Bowel endometriosis
Bowel endometriosis is a special subset of Stage IV endometriosis. Sometimes women complain of severe bowel pain, and pain on opening their bowels during their period. When this is investigated with a specialised endometriosis ultrasound, what we call an endometriotic bowel nodule can be found. This is when the endometriosis is closely related to or grows into the bowel, often the lower portion which is called the rectum. In this instance Dr Wetherell uses a multi-disciplinary approach and works with her trusted Colorectal Surgeon, operating together as a team to excise the bowel endometriosis.
Stage 4 endometriosis with complete obliteration of POD
Ureteric dissection
Bowel shave of rectal endometriosis
Management of bowel endometriosis is complex and can only be performed by an accredited Level 6 AGES qualified surgeon, which Dr Wetherell is, one of a handful in Melbourne. This involves either a “bowel shave” during which the endometriotic lesion is dissected off of the surface of the rectum. Deeper lesions require a bowel resection, which involves removing a small portion of the affected bowel, either via a disc resection or bowel resection. All of this will be discussed in detail during a consultation with Dr Wetherell and her trusted Colorectal Surgeon colleague (Mr Eric Daniel), and is very specific to each individual woman and case. A lot of time, planning, and care is taken for complex surgical cases of this kind, and you can expect the utmost attention to detail and highly specialised care. Dr Wetherell has a special interest in bowel endometriosis and is passionate about providing high quality surgical expertise to women affected by this condition.