by Hannah Farrell
Our expert witnesses in gynaecology specialise in the female reproductive system. They are experts in the management of ovarian, uterine, and cervical disease, in addition to the surgical treatment of female pelvic floor dysfunction.
Our experts in gynaecology have in depth experience of conditions such as endometriosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), fibroids, and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Further, they are highly proficient in the undertaking of major gynaecological surgery, such as total abdominal hysterectomy, laparoscopic hysterectomy, salpingo-oophorectomy, colpectomy, and vaginectomy. Their extensive experience in the operating theatre means they can review operation notes and assess the practical nature of the gynaecological procedures performed.
With a strong understanding of appropriate standards of care and NICE Guidelines, in addition to a thorough knowledge of treatment pathways, our expert witnesses in gynaecology can advise on causation, breach of duty, current condition, and prognosis in individuals with gynaecology disease or injury.
See below for a brief overview on gynaecology surgery. Alternatively, contact an expert witness in gynaecology surgery to see how they can help.
What is Gynaecology?
The female reproductive system comprises the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus (womb), cervix, and external vagina. At puberty, the female reproductive system functions to prepare the body for reproduction and sexual function. Most common signs and symptoms of problems in the female reproductive system include bloating, irregular menses (periods), abdominal pain, and heavy menstruation.
The menstrual cycle involves several hormones:
- Follicle stimulating hormone, released by the pituitary gland, causes an ovum (egg) to mature within the ovary.
- Luteinising hormone triggers the release of the matured egg from the ovary.
- Oestrogen aids with the development of the female sex characteristics, regulates the menstrual cycle, and thickens the lining of the uterus ready for implantation of a fertilised ovum.
- Progesterone is responsible for maintaining the lining of the uterus. Too much or too little of these hormones can have a huge impact on the body.
Various types of gynaecological cancer may develop, including endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, vulval cancer, vaginal cancer, and cancer of the fallopian tubes.
Ovarian pathology includes ovarian cysts, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), torsion of ovary, ovarian fibroma, and oophoritis (inflammation of the ovary).
The fallopian tubes may become inflamed (salpingitis) and are the most common site of ectopic pregnancy (implantation of a fertilised ovum outside the womb).
A common gynaecology condition is endometriosis. This is where endometrial tissue grows outside the normal location of the uterine cavity. Adenomyosis is a condition whereby the endometrium grows specifically in the myometrium (middle of the uterine wall). These conditions cause extreme pain, dyspareunia (pain during sex), and often female infertility.