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

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Division of FPMRS at 2023 AUGS annual meeting

Members of the Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery brought research and leadership to the PFD Week 2023 meeting in Portland, OR in early October: 

Dobie Giles, MD, MS, MBA, professor in the Division of FPMRS, moderated a general session during the conference. 

Poster: Development of a Multidisciplinary Curriculum for Urogynecology and Colorectal Surgery Fellows – co-authors: Ushma Patel, Stephen Ranney, Ray King, Christine Heisler 

Congratulations, all!  

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Patel earns Morley Memorial Paper Award at Central Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Annual Meeting

Congratulations to Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery fellow Ushma Patel, MD, who received the Dr. George Morley Memorial Paper award at the 2023 Central Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (CAOG) 90th Annual Meeting, held in Nashville October 25-28, 2023. 

Patel received the award for the paper “Aiming for Zero: Success of the Hysterectomy Surgical Site Infection Prevention Bundle”, which she presented during a scientific session on October 28. 

Incredible work, Dr. Patel! 

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Register for Break Free From Pelvic Floor Disorders Community Talk on November 14

Many of us have questions about topics like bladder and bowel leakage and pelvic organ prolapse, but we may not know how to bring them up. These conditions are common, especially as we get older, but they are not inevitable. 

Please join us on Tuesday, November 14 for an evening of conversation with UW Health Women’s Pelvic Wellness physicians, advanced practice providers, and physical therapists to learn how you can prevent or control symptoms. 

This event will include issue-focused breakout sessions on pelvic organ prolapse, stress urinary incontinence, accidental bowel leakage, overactive bladder, pelvic floor physical therapy, and more.  

November 14, 2023 
6:00-7:15pm (Central)
Virtual event - register here

Presenters:

• Sari Archer, DNP
• Jon Pennycuff, MD, MSPH
• Sarah McAchran, MD
• FPMRS Fellows: Kristina Warner, MD; Ushma Patel, MD
• Physical Therapists: Carrie Schwoerer, Amanda Morrow, Becky McConnell

Learn more and register here!

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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

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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.

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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.      

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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.

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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. 

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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.

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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.

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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!

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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. 

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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 

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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.

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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!

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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. 

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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. 

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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.  

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UW Ob-Gyn expertise highlighted at AUGS/IUGA Scientific Meeting

The UW Ob-Gyn Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery was incredibly productive at the combined American Urogynecologic Society/International Urogynecologic Association (AUGS/IUGA) meeting in Austin, Texas June 14-18, 2022! This scientific meeting of the two organizations takes place every five years.  

Learn about the research, presentations, and leadership roles members of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of FPMRS brought to the meeting:

Oral Presentations

“A pilot study of home-based pelvic muscle training for vaginal symptoms among survivors of breast cancer”.  Pennycuff J, Pulliam S, McKinney J, Iglesia C.

“The variation of chargemaster price listings for urogynecologic procedures”.  Kadesh A, Baban S, Chaudhary R, Lui A, Shi J, Ahluwalia J, Giles D, Petersen D, Grimes C.

“Urinary incontinence prevalence and care-seeking in a predominately Black/African-American sample of community-dwelling women”.  Warner K, Schultz A, Barnet J, Brown H.

“BP Connect: referring urogynecology patients with high blood pressure for primary care follow-up”.  Brown H, Williams M, Ramly E, Messina M, Hanlon B, Carlson A, Bartels C.

Poster

“A comparison of vaginal pH using prasterone, estradiol cream or non-hormonal vaginal moisturizer for genitourinary syndrome of menopause (VPHRESH).  Melvin E, Zhuo R, Boudreaux A, Locci-Molina N, Lefbom L, Pennycuff J, Dieter A, Iglesia C.

Altmetric Award winner

presented by the editor of the journal Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery for “Updated Prevalence of Urinary Incontinence in Women: 2015-2018 National Population-Based Survey Data”.  April 2022 ; Vol 28:Issue 4 – P 181-187.  Patel U, Godecker A, Giles D, Brown H.

Meet the Expert Roundtable Session

“Pelvic health and sexual wellbeing in cancer survivorship” Dr. Jon Pennycuff

FPMRS Fellowship Directors Meeting

Dr. Jon Pennycuff (Associate PD)

Session Moderators

Dr. Heidi Brown – Abstract Session – Anorectal Dysfunction and Fistula

Dr. Dobie Giles – Abstract Session – Urinary Incontinence: Treatment

AUGS Board of Directors

Dr. Heidi Brown – Director and Pelvic Floor Disorders Research (PFDR) Foundation Vice Chair

Dr. Dobie Giles – Treasurer and Executive Committee

In addition, the UW Ob-Gyn FPMRS team reconnected with two UW Ob-Gyn residency alumni who are now FPMRS attendings: Caroline Cox, MD (who moderated a scientific salon at the conference) is an assistant professor at Penn Medicine; Hayley Barnes, MD (who authored an abstract presented at the meeting) is an assistant professor at the University of Cincinnati!

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Patel earns FPMRS Journal 2022 Media Impact Award

UW Ob-Gyn resident and soon-to-be Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery fellow Ushma Patel, MD received the 2022 Media Impact Award from the journal FPMRS for the article “Updated Prevalence of Urinary Incontinence in Women: 2015-2018 National Population-Based Survey Data"!

The article was published online in February 2022 and appeared in the April 2022 issue of FPMRS. After the article was published, Patel and co-authors discussed the article’s findings with Urology Times on multiple occasions. Patel also recapped the study on the American Urogynecologic Society’s social media.

Congratulations, Dr. Patel!

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UW Ob-Gyn residents represent department at Student National Medical Association conference

UW Ob-Gyn residents India Anderson-Carter, MD, PGY-2, Ushma Patel, MD, PGY-4, and Awa Sanneh, MD, PGY-2 attended the Student National Medical Association (SNMA) Annual Medical Education Conference in Orlando to represent the UW Ob-Gyn residency in April!

The SNMA is an organization that supports current and future underrepresented minority medical students. The Annual Medical Education Conference brings together students from all levels of medical education for workshops focused on preparing physicians-in-training for academic and clinical success, and connecting students and physicians from across the country to build supportive networks.

Huge thanks to our residents for connecting more students with our training program during the conference!

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Grand Rounds: Patel presents “The Global Burden of Surgical Disease”

On March 10, 2022, UW Ob-Gyn resident Ushma Patel, MD, PGY-4 presented the Grand Rounds lecture “The Global Burden of Surgical Disease”.

In the lecture, Patel defined the concept of global surgery, explained the evolution of global surgery, identified strategies to alleviate the global surgical burden, and more.

Watch the whole lecture here!

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Patel recaps research on AUGS social media

After publication of the new article “Updated Prevalence of Urinary Incontinence in Women” in the journal Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery, UW Ob-Gyn resident (and incoming FPMRS fellow) Ushma Patel, MD, PGY-4 summarized the study’s findings in a video highlighted on the American Urogynecologic Society (AUGS)’s social media.

In the video, Patel outlined the study’s findings of urinary incontinence prevalence in the overall population, as well as by age, BMI, obstetric history, race and ethnicity, and more.

Watch the whole video here!

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Patel and Brown discuss underdiagnosis and undertreatment of incontinence with UrologyTimes

After publication of their new article “Updated Prevalence of Urinary Incontinence in Women” in the journal Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery, authors Heidi Brown, MD, MAS (Division of FMPRS) and Ushma Patel, MD (PGY-4 resident and soon-to-be FPMRS fellow) spoke with Urology Times about the study.

In the latest video interview, Patel and Brown discuss the strong associations between anxiety and depression and urinary incontinence, why they think UI may be underdiagnosed and undertreated, and how to bring the condition back to the forefront for primary care providers:

““I think the biggest take-home message is that more and more women are going to need our help in the coming years, and very few of them right now seek care. Those who do often do so with primary care providers who may not be aware of all the solutions we can offer, so sharing this prevalence study with your local primary care referral network may be helpful to put it back on busy PCPs’ radars that urinary incontinence is very common in women, and that if they, that we’re here to help,” Brown says.”

Watch the whole video here!

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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.

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Brown and Patel on current state of urinary incontinence for women in Urology Times

After publication of their new article “Updated Prevalence of Urinary Incontinence in Women” in the journal Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery, authors Heidi Brown, MD, MAS (Division of FMPRS) and Ushma Patel, MD (PGY-4 resident and soon-to-be FPMRS fellow) spoke with Urology Times about the study.

 In the interview, Brown and Patel shared the motivation behind the study, their most notable findings, take-home messages for urologists and primary care providers, and how they expect the data to evolve into the future:

“So, it's hard to imagine that urinary incontinence prevalence won't remain this prevalent or increase, but my hope with this data is that it really underlines the seriousness of the matter and normalizes it too. [Also,] I hope that it allows mobilization of research funding into female urinary incontinence, and that it increases health care provider and community engagement to increase diagnosis and management of the topic. I think the real thing that would be amazing is if the trajectory of this was reversed from what we're seeing today.”

Read the whole interview and watch the video here!

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Patel, Brown, Giles publish in FPMRS journal

A new study published in the journal Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery provides updated estimates for how many women in the U.S. experience or are at risk for urinary incontinence.

“Updated Prevalence of Urinary Incontinence in Women”, by Division of FPMRS faculty Heidi Brown, MD, Dobie Giles, MD, and resident and soon-to-be FPMRS fellow Ushma Patel, MD, PGY-4 found that more than 60% of adult women in the U.S. experience urinary incontinence, a big increase over past estimates. The study analyzed data collected by the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).

“More than 60% of community-dwelling adult women in the United States experience any UI and an increase from prior estimates (38%–49%) using NHANES data from 1999 to 2004; more than 20% experience moderate or more severe UI. Increases in UI prevalence may be related to population aging and increasing obesity prevalence.”

Read the whole article here!

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Division of FPMRS brings research and leadership to AUGS annual meeting

Huge congratulations to the UW Ob-Gyn Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, as well as fantastic UW Ob-Gyn residents and UW undergrads, who brought presentations and research to the PFD Week 2021 Annual Meeting, hosted by the American Urogynecologic Society!

In addition to the presentations, UW was mentioned twice in the President’s Address: research by Christine Heisler, MD, MS in the area of pay gaps between genders in the field of medicine got the first shout-out. The Mind Over Matter community dissemination project, led by Heidi Brown, MD, MAS, was also highlighted!

Several members of the team were able to attend the hybrid meeting, which required proof of vaccination as well as masks in meeting areas. Here is a summary of the presentations/posters from our faculty, fellows, residents and undergrads:

Short oral: 

U Patel, A Godecker, D Giles and H Brown. Updating the Prevalence of Urinary Incontinence in Adult Women Using 2015-2018 Data from a National Population-Based Survey.

B Mumm, J Barnet, T LeCaire, K Malecki, M Wise, D Newman, and H Brown. Who are we leaving high and not dry? Reach of Bladder Health Promotion via Email. 

G Halder, R Rogers, A White, H Brown, L Caldwell, and M Constantine. Measuring Preparedness for Surgery Validation of a Novel Surgical Preparedness Survey.

S Baban, C Grimes, A Kadesh, J Shi, J Ahluwalia, A Lui, D Giles, A Amin, M White, G Daly, S Reddy, A Block, and R Chaudhan. Variation of Chargemaster Price Listings for Sling Procedures Across Five States.

Scientific Salon:

J Pennycuff, M Pauliukonis, M Yasukawa, A Shimada, and T Parker. The Role of Breast Cancer Treatment in Pelvic Floor Symptoms and Sexual Dysfunction in Breast Cancer Survivors.

J Pennycuff, J Orzel, and L Richter. Surgical Outcomes for Breast Cancer Survivors Undergoing Prolapse and Anti-Incontinence Surgery.  

Poster:

G Avery, M Moureau, M Piper, N Werner, and H Brown. Reach and Teach: Pilot-Testing a Continence Self-Management Website.

Moderator:

H Brown Scientific Salon I – Functional Anatomy of the Pelvic Floor

Congratulations to all on this incredible showing!

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Patel matches into FPMRS fellowship at University of Wisconsin

We’re so thrilled to announce that Ushma Patel, MD, PGY-4 will stick around after finishing residency to be the second Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery fellow!

 

Patel received her MD from Loyola University and has been completing her ob-gyn residency with us at the University of Wisconsin. The FPMRS team is impressed with her dedication to the field and fierce drive to improve the lives of the patients she serves. We’re so pleased she will stay in the UW Ob-Gyn family for a few more years.

 

Congratulations, Dr. Patel! 

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Patel and Heisler author article in Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics of North America

Christine Heisler, MD, MS, of the UW Ob-Gyn Divison of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery and resident Ushma Patel, MD PGY-4 co-authored an article in the journal Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics of North America.

In “Urinary tract injury during gynecologic surgery: prevention, recognition and management”, Patel and Heisler review important anatomy involved in gynecologic surgery, discuss risks for lower urinary tract injuries during surgery, offer suggestions for preventing injury, and walk through steps for identifying and managing injuries during surgery.

“LUT injuries are a recognized complication of gynecologic surgery, occurring as a consequence of the close proximity of the reproductive organs to the urologic organs. Considering the morbidity associated with LUT injury, prevention through knowledge of pelvic anatomy, high level of surgical skill, and understanding of patient risk factors are emphasized. In the setting of iatrogenic complications, the primary aim must be early intraoperative diagnosis and treatment. To combat delayed postoperative recognition of iatrogenic LUT injury, gynecologic surgeons must maintain an appropriate degree of suspicion for injuries by preserving familiarity with the types, locations, and mechanisms of injuries. Equally important, surgeons must be familiar with the wide range of patient symptoms and preferred diagnostic imaging to promptly diagnose LUT injury in the postoperative period. Finally, LUT injuries should be evaluated and repaired by a surgeon who is familiar with such procedures and the necessary postoperative management.”

Read the whole article here. Incredible work, Dr. Patel and Dr. Heisler!

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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

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. 

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.

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Patel published in International Journal of Surgery Case Reports

A case study by UW Ob-Gyn resident (and future UW Ob-Gyn Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery fellow) Ushma Patel, MD, PGY-3 was published in the International Journal of Surgery Case Reports. Christine Heisler, MD, of the UW Ob-Gyn Division of FPMRS co-authored the case study.

“Enterocele manifesting as recurrent anterior rectal prolapse: A case report” outlines the presentation, diagnosis, and surgical treatment of a patient with an uncommon pelvic floor defect.

Read the whole article here!

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Patel selected as 2022 FPMRS fellow!

The UW Ob-Gyn Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, and FPMRS Fellowship Director Christine Heisler, MD, are thrilled to announce that Ushma Patel, MD will join us as our second FPMRS fellow in July 2022! Patel is currently a PGY-3 resident in our department.

Patel attended Marquette University for her undergraduate degree, and earned her MS from the Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine. She is the UW Ob-Gyn Residency Class of 2022’s Global Health Resident, and a member of the UW Ob-Gyn Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee.

Dr. Patel’s dedication to serving women with complex pelvic conditions coupled with her strong surgical skills make her an excellent addition to the UW Ob-Gyn FPMRS fellowship, and we are so pleased that she will be sticking around for a few more years after residency. 

Congratulations, Dr. Patel!

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FPMRS Division brings posters, presentations to virtual AUGS meeting

The UW Ob-Gyn Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery shared research and new developments at the annual American Urogynecologic Society (AUGS) Meeting October 8-10, 2020! Since the meeting was held virtually (instead of in Vancouver), attendees joined from the wonderful offices within Meriter Hospital.  

Our group presented three oral presentations and two posters.  Heidi Brown, MD and Division Director Dobie Giles, MD also served as moderators for two sessions.

Oral Presentations:

Updating the prevalence of urinary incontinence in adult women using 2015-2016 data from a national population-based survey

U. J. Patel, A. L. Godecker, D. L. Giles, H.W. Brown. 

A randomized control trial evaluating preoperative telephone calls on surgical preparedness in urogynecology

G. E. Halder, A. B. White, H.W. Brown, L. Caldwell, D. L.Giles, C. A. Heisler, D. Bilagi, R. G. Rogers

Is it worth the cost? A cost benefit analysis of postoperative post-void residual bladder scan thresholds

S. M. Jansen, A.Woll, S. E. Swift, C. A. Heisler

Posters:

Is fecal incontinence (FI) associated with urinary tract infection (UTI)?

S. M. Jansen, K. Pellino, H.W.Brown, Q.Zhao, C.A.Heisler

How well does post-void residual by subtraction correlate with objective urinary retention in the postoperative setting?

S. M. Jansen, A.Woll, H.W. Brown, S. E. Swift, Q. Zhao, C.A.Heisler

Congratulations to all  who presented and attended – amazing work!

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