Women's health research at the University of North Carolina (UNC) is sophisticated and widespread with many committed investigators addressing issues of fundamental importance to women. UNC has a tradition of excellence in clinical care, training and research in_pelvic floor disorders and includes one of the nation's first accredited fellowship programs in the Division of Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery. We offer comprehensive evaluation and treatment options in a high-volume care setting that serves as a tertiary referral center for women from across the state. Women sought consultation or treatment for more than 2700 pelvic floor disorders by Urogynecologists at UNC in the previous two years. Seventy-eight percent of the women were Caucasion and 15% were African American, predominantly from rural and suburban communities with stable care and follow-up patterns. Approximately 427 women had multi-channel urodynamic studies annually. UNC providers have extensive expertise in both surgical and non-surgical management of urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and defecatory dysfunction. The Division of Urogynecology performs an average of 106 surgical procedures for the primary indication of urinary incontinence, 300 for prolapse and provides medical management for over 1,464 women with these conditions each year. The UNC Pelvic Floor Disorders Research Collaborative, led by the Division of Urogynecology is a multidisciplinary team of outstanding investigators in Urogynecology, urology, gastroenterology, radiology, maternal-fetal medicine and clinical research methodology. They have a history of strong clinical ties and dedication to interdisciplinary research. Diagnostic resources include muti-channel urodynamic testing, cystoscopy, defecography, pelvic MRI, 360-degree endoanal ultrasound, anal manometry and needle electromyography. Clinical services include surgical treatment of complex pelvic floor disorders and a wide range of non-surgical options. As an active PFDN clinical network site, UNC has an established research infrastructure with the proven ability to support large-scale, multi-centered clinical research. The collaborative is well-equiped and uniquely qualified to continue as a valuable member of the Pelvic Floor Disorders Network. Given the exceptional quality of the research opportunities and resources available at UNC, the stable and diverse patient population, the strength of the investigator pool, our proven high-level recruitment and the commitment of the institution to the stated goals of this RFA, we look forward to continuing to make substantial contributions to advancing women's health related to pelvic floor disorders.
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