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PELVIC FLOOR DYSFUNCTION
affects at least one in four
women. While many go undiagnosed and untreated, the
symptoms can be frustrating, embarrassing and lifestyle
altering.
Fortunately advancements in this area of care
are growing. One of these developments is the creation
of a new medical specialty that takes a comprehensive
approach to managing pelvic disorders. Called
Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery,
it’s a subspecialty of
obstetrics and gynecology,
and the Mid-Columbia has
one of the country’s first
physicians board certified
in this specialty (also called
urogynecology).
Larry Smith, MD, with
Kadlec Clinic Associated
Physicians for Women,
became a board certified
urogynecologist in 2014.
When the specialty
was introduced, for a
short period of time,
urogynecologists who met
strict criteria were permitted to earn board certification.
Dr. Smith was among the few physicians to qualify. He is the
only board certified urogynecologist in the region and one
of only a handful in the state.
A common disorder
The pelvic floor is a web of muscles, ligaments and nerves
at the bottom of the pelvic region, where it supports the
uterus, bladder, colon and rectum; stabilizes the pelvis,
trunk and hip joints; and plays a role in everything from the
birthing process to continence.
Pelvic floor disorder occurs when the pelvic muscles
and tissue weaken or are injured. The most common cause
is childbirth, but other factors can contribute, including
being overweight, asthma, chronic constipation, physically
strenuous jobs, abdominal surgery, strenuous exercises (like
weight lifting) and aging.
Common pelvic floor symptoms include urinary or fecal
incontinence, overactive bladder and pelvic organ prolapse.
The effects on patients are much more than physical;
individuals may withdraw to hide the condition.
When treatment is sought, problems with the bladder
may be seen by a urologist, issues involving the uterus may
be treated by a gynecologist, and a colorectal surgeon may
deal with rectum problems. An effort to coordinate pelvic
care for patients led to the creation of an expertise that
masters the entire pelvis.
“There is a natural physical overlap,” said Dr. Smith. “Our
goal as urogynecologists is to work with urologists and
gynecologists to provide comprehensive care for women
with pelvic floor issues.”
“There is a big need for this specialty, especially with
the aging of the baby boomers,” said Dr. Smith. “It’s a
frustrating and embarrassing issue, so many are not
proactive. We need to continue to educate them that we
have effective treatments, and help is available.”
Among the procedures provided by Dr. Smith are robotic
surgical procedures (including for prolapse), non-mesh
slings, Botox for an overactive bladder, uterus-preserving
surgery, InterStim® and vaginal mesh removal.
Kadlec Clinic urogynecologist one of few in country
A new specialty offers help, hope
Larry Smith, MD
Patients are seen by both self-referral and physician
referral. For more information, call
(509) 942-2555
.
Kadlec also offers a specificWomen’s Health and Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation program.
For more information, call (509) 942-2660 and ask for C.J. Shane, DPT, or Cassie Malecha, DPT.
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kadlec.org