomy. J Minim Invasive Gynecol; 12/2017

9. Christopher J. Kliethermes, S Kliethermes, JB Nijjar, K Blazek, K Ali, X Guan. Abdominal Binder Use Following Single Incision Laparoscopic Surgery. J Minim Invasive Gynecol; 12/2017

10. Christopher J. Kliethermes, K Kostroun, X Guan. The Feasibility and Safety of Robotic Single Incision Surgery for Variety Benign Pathologies in Minimally Invasive Gynecology Teaching Program. J Minim Invasive Gynecol; 12/2016

11. Christopher J. Kliethermes, X Guan. Advantages of Performing the Anterior Colpotomy Prior to Ligating Uterine Vessels in a Teaching Institution. J Minim Invasive Gynecol; 12/2016

12. Christopher J. Kliethermes, X Guan. Single Incision Laparoscopy for a 30cm Ovarian Cyst. J Minim Invasive Gynecol;12/2016

13. Christopher J. Kliethermes, J Gisseman, X Guan. Transvaginal Ultrasound-Assisted Laparoscopic Abdominal Cerclage for Twin Pregnancy at 10 weeks. J Minim Invasive Gynecol; 12/2016

14. K Blazek, X Guan, Christopher J. Kliethermes. Single-Incision Robotic Appendectomy. J Minim Invasive Gynecol;12/2016

In the past 2 years, I have spoken and helped host a screening of Below the Belt at AMC theater.

ACOG (was Junior Fellow Chair for district XII)

AAGL

Nancy’s Nook-Approved Surgeon in Michigan

Video vetted by iCareBetter

Your Gynecologic Surgeon

Meet Dr. Kliethermes

With a background in OB/GYN and advanced surgical training, Dr. Kliethermes has focused his expertise on the surgical management of endometriosis. His approach to care is rooted in truly listening to his patients’ unique experiences and goals, then tailoring treatment to fit their individual needs. Having trained under renowned endometriosis expert Dr. Patrick Young, he brings a deep understanding of the condition’s complexity and how it can impact a person’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Dr. Kliethermes was drawn to PRM by the collaborative environment and the success he witnessed when combining surgery with the patented PRM Protocol™. Now based in Michigan and working closely with Dr. Kim Leishear, he embraces a multidisciplinary approach that integrates musculoskeletal rehabilitation before and after surgery to optimize outcomes. Passionate about advancing endometriosis care on both a local and national level, Dr. Kliethermes is committed to helping more patients find relief and encourages anyone experiencing pelvic pain or endometriosis symptoms to take advantage of PRM’s free 15-minute consults.

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Tarah

Before Dr. Kliethermes I had 3 surgeries for endometriosis. What stood out right away is that he listened to me. He didn’t rush, listened to all of my symptoms, and answered all of my questions and never once made me feel rushed. He made eye contact with me and talked to me instead of looking at husband next to me and talking to him. He diagnosed me with stage 3 endo, took great pictures of everything, and the recovery? I was showering without assistance three days later where with the other surgeons I worked with in the past, I needed assistance for at least a week. Dr. K is the perfect combination of knowledge, skill, professionalism, and compassion.

Amanda W.

Literally the most amazing doctor I have ever met. I had my endometriosis surgery with him yesterday not only did he hold my hand as I fell asleep he asked what my favorite song was so I could listen to that as I was getting rolled in. Definitely made the experience less nerve racking and I 10000% trusted him and his staff with everything. Thank you so so much Dr. k I can’t wait to start feeling better and it’s all thanks to you!

 

Tiffany C.

I had laparoscopic endometriosis excision surgery with Dr. Kliethermes yesterday. I had a great experience all around. He is very kind and so is his team. I’m so happy to have found an extremely knowledgeable doctor, who is also empathetic and has great bedside manner. Thank you so much for helping me in my endo journey Dr. Kliethermes!

Brenna K.

I recently had excision surgery done for endometriosis by Dr. Kliethermes and it was one of the best experiences (for what it was). He really had a great team. From what I’ve read, he’s one of only two endo specialists in Michigan, and a fantastic choice. He really took the time to hear all of my concerns and gave me multiple options to tackle the issues I was having. He also does regular gyno/obgyn visits. I recommend him to everyone I come across.

I also had a consultation with a top Endo surgeon in New York for a second opinion and she said she had heard nothing but good things about him as well (just in case this helps your decision making).

Thank you Dr. Kliethermes!!!

Tara T.

Before Dr. Kliethermes, I had 3 surgeries for endometriosis. What stood out right away is that he listened to me. He listened to all of my symptoms, answered all of my questions, and never once made me feel rushed. He made eye contact with me and talked to me instead of looking at my husband next to me and talking to him. He diagnosed me with stage 3 endo, took great pictures of everything, and the recovery? I was showering without assistance three days later where with the other surgeons I worked with in the past, I needed assistance for at least a week. Dr. K is the perfect combination of knowledge, skill, professionalism, and compassion.

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FAQ's

FAQ's

Endometriosis excision surgery is an advanced minimally invasive procedure that involves carefully identifying and removing endometriosis lesions from affected areas while preserving healthy tissue. Unlike approaches that only treat visible disease on the surface, excision surgery focuses on removing endometriosis at its root to help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. At PRM, fellowship-trained minimally invasive gynecologic surgeons use advanced laparoscopic techniques and comprehensive evaluation to develop individualized treatment plans based on each patient’s symptoms, goals, and disease severity.

Endometriosis surgery may be considered for patients whose symptoms are not adequately controlled with medications or hormonal treatments, whose pain significantly impacts daily life, or who are experiencing fertility challenges. Surgery may also be recommended when imaging or evaluation suggests deeper disease, such as endometriosis involving the bowel, bladder, or other pelvic structures. Common reasons to consider an endometriosis surgery consultation include persistent pelvic pain despite medical treatment, painful periods, painful intercourse, gastrointestinal or bladder symptoms, difficulty conceiving, or findings such as endometriomas or deep infiltrating endometriosis. During an evaluation at PRM, providers review your symptoms, medical history, imaging, and treatment goals to determine whether excision surgery is the right option for you and develop a personalized care plan.

During an endometriosis surgery consultation at PRM, patients can expect a comprehensive evaluation focused on understanding their symptoms, medical history, and treatment goals. The surgeon will review your experience with pelvic pain, painful periods, painful intercourse, bowel or bladder symptoms, previous diagnoses, and any prior treatments. The consultation may include a physical and pelvic exam to evaluate areas of tenderness, pelvic floor muscle dysfunction, scarring, or other findings that may contribute to symptoms. Additional imaging, such as specialized pelvic ultrasound or MRI, may be recommended to better understand the location and extent of endometriosis. Your surgeon will also discuss whether excision surgery is appropriate, explain the surgical approach, and review what to expect before, during, and after the procedure. PRM’s approach includes personalized pre- and post-operative care, which may involve pelvic rehabilitation, lifestyle strategies, and other treatments to support healing and long-term outcomes.

PRM’s endometriosis surgeons specialize in advanced laparoscopic excision surgery and care for patients through a fully integrated, multidisciplinary approach. Unlike a surgery only model, PRM combines surgical expertise with pelvic pain care to address the inflammation, nerve sensitivity, and pelvic floor dysfunction that can contribute to ongoing symptoms. PRM’s fellowship-trained Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgeons (MIGS) have specialized training in complex excision surgery and treat advanced endometriosis, including cases involving areas such as the bowel, bladder, and diaphragm. Their approach also includes comprehensive support before and after surgery, including pelvic rehabilitation through the PRM Protocol™ to help reduce pain, support healing, and improve long-term outcomes. PRM focuses on personalized, whole-body care designed to help patients achieve meaningful relief while reducing the need for repeated procedures. Providers also evaluate patients clinically based on symptoms, medical history, and physical examination, allowing treatment planning to begin without waiting for surgical confirmation.

Yes, endometriosis excision surgery can improve fertility for some patients by removing endometriosis lesions, treating scar tissue and adhesions, restoring normal pelvic anatomy, and reducing inflammation that may interfere with conception. The impact of surgery depends on factors such as the severity of endometriosis, age, ovarian reserve, and overall fertility health. For patients with mild to moderate endometriosis, removing visible disease may improve the chances of spontaneous pregnancy. In more advanced cases, surgery may help restore the relationship between the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and surrounding pelvic structures to support reproductive goals. At PRM, providers consider each patient’s fertility goals and individual circumstances when determining whether surgery is the right approach and how it fits into a broader fertility plan.

Recovery after endometriosis excision surgery varies depending on the extent of disease treated and each patient’s healing process. Many patients experience gradual improvement over the first several months rather than immediate relief. The first menstrual cycle after surgery (typically 4–8 weeks post-surgery) may be the most challenging, with some patients experiencing increased cramping, pelvic pain, or heavier bleeding as the body heals. By the second cycle, many patients begin noticing improvements, and within three to six months, patients often report reduced pain, improved energy, and better daily function. At PRM, recovery is supported through a comprehensive approach that combines surgical expertise with individualized follow-up care and additional treatments when needed to support long-term healing and quality of life.