Ob-Gyn UW-Madison

Matthew Wagar, MD
GynOnc Fellow
Gynecologic Oncology

Office Address
UW Hospital and Clinics
600 Highland Ave
Madison, WI, 53792

Clinic Address
Gynecology Oncology Clinic
600 Highland Ave
Madison, WI, 53705
Phone: 608-265-1700

Bio

Hometown: Edina, MN
Undergraduate: University of Wisconsin – Madison
Medical School: University of Minnesota Medical School
Why UW Ob-Gyn?

Wisconsin offered high-volume obstetrics and gynecologic surgical opportunities at a renowned academic institution. Additionally, exposure to subspecialities, as well as academic and community-based generalists eager to work with and educate residents was a major draw. UW boasts a strong history of resident research, resident-focused global health education, and advocacy aimed at combatting health disparities. Above all, the residents care for and look out for one another and have truly made me feel at home here!

Best part of living in Madison?

Madison has something for everyone! The city is perfectly positioned to access the Great Lakes, the North Woods, major surrounding metro areas and the outdoors. The art and music scene is active all year round, and there's always a resident looking to get out on one of the lakes during a day off!

Posters and presentations at 2024 Society of Gynecologic Oncology Conference

Members of the UW Department of Ob-Gyn Division of Gynecologic Oncology brought exciting research to the 2024 Society of Gynecologic Oncology Annual Meeting on Women’s Cancer! Here are just some of their exciting contributions to the conference, which took place March 16-18, 2024 in San Diego:

Poster Session I: Clinical and molecular determinants of response to maintenance olaparib for primary and recurrent epithelial ovarian carcinoma – Matt Wagar, MD

Poster Session I: Patterns of primary metastasis and recurrence differ among dMMR and p53abn endometrial carcinomas - Matt Wagar, MD

Walking Poster Session: Postoperative voiding dysfunction by void trial methodology following radical hysterectomy for cervical cancer - Matt Wagar, MD

Poster Session I: Epidural analgesia as part of an enhanced recovery after surgery pathway in gynecologic surgery - Lauren Montemorano, MD; Charles Ashley, MD; Cassie Crifase, MPH; Manish Patankar, PhD; Amy Godecker, PhD, MS; Lisa Barroilhet, MD, MS

Grand Rounds: Bailey, Patel and Wagar present “Badger Bytes: Fellow Focused Session”

On November 2, 2023, UW Department of Ob-Gyn fellows Erin Bailey, MD, Ushma Patel, MD, and Matt Wagar, MD presented the Grand Rounds lecture “Badger Bytes: Fellow Focused Session”.

Erin Bailey, MD, Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellow, presented “Postpartum depression pre and post development of comprehensive PAS center at a single academic institution”.

Matt Wagar, MD, Gynecologic Oncology Fellow, presented “Patterns of endometrial cancer primary metastasis and recurrence differ by MMR and p53 status.”

Ushma Patel, MD, Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery Fellow, presented “Aiming for Zero: Success of the Hysterectomy Surgical Site Infection Prevention Bundle”.

Watch the whole lecture here.

by Ob-Gyn Communications Intern Paige Stevenson

Wagar hosts episode of International Journal of Gynecologic Cancer podcast

UW Ob-Gyn Gynecologic Oncology fellow Matt Wagar, MD, guest-hosted an episode of the International Journal of Gynecologic Oncology podcast as part of his role as an editorial fellow for the journal!

In the episode, Wagar and another editorial fellow outlined the contents of the July 2023 issue of the International Journal of Gynecologic Oncology.

Listen to the whole episode here!

UW Ob-Gyn brings research, developments to 2021 SMFM Conference

Faculty, residents, fellows, researchers and more brought numerous posters and presentations to the virtual 2021 Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine Annual Meeting at the end of January! Learn more about the wealth of research shared by our colleagues at the conference:

PRESENTATION:

Racial disparities in post-operative pain experience and treatment following cesarean birth

John Poehlmann; Tiffany Green, Katie Antony, Amy Godecker

POSTERS:

Trouble with the curve: Is an ultrasound growth curve needed to predict SGA infants?

Bradley Bosse; Jacquelyn Adams, Melissa Meyer, John Poehlmann, Janine Rhoades, Igor Iruretagoyena

Obtaining accurate blood pressures: A quality improvement initiative to increase obstetric nursing knowledge and confidence

Matt Wagar; Jacquelyn Adams, Amy Godecker, Katie Antony

Prediction of vaginal delivery utilizing intrapartum transperineal ultrasound

Stephanie Peace; Melissa Meyer, Jacquelyn Adams, Katie Antony; Luther Gaston

Comparing 32-week vs 36-week growth ultrasound for prediction of LGA infants in obese gravidae

John Poehlmann; Jacquelyn Adams, Melissa Meyer, Jenna Racine, Janine Rhoades, Igor Iruretagoyena

Impact of a Standardized Post-Cesarean Analgesia Regimen on Postpartum Opioid Use

Melissa Meyer; Katie Antony

The impact of pre-existing maternal anxiety on pain and opioid use following cesarean birth

John Poehlmann; Amy Godecker, Katie Antony

Blood pressure pattern of women with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy is highly affected by obesity

Narmin Mukhtarova (MFM research intern); Kara Hoppe co-authored

Postpartum blood pressure of Black women is significantly higher compared to non-Black women

Narmin Mukhtarova (MFM research intern); Kara Hoppe co-authored

Did institutional changes and patient behaviors surrounding COVID-19 affect perinatal outcomes?

Jenna Racine; Igor Iruretagoyena, Kara Hoppe

Distance matters. The effect of distance to the hospital on estimated blood loss.

Kara Hoppe; Alexa Lowry

Blood pressure pattern pre-pregnancy through 42-day postpartum of women with preeclampsia, gestational, and chronic hypertension

Narmin Mukhtarova (MFM research intern); Kara Hoppe

UW Ob-Gyn research and presentations at 2022 ACOG Annual Meeting

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists held the Annual Clinical and Scientific Meeting in San Diego May 6-8, 2022. Faculty, fellows and residents in the UW Department of Ob-Gyn brought many exciting presentations and projects to the conference. Read more about some of their awesome accomplishments:

Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn Director Makeba Williams, MD gave the Morton and Diane Stenchever Lecture “The Women’s Health Initiative: Controversy, Confusion, Consensus” at the opening of the day on May 8:

“In 2022, is hormone therapy safe? Have we reached a point of consensus? The Women’s Health Initiative hormone therapy trial preliminary results were released summer 2002, completely altering the practice of prescribing hormone therapy to midlife and menopausal women. Controversy and confusion immediately ensued. Attend this thought-provoking session to better understand current recommendations, management strategies and treatment options for menopausal patients.”

Division of Gynecologic Oncology Director Stephen Rose, MD, presented “A Revised Markov Model Evaluating Oophorectomy at the Time of Hysterectomy for Benign Indication”, co-authored by Gynecologic Oncology Fellow Shannon Rush, MD, during a late-breaking abstracts session on May 8.

Obstetrics and Gynecology features video demonstration of fluorescein mapping for Paget’s Disease

In February, UW Ob-Gyn gynecologic oncology fellows Catherine Zhang, MD, MPH and Matt Wagar, MD, published a new Procedures and Instruments piece, “Fluorescein Mapping in Vulvar Paget Disease”, in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Co-authors on the article include Ryan Spencer, MD, MS, associate professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, and David Kushner, MD, professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology.

In the article, Zhang, Wagar, and co-authors describe a two-step procedure to identify areas of disease when treating Paget disease, and describe their results using this method to treat eight patients. Obstetrics and Gynecology recently shared a case demonstration video of the technique on their YouTube channel.

You can watch the technique video here!

UW Ob-Gyn brings presentations, posters, film to 2023 CREOG & APGO Annual Meeting

The Council on Resident Education in Obstetrics and Gynecology and the Association of Professors of Gynecology and Obstetrics hosted their 2023 Annual Meeting in National Harbor, MD February 27-March 1. Faculty, residents, fellows, students, and staff in the UW Department of Ob-Gyn brought a variety of presentations to this education-focused conference. Just some of their incredible offerings:

Discussion Den: “Recognizing Small Potholes Before You Lose a Hubcap” – Ryan Spencer, MD, MS; Bridget Kelly, MD; Jody Silva, M.Ed; Ariel Sorenson, MS

Discussion Den: “Implementing a Resident to Resident Near Peer Laparoscopic Fundamentals Skills Curriculum” – Matthew Wagar, MD; Rachel Mojdehbakhsh, MD; Maya Gross, MD, MPH; Sumer Wallace, MD, MS; Ashely Jennings, MD

Film Festival: “Zoom In on Abortion: Experience with a Virtual Values Clarification Workshop” – Jacquelyn Askins; Rob Garza; Elise Cowley; Alma Farooque; Zoey Shultz; Laura Jacques, MD

Oral Abstract: “Building in a Small Town: Maintaining Procedural Volume in a Rural Ob-Gyn Residency Program” – Charlotte Urban; Jody Silva, M.Ed; Ryan Spencer, MD, MS

Oral Abstract: “Practice Makes Proficient: Implementation of an Advanced Robotic Surgery Pathway for Obstetrics and Gynecology Residents” – Maya Gross, MD, MPH; Matthew Wagar, MD; Sumer Wallace, MD, MS; Jennifer Karnowski, MD

Oral Abstract: “Building Bridges, Not Walls: Experiences of Medical Trainees with Values Clarification Workshops on Abortion” – Elise Cowley; Taryn Valley, MA; Alma Farooque; Zooey Shultz; Margaret Williams, MD; Laura Jacques, MD

Elise earned second place Best Oral Abstract award for her presentation!

APGO Surgical Education Scholars Poster: “Utilization of a Structured Adverse Event Debrief Framework to Confront Second-Victim Syndrome in Ob-Gyn Residents” – Ryan Spencer, MD, MS; Laura Jacques, MD

Poster: “Bridging the Virtual Divide: Ob-Gyn Residency Applicant Experiences with Virtual Interviews” – Laura Jacques, MD; Elise Cowley; Ryan Spencer, MD, MS

Poster: “Medical Student Attitudes Around Abortion and Reproductive Justice at One Midwestern Institution” – Erin Nacev, MD, MPH; Taryn Valley, MA; Mireya Taboada, MD, MPH

Congratulations to all the presenters!

Zhang, Wagar publish in Obstetrics and Gynecology

UW Ob-Gyn gynecologic oncology fellows Catherine Zhang, MD, MPH and Matt Wagar, MD, published a new Procedures and Instruments piece in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Co-authors on the article include Ryan Spencer, MD, MS, associate professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, and David Kushner, MD, professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology.

In “Fluorescein Mapping in Vulvar Paget Disease”, Zhang, Wagar, and co-authors describe a two-step procedure to identify areas of disease when treating Paget disease, and describe their results using this method to treat eight patients. Their conclusions are optimistic:

“We report a technique for the injection of fluorescein sodium for the visualization of vulvar Paget disease capable of providing accurate surgical margins and identification of occult satellite lesions with a high degree of safety and a favorable cost profile. This staged approach to vulvectomy could offer improved accuracy of resection for vulvar Paget disease with few drawbacks.”

Read the whole article here!

Wagar discusses ERAS on SGO podcast

UW Ob-Gyn Gynecologic Oncology fellow Matt Wagar, MD, joined a panel of guests on the Society of Gynecologic Oncology’s SGO On the Go podcast to discuss Enhanced Recovery After Surgery!

As part of a panel of 2022-2023 SGO Opioid/ERAS Subcommittee members, Wagar and others guests provided practical tips on developing Enhanced Recovery After Surgery programs that could be applied to many health care institutions.

Listen to “Key Concepts of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery. ERAS – How Do We Do It?” now!

Wagar discusses ERAS on SGO on the Go podcast

UW Ob-Gyn Gynecologic Oncology fellow Matt Wagar, MD joined other members of the Society of Gynecologic Oncology’s Opioid/Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) subcommittee on the SGO on the Go podcast in September to talk about ERAS.

In the episode “Key Concepts of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery. ERAS–Why Do We Do It?”, Wagar and other guests talked about key concepts and guiding principles of ERAS. You can listen to the whole episode on Apple Podcasts or Spotify!

Great work, Dr. Wagar!

UW Ob-Gyn presents at ACOG District VI meeting

Many people from across the UW Department of Ob-Gyn were active participants in the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists District VI annual meeting in Chicago September 16-18, 2022! Just a few of their amazing contributions:

Ryan McDonald, MD, associate professor in the Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, served as the District VI CME Representative on the annual meeting planning committee.

Heidi Brown, MD, MAS, associate professor in the Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, presented “Talking About and Treating Bowel Incontinence.”

UW Ob-Gyn Gynecologic Oncology Fellow Matt Wagar, MD presented “Access to Risk Reducing Gynecology Surgery.”

Cholene Espinoza, MD, assistant professor in the Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, presented “Recognition and Resuscitation of Critically Ill Obstetric Patients.”

Resident Margaret Harrison, MD, PGY-3, presented as an ACOG Junior Fellow.

One former resident, Ashley Turner, presented Updates in Family Planning, and another, Kristin Lyerly, joined a panel called Grassroots in Advocacy (and serves as the District VI Treasurer).

Congratulations to all, incredible work!

Wagar published in Reproductive Medicine

Incoming UW Ob-Gyn gynecologic oncology fellow (and recent residency graduate) Matt Wagar, MD, is co-author on a new publication in Reproductive Medicine.

“A Standardized Protocol for Post-Partum Salpingectomy with Suture Ligation: A Prospective Feasibility Study” compared operative outcomes of 157 patients who underwent post-partum salpingectomy with 300 historical cases of tubal ligation. The study primarily evaluated for operative time and blood loss:

“Our work establishes that salpingectomy with the PPS protocol can be easily learned and is feasible in a limited-resource environment using suture ligation with only a minimal increase in blood loss and operative time. The use of this procedure may create a unique opportunity to potentially reduce the worldwide incidence of ovarian cancer with little or no additional expenditure of healthcare resources. Future long-term studies will be needed to evaluate whether these procedures ultimately reduce the risk of high-grade serious ovarian cancers.”

Read the whole article here.

Congratulations to winners of UW Ob-Gyn 2022 department awards!

On June 23, 2022, the UW Department of Ob-Gyn held its annual awards ceremony, recognizing educational, research and administrative accomplishments throughout the year.

The ceremony started by acknowledging a few momentous departures. Many people retired from the department this academic year, including:

Carol Carr, CNM (Midwife in the ASOG Division)

Janet Short (Medical Student Education program coordinator)

Theresa Duello, PhD (Research)

Joel Henry, MD (ASOG Division)

Laurel Rice, MD (Gyn Onc Division and Department Chair)

Jenny Stevens, MBA (Department Administrator)

Departures:

Emily Buttigieg, MD – headed to Albert Einstein School of Medicine as an academic specialist in ob-gyn

Jay Lick, DO – transitioned practice to UW Health Urgent Care

Jackie Peebles, MD – academic position at the Medical College of Wisconsin

Makeba Williams, MD – Vice Chair of Professional Development in the Washington University in St. Louis Department of Ob-Gyn

In Memorium:

Jason Austin – Dr. Ian Bird shared remarks about Jason Austin, longtime member of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Reproductive Sciences, who passed away in March 2022. Jason was a senior research specialist who made countless contributions to our research mission, was an incredible educator of medical students, residents, fellows, postdocs and more, and his loss is deeply felt.

New Arrivals:

We also have the great joy of welcoming new arrivals:

Scott Infusino, MD will join us in July as the Maternal-Fetal Medicine fellow. Infusino received his MD from Quinnipiac University, followed by ob-gyn residency at the University of Maryland.

A couple familiar faces will stay in our department for fellowships:

Matt Wagar, MD is the incoming Gynecologic Oncology fellow. Dr. Wagar attended the University of Minnesota Medical School and completed ob-gyn residency in our department.

Ushma Patel, MD is the incoming Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery fellow. Dr. Patel attended Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine and completed ob-gyn residency in our department.

And of course, we are thrilled to welcome the Ob-Gyn residency intern class!

MEDICAL STUDENT AWARDS

DR. SAMUEL G. PERLSON SCHOLARSHIP – Ingmar Bastian (Baylor), Katarina Braun (Yale), Leeann Bui (Santa Clara)

This award goes out to one or more fourth year medical students planning to pursue a career in Ob-Gyn who have demonstrated outstanding abilities as a scholar and outstanding humanistic qualities.

T.A. LEONARD AWARD – Jamie Elizabeth Brown, Francis Arnold Perkins

The T.A. Leonard Award is given to one or more medical students in recognition of exemplary performance on their third year Ob/Gyn rotation.

MEDICAL STUDENT EDUCATOR AWARD FOR RESIDENT TEACHING – Matt Wagar, MD

This award is given to a UW-Madison, Obstetrics and Gynecology resident, selected by 3rd and 4th year medical students, who exhibits a high interest in teaching, actively involves students in patient care, teaches at an appropriate level, is respectful, approachable, honest, and is a great role model.

OUTSTANDING RESIDENT TEACHING AWARD – Talya Spivak, MD

Given to the most exceptional resident teacher in all of UW SMPH, as voted on by UW-Madison’s 4th year medical students.

RESIDENCY AWARDS

CHIEF RESIDENT RECOGNITION – John Poehlmann, MD (Administrative Chief Resident), Vienna Tran, MD (Administrative Chief Resident), Matt Wagar, MD (first-ever Education Chief Resident)

For service as the chief residents, academic year 2021-22

UW HEALTH INTERDISCIPLINARY GLOBAL HEALTH TRACK RECOGNITION – Ushma Patel, MD

Given to a graduating resident upon the completion of the Global Health Track.

UW HEALTH RURAL TRAINING TRACK RECOGNITION – Alexa Lowry, MD

Given to a graduating resident upon the completion of the Rural Training Track.

AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF GYNECOLOGIC LAPAROSCOPISTS (AAGL) AWARD – Connor Wang, MD

Given to a PGY-3 resident with special excellence in endoscopic procedures.

SOCIETY OF LAPAROENDOSCOPIC SURGEONS (SLS) AWARD – Maya Gross, MD

Awarded to a PGY-3, outstanding laparoendoscopic resident.

RESIDENT CREOG AWARD – Maya Gross, MD

Awarded for the highest exam score on the annual CREOG In-Training Examination

BEN M. PECKHAM AWARD – Matt Wagar, MD

Awarded to a senior resident for excellence in the teaching and clinical practice of Ob-Gyn, as voted by the residents.

SOCIETY OF GYNECOLOGIC ONCOLOGY (SGO) AWARD – Connor Wang, MD

Awarded to a PGY-3 who best exemplifies the qualities of the mission and vision of SGO.

SOCIETY FOR ACADEMIC SPECIALISTS IN GENERAL OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY (SASGOG) AWARD – Jordan Ward, MD

Awarded to a PGY-4 who has distinguished themselves academically and demonstrates an interest in a career as an Academic Specialist.

AMERICAN UROGYNECOLOGIC SOCIETY (AUGS) AWARD – Madeline Wetterhahn, MD

Awarded to a PGY-3 resident demonstrating excellence in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, as chosen by the FPMRS faculty.

SOCIETY FOR MATERNAL-FETAL MEDICINE (SMFM) AWARD – Kaley Gyorfi, MD

Awarded to the PGY-2 resident who best exemplifies the qualities of the vision of our society to improve pregnancy and perinatal outcomes.

RESEARCH AWARDS

DOUGLAS W. LAUBE BEST TRAINEE PAPER AWARD – Kristal Gant, PhD

For the best peer reviewed paper by a graduate student dissertator or medical fellow.

ROLAND K. MEYER, PhD GRADUATE TRAINEE AWARD – Rachel Dahn, BS (mentor: Ian Bird); Kristal Gant, PhD (mentor: Manish Patankar)

Awarded to the graduate student dissertator showing the most scientific productivity and scholarly activity.

CHESTER B. MARTIN GRADUATE TRAINING PROGRAM MENTORSHIP AWARD – Luca Clemente, PhD (postdoctoral fellow in Ian Bird and Derek Boeldt’s lab)

Awarded to faculty or staff that has had the most impact on graduate student degree-related training.

PHILLIP R. HAMILTON III, MD RESIDENT RESEARCH AWARD – John Poehlmann, MD

Awarded to the senior residents demonstrating the best effort in research.

ADVANCED PRACTICE PROVIDER AWARDS

APP/CNM EXCELLENCE AWARD – Megan Peterson, DNP

This award recognizes outstanding PA, NP, or CNM who routinely and regularly exemplifies the mission of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

BEST CONSULTING RESIDENT PHYSICIAN AWARD – Matt Wagar, MD

Given to a PGY-2, 3 or 4 who exemplifies significant consulting physician skills.

DEPARTMENT ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF AWARDS

OBGYN SUPPORT STAFF EXCELLENCE AWARD – Christy Lincicum

In recognition of outstanding staff who routinely and regularly exemplify the mission of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology through excellent performance and customer service.

JENNIFER STEVENS AWARD IN SUPPORT STAFF LEADERSHIP AWARD – Chad Craighill

In recognition of staff who display exemplary leadership skills, positive influence on colleagues, and an ability to affect change in support of the department’s mission and vision.

OBGYN SUPPORT STAFF PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT AWARD – Lisa Scott, PhD

In recognition of a commitment to lifelong learning and contributions to department success through continuing education.

OBGYN SUPPORT STAFF RISING STAR AWARD – Ariel Sorenson, MS

In recognition of a staff member who has been with the department 3 years or less who is emerging as a leader and whose record reflects ongoing and exceptional growth in contribution to the department mission.

RESIDENT FACULTY RECOGNITION AWARDS

JOHN M. ANDERSON, MD MEMORIAL AWARD – Jackie Peebles, MD

For demonstrating the traits of Dr. Anderson: patience, integrity and compassion in the care of women.

KIMBERLEY J. MILLER-THORESON COMPASSIONATE COLLEAGUE AWARD – Patrice Grzebielski, MD

For demonstrating the traits of Dr. Miller-Thoreson showing respect, compassion, dedication and unending support towards their colleagues and trainees.

DOLORES A. BUCHLER AWARD – Luther Gaston, MD

For excellence in instruction at the senior resident level.

KARL A. RUDAT AWARD – Jay Lick, DO

For excellence in surgical teaching at the senior resident level.

FACULTY RECOGNITION AWARDS

LUIS “BEN” CURET AWARD IN OB-GYN EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE – Ian Bird, PhD

This award honors one individual who demonstrates a true passion for education. This awardee is selected by colleagues and recognizes one who exhibits compassion, patience, and respect for all learners and goes above and beyond expectations to create a positive educational experience within the discipline of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

LAUREL W. RICE OUTSTANDING FELLOW EDUCATOR AWARD – Jennifer Jacobson, MD

Given to one fellow for excellence in resident education.

ST. MARY’S ADJUNCT FACULTY EDUCATOR AWARD – Elizabeth Strom, MD (SSM Health)

Selected by the residents for excellence in resident education.

MERITER ADJUNCT FACULTY EDUCATOR AWARD – Sarah Yahnke, MD (Madison Women’s Health)

Selected by the residents for excellence in resident education.

SOCIETY FOR ACADEMIC SPECIALISTS IN GENERAL OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY (SASGOG) AWARD – Cholene Espinoza, MD

National faculty award for dedication and commitment to the ideals of being an academic generalist.

SABINE DROSTE AWARD – Cholene Espinoza, MD

The Sabine Droste Award is selected by the junior residents for a faculty member who demonstrates excellence in instruction at the junior resident level.

ELLEN HARTENBACH AWARD – Emily Buttigieg, MD

Selected by the residents and given annually to the faculty member who has made the greatest contribution in simulation education.

CREOG FACULTY AWARD – Cholene Espinoza, MD

National faculty award for excellence in resident education.

Goodbye Resident Class of 2022!

The UW Ob-Gyn Resident Class of 2022 is about to embark on the next stages of their careers! Please join us in congratulating these incredible physicians on everything they have accomplished over the last four years, and wishing them the best as they head out into the world as ob-gyns!

Alexa Lowry, MD:

Where will you be going and what will you be doing after UW Ob-Gyn?

Generalist - Gundersen Hospital in La Crosse, WI

What will you miss most about UW Ob-Gyn and/or Madison?

I will miss all of the amazing people we have the honor of working with in this program. From the residents to the attendings to the support staff, we have a wonderful work family. Leaving is very bittersweet, mostly due to these many special individuals.

Ushma Patel, MD:

Where will you be going and what will you be doing after UW Ob-Gyn?

I'm so excited to be joining the UW FPMRS department for fellowship!

How do you feel UW Ob-Gyn prepared you for success after residency?

I feel so lucky to have matched and trained at UW, being mentored and supervised by faculty that truly care about our growth. Looking back at my own journey from intern year to now, it's amazing to see my personal evolution - all because of this department's constant commitment to our education and surgical training. I feel well prepared for fellowship!

Any special shout-outs or thanks to faculty, staff, other residents who really shaped your time here?

The UW OBGYN residents; Dr. Brown - for being the best mentor, colleague and friend.

The milestones:

Dr. Bills - for being there for my first vaginal delivery

Dr. Peebles - for walking me through my first cesarean delivery

Dr. Barroilhet - for taking me through my first laparoscopic case & hysterectomy

A loving goodbye to Drs. Peebles, Lick and Williams

Daniel Pellicer, MD:

Where will you be going and what will you be doing after UW Ob-Gyn?

I'll be staying in Madison and practicing as a general OB/Gyn at Dean Clinic- East Madison.

What are the most important things you learned during your residency?

I've learned lots of important lessons these last four years about medicine, myself, and others. Here are just a few. First, admitting when you feel out of your element and asking for help is never the wrong thing to do. Second, always befriend the nurses and other members of the healthcare team. It makes the countless hours at work more fun and also makes it easier to get things done when you have an army on your side. And lastly, eat when you can and go to the bathroom when you can because you never know when an unscheduled c-hyst is going to fall into your lap.

How do you feel UW Ob-Gyn prepared you for success after residency?

I feel extremely prepared for success after residency. Not only do we get high volume experience in both inpatient obstetrics and gynecology, but we also get lots of really great experience in family planning and ultrasound. I can't imagine having trained anywhere else.

What will you miss most about UW Ob-Gyn and/or Madison?

Fortunately I won't be far and I'll still get to work with our OB/GYN residents at St. Mary's Hospital, albeit in a different role! I'll miss working so closely with all the clinical faculty in the department, but you better believe I'll still call for advice when challenging clinical scenarios come my way.

John Poehlmann, MD:

Where will you be going and what will you be doing after UW Ob-Gyn?

Headed to Women & Infants Hospital/Brown University in Rhode Island for Maternal Fetal Medicine Fellowship

What are the most important things you learned during your residency?

The clinical training was exceptional and I feel very prepared to take the next step in my career both medically and surgically. In addition, I think that UW emphasized other important components of healthcare outside of just clinical skills: advocacy, cognizance about patient needs in underserved or lower-resource settings, and a sense a duty to my community as a healthcare provider. I also learned a great deal from my peers on how to be a better team-member, leader, and colleague.

How do you feel UW Ob-Gyn prepared you for success after residency?

Aside from seeing a great breadth and depth of clinical cases and challenges over the four years, I think that I have developed a greater sense of what resources to turn to when I am in unfamiliar situations. Learning not just the textbook answers, but also how to utilize those guidelines in clinical context along with appropriate judgement has been a highlight.

What will you miss most about UW Ob-Gyn and/or Madison?

Without a doubt I will miss the people the most - from my co-residents to my attendings, nurses, APPs, surgical techs, clinic staff, administration, and everyone in-between. This has been an incredible community to be a part of and I remain so thankful that I was able to train here.

Any special shout-outs or thanks to faculty, staff, other residents who really shaped your time here?

There are far too many people for me to ever adequately thank and at risk for accidentally excluding someone I do not want to make a list. I have been shaped as a person and a physician by each of my experiences in residency and that is something I can never repay. Thank you!

Vienna Tran, MD:

Where will you be going and what will you be doing after UW Ob-Gyn?

Seattle – generalist practice

What are the most important things you learned during your residency?

The most important things I learned were how to function as part of a team, how to learn and grow with my colleagues, how to build strong relationships with nurses, techs, consultants, and how to have fun and take good care of patients. Everything I learned will help keep me loving what I do for a long time.

How do you feel UW Ob-Gyn prepared you for success after residency?

I feel like I learned how to be prepared. I was taught this incredible background of surgical skills, I learned about the research that underpins the decisions we make. I’m going to need those skills to assess new situations, because I won’t always know exactly what to do right away, but I have the foundation to help me to critically assess patients and come up with plans.

What will you miss most about UW Ob-Gyn and/or Madison?

I think I am going to miss the people, honestly. Like, I had incredible teachers, I have the best co-residents in the whole world. I’ll also miss the Madison summer lake days, and hanging out on the terrace, but mostly the people.

Any special shout-outs or thanks to faculty, staff, other residents who really shaped your time here?

I do want to shout out Dr. Rice for always leading us with such vision, Dr. Hartenbach for choosing me when I was a medical student and bringing me here, and for the leadership I know she’ll show in the future. Dr. Spencer for putting up with my late-night texts, long scheduling calls and always having our backs. To my class, for everything. All the co-residents and everyone who made this the best four years.

Special thanks Dr. Bills for always lending a listening ear, and Dr. Bennett for bike rides to Planned Parenthood and championing reproductive health care access.

Matt Wagar, MD:

Where will you be going and what will you be doing after UW Ob-Gyn?

I will be staying at UW to complete my fellowship in Gyn Oncology.

What are the most important things you learned during your residency?

I learned there's always more than one way to get the job done, and when in doubt - you have to load the boat. I also learned how to inhale my entire lunch in under five minutes.

How do you feel UW Ob-Gyn prepared you for success after residency?

I feel incredibly prepared to begin my training as a cancer surgeon - UW gave me a broad exposure to all aspects of women's health, and a skillset that I feel ready to hone, as well as teach to others.

What will you miss most about UW Ob-Gyn and/or Madison?

Not a lot since I'm not leaving! I'll miss everyone who is leaving me though (rude). I'll also miss living across the street from Rachel & Vienna - Seattle is a longer commute. I'll also miss obstetrics, delivering babies is not for the faint of heart, and if you ever need help with a vaginal breech I'm just down the street!!!

Any special shout-outs or thanks to faculty, staff, other residents who really shaped your time here?

Dr. Sample and Dr. McDonald for teaching me how to do my first c-section and hysterectomy, respectively. The entirety of the Gyn Oncology division for fostering my interest in Gyn Onc (and giving me a job, thank you!!). Dr. MJ Kao and Dr. Rodzak for continuing to mentor me despite graduating and retiring (is it obvious yet that I have a hard time letting go?). Dr. Williams for all her mentorship and insight, and my entire class for making it through the last four years together, there's not a better group of people.

Jordan Ward, MD:

Where will you be going and what will you be doing after UW Ob-Gyn?

I am thrilled to be joining the ASOG Division here at UW!

What are the most important things you learned during your residency?

While I have learned so much, the most important lessons have been to trust my instincts and to never be afraid to ask for help (as Dr. Rice would say, "load the boat!").

How do you feel UW Ob-Gyn prepared you for success after residency?

The high volume of general obstetrics and benign gynecology along with the rich exposure to subspeciality experience in Gyn Oncology, MFM, FPMRS, and REI has prepared me for the extensive breadth and depth of a career in general obstetrics and gynecology. Additionally, the surgical experience we have in this program is exceptional and I feel well-prepared for whatever I may encounter in my career.

Wang published in Gynecologic Oncology Reports

Congratulations to UW Ob-Gyn resident Connor Wang, MD, PGY-3, who is lead author on a new publication in Gynecologic Oncology Reports!

In the article “When we open and close: postoperative outcomes after aborted primary cytoreduction for ovarian cancer”, Wang and co-authors Matt Wagar, MD, PGY-4, Amy Godecker, PhD, Ahmed Al-Niaimi, MD, and David Kushner, MD aimed to expand available data to help counsel patients about outcomes after aborted primary debulking surgery.

This retrospective study looked at postsurgical morbidity for 43 patients who underwent aborted primary debulking surgery for advanced ovarian cancer:

“All patients subsequently underwent ICS, [interval cytoreductive surgery] with 21 (48.8%) achieving no residual macroscopic disease and 21 (48.8%) to ≤1cm of macroscopic disease. After AD [aborted primary debulking], 16 (37.2%) experienced at least one G≥3 event within the first 30 days. The most common complication was gastrointestinal complications. Preoperative albumin was the only significant predictor for G≥3 complication after AD.”

Read the whole study here!

UW Ob-Gyn prepares posters, presentations for SASGOG Annual Meeting

The Society of Academic Specialists in General Obstetrics and Gynecology Annual Meeting, coming up in May 2022, will include exciting presentations and posters from faculty and residents in the UW Department of Ob-Gyn! Some of the great work that will be featured at the conference:

Presentation:

UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn Director Makeba Williams, MD, and Heidi Brown, MD, MAS, of the Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, collaborated on a project that earned the First Place Oral Presentation prize at the conference! The review committee told Williams and co-authors that they “highly regarded your work and encourage you to turn your abstract into a peer-reviewed paper.” Congratulations!

BP Connect: Referring Gynecology Patients with Elevated Blood Pressure to Primary Care Follow-up – Makeba Williams, MD; Heidi Brown, MD, MAS; Anisa Carlson; Christie Bartels, MD; Edmond Bromley; Monica Messina; Bret Hanlon

Posters:

Implementation of Resident Clinic Curriculum Using Podcasts and Case-Based Learning – Emily Buttigieg, MD; Bridget Kelly, MD

Incidence of Lymph Node Positivity in Endometrial Intraepithelial Neoplasia – Matt Wagar, MD; Katherine Sampene, MD; Makeba Williams, MD

Congratulations to all!

Save the Dates: UW Ob-Gyn 2022 Research Events

Save the dates for three UW Department of Ob-Gyn research events in 2022:

February 24, 2022 - Resident Research Day

Featuring a keynote presentation by Lisa Hollier, MD, MPH, professor of ob-gyn at Baylor College of Medicine and former president of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Resident research presentations by PGY-4 residents John Poehlmann, MD, and Matthew Wagar, MD.

March 3, 2022 - Resident Research Day

Featuring a keynote by Catherine Bradley, MD, MSCE, professor of ob-gyn at the University of Iowa. Resident research presentations by PGY-4 residents Ushma Patel, MD, Jordan Ward, MD and Daniel Pellicer, MD.

May 26, 2022 - Department Research Day

Featuring a keynote presentation by Jeffrey Peipert, MD, PhD, professor of ob-gyn at the Indiana University School of Medicine. UW Ob-Gyn faculty Jenny Higgins, PhD and Laura Jacques, MD will give research presentations. Graduating fellows Shannon Rush, MD (gynecologic oncology) and Jennifer Jacobson, MD (maternal-fetal medicine) will present their fellowship research projects.

Wagar published in Journal of Ob-Gyn Hospital Medicine

A new article in the latest issue of the Journal of Ob-Gyn Hospital Medicine looks at rates of removal of fallopian tubes during postpartum sterilization procedures.

“Trends in Postpartum Opportunistic Salpingectomy During Vaginal Delivery Admissions”, by UW Ob-Gyn resident Matt Wagar, MD, PGY-4 and co-authors Amy Godecker, PhD, Maria Landeros, Lisa Barroilhet, MD MS, and Makeba Williams, MD, is a retrospective study looking at rates of bilateral salpingectomy before and after the Society of Gynecologic Oncology issued a practice statement recommending patients consider salpingectomy rather than tubal ligation to lower future cancer risk. Their comparison found:

“Patient demographics before and after January 1st, 2014, did not significantly differ between the time periods. In 2014, 5.9% of sterilization procedures were completed as salpingectomies, increasing to 80% by 2019 (p-value for trend <0.001). No differences in postoperative complications or readmissions were noted between the two time periods.”

Read the whole study here!

Wagar nominated for AOA Society

Congratulations to UW Ob-Gyn resident Matt Wagar, MD, PGY-4, who was recently nominated by a UW SMPH medical student to be inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society!

Nominees to the society exemplify the ideals of the AOA: recognizing educational achievement, honoring gifted teaching, encouraging leadership development, supporting the ideals of humanism, and promoting service to others. These ideals are not new to Wagar, who was inducted to the society in 2017. Even though he is already a member, this nomination is an incredible honor.

Grand Rounds: Wagar presents “Ask not what I can do for you, but what you can do for Salpingectomy: Access to Risk Reducing Gynecologic Surgery”

On January 27, 2022, UW Ob-Gyn resident Matt Wagar, MD, PGY-4 presented the Grand Rounds lecture “Ask not what I can do for you, but what you can do for Salpingectomy: Access to Risk Reducing Gynecologic Surgery.”

In the lecture, Wagar examined the epidemiologic evidence and biologic theories for risk reducing gynecologic surgery; discussed current recommendations for risk reducing gynecologic surgery; described the barriers to risk reducing gynecologic surgery at the individual, institutional, and national levels; evaluated barriers to risk reducing gynecologic surgery at our own institution; and discussed targets for intervention to increase access and utilization of risk reducing gynecologic surgery.

Watch the whole lecture here.

Wagar published in Gynecologic Oncology

A new article in the journal Gynecologic Oncology by UW Ob-Gyn resident Matt Wagar, MD, PGY-4 examines whether enrollments in clinical trials for PARP inhibitors reflects the racial and ethnic diversity of people who are diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

“Racial and ethnic enrollment disparities in clinical trials of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors for gynecologic cancers”, by Wagar and co-authors Rachel Mojdehbakhsh, MD, Amy Godecker, PhD, Laurel Rice, MD, and Lisa Barroilhet, MD, is a retrospective review utilizing data from 15 PARP inhibitor trials on ClinicalTrials.gov. The study found:

“[Non-Hispanic] NH-Black and Hispanic patients are significantly underrepresented in clinical trials evaluating PARP inhibitors for ovarian cancers compared to NH-White cohorts. Phase II/III trials assessing PARP inhibitors for ovarian cancers do not accurately represent the populations diagnosed with these malignancies. Enrollment strategies are needed to increase diversity in PARP inhibitor clinical trials for women's cancers.”

Read the whole study here!

Wagar matches into Gynecologic Oncology fellowship at University of Wisconsin

The UW Ob-Gyn Division of Gynecologic Oncology is excited to announce that Matthew Wagar, MD, PGY-4, matched as our 2022 Gynecologic Oncology fellow!

Wagar earned his MD at the University of Minnesota, and is currently completing ob-gyn residency in our department. The Gyn Onc team was impressed with his passion for medical education and commitment to providing excellent patient care. We’re thrilled that he will stay with us for a few more years!

Congratulations, Dr. Wagar!

Wagar published in Journal of Nursing Education and Practice

UW Ob-Gyn resident Matt Wagar, MD, PGY-4 is the lead author on a quality improvement study published in the Journal of Nursing Education and Practice!

Accurate maternal blood pressure measurements are important for diagnosing hypertension problems, making treatment plans, and more. “Obtaining an accurate maternal blood pressure: A quality improvement initiative to improve nursing knowledge and confidence” examines nurses’ confidence in taking accurate blood pressures, fitting blood pressure cuffs correctly, administering antihypertensive medications, and more. Nurses who participated in the quality improvement program worked in the UnityPoint Health-Meriter obstetric triage, antepartum, labor and delivery, and postpartum units.

“A BP educational initiative and standardized BP cuff assessment increased nurses’ knowledge and confidence in selecting the correct cuff size and obtaining accurate readings. Increased knowledge and confidence may lead to greater adherence to standardized BP assessment during peripartum admission, more accurate BP measurements, and improved management of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy.”

Read the whole study here!

Wagar published in Gynecologic Oncology

UW Ob-Gyn resident Matt Wagar, MD, PGY-4 published an article in a recent edition of Gynecologic Oncology!

In “Postoperative venous thromboembolism in gynecologic oncology patients undergoing minimally invasive surgery: Does modality matter?”, Wagar and co-authors conducted a retrospective cohort study of all patients who underwent gynecologic cancer surgery at UW between 2014 and 2018. They looked for incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE), and compared rates between different methods of minimally invasive surgery.

“The incidence of postoperative VTE in patients with gynecologic cancers undergoing MIS is low and does not appear to differ by MIS modality. Given the very low incidence of postoperative VTE, extended chemoprophylaxis is unlikely to benefit patients with gynecologic malignancies undergoing MIS procedures.”

Read the whole study here!

Congratulations to winners of 2021 UW Ob-Gyn department awards!

On June 24, 2021, the UW Department of Ob-Gyn held its annual awards ceremony, recognizing educational, research and administrative accomplishments throughout the year. The ceremony started by acknowledging a few momentous departures:

Klaus Diem, MD is retiring after many years of service in the department. Diem is a past director of the Division of Gynecology, and served as interim director of the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility during a transition time.

Jeff Rodzak, MD, of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, is also retiring. Rodzak will continue to see patients at the VA Hospital.

Cynthie Wautlet, MD, of the Division of Academic Specialists in Ob-Gyn, is headed to Colorado for a fellowship in Maternal-Fetal Medicine. Congratulations, Dr. Wautlet!

We also have the great joy of welcoming new arrivals:

Kristina Warner, MD will join us in July as the first-ever Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery fellow. Dr. Warner graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a B.S. in Biology, earned her medical degree from the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, and is currently completing her Ob-Gyn residency at Northwestern University.

Erin Bailey, MD will join the Maternal-Fetal Medicine fellowship program. Dr. Bailey received her M.D. from the University of Wisconsin. She is currently completing her Ob-Gyn residency at Washington University.

Lauren Montemorano, MD is the incoming Gynecologic Oncology fellow. Dr. Montemorano earned her medical degree from the University of Virginia and is completing her Ob-Gyn residency at The Ohio State University.

Guadalupe Aguilera, PhD is a new postdoctoral fellow joining the Health Disparities Research Scholars program. Aguilera is finishing her PhD at the University of Utah in the Department of Sociology and will join the HDRS program in September 2021.

And of course, we are thrilled to welcome the Ob-Gyn residency intern class!

MEDICAL STUDENT AWARDS

DR. SAMUEL G. PERLSON SCHOLARSHIP – Erin Nacev, MD (Oregon Health & Science University); Steven Hesse, MD (University of Minnesota)

This award goes out to one or more fourth year medical students planning to pursue a career in Ob-Gyn who have demonstrated outstanding abilities as a scholar and outstanding humanistic qualities.

T.A. LEONARD AWARD – Nicholas Schreiter

The T.A. Leonard Award is given to one or more medical students in recognition of exemplary performance on their third year Ob/Gyn rotation.

MEDICAL STUDENT EDUCATOR AWARD FOR RESIDENT TEACHING – Ramsey Larson, MD

RESIDENCY AWARDS

CHIEF RESIDENT RECOGNITION – Ramsey Larson, MD; Stephanie Peace, MD

For service as the administrative chief resident, academic year 2020-2021

UW HEALTH INTERDISCIPLINARY GLOBAL HEALTH TRACK RECOGNITION – Stephanie Peace, MD

Given to a graduating resident upon the completion of the Global Health Track.

UW HEALTH RURAL TRAINING TRACK RECOGNITION – Laura McDowell, MD

Given to a graduating resident upon the completion of the Rural Training Track.

AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF GYNECOLOGIC LAPAROSCOPISTS (AAGL) AWARD – Ramsey Larson, MD

Given to a graduating resident with special excellence in endoscopic procedures.

SOCIETY OF LAPAROENDOSCOPIC SURGEONS (SLS) AWARD – Matt Wagar, MD

Awarded to a PGY3, outstanding laparoendoscopic resident.

RESIDENT CREOG AWARD – Ramsey Larson, MD

Awarded for the highest exam score on the annual CREOG In-Training Examination

BEN M. PECKHAM AWARD – Stephanie Peace, MD

Awarded to a senior residents for excellence in the teaching and clinical practice of Ob-Gyn, as voted by the residents.

SOCIETY OF GYNECOLOGIC ONCOLOGY (SGO) AWARD – Matt Wagar, MD

Awarded to a PGY3 who best exemplifies the qualities of the mission and vision of SGO.

SOCIETY FOR ACADEMIC SPECIALISTS IN GENERAL OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY (SASGOG) AWARD – Emily Buttigieg, MD

Awarded to a PGY4 who has distinguished themselves academically and demonstrates an interest in a career as an Academic Specialist.

AMERICAN UROGYNECOLOGIC SOCIETY (AUGS) AWARD – Ushma Patel, MD

Awarded to a PGY3 resident demonstrating excellence in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, as chosen by the FPMRS faculty.

SOCIETY FOR MATERNAL-FETAL MEDICINE (SMFM) AWARD – Madeline Wetterhahn, MD, MPH

Awarded to the PGY2 resident who best exemplifies the qualities of the vision of our society to improve pregnancy and perinatal outcomes.

RESEARCH AWARDS

DOUGLAS W. LAUBE BEST TRAINEE PAPER AWARD – Jessica Vazquez, PhD

For the best peer reviewed paper by a graduate student dissertator or medical fellow.

ROLAND K. MEYER GRADUATE TRAINEE AWARD – Amanda Mauro

Awarded to the graduate student dissertator showing the most scientific productivity and scholarly activity.

CHESTER B. MARTIN GRADUATE TRAINING PROGRAM MENTORSHIP AWARD – María Virumbrales Muñoz, PhD

Awarded to faculty or staff that has had the most impact on graduate student degree-related training.

PHILLIP R. HAMILTON III, MD RESIDENT RESEARCH AWARD – Ramsey Larson, MD

Awarded to the senior residents demonstrating the best effort in research.

DEPARTMENT ADMINISTRATIVE AWARD

OBGYN SUPPORT STAFF EXCELLENCE AWARD – Amy Williamson, MPP

In recognition of outstanding staff who routinely and regularly exemplify the mission of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology through excellent performance and customer service.

RESIDENT FACULTY AWARDS

JOHN M. ANDERSON, MD MEMORIAL AWARD – Heidi Brown, MD

For demonstrating the traits of Dr. Anderson: patience, integrity and compassion in the care of women.

KIMBERLEY J. MILLER-THORESON COMPASSIONATE COLLEAGUE AWARD – Kristen Sharp, MD

For demonstrating the traits of Dr. Miller-Thoreson showing respect, compassion, dedication and unending support towards their colleagues and trainees.

DOLORES A. BUCHLER AWARD – Jennifer Karnowski, MD

For excellence in instruction at the senior resident level.

KARL A. RUDAT AWARD – Ahmed Al-Niaimi, MD

For excellence in surgical teaching at the senior resident level.

FACULTY RECOGNITION AWARDS

OUTSTANDING FELLOW EDUCATOR – Shannon Rush, MD

Given to one fellow in either Gynecologic Oncology or Maternal-Fetal Medicine for excellence in resident education.

ST. MARY’S ADJUNCT FACULTY EDUCATOR AWARD – Ryan Luellwitz, DO

Selected by the residents for excellence in resident education.

MERITER ADJUNCT FACULTY EDUCATOR AWARD – Mary Stoffel, MD (Madison Women’s Health)

Selected by the residents for excellence in resident education.

SOCIETY FOR ACADEMIC SPECIALISTS IN GENERAL OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY (SASGOG) AWARD – Jennifer Karnowski, MD

National faculty award for dedication and commitment to the ideals of being an academic generalist.

SABINE DROSTE AWARD – Ruth Yemane, MD

The Sabine Droste Award is selected by the junior residents for a faculty member who demonstrates excellence in instruction at the junior resident level.

ELLEN HARTENBACH AWARD – Sumer Wallace, MD

Selected by the residents and given annually to the faculty member who has made the greatest contribution in simulation education.

CREOG FACULTY AWARD – Kristen Sharp, MD

National faculty award for excellence in resident education.

Wagar published in Green Journal

In a new publication in the journal Obstetrics and Gynecology, UW Ob-Gyn resident Matt Wagar, MD, PGY-3 compared operative outcomes of postpartum tubal ligation and bilateral salpingectomy. Co-authors on the article include UW Ob-Gyn Division of Academic Specialists Director Makeba Williams, MD, and Amy Godecker, PhD.

The retrospective study “Postpartum Salpingectomy Compared With Standard Tubal Ligation After Vaginal Delivery” examined 10 years of data for patients who underwent tubal sterilization after vaginal delivery. The primary outcome comparison between the two procedures was operative time, with secondary outcomes of blood loss, complications, and readmission within six weeks. The study found:

“When using electrocautery, bilateral salpingectomy can be completed in the immediate postpartum period after vaginal delivery with equivalent operative times to bilateral tubal ligation.”

Read the whole study here. Incredible work, Dr. Wagar!

Wagar to bring poster to 2021 virtual APGO/CREOG meeting

UW Ob-Gyn resident Matt Wagar, MD, PGY-3 will bring the poster “Degree of Agreement Between Resident and Faculty Procedural Assessments Using MyTIPreport” to the 2021 APGO/CREOG virtual meeting in March.

Wagar's poster is just one of many reasons to consider registering for the conference. Congratulations, Dr. Wagar!

First HAGO Conference was a great success!

On September 10-11, the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Gynecologic Oncology hosted the first-ever Heartland Association of Gynecologic Oncology (HAGO) meeting. More than 70 gynecologic oncology professionals tuned in for the virtual conference, which included two keynote presentations and 21 research abstract presentations.

HAGO was founded in 2020 by UW Ob-Gyn Division of Gyn Onc Director Stephen Rose, MD, and the program committee included Ryan Spencer, MD and UW Ob-Gyn Gyn Onc fellowship graduates Andrea O’Shea, MD and Shitanshu Uppal, MD.

Of the 21 abstracts selected for presentation, five were from our department (Matthew Wagar, MD with mentor Sumer Wallace, MD; Wagar with mentor Makeba Williams, MD; Shannon Rush, MD with mentor Steve Rose, MD; Rachel Mojdehbakhsh, MD with mentor Ryan Spencer, MD; and Connor Wang, MD with mentor Spencer).

UW Ob-Gyn Gyn Onc fellow Shannon Rush, MD earned the first Award for Clinical Research for her abstract “65 Revisited: A Revised Markov Model for Evaluating Oophorectomy at the Time of Hysterectomy for Benign Disease”!

Lisa Barroilhet, MD was also an invited distillation presenter and UW Ob-Gyn Department Chair Laurel Rice, MD gave a keynote address and received the inaugural HAGO Award for Service and Leadership.

Our congratulations to everyone involved in planning and preparing the HAGO Conference – incredible work!