Most gynecologic surgical conditions can be managed through a laparoscopic, hysteroscopic or vaginal approach. The procedures include laparoscopic myomectomy and hysterectomy, hysteroscopic myomectomy and polypectomy, and vaginal hysterectomy for the large or undescended uterus. In most of these instances, the results are comparable with those of open intervention and are associated with a decreased duration of post-operative recovery. Minimally invasive intervention depends significantly on physician training and the availability of proper instrumentation. We have already initiated the procedures for acquiring state-of-the art minimally invasive equipment to replace our current systems. At the same time, we are creating a minimally invasive surgical support center with an aim to train all obstetrics and gynecology faculty members in laparoscopic and hysteroscopic intervention.
Significant pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence is prevalent in up to 60% of women above the age 40. Currently there is an over-reliance on old ineffective surgical techniques or the indiscriminate use of new barely studied urogynecologic products and devices. The presence of a specialized service in this field is helpful to middle-aged and older women seeking a better quality of life. Our highly experienced team of faculty at the department of OB/GYN is well versed in the surgical treatment of these conditions.
We are establishing a urodynamics laboratory with capabilities in complex multi-channel cystometry, urethral profilometry, anduroflowmetry in collaboration with the division of urology. This service optimizes the medical and surgical treatment of urogenital conditions of women.
Fortunately, many of the gynecologic cancers have a high cure rate. This depends however on patient and physician awareness to achieve early diagnosis and institute appropriate treatment. Appropriate treatment of gynecologic cancer is, of course, a result of knowledge, expertise, sympathy and above all a team effort. The hospital boasts an advanced radiotherapy unit and in combination with the expected upgrades in classical and minimally-invasive gynecologic surgery, we will be able to set the basis for a high-quality gynecologic cancer service. We have also initiated the procedure to establish a new colposcopy/loop electrosurgery unit which is expected to provide diagnosis and treatment for precancerous lesions of the cervix and vagina. The department plans to improve the quality of life for gynecologic cancer patients by creating a multidisciplinary cancer care team. This team whose members include an internist, a pain specialist, a psychologist, a dietician, and a specialized nurse in addition to the oncologist will make sure that cancer patients will have the best possible therapeutic outcomes and lead as comfortable and satisfying a life as possible.
The approach to the prepubescent or adolescent gynecologic patient is extremely sensitive; it needs the appropriate knowledge, the right experience and character. While pediatricians and pediatric surgeons are used to dealing with this age group they are unaccustomed and specifically not trained to deal with gynecological complaints and conditions. On the other hand, gynecologists have infrequent experience with this age group as parents are reluctant to ask their advice on this taboo condition within our society. By recruiting the first Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecologist in Lebanon we will be able to provide an exclusive service that parents would really appreciate and trust. The service will deal with such conditions as congenital abnormalities of the female genitalia, abnormal pubertal development, vaginal discharge, and irregular menses in the adolescent patient, fertility preservation in young cancer patients, and HPV vaccination. It is also meant to provide a life-long patient-institution relationship in women’s health. The Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology service is expected to be functional as of summer 2011.
