Surgical Treatment in Urogynecology
Expert Care from OHSU Specialists
When you and your doctor decide that surgery is your best treatment option, you can rely on our skilled team of surgeons and support staff to provide the best care available. Your surgical team will consist of urogynecologists, experts specially trained to treat pelvic floor disorders. OHSU offers a variety of effective surgery treatment options.
Leading Edge Equipment and Approaches
Our doctors use the latest technologies in minimally invasive surgeries including robotic surgery with the daVinci Surgical Robot. The surgical robot allows OHSU surgeons to perform most abdominal surgeries without making a large incision. With this newer type of surgery, you usually have less discomfort and a faster recovery. We are more experienced at using the daVinci robot for reconstructive surgery than anyone else in the Pacific Northwest.
Stress Urinary Incontinence (Involuntary Urine Leakage)
When you have problems with urine leaking during physical activity or when you sneeze, cough or laugh, it’s called stress urinary incontinence. This problem is often well managed by surgery. The most common type of surgery performed is an outpatient procedure done with only a few small incisions. This minimally invasive surgery means that you have a faster recovery time and fewer post-surgery restrictions. You and your doctor will be able to discuss which surgery is best for you once you have had bladder testing to identify your specific urine loss problem.
Pelvic Organ Prolapse (Falling or Bulging)
Sometimes your supporting pelvic tissues and muscles weaken and allow your pelvic organs to slowly move or drop to a lower position in your pelvis (pelvic organ prolapse). There are many types of surgery to treat this condition. Our doctors will partner with you to evaluate your situation and come up with the most suitable type of surgery. Your specific type of pelvic organ displacement as well as your age, activity level and overall health will all be considered in creating your individual treatment plan. Pelvic reconstruction surgery may be performed through your vagina or abdomen. With abdominal surgery, a minimally invasive approach that generally offers less discomfort and faster recovery may be used.
Fecal Incontinence (Involuntary Loss of Bowel Control)
The anal sphincter muscles help maintain bowel control. Injuries and tears to these muscles are most commonly associated with having had a vaginal delivery. Sometimes loss of bowel control can occur very soon after childbirth but for many women it may take years for signs of loss of bowel control (fecal incontinence) to appear. Before deciding on surgery, your doctor may suggest an evaluation of your damaged muscle using ultrasound. After a complete evaluation, you and your doctor can discuss which treatment option will work best for your specific situation.
