Urogynecology

The senior elective in Urogynecology is four weeks. This elective offers an introduction to the diagnosis and treatment of incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. The student will be involved in the office evaluation of patients and participate in surgical procedures. Observation of urodynamic testing is also included.

Objectives for urogynecology

1. Anatomy and Physiology: The students should demonstrate an understanding of the normal anatomy of the lower urinary tract and pelvic floor including the bladder, ureters, urethra, pelvic floor musculature, vagina, uterus, rectum and surrounding structures. The student demonstrates an understanding of the function of the lower urinary tract during the filling and voiding phases and the function of the pelvic floor in maintaining normal pelvic support.
2. History and Physical Examination: The student should be familiar with the components to a complete history and physical examination pertinent to the evaluation of lower urinary tract symptoms and signs.
3. Urinary Incontinence: The student should know the etiology, signs, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of genuine stress incontinence and detrusor instability. This includes an understanding of the components of urodynamic evaluation as well as the role of behavioral pharmacologic and surgical therapy in the management of incontinence.
4. Pelvic Organ Prolapse: The student should demonstrate and understanding of the etiology, predisposing factors, symptomatology, diagnosis and management of pelvic organ prolapse. This would include both nonsurgical and surgical therapies.
5. Urinary Tract Infection: The student should demonstrate an understanding of the diagnosis and treatment of acute chronic and recurrent infection of the urinary tract.

There is a limit of one student per elective at any given time.