Urogynecology/Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery
Urogynecology/Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery is a subspecialty dedicated to treating a wide range of pelvic floor disorders in women. These conditions, which include urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and fecal incontinence, significantly impact a person’s quality of life.
The specialists at King’s College Hospital are skilled in diagnosing these disorders and providing both surgical and non-surgical management. Our team is committed to restoring pelvic function and supporting anyone searching for a skilled urogynecologist near me, helping patients lead more comfortable and confident lives.
Table Of Contents
Obstetrics Treatments and Services
- General Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility
- Gynecologic Oncology
- Urogynecology/Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery
- Menopausal and Geriatric Gynecology
- Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology
- Family Planning and Contraception
Urinary incontinence
A distressing condition, urinary incontinence is characterized by the involuntary loss of urine. Our treatments are personalized based on the type and severity of incontinence.
Treatment options vary from conservative approaches like pelvic floor muscle exercises and lifestyle modifications to advanced solutions, including medication, nerve stimulation, or surgical procedures like sling procedures. Our urogynecologists focus on minimally invasive techniques to enhance recovery and effectiveness.
Pelvic organ prolapse
Due to weakened pelvic floor muscles, organs like the uterus or bladder can descend into the vaginal canal, a condition referred to as pelvic organ prolapse. Symptoms may include discomfort and urinary problems.
A variety of treatment options are available, from pelvic floor physical therapy and supportive pessary devices to surgical repair aimed at restoring anatomy and function. We work closely with patients, often starting with conservative measures before considering surgery for symptom relief.
Fecal incontinence
Fecal incontinence, the inability to control bowel movements, can affect social and emotional health.
A variety of management strategies are available, from dietary modifications and bowel training exercises to medications and, for more severe cases, surgical options.
Our urogynecologists assess the underlying cause to recommend tailored treatments, using a compassionate and holistic approach to improve symptoms.
Overactive bladder
An overactive bladder is characterized by urgent, frequent urination. The treatment approach starts with behavioral therapies like bladder training and fluid management before progressing to medications designed to relax the bladder muscles.
For those who do not respond to initial treatments, options include Botox injections, nerve stimulation therapies, or surgery.
Pelvic pain
Chronic pelvic pain can arise from various conditions, including endometriosis and pelvic floor muscle dysfunction.
Our urogynecologists first conduct thorough evaluations to pinpoint the source of pain, then provide a wide range of multidisciplinary treatments, from medication and physical therapy to nerve blocks and surgical interventions.
Diagnosis
Pelvic floor function is assessed through a comprehensive evaluation that includes both a detailed medical history and a physical examination.
To get an accurate diagnosis, a doctor may perform specialized tests, including urodynamic studies and pelvic floor imaging. Patients may be asked to keep a bladder diary or food and drink journal to help identify symptom triggers.
Pelvic floor muscle testing is also conducted to evaluate strength and functionality. In some cases, collaboration with other specialists may be arranged to ensure a holistic approach to a patient’s diagnosis and care plan.
Treatment
Treatment plans are personalized to meet the specific needs of each patient. A personalized therapy plan might include pelvic floor physical therapy to help strengthen and improve control of the pelvic muscles.
Pessaries are a non-surgical option offered to support pelvic organs and help alleviate the symptoms of prolapse, providing an alternative to surgery. To repair and restore normal pelvic anatomy, minimally invasive surgical options are offered to patients whose conditions are not responsive to more conservative management.
Innovative solutions, such as nerve stimulation devices, are among the advanced therapies offered to provide relief from urinary and fecal incontinence symptoms.
Dietary changes and bladder training techniques are common lifestyle and behavioral modifications that are frequently advised to support a person’s treatment plan.
Managing
The effective management of pelvic floor disorders is a collaborative effort between the patient and their care team. Following a customized treatment plan is crucial; this includes attending all therapy sessions and consistently doing at-home exercises and lifestyle changes.
Regularly monitoring and recording symptoms helps track progress and adjust treatments as needed.
To ensure timely adjustments to their care plan, patients should stay informed about their condition, actively participate in care decisions, and maintain open communication with their urogynecology & reconstructive pelvic surgery specialist, sharing any concerns or changes in symptoms.
What to expect during your visit?
During a visit, a patient will engage in an open, detailed discussion about their symptoms and how they impact their daily life.
To assess the strength and function of pelvic floor muscles, a physical examination (which may include a pelvic exam) will be performed. Additionally, diagnostic tests will be tailored to specific symptoms and concerns, with a detailed explanation provided in advance.
The urogynecologist will discuss all potential treatment options, focusing on those that align with the patient’s lifestyle and goals. A follow-up plan will then be established to monitor progress and adapt the treatment strategy.
If you are experiencing pelvic floor disorder symptoms, our team is here to provide compassionate and expert care.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation with a urogynecology & reconstructive pelvic surgery specialist and take the first step toward improving your quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
This medical field is a subspecialty of obstetrics and gynecology dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of female pelvic floor conditions, including urinary and fecal incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.
Reconstructive surgery for pelvic prolapse aims to lift and secure the pelvic organs that have descended into the vaginal canal. The procedure repairs and restores the normal anatomy and function of the pelvic organs using various techniques and materials.
The duration of pelvic reconstructive surgery varies based on the specific procedure and its complexity. Minimally invasive surgeries can take 1 to 3 hours, while more extensive open surgeries may take longer.
Discomfort and pain are expected after any surgery. Prescribed pain medication typically manages this. The level of pain and recovery time will depend on the type of surgery performed.
Urogynecologists treat a wide range of pelvic floor disorders, including urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, fecal incontinence, overactive bladder, and chronic pelvic pain.
Full recovery can take several weeks to a few months. Patients are typically advised to avoid strenuous activities for at least 6 weeks, and light activities can be resumed sooner.
Pelvic reconstructive surgery is an option when other treatments, such as physical therapy or a pessary, have not provided sufficient relief from symptoms like discomfort, pain, or bladder dysfunction caused by pelvic organ prolapse.
To ensure proper healing, patients should refrain from heavy lifting, strenuous cleaning, or any other activities that strain the pelvic floor for at least 6 weeks post-surgery. Light activities and walking are generally encouraged to support recovery.
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