Baylor Medicine endometriosis specialists offer a rare level of expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of this complex disease, including the advanced surgical skills required to perform excision surgery – the gold standard in endometriosis treatment.
A Trusted Resource for Timely Diagnosis of Endometriosis
Diagnosing endometriosis can be challenging for providers less familiar with this chronic disease. As a result, the condition is often unrecognized, misdiagnosed and inadequately treated. On average, women with endometriosis suffer for 10 years before getting the help they need.
Our specialists care for endometriosis patients every day. With their in-depth experience, they offer accurate, timely diagnoses to help:
- Avoid diagnostic delays that prolong patients’ pain and suffering
- Prevent the condition from worsening over time
- Preserve fertility when possible
The Endometriosis Diagnostic Process
Diagnosing endometriosis typically involves:
- A thorough medical history
- A detailed discussion of the patient’s symptoms
- A physical exam and pelvic exam
- Imaging, such as a pelvic ultrasound and an “endometriosis MRI,” a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan that is specifically used to diagnose or evaluate endometriosis. This MRI utilizes a specific endometriosis protocol which helps to identify deep infiltrating endometriosis involving the reproductive tract and surrounding organs including the bowel and bladder.
Currently, endometriosis can only be confirmed through gynecologic surgery and a biopsy.
Our minimally invasive gynecologic surgeons are adept at performing this diagnostic procedure. When needed, they can provide treatment simultaneously.
In this robotic/laparoscopic procedure, a slender tube with a camera on the end (laparoscope) is inserted through a tiny incision near the navel, or through a natural orifice, enabling the surgeon to see the pelvic organs and look for endometriosis. A small tissue sample (biopsy) is cut and removed for examination under a microscope to confirm the presence of endometriosis. This excision is both diagnostic and therapeutic.
Get Immediate Help
We understand the pain of endometriosis and the urgent need for relief. Immediate openings are available. Call 832-826-7500 to schedule an appointment.
To make a referral, visit the Baylor Medicine Obstetrics and Gynecology referral page.
