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Urethral Diverticulectomy

February 8, 2012

A urethral diverticulum is a saclike protrusion between the tissue surrounding the urethra and the anterior vaginal wall.

Most women diagnosed with urethral diverticulum are between the ages of 30 and 50. Causes of urethral diverticula include an obstructed gland that lies next to the urethra and urethral injury. Symptoms include painful urination, painful intercourse, dribbling after urination, recurrent urinary tract infections and urinary incontinence. Symptoms may also include bulging in the vagina. Evaluation consists of a physical […]

Pessary for Prolapse

February 8, 2012

Pessaries are the most commonly used non-surgical device for management of pelvic organ prolapse. A Pessary is a silicone vaginal insert that holds prolapse in place. There are many types of pessaries available, varying in size and shape. The size and shape of pessary chosen is based on your symptoms and your exam. The pessary is typically inserted and removed […]

InterStim®

February 8, 2012

The implantable InterStim II® sacral nerve stimulation uses mild electrical stimulation of the sacral nerves to control the muscles of the pelvic floor, lower urinary tract, urinary and anal sphincters, and colon. These sacral nerves are located just above the tail bone.

In properly selected patients, the InterStim neurostimulator can dramatically reduce or eliminate symptoms of overactive bladder (OAB), urinary retention, and fecal incontinence. Sacral Nerve Stimulation therapy is delivered in two procedures. The first is the test to see if the therapy will work for you. A test [temporarily test stimulation] is used before implantation of the InterStim Neurostimulator to see […]

Bowel / Fecal Incontinence

January 28, 2012

Bowel (fecal) Incontinence is the impaired ability to delay the release of gas or stool. Its severity ranges from mild difficulty with gas control to severe loss of control over liquid and formed stools. Causes: Pelvic floor muscle damage: If the muscles that control bowel continence are damaged, fecal/bowel incontinence may result. These muscles include the anal sphincter and the […]

TVT sling complications and vesicovaginal fistulas managed robotically

September 28, 2011

Dr. Shashoua and Dr. Shaw of Austin Urology Institute have been working collaboratively on developing minimally invasive techniques with the daVinci robot to manage patients with mid-urethral sling complications (tvt sling complications) and vesicovaginal fistulas. They have treated several patients robotically who were referred with mid-urethral sling erosion into the bladder as well as patients referred for vesicovaginal fistula repair.

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