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Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2010; 23(2): 072-079
DOI: 10.1055/s-0030-1254293
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Endometriosis for the Colorectal Surgeon

Katrina Slaughter1 , Rajiv B. Gala1
  • 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ochsner Clinic Foundation, New Orleans, Louisiana
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
28 May 2010 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Endometriosis is defined as the presence of endometrial glands and stroma outside the uterine cavity. Although the exact pathophysiology is unclear, endometriosis is a well-known cause of pelvic pain and infertility in reproductive-aged women. Endometriosis can have extrapelvic manifestations relevant for colorectal surgeons to appreciate, such as cyclic constipation, diarrhea, hematochezia, and dyschezia. The treatment of endometriosis involves a combination of medical and surgical interventions where close collaboration between the gynecologist and colorectal surgeon can help achieve prolonged periods of symptom remission.

KEYWORDS

Endometriosis - pelvic pain - reproductive-aged women - infertility

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Rajiv B GalaM.D. 

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ochsner Clinic Foundation

1514 Jefferson Hwy., New Orleans, LA 70121

Email: rgala@ochsner.org

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