The standard training allotted to pelvic floor disorders in gynecology and urology residencies was recognized to be inadequate. Residency programs vary widely in the level of expertise in faculty members regarding experience in dealing with pelvic floor disorders. The focus of training for residents is on obstetrics and primary care of women. In addition, the achievement of the seasoned status of “expert” reconstructive pelvic surgeon takes years of post-fellowship focused experience in the field.
Approximately 20 years ago these deficiencies were recognized and a new subspecialty field of obstetrics and gynecology was developed. Reconstructive pelvic surgeons comprehensively and adequately address the special needs of our patient population who experience pelvic organ prolapse, incontinence and congenital malformations. This fellowship of professionals proudly carries the formal title of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery.
As a result of developing and establishing urogynecology as a subspecialty there have been substantial advances made in the treatment of women with pelvic floor disorders. Subspecialty societies, scientific study and publications generate a body of knowledge that directly benefits our grandmothers, mothers, aunts and daughters who experience these problems when they seek the care of an adequately trained professional.
The current length of the formal American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology-approved program of training is three years. There are approximately 25 approved fellowship programs that have produced approximately 130 fellowship-trained urogynecologists in the United States. The establishment of these fellowships validates this new subspecialty and fuels the drive toward finalization of formal board certification.
We at Atlantic Urogynecology hope that the concerns of urinary and anal incontinence, and overactive bladded as well as pelvic organ prolapse will enter your discussion with your patients. We want you to be aware that there are good medical and surgical solutions available for these issues that women experience. In addition, there is a physician available with the training and experience necessary to comprehensively address the concerns of your patients. We offer advanced diagnostic tests guiding us to the most effective treatments including non-surgical and minimally invasive surgical options.
We look forward to partnering with you and your patients and offer hope, comprehensive explanations, and state-of-the-art solutions to bring these problems to resolution.
Dr. Walshe is board certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, American College of Surgeons. Atlantic Urogynecology is located at Harbour View Medical Arts I, Suite 290, 5838 Harbour View Boulevard in Suffolk.
Their telephone number is (757)686.4655.
Their website is www.atlanticurogyn.com.
|
)
