Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery: Discover the Benefits

Dr Cindy Hall, D.O., OB/GYN

Some women's gynecologic health conditions can only be resolved through surgery, after other treatments have been explored and exhausted. Most gynecological practitioners view surgery as a last resort, but the good news is that new technological advances mean virtually no scars, accelerated healing time and a cost savings with many, if not most, gynecologic surgeries. When you’re ready to take the next step, your OB–GYN practitioner can help you weigh the benefits of minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, a state-of-the-art alternative to open surgery.

Some of the procedures that can now be accomplished through minimally invasive gynecological surgery include hysterectomy, removal of ovaries and removal of fibroids. Treatment can be also be done for several benign gynecological conditions: abnormal uterine bleeding, ovarian cysts and masses, endometriosis and pelvic pain, uterine fibroids, and tubal ligation. This surgical specialty is also widely used as a diagnostic tool. Conditions can be both diagnosed and treated through a minimally invasive approach with the aid of a laparoscope—a thin, lighted tube—put through a small incision in the belly that makes it possible to look at female pelvic organs.  Other tiny incisions beneath the belly button allow the passage of special instruments into the pelvis, allowing the surgeon to carry out the surgery.

Most laparoscopic procedures take place in an out-patient hospital surgery setting that does not require an overnight stay. One of the biggest advantages of minimally invasive surgery is the cost savings to the patient. In today's health care environment, many patients' insurance coverage has a high deductible, so finding cost savings on health care is essential for most. Traditional in-patient surgeries and resulting charges for general anesthesia and overnight hospital stays can be avoided with most laparoscopic surgeries. Other advantages of minimally invasive procedures include faster recovery times, reduced blood loss, reduced infection rates, and less postoperative pain.

One type of minimally invasive surgery, called hysteroscopy, involves placing a small camera through the cervix to look at the inside of the uterus. Specialized instruments can be passed through the camera which allows the surgeon to operate inside the uterus without an incision. In some cases this can be done in a physician’s office for specific conditions including tubal occlusion for permanent sterilization.

An effective and simple solution for menorrhagia, or excessive menstrual bleeding, is a hysteroscopic endometrial ablation. Endometrial ablation is a short procedure, sometimes done in your doctor's office, which destroys the uterine lining, or endometrium, through heat, freezing or microwave. The endometrium heals by scarring, which usually reduces or prevents future uterine bleeding.

Consult your OB-GYN practitioner to learn more about minimally invasive surgery and to help you locate a physician specifically trained in this specialty. These accessible, effective and affordable solutions can enhance health, well-being and quality of life for women.

Dr. Cindy Hall, D.O. OB/GYN

A Center for Women's Care, P.C.

2001 Blake Avenue, Suite A

Glenwood Springs

www.womens-carepc.com

970-384-2000

Hysterectomy: The Basics

Dr. Cindy Hall, D.O. OB/GYN

A hysterectomy is surgery to remove the uterus, also known as the womb. Hysterectomy can treat symptoms like heavy periods, fibroids, pelvic organ prolapse and cancerous or pre-cancerous conditions. Women who have a hysterectomy will no longer have the ability to become pregnant.

There are three different kinds of surgery for hysterectomy:

•    Abdominal hysterectomy, performed through an incision in the belly. For an abdominal hysterectomy, the cervix can be removed or left in place.

•    Laparoscopic hysterectomy, performed by a tiny camera and tools through small openings in the belly. The uterus is removed a small portion at a time through one of these small incisions. The cervix can be left or removed, and in most cases women can be back to normal capacity after about two weeks of recovery time.

•    Vaginal hysterectomy, done via cuts inside the vagina. Vaginal hysterectomy leaves no visible scars and can be done laparoscopically. For a vaginal hysterectomy, the cervix must be removed.

During a hysterectomy, doctors sometimes also remove the ovaries, the organs that produce female hormones including estrogen and progesterone.  A subsequent supplemental hormone program is called for in this case. Removal of ovaries depends upon several variables for patients, including age and an assessment of how living without ovaries might affect you.

In women who have not been through menopause, having the ovaries removed can lead to hot flashes, bone loss, and other problems. In women of any age, having the ovaries removed can sometimes also reduce interest in sex. On the other hand, women who have health problems that get worse at certain times in the menstrual cycle sometimes feel better without their ovaries. Plus, in rare cases, the ovaries can develop cancer, so women sometimes choose to have them removed.  A qualified obstetrics and gynecology specialist can help you evaluate the pros and cons of ovary removal with hysterectomy. 

Studies show that women can have happy, full lives after a hysterectomy. Many women feel better after the surgery, because they no longer have the symptoms that previously impacted their quality of life.

Dr. Cindy Hall, D.O. OB/GYN
A Center for Women's Care, P.C.
970-384-2000
www.womens-carepc.com
Glenwood Springs

Mennorhagia: What it is, and why you don't have to live with it

Dr. Cindy Hall, D.O., OB/GYN

Menorrhagia, or excessive menstrual bleeding, can be painful, disruptive to lifestyle, and can impact health with iron deficiencies and other undesirable effects.

There are three main causes of menorrhagia, including anovulation (not ovulating once per month), having polyps or fibroids in the uterus, or having an overgrowth of the uterine lining (endometrial hypoplasia).  Sometimes it can also be due to an overall bleeding tendency in the body, for patients taking blood thinners like Coumadin or having a low platelet count.  Whatever the reason, a qualified physician can determine the cause with an examination and a variety of tests including an endometrial biopsy, which is standard before any surgery or procedure.

Patients with this condition should understand that memorrhagia is not something to endure and just "live with", and that medical science offers numerous effective treatments. The best treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding depends on:

•    The cause of your bleeding,
•    Your preferences for treatment,
•    The need to prevent pregnancy, and
•    Your desire to have children in the future.

Treatment with one or more medicines or hormonal birth control may be tried first. Antifibrinolytic medicines help the blood to clot, and antiinflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and mefenamic acid (Ponstel), can reduce bleeding and cramps. Lysteda is a relatively new medication, which has been successfully and widely used in Europe to treat heavy bleeding, but is more costly than other available medications.

A minimally invasive surgical treatment might be an option for women with polyps or fibroids with a myomectomy, which can be performed in the office due to advances in minimally invasive surgical technology and laparoscopic pelvic surgery capabilities.

Other surgical treatments for menorrhagia include:

• Endometrial ablation, a treatment that removes most of the lining of the uterus. However, it is not a good option for women who might want to become pregnant in the future.  The treatment can be done in the office or as a day surgery. Most women can go back to work the following day.
• Hysterectomy,  a surgery that removes the uterus.  It is a permanent treatment that cures heavy menstrual bleeding. However, the surgery can have complications and requires up to six weeks for full recovery. Pregnancy is not possible after hysterectomy. There are new, less invasive techniques with laparoscopic surgery, for abdominal or vaginal hysterectomy than were previously available with traditional surgery.

Individuals who believe they may be suffering from memorrhagia should know that it can be diagnosed, and most importantly, treated, by a qualified obstetrics and gynecology specialist.

Dr. Cindy Hall, D.O. OB/GYN
A Center for Women's Care, P.C.
http://womens-carepc.com
Glenwood Springs
970-384-2000

Erasing The Stigma Of Incontinence

For women young and old, stress urinary incontinence is a common – and often unnerving – problem.  It affects women across the life cycle, including athletes, pregnant women and 30-something mothers, menopausal women, seniors and women who’ve had gynecological surgery.  The good news is that in many cases, simple treatments like exercise will improve or even cure urine leakage.

Amazingly enough, although the treatment options are simple, safe and effective, the real challenge is getting women to talk about their incontinence – even with their doctor.  One of the major obstacles to early and effective treatment is that the issue is shrouded in embarrassment and secrecy.  Often, women assume it is just their lot in life to endure the discomfort and awkwardness of urine leakage.  Or, they incorrectly presume incontinence is a natural part of pregnancy, menopause or aging.  Instead of seeking medical care, they severely limit their activities.

One of the most common types of incontinence -- stress urinary incontinence -- accounts for nearly 50% of all incontinence cases, and is often caused by strenuous exercise, childbirth, loss of pelvic muscle tone or gynecological surgery.  Women with this condition unexpectedly leak urine as a result of simple everyday activities or stresses on the body, such as sneezing, coughing, laughing or ordinary movements.  As a result, many otherwise active women who suffer from this condition, withdraw from friends, don’t attend social occasions, and refrain from many kinds of physical activity.

Instead, women should be encouraged to see their health care provider about a possible treatment. They’ll be advised of non-surgical and of surgical options, out-patient procedures such as urethral bulking agents and sub-urethral slings.

Whatever the remedy, women should know that they need not live with incontinence.  All women should feel comfortable talking about this condition.  Not only do the available treatments improve the physical wellbeing of patients, but they also provide tremendous psychological benefits, restoring a woman’s confidence so she can resume a normal, active life.

Call today to set up a consultation to see if a minimally invasive procedure or other treatment for urinary incontinence is right for you. 970-384-2000.

Dr. Cindy Hall, D.O. OB/GYN
A Center for Women's Care, P.C.
http://womens-carepc.com
Glenwood Springs
Bladder Health Education Campaign

There are dozens of reasons to lose weight now . . . your skinny jeans are just one of them.

If you’re ready to lose weight this New Year for good: for your heart, for your health, and for your wellbeing, not to mention those jeans in the back of your closet, maybe it's time to check out the Roaring Fork Valley’s local, doctor supervised hCG diet.

Dr. Cindy Hall, D.O. FACOG, of A Center for Women’s Care, P.C. is the supervising medical director of the hCG Tried ‘n’ True program, which has assisted hundreds of Roaring Fork Valley women and men with successful weight loss. Typical weight loss for a 40-day round of the hCG diet is up to 34 lbs. January 2011 sessions are scheduled now, and YOU can learn the benefits of this alternative and proven method.

hCG stands for human Chorionic Gonadotropin. It assists the hypothalamus, which initiates the release of stored fat in the system to be used by the body for energy. hCG helps to reduce appetite and helps mobilize fat to be used for energy, triggering the body to release 1500 to 2500 calories of stored fat per day while maintaining muscle mass. Independent studies have shown hCG boosts feelings of wellbeing, evens out mood swings and improves sleep. A typical round of the hCG diet is a 40 day protocol.
 

Read more about the hCG diet online at www.hcgtnt.com and www.womens-carepc.com. Join us to find out more on January 8 and January 22, 10:00 AM at the Glenwood Springs Community Center. Reserve a spot at hcgtnt@yahoo.com or 720.320.5032.

A Center for Women's Care, P.C., Opens in Glenwood Springs in November 2010

Dr. Cindy Hall, OB/GYN offers comprehensive primary women's health care at new clinic

A new practice for comprehensive women's health care, A Center for Women's Care, P.C., will open November 25, 2010 in Glenwood Springs.  Dr. Cindy Hall OB/GYN is a Doctor of Osteopathic medicine (D.O.), with a medical and  surgical specialty in obstetrics and gynecology, and is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (FACOG).

The new clinic will offer extended hours including same day, after hours and weekend appointments.  A Center for Women's Care, P.C. will serve as primary health care providers for women and the distinct health care needs of each life phase, offering annual exams and PAP smears, birth control, obstetrics care, prenatal and postpartum care.

In addition to these customary services for women's health care, Dr. Hall  will continue to specialize in new and emerging treatments that address health matters for all the transitions of a woman's life. She performs minimally invasive surgery including laparoscopic hysterectomies and other cost-saving in-office procedures including hysterectomy alternatives.  She will also offer bio-identical hormone therapy, perimenopausal disorders treatment, the hCG weight loss program, and cosmetic treatments including Botox and dermal fillers.

Dr. Cindy, Hall, D.O.

"With the available medical technology for surgery that is less traumatic and affords quick recovery, and daily emerging research with therapies that enhance a woman's quality of life at any age, there has never been a better time to be a practitioner providing health care to women, " says Dr. Hall.  "I'm committed to bringing the best and most recent medical protocols available to my patients and look forward to doing so for many years in my new practice." Dr. Hall believes that health care is holistic, and that exercise and healthy lifestyle are essential.  When those habits alone are not adequate to maintain peak health and quality of life, several innovative treatments are available.  The website for A Center for Women's Care, P.C., at www.womens-carepc.com  will post regular updates on women's health issues and treatments for patients' education, and patients can opt-in to a regular e-newsletter with detailed and informative messages from Dr. Hall.

Prior to opening A Center for Women's Care, P.C., Dr. Hall was employed as a physician at Women's Health Associates in Glenwood Springs, and is familiar to many Roaring Fork Valley patients for her warm persona, exceptional communication skills and practical, up to date methods in women's care.  She earned her Doctor of Osteopathy degree in 2000 from the University of Health Sciences in Kansas City, Missouri, with residency in both Minneapolis and Johnson City, Tennessee.  Dr. Hall, however,  is no stranger to Colorado: she was an Aspen Highlands ski patroller, Emergency Medical Technician, National Outdoor Leadership School instructor and certified raft guide when she lived in Snowmass Village in the late 1980s and 90s.  While there, she met her husband Hans. The couple once again happily resides in the Roaring Fork Valley amid other immediate family, and live in Glenwood Springs with their young daughter Grace.  Dr. Hall is still passionate about skiing, and other avocations include horses, gardening, foreign travel and medical missions.  Dr. Hall helps render care to the indigent with her part in the Medical Mission to Guatemala.

As the medical director of the hCG Tried’n’True Weight Loss plan, Dr. Hall has assisted hundreds of men and women with weight loss through this alternative and highly effective program.  She began the local program in 2008, and it continues to gain popularity as news of its effectiveness is shared by successful local patients.  A Center for Women's Care, P.C. can direct patients to the hCG program, and it is also available online at www.hcgtnt.com or by calling 720-320-5032.


New patients are always welcome at A Center for Women's Care, P.C. The recently renovated and beautifully appointed new clinic is located at 2001 Blake Avenue, Suite 1A, in Glenwood Springs, just across the street from Valley View Hospital. Patients can call now for assistance transferring their medical records from their current provider to A Center for Women's Care, P.C.. The phone is 970-384-2000 and they can be found on the web at www.womens-carepc.com.

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Media Contact:
Dr. Cindy Hall, D.O. FACOG
A Center for Women's Care, P.C.
2001 Blake Avenue, Suite 1A
Glenwood Springs, CO  81601
cindy(at)womens-carepc(dot)com
970-384-2000

or

Kate Collins
Write Brain West, Inc.
kate(at)writebrainwest(dot)com
970-274-0899