Pelvic floor disorders research at Duke University Medical Center (DUMC) is sophisticated and comprehensive with committed investigators addressing issues of great importance to women. DUMC 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 field. DUMC offers detailed evaluation and treatment in a high-volume, multidisciplinary setting that serves as a tertiary referral center for women across the southeast US. Each of the five Duke urogynecology investigators is fellowship-trained with expertise in both surgical and non-surgical management of urinary incontinence (Ul), pelvic organ prolapse (POP), fecal incontinence, and defecatory dysfunction. Last year, our Division cared for more than 1550 new patients and performed more than 400 surgical procedures for Ul and 270 for POP. Our patient population is 80% Caucasian, 15% African American, 2% Asian and 2% Hispanic, from both suburban and rural communities with stable care and follow-up patterns. DUMC is the hub of a multidisciplinary team of outstanding collaborative investigators in urogynecology, urology, colorectal surgery, gastroenterology, maternal-fetal medicine, physical therapy and epidemiology. DUMC offers a wide range of diagnostic resources: multi-channel urodynamic testing, video urodynamics, cystoscopy, defecography, pelvic MRI, endoanal ultrasound, and needle electromyography. During the current PFDN cycle, DUMC-initiated three active RCTs: 1. Anticholinergic vs Botox RCT (ABC, Dr. Visco, currently enrolling), Interstim vs Botox RCT (ROSETTA, Dr. Amundsen, full protocol), and a RCT evaluating transvaginal mesh for prolapse repair (Dr. Weidner, mini-protocol planned for fall of 2010. DUMC has consistently been a high recruitment site across a wide range of non-surgical and surgical studies with unparalleled retention rates. We have proven our ability to support and successfully complete large-scale, multi-centered investigations through our robust clinical practice and exceptional research infrastructure. Accordingly, Duke University Medical Center is well equipped and uniquely qualified to continue as a valuable and productive member of the Pelvic Floor Disorders Network.
Female pelvic floor disorders represent a major public health burden given their high prevalence, impairment of quality of life, and substantial economic costs. As part of the Pelvic Floor Disorders Network, Duke University Medical Center is committed to actively participating in innovative clinical trials aimed at improving the evaluation and treatment of pelvic floor disorders through high-quality, high-impact clinical research.
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