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Gynecology

Our board certified obstetrician-gynecologists who have over 60 years of combined experience, practice compassionate, conservative gynecologic healthcare services and are advocates for defining low-risk strategies that address specific issues while taking calculated steps to address them.

In addition to routine PAP smears (screening for cervical cancer) and testing for STIs (sexually transmitted infections), our physicians provide complete gynecologic care for the treatment and prevention of a wide range of conditions and issues including:

Evaluation and treatment of abnormal PAP smears

Abnormal PAP smears may be evaluated by means of colposcopy. Colposcopy is a diagnostic procedure to examine an illuminated, magnified view of the cervix and the tissues of the vagina and vulva. Many precancerous lesions and cancerous lesions in these areas have characteristics which can be detected through this examination. It is done using a colposcope, which provides an enlarged view of the areas. It allows the tissue to be examined and visually distinguish tissue that appears abnormal. A biopsy can be taken for further pathological examination. The main goal of colposcopy is to prevent cervical cancer by detecting precancerous lesions early and treating them.

Cryotherapy, or freezing of the cells, may be used to treat an abnormal finding after a colposcopy.

LEEP, also known as loop electrosurgical excision procedure, is one of the most commonly used approaches to treat abnormal cells after colposcopic examination. The procedure has many advantages including low cost, high success rate, and ease of use. When performing a LEEP, the physician uses a wire loop through which an electrical current is passed to remove the lesion.

Minimally Invasive Surgery

In order to decrease the risks and dramatically decrease the pain and recovery time, our gynecologists are trained and experienced in minimally invasive surgical techniques. Some examples of procedures utilizing these techniques include:

  1. Diagnostic Laparoscopy-most commonly done for pelvic pain, infertility, to diagnose endometriosis and ovarian cysts.
  2. Operative Laparoscopy-for sterilization (tubal occlusion), treatment of endometriosis via fulguration, ovarian cyst aspiration or excision, removal of ectopic pregnancy, lysis of adhesions.
  3. Advanced Operative Laparoscopy-for removal of tubes and ovaries, LAVH (laparoscopic assisted vaginal hysterectomy) among others.
  4. Hysteroscopy-placing a scope inside the uterine cavity for both diagnostic and treatment procedures.

These procedures are performed as an outpatient with no hospitalization required. Most are followed by immediate discharge after anesthesia recovery. Procedures have a very short recovery course of 1-14 days, depending on the procedure performed.

Endometrial ablation “stop the flow”

Heavy bleeding (menorrhagia) is a significant health problem affecting 1 out of 5 women. It can reduce their quality of life and cause anemia. Endometrial ablation is a procedure that is used to remove (ablate) or destroy the endometrial lining of a woman's uterus. This technique is most often employed as a hysterectomy alternative for women who cannot or do not wish to undergo a hysterectomy. The procedure is most commonly done on an outpatient basis. Uterine ablation is contraindicated in patients who may want to get pregnant.

Endometrial Ablation using Novasure is a minimally invasive outpatient treatment alternative to hysterectomy and a choice that avoids the potential side effects of hormonal therapy. In the average treatment time of 90 seconds, a precisely controlled radio frequency energy ablates (evaporates?) the lining (endometrium) of the uterus. It is a quick and simple procedure that does not require incisions and recovery is only the day of the procedure. 93% of women are satisfied with the results and need no further treatment for excessive bleeding thereby avoiding the risks and lengthy recovery of more invasive surgical procedures such as hysterectomy.

Essure (permanent birth control)

Unlike other permanent birth control, the Essure procedure does not require cutting into the body or the use of radiofrequency energy to burn the fallopian tubes. Instead, the doctor inserts soft, flexible inserts through the body's natural pathways (vagina, cervix, and uterus) and into the fallopian tubes. The very tip of the device remains outside the fallopian tube, which provides the patient and doctor with immediate visual confirmation of placement. For 3 months following the procedure, the women's body and inserts work together to form a natural barrier preventing sperm from reaching the egg. During this period, continued use of additional birth control (other than an IUD) is necessary. After three months, a confirmation test is done to verify the patient is protected from the worries of unplanned pregnancy. The test uses a dye and special type of x-ray to ensure that the inserts are in place and that the fallopian tubes are completely blocked. The patient's periods should continue as normal following the procedure.

Preventative healthcare (Well Woman Exam)

Yearly preventative exams from adolescence through and far beyond menopause is strongly encouraged. Preventative strategies are key to maintaining health through every decade. Age specific screening tests will be discussed, recommended and scheduled including:

  1. Mammograms for early detection of breast (problems?)
  2. Bone Mineral Density (Dexa Scan) for early detection of thinning of bones so appropriate interventions such as weight bearing exercises, calcium or other medications can be prescribed to prevent osteoporosis.
  3. Colonoscopy (after the age of 50) for early detection of colon polyps before development of colon cancer
  4. Urodynamic evaluation for bladder problems

We offer important routine screening for many other asymptomatic health conditions such as thyroid disorders, high blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol abnormalities, etc. Hormonal imbalance and deficiencies caused by ovarian failure during the perimenopause and menopausal years can create a challenging transition for many women. Our caring, sympathetic evaluation, education and discussion of treatment options can assist you through this difficult time.