Family Building Guide

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We Know Endo CNY Fertility

International Surgical Institute PROVIDING MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY FOR OUR FERTILITY PATIENTS Specializing in Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS), our expert surgeons at the CNY Fertility International Surgical Institute are recognized as leaders in the fields of laparoscopic and da Vinci robotic surgery. Sometimes referred to as “keyhole” surgery, MIS utilizes small incisions, tiny fiber optic lights and high definition monitors which allow our surgeons to correct many conditions without requiring patients to undergo major surgery or large incisions. Patients go home the same day and recovery time is generally shorter and less painful with minimal scarring.

Endometriosis causing ovarian and pelvic adhesions

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These include: • crippling menstrual pain • pelvic pain lasting throughout the month • chronically heavy or long menstrual periods • painful sexual activity (particularly with penetration) • significant lower back pain with menses • bowel or bladder disorders associated with periods • allergies, migraines, or fatigue that tends to worsen around menses Many women experience no symptoms and are affected by “silent endometriosis”. There is no definite non-surgical diagnostic test to confirm the presence of endo. Occasionally, an ultrasound or pelvic exam can raise the suspicion if there are fixed, tender, nodular, or enlarged pelvic organs. Surgical observation and biopsy are the gold standards for diagnosis and treatment. Endometriosis starts when endometrial cells gain access to the abdominal cavity establishing a blood supply for survival.

We perform: •

The scientific community has yet to establish the exact cause and progression of endometriosis. Though many questions remain, we are able to identify and successfully treat this common disease. Endometriosis (or “Endo”) is a leading cause of infertility and may run in families. Up to 50% of affected patients may experience fertility issues. There is also a great variety of symptoms that may or may not be present in each patient. Many symptoms are not normal and should raise suspicion for endometriosis.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Endometriosis Treatment of Fibroids (Myomas) Tubal Reversal Vasectomy Reversal

Solitary endometriosis nodule

This causes a local inflammatory response leading to adhesions and scarring. There exists a poorly understood association with infertility at the chemical and immunologic levels. The pelvic reproductive organs (uterus, tubes, ovaries) are affected most often. Severe disease may involve the bowel, bladder, and distant parts of the body. Endometriosis can influence fertility in multiple ways: • distorted anatomy of the pelvis • adhesion formation • scarred fallopian tubes • inflammation of pelvic structures • altered immune system functioning • changes in the hormonal environment of the eggs • disrupted fertilization • impaired implantation of a pregnancy Many different patterns of endo may be observed in the operating room. The surgical treatment will vary depending on the type and degree of the lesions encountered. The main goal of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is to restore normal anatomy and function, leading to an increased pregnancy rate. One treatment plan does not fit all patients. Medical therapy to suppress hormones and regrowth may be used in combination with surgery. Even with the best medical and surgical treatment, reoccurrence may require repeat surgery in the future. Patients are encouraged to see their gynecologic provider should they demonstrate any of the above-mentioned symptoms.

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