Archive for February, 2012

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Sometimes surgery is a last resort

Monday, February 13th, 2012

Our patient Robyn who is in her forties came to see Dr. Anthony Quartell to discuss her options in dealing with the  fibroid uterus that has been becoming increasingly larger and more uncomfortable over a period of  about 5 years.  Tired of the chronic problems with pain and bleeding, she explains that it is hard for her to even leave the house lately because she does not know what kind of a day it will be.   The pain, along with increased urinary tract infections and increased bleeding have taken a toll on her ability to work, perform much of her regular daily activities and on her sex life.  Consequently, Robyn was ready for a thorough evaluation and subsequent recommendation for alleviating these ailments.

After a thorough exam in our office and subsequent ultrasound testing, Dr. Quartell explained to the patient her options which included performing a laparoscopically assisted hysterectomy.  Prior to undergoing this surgery, Robyn could start Lupron Injection therapy for three months to attempt to decrease the size of the fibroids.  If this is successful, she could opt out of undergoing surgery altogether while her condition is monitored closely by her referring gynecologist, or it would at the very least, decrease the size of the fibroid enough to ensure a less difficult surgery if that is ultimately the path the patient choses to take.

After evaluating and comparing  the risks and side effects of lupron to  the last resort option of surgery, the patient chose to try the lupron therapy prior to surgery.  She is currently mid way through the therapy and is doing well so far.  After the three month period passes she will be re-examined and depending on the outcome she will decide if she would still like to pursue surgery as a final option.

Anthony C. Quartell, MD & Associates serves the tri state areas which include Northern New Jersey and surrounding areas.

Posted in gynecological problem, surgery, urinary problem | No Comments »

Patient insisted that she did not want to be “cut open”..

Monday, February 6th, 2012

At the time of her post operative appointment, seven business days from the time of her laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy (lsh) performed by Dr. Anthony Quartell at Saint Barnabas Medical Center, our patient Priscilla indicated that she was delighted by how well the entire surgical experience went.  As happy as she was with Dr. Quartell’s “bedside manners” and surgical expertise, Priscilla added that she was very happy with our entire staff, most specifically with Marion (RN) and Helga (Benefits Coordinator)  for all of the help they gave her.

Priscilla explained that over a three year period, her own gynecologist encouraged her to have a traditional hysterectomy to eliminate her chronic bleeding and pelvic/ lower back pain caused by an enlarged fibroid uterus, however; she insisted on holding out because she did not want to be cut open after having three previous cesarean sections.  She also explained that she could not afford to take the required amount of time off from her job that comes with the traditional open hysterectomy.  Therefore, her gynecologist ordered an ultrasound every six months to watch the growth of her uterine fibroid followed by a failed uteriro artery embolization.

However, once the embolization failed, her gynecologist referred her to Dr. Anthony Quartell for a laparoscopic hysterectomy.  Priscilla indicated that although she wanted the surgery to be performed by laparoscope, Dr. Quartell did warn her that there would be a chance it could not be done laparoscopically depending on what he would find at the time of surgery.  Subsequently, Priscilla relayed that she was delighted to find out when she woke after the surgery that Dr. Quartell was able to perform the laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy without any complications.  Priscilla was elated to discover that her cervix, tubes and ovaries all remained in tact, she was released from the hospital in less than 24 hours and was out and about almost immediately.

As a young, vivacious and energetic single mom of three who works full time, Priscilla was grateful to Dr. Quartell and her own gynecologist for taking her needs into consideration and providing her with the best outcome possible.

Anthony C. Quartell, MD & Associates serves the areas of Livingston, N.J., Short Hills, N.J., Maplewood, N.J., West Orange, N.J, E. Hanover, N.J., West Caldwell, N.J. and surrounding areas.

Posted in gynecological problem, surgery | No Comments »

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