NewsScope - AAGL

Charles E. Miller, M.D.
Scientifi c Program Chair
Vice-President, AAGL
AAGL Advancing Minimally Invasive Gynecology Worldwide
NewsScope
annual meeting
Washington, D.C. Hosts the
36th Annual Meeting of the AAGL
s America’s capital, Washington DC is a powerful and
energetic city that will not only impress you with its
grand monuments, memorials, and museums, but it will
also leave you feeling a sense of deep understanding of
America’s history. History comes alive as one visits the many sites
located across and throughout the city that are both pleasing to
the eye and heart. One can walk through the emotional walls of
the Vietnam Memorial, snap a picture of Lincoln in his large, white
chair as he watches over his nation, visit and tour the White House,
see the changing of the guard at the Arlington National Cemetery,
and feel the rush of energy coming from the many congressional
offi cials running throughout Capitol Hill—just
to name a few. If this does not sustain your
wandering eyes, visit the Smithsonian, the
National Museum of Natural History, The U.S.
Holocaust Memorial Museum, or venture into
the National Air and Space Museum. To get a
feel of the people, journey to the Georgetown
campus where one can shop, stroll the area
and admire the architecture.
At night, one can dine in one of the many
restaurants that boast international fl avor and
indulge in cross-cultural dishes. While the
meal comes to an end, the night only begins.
The nightlife proves to be just as lively as
the day as Washington offers a plethora of
activities.
In addition to this incredible venue,
this year’s Global Congress promises to be
one of the most exciting annual meetings
in AAGL’s history. We have expanded the
various committees to include over 150
physician members who will participate in
the development of the Congress. We had a
APRIL – JUNE 2007 VOL. 20, NO. 2
An Incredible Scientifi c Enclave Deserves an Incredible Venue
A
Experience
Excellence
in
Education
tremendous response to the Call
for Abstracts and look forward
to working with the committees
to develop a clinical program that is
educationally and professionally stimulating.
In addition, I am pleased to announce that Professor
Christopher J.G. Sutton from Surrey, United Kingdom has accepted
our invitation to serve as Honorary Chair. Prof. Sutton plans to
present “People, Places and Publications Which Have Infl uenced
My Surgical Career”. You will not want to miss the Honorary
Luncheon, where we plan to recognize Professor Sutton and hear
his lively and entertaining presentation.
The next issue of NewsScope will update you on the
educational programming scheduled. And look for the First
Announcement in your mail in mid-August.
No matter your schedule, Washington D.C. will provide you
with as much entertainment as you can manage. Just step out
your hotel door and start walking - you are sure to come across
something amazing.
My thanks to my daughter Abagayle for her contributions to this article.
Th e AAGL Global Congress is the pre-eminent meeting for physicians
interested in providing optimal patient care through minimally
invasive gynecology. Designed to meet the needs of practicing
surgeons, residents and fellows, operating room personnel and other
allied healthcare professionals, the Congress covers traditional topics
as well as presentations of “cutting edge” material. With opportunities
to discuss and share discoveries, you will experience excellence in
formal, informal and collegial education.

NewsScope
Franklin D. Loffer, M.D.
Executive Vice President/
Medical Director, AAGL
Resad P. Pasic, M.D., Ph.D.
Editor-in-Chief, NewsScope
Secretary-Treasurer, AAGL
fyi
AAGL Nominations are Open
T
here are a total of fi ve Board of Trustee positions open. Three candidates must come
from the general membership and four candidates must come from specifi c regions
of the world. This year, two candidates will be nominated from the Pacifi c Rim/India/
Asia region and two candidates will come from the Central/South America/Mexico
region. In addition, two other candidates will be selected to run for the position of secretarytreasurer.
This is a four-year commitment that leads to the presidency of the AAGL.
If you wish to be considered as a candidate for one of these positions, you should ask
fi ve AAGL members to submit your name along with a short letter or email of support. These
should be sent to nominations@aagl.org. You are also encouraged to directly contact any
member of the Nominating Committee to make your thoughts known. Their addresses can be
found on the AAGL membership list (go to www.AAGL.org and click on “Find a physician”)
The Nominating Committee will meet in early July 2007. It is time for you to voice your
opinion about your future elected offi cers.
Committee Members are:
Richard J. Gimpelson – Chair, Immediate Past President
G. David Adamson – Past President
Andrew Brill – Past President
Charles E. Miller – Vice President
Ronald L. Levine – Advisory Chair
Franklin D. Loffer – Executive Vice President/Medical Director
Linda Michels – Executive Director
from the editor
See one, do one, teach one…
2 APR - JUN 2007
lthough this well recognized proverb used in medical teaching might be less
applicable to laparoscopic surgery because of the complexity of the procedures and
A the slow learning curve, it remains an important adage.
An equivalent of laparoscopic hysterectomy in general surgery would be a
lap chole, which is performed by 95% of general surgeons. On the other hand, laparoscopic
hysterectomy is performed by less than 15% of gynecologists. The situation around the world is
even more dismal when it comes to minimally invasive approaches to gynecologic pathology.
I recently participated as faculty at the AAGL Annual Course for Residents and Fellows
held in Chicago. This course has been a success for 16 consecutive years. The participants
get fi rst class training in energy modalities, operative hysteroscopy, hysteroscopic resection,
laparoscopic morcellation, laparoscopic suturing and robotic surgery by distinguished faculty
who graciously donate their time to teach these important techniques. I was very pleasantly
surprised at the high participation of very enthusiastic residents, fellows and several practicing
gynecologists. At the same time, I was dismayed by the fact that there are not many residency
programs around the country that offer comprehensive training in operative laparoscopy and
hysteroscopy.
The 9th Annual Advanced Workshop on Gynecologic Laparoscopic Anatomy and Surgery
on Unembalmed Female Cadavers was held on May 18 and 19, 2007 in Louisville, Kentucky.
The participants from fi ve different countries received hands-on experience and training
in pelvic anatomy, laparoscopic dissection, as well as the techniques used in laparoscopic
suturing and laparoscopic hysterectomy. Generous support by the industry has made all of
these courses possible.
In the year 2001, AAGL began fellowship training in pelvic surgery and gynecologic
laparoscopy. Currently, there are 15 training sites and their number is growing each year. I
personally encourage graduating residents to consider applying to any one of the fellowships.
The application process is currently open and all pertinent information can be found at the
AAGL’s website.
The AAGL has been on the forefront of the educational initiative and is certainly making a
tremendous effort to promote laparoscopy and physician training but much more is needed to
close the gap with the general surgeons – we need to reach the goal where 95% of gynecologists
feel comfortable performing a laparoscopic hysterectomy and teach others to do so!
NewsScope
the aagl vision
The AAGL vision is to serve women
by advancing the safest and most
effi cacious diagnostic and therapeutic
techniques that provide less invasive
treatments for gynecologic conditions
through integration of clinical practice,
research, innovation, and dialogue.
editorial staff
Editor-in-Chief
Resad P. Pasic, M.D., Ph.D.
Managing Editors
Linda Michels
Franklin D. Loffer, M.D.
Marketing Coordinator
Lynn Bell
Art Director
Jennifer Sanchez
board of trustees
President
Grace M. Janik, M.D.
Vice-President
Charles E. Miller, M.D.
Secretary-Treasurer
Resad P. Pasic, M.D.
Trustees
Luiz F. Albuquerque, M.D.
Krisztina I. Bajzak, M.D.
Martin Farrugia, M.D.
Gary N. Frishman, M.D.
Keith B. Isaacson, M.D.
Alan M. Lam, M.D., FRACOG
David J. Levine, M.D.
Javier F. Magrina, M.D.
Immediate Past President
Richard J. Gimpleson, M.D
Executive Vice President,
Medical Director
Franklin D. Loffer, M.D.
Executive Director
Linda Michels
NewsScope [Library of Congress Cataloging in Publication
Data, Main entry under NewsScope, Vol. 20, No. 1;
(ISSN 1094–4672)] is published quarterly by the-AAGL
for ten dollars, paid from member’s dues. Periodicals
Postage Paid at Cypress, California.
Copyright 2007 AAGL.
Publisher
AAGL
Advancing Minimally Invasive Gynecology Worldwide
6757 Katella Avenue
Cypress, California 90630-5105 USA
Tel 714.503.6200, 800.554.2245
Fax 714.503.6201, 714.503.6202
E-mail: newsscope@aagl.org
Website: www.aagl.org
The views and opinions expressed by the authors in
this publication do not necessarily refl ect those of
NewsScope, its editors, and/or the AAGL.

Robert K. Zurawin, MD
Associate Professor
Department of
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, Texas
The opinions, viewpoints,
conclusions, recommendations
and statements in the
Clinical Opinion column are
solely those of the author(s)
and are not-attributable
to the sponsor, publisher,
editor or editorial board of
NewsScope, the AAGL, or
any of its affi liates.
clinical opinion
Will Hysteroscopic Sterilization
Replace Laparoscopy?
S
ince the fi rst laparoscopic tubal sterilization was
performed 45 years ago the technique has undergone
several modifi cations but still fundamentally involves
peritoneal entry. The overwhelming majority of these
procedures are performed under general anesthesia in an
operating room. With the development of hysteroscopically
guided placement of micro-inserts for tubal occlusion the
opportunity to offer non-incisional truly minimally invasive
permanent contraception under local anesthesia in the offi ce
setting became a reality. Should this technique replace the
laparoscopic approach?
The decision must be made on the basis of four “C’s”:
Complications, Contraceptive Effectiveness, Cost, and Choice.
Complications of laparoscopic tubal ligation are relatively
uncommon, but when they occur they are frequently severe
and occasionally life-threatening. Many complications are
related to the initial insuffl ation and scope insertion, such
as intestinal perforation, abdominal wall vascular injury,
and major vascular injury. However, it is the risk of general
anesthesia that far surpasses all other factors except diabetes
in causing complications from laparoscopic sterilization.
The risks increase dramatically when the patient is obese
or has prior abdominal surgery. In the largest study to date
of complications of laparoscopic sterilization the incidence
of obesity was only 13.6% - far below the current level in the
United States. 4 In contrast, the complications associated with
hysteroscopic sterilization are those common to diagnostic
hysteroscopy, namely cervical injury from dilation, uterine
perforation and bleeding. The rate of injury from diagnostic
hysteroscopy has been estimated at approximately 0.13% in
experienced hands and the addition of tubal cannulation has
not been shown to cause signifi cant risk. Uterine perforation
has been described following hysteroscopic sterilization but
these have been uniformly asymptomatic and discovered
at the time of confi rmatory hysterosalpingogram. Finally,
hysteroscopic sterilization is optimally performed in the offi ce
setting under local anesthesia, carrying one-third the oddsratio
of risk compared to general anesthesia.
Contraceptive effectiveness of the laparoscopic approach
is well documented with a failure rate at ten years of
approximately 2%. 4 The CREST data excluded the Filshie clip,
however, which is more effective than the other methods, and
which carries a 10 year failure rate of 0.9%. With over 110,000
hysteroscopic systems placed, there have been slightly over
100 pregnancies reported at time of publication giving a
failure rate of 0.1% which is one-tenth that of even the most
optimistic outcome of even the Filshie method. Essure® has
been commercially available for only fi ve years, but even
comparing fi ve-year failure rates with the Collaborative Review,
there is only one pregnancy with hysteroscopy for every fi ve
pregnancies by other methods.
Cost has become the great leveler when it comes to
selection of patient treatment. Here again, hysteroscopy offers
major savings over laparoscopy. By minimizing personnel costs,
supplies and instrument processing, eliminating OR time costs
and anesthesiologist fees the public hospital at our institution
saves approximately $1200 per hysteroscopic procedure
compared to laparoscopy. When the option to perform the
procedure in the offi ce under local anesthesia is added,
costs are further reduced. From the physician standpoint, it
is far better to perform the procedure in the offi ce setting.
There is no need for dictating hospital records. Scheduling
the procedure is completely at the surgeon’s convenience
and can be incorporated into the rest of the offi ce schedule
without waiting for room turnover in the hospital from another
doctor’s procedure. With regard to reimbursement, there is
no comparison. Sterilizations performed in the hospital with
either method are paid at a hospital procedure code. In the
offi ce, a global fee applies that encompasses supplies as well
as professional services and provides higher reimbursement
than the hospital-based procedure. When combined with the
time, effi ciency and convenience factors, the choice is clear.
Choice is the ultimate determinant in this process. Women
who previously rejected the idea of permanent surgical
contraception because of reluctance to undergo anesthesia or
even go into a hospital are now actively seeking hysteroscopic
sterilization in their doctor’s offi ce. The idea of abdominal
scarring, however small, is a turn-off to many people. Patients
return to their normal activity within one day of hysteroscopic
sterilization, compared to several days to a week after
laparoscopy. Out-of-pocket expenses are less. In our patientdriven
world of medicine, women will seek physicians who
are able to perform hysteroscopic procedures in general,
and sterilization in particular. It is clear that this option is not
appropriate for all women, as technical and anatomic factors
may preclude its universal use, but for all intents and purposes,
laparoscopic tubal occlusion can no longer be regarded as the
procedure of choice, and hysteroscopic sterilization should be
considered the standard of care.
References
NewsScope
1. Palmer MR. Essais de stérilisation tubaire coelioscopique par
électrocoagulation isthmique. Bull Fed Soc Gynecol Obstet Lang Fr.
1962;14:298-305.
2. G.C. Roviaro, F. Varoli, L. Saguatti, C. Vergani, M. Maciocco and
A. Scarduelli, Major vascular injuries in laparoscopic surgery, Surg
Endosc 16 (2002), pp. 1192–1196.
3. Moore CL, Vasquez NF et al, Major Vascular Injury after Laparoscopic
Tubal Ligation, J Emerg Med. 2005 Jul;29(1):67-71.
4. Jamieson DJ, Hillis SD, Duerr A, Marchbanks PA, Costello C, Peterson
HB. Complications of interval laparoscopic tubal sterilization:
fi ndings from the United States Collaborative Review of Sterilization.
Obstet Gynecol. 2000 Dec;96(6):997-1002.
5. Laparoscopic Trocar Injuries: A report from a U.S. Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) Center for Devices and Radiological Health
(CDRH) Systematic Technology Assessment of Medical Products
(STAMP) Committee www.fda.gov/cdrh/medicaldevicesafety/
stamp/trocar.html .
6. Jansen FW, Vredevoogd CB, van Ulzen K, Hermans J,
Trimbos JB,Trimbos-Kemper TC. Complications of hysteroscopy: a
prospective,multicenter study. Obstet Gynecol. 2000;96:266 –270.
7. Nichols M, Carter JF, Fylstra DL, Childers M; Essure System U.S. Post-
Approval Study Group. A comparative study of hysteroscopic
sterilization performed in-offi ce versus a hospital operating room.
J Minim Invasive Gynecol. 2006 Sep-Oct;13(5):447-50.
8. Thoma V, Chua I, Garbin O, Hummel M, Wattiez A. Tubal perforation
by ESSURE microinsert. J Minim Invasive Gynecol. 2006 Mar-Apr;
13(2):161-3
9. Trussell J, Guilbert E, Hedley A. Sterilization failure, sterilization
reversal, and pregnancy after sterilization reversal in Quebec. Obstet
Gynecol. 2003 Apr;101(4):677-84.
10. Data on fi le, Conceptus, Inc., Mountain View, CA
Levy B, Levie MD, Childers ME. A summary of reported pregnancies
after hysteroscopic sterilization. J Minim Invasive Gynecol. 2007 May-
June; 14(3):271-274.
11. Levie MD, Chudnoff SG. Offi ce hysteroscopic sterilization compared
with laparoscopic sterilization: a critical cost analysis. J Minim
nvasive Gynecol. 2005 Jul-Aug; 12(4):318-22.
APR - JUN 2007
3

NewsScope
Fred M. Howard, M.D.
Professor and Associate Chair
Director, Gynecologic Specialties
Department of
Obstetrics & Gynecology
University of Rochester
School of Medicine & Dentistry
Rochester, New York
AAGL Advisor
4 APR - JUN 2007
workshop news
Gynecologic Endoscopy Workshop
— Another Success
C
hicago again was the location of the AAGL
Comprehensive Workshop on Gynecologic
Endoscopy for Residents and Fellows (April 20-
21, 2007). This was the 16th annual
workshop. It was successful and well
attended. One-hundred, thirty-four
residents, fellows, and practicing
physicians attended and the
feedback regarding the workshop
was extremely positive.
This workshop is a didactic
program with a structured curriculum
that has been developed over the
course of several years. The initial
impetus to establish this course with a
curriculum that stresses surgical skills
and fundamental surgical knowledge
for laparoscopy and hysteroscopy,
rather any specifi c endoscopic
procedures, stems from the efforts
of Mac Munro and Andy Brill. The
course emphasizes risk reduction
and strategic thinking and is designed
specifi cally for residents and
fellows, although several practicing
physicians attended this year as
well. Didactic lectures, videos, and
hands-on exercises are used educate
the participants about endoscopic
anatomy, tissue manipulation
and dissection, the safe use of
electrosurgery and ultrasonic energy,
laparoscopic suturing, techniques
for tissue removal and morcellation,
avoiding and managing complications,
and diagnostic and operative hysteroscopic procedures.
This year the hands-on time for laparoscopic suturing was
Essure® Permanent Birth Control system
Dr. Miller teaching robotics
Jeremy Carver (L) suturing
Workshop Faculty
Conceptus Incorporated manufactures and markets the Essure®
Permanent Birth Control system, an innovative medical device and
procedure designed to provide a non-incisional alternative to tubal
ligation, which is the leading form of birth control worldwide. The
Essure system is approved for sale in many countries, including the
United States, Europe, Australia, Canada, Mexico, Central and South
America, and New Zealand. Conceptus is working to make Essure
available world-wide upon receipt of appropriate regulatory and/or
governmental clearances.
Conceptus Incorporated
331 East Evelyn Avenue
Mountain View, CA 94041
Telephone: 650-962-4000
new products
again expanded, based on the residents’ feedback from
prior years regarding their need for enhanced education
in laparoscopic suturing skills. This change was obviously
appreciated by the attendants. Grace
Janik deserves particular kudos for the
superb program in suturing skills that she
has developed for this program (and for
again providing diligent service in spite of
a broken hand). Additionally, for the fi rst
time an introduction to the use of robotics
as a surgical tool was introduced to the
residents, spearheaded by Chuck Miller.
This addition appeared to be very well
received by the attendees.
This course has a long tradition in
the AAGL and is particularly important
because of its focus on the education
of residents. It is especially enhanced
by its strong faculty participation, all of
whom volunteer their time to teach in
the Residents’ and Fellows’ Workshop.
This year’s faculty was Krisztina I. Bajzak,
Amy Garcia, Andrew I. Brill, Jeremy
Carver, Frank Tu, Grace M. Janik, Franklin
D. Loffer, Magdy Milad, Charles E. Miller,
Resad (Paya) Pasac, Lisa M. Roberts, Ted
Anderson, and Jim Shwayder. This was my
third year as the Scientifi c Program Chair. I
truly appreciated the outstanding job the
faculty did this year.
Next year’s workshop will most likely
occur in April, 2008, although the location
is yet to be determined. Suggestions,
ideas, and feedback from AAGL members
are welcomed, as is interest in participation
in the workshop. Please be sure to recommend this course
to your residents and fellows.
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AAGL
Presented by the
AAGL
Advancing Minimally Invasive Gynecology Worldwide
DIAMOND
(Up to $300,000)
SAPPHIRE
($100,000-$150,000)
EMERALD
($50,000-$100,000)
RUBY
($25,000-$50,000)
KEY PARTNERS
Our key partners unlock the door to education, awareness
and advocacy of minimally invasive gynecology.
Their investment in unrestricted grants, equipment
at workshops, sponsoring fellows in training as
well as supporting AAGL through advertising
in our offi cial publication, The Journal of
Minimally Invasive Gynecology, and
exhibiting at the Annual Meeting allows
us to continue our mission. We appreciate
their support and commitment to AAGL
which is a testament to their dedication to
improving women’s healthcare worldwide.
UNLOCKING THE DOOR TO EDUCATION
Sound Surgical Technologies
© 2007 AAGL

NewsScope
Pedro T. Ramirez, M.D.
Director of Minimally
Invasive Surgery
Department of
Gynecologic Oncology
The University of Texas
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Houston, Texas
AAGL Advisor
6 APR - JUN 2007
committee news
News from the Oncology Committee
A
s the newly appointed Chair of the Gynecologic
Oncology Committee for the AAGL, I am honored
to assume this responsibility and owe a great deal
of gratitude to my predecessor in this position,
Dr. Javier Magrina. I see this opportunity as a challenge to
continue expanding the role and integration of gynecologic
oncology in AAGL. As gynecologic oncologist, we routinely
collaborate with our colleagues in the different disciplines
of obstetrics and gynecology with the common goal of
improving women’s health.
There are a number of projects that we envision will
be accomplished through the Gynecologic Oncology
Committee during the coming year. We are very excited
to integrate and share our expertise through a series of
courses offered either at the annual meeting of the AAGL
or at different facilities throughout the country. These
courses will not only emphasize teaching through didactic
training but also through hands-on experience taught by the
leading surgeons in laparoscopic surgery within the fi eld
of gynecologic oncology. The AAGL is currently extending
an invitation to the 2nd Annual Workshop on Advanced
Laparoscopic Techniques for Gynecologic Oncologists that
will be held in Louisville, Kentucky October 19-20, 2007.
We also will work very hard to encourage our fellowsin-training
and colleagues to submit their research for
presentation at each of the annual meetings.
In the area of clinical research, the Gynecologic
Oncology Committee has made a commitment to develop
Experience Excellence in Education
Combining lectures from the foremost experts in laparoscopic surgery with 8 hours
of mentored dissection limited to three participants for each cadaver, this advanced
course will provide you an unparalleled opportunity to advance your skills. All taught
and supervised by a distinguished faculty. Questions are encouraged. This year, to
accommodate demand, cadaver dissection sessions are open to observation. Go to
www.aagl.org to enroll.
clinical trials that will be reviewed by our committee for
value of content, design, and relevance of study end-points
to our fi eld. Our fi rst project is of paramount importance
to the fi eld of oncology and it will be an honor to establish
the development of such project through the AAGL. This
trial will be a prospective randomized trial evaluating the
feasibility and safety as well as perioperative outcomes
comparing laparoscopic radical hysterectomy vs. open
radical hysterectomy. This will be the fi rst trial of its kind
in the world.
In our commitment to structured laparoscopic surgical
training, we are in the process of fi nalizing the development
of the fi rst laparoscopic surgery fellowship solely devoted
to training in minimally invasive surgery strictly in the area
of gynecologic oncology. This fellowship will be offered to
several training programs that will have the opportunity
to apply and, based on strict criteria set forth by our
committee, a selection will be made prior to designating
the program that will be granted such fellowship.
We will continue to integrate leaders in the fi eld of
gynecologic oncology not only from the most prestigious
training centers in the United States but also from
around the world. This is an exciting opportunity for the
Gynecologic Oncology Committee and I look forward to
working with the AAGL to further strengthen and broaden
the scope of our society.
2nd Annual Workshop
Advanced Laparoscopic Techniques
for Gynecologic Oncologists Using
Unembalmed Female Cadavers
October 19-20, 2007
The University of Louisville
Louisville, Kentucky
Javier Magrina, Scientifi c Program Chair
Resad P. Pasic, Course Director

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All rights reserved. DSL#06-0129.GYN2
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NewsScope
Prof. Yuriy Vdovichenko
President
Ukranian Society of
Gynecological Endoscopists
and Pelvic Surgeons
President
Prof. Yuriy Vdovichenko
Vice President
Ihor Gladchuk
Secretary
Dmitry Ledin
Treasurer
Andrew Tkachenko
8 APR - JUN 2007
affiliated societies
Ukrainian Society of Gynecological
Endoscopists and Pelvic Surgeons
T
The Ukrainian Society is new and its young
members represent the continued advance of
organized endoscopy and minimally invasive
gynecology through out the world. Their recent meeting
(only the society’s second) was organized by Drs. Dmitry
Ledin and Andrew Tkachenko. It was well attended with
over 150 participants. It reminds me of other fl edgling
societies from the recent past who are now major
contributors to the AAGL’s Journal of Minimally Invasive
Gynecology.
– Franklin Loffer, M.D.
Executive Vice President/Medical Director
AAGL “Advancing Minimally Invasive Gynecology Worldwide”
NS: When and how was your society established?
The Ukrainian Society of Gynecological Endoscopy and
Pelvic Surgery was formed in 2006 by a group of young
and professional gynecological surgeons from all regions
of Ukraine. They gathered under the aegis of Ukrainian
National Academy of Postgraduate Education. From the very
beginning, this initiative was supported by major Ukrainian
gynecological institutions, as well as by other Societies
from all over the world. During the 2nd Annual Congress
“Kiev School of Advanced Gynaecological Endoscopy” in
June 2007, the Society was offi cially established.
Ukrainian Society was formed only recently, and
the availability of endosurgical equipment in Ukraine
is still very limited, but our team is enthusiastic, and this
energy gives us a hope for further progress in becoming a
worthy member of the world endoscopic community and
sisterhood of AAGL Affi liated Societies.
membership news
Education Highlights from the
35th Global Congress
T
he web casts and podcasts of the AAGL 35th Annual Meeting
are online. This is a great opportunity to experience the excellent
education from the Annual Meeting. We encourage you to link in
today. Go to www.aagl.org and click on the above.
NS: What is its mission statement/primary goal?
To promote the science and art of gynecological endoscopy,
continuous training in laparoscopy and hysteroscopy,
research and education in the fi eld of minimally invasive
surgery and facilitate the dissemination of information and
gynecological surgery as state of art. The Ukrainian Society
of Gynecological Endoscopy and Pelvic Surgery primary
mission is to provide adequate level of gynecological
care to all women by joint efforts of Society members,
as well as medical-legal protection of Society members
and introduction of modern, minimally invasive surgical
technologies into Ukrainian medical practice. The Society
slogan is “Ars chirurgiae in feminae bonum”.
The future plans of our Society is to create a training
program for Ukrainian doctors with invited world surgeons,
which will include participation in O.R. and work on pelvic
trainers. This would create a practical add-on for the
annual National Conference, which is usually attended by
more than 150 participants.
NS: Approximately how many members are there?
At the present moment Society consists of approximately
120 full members and 30 associated members from
different regions of Ukraine. Society honorary members
are Harry Reich, Franklin Loffer, Resad Pasic, Mario Malzoni
and Antonio Setubal.
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• Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy
• Hysteroscopic Myomectomy
For a complete listing of DVDs available log on to AAGL.org

The patient-preferred solution
to heavy menstrual bleeding
Now available
in your office
In just 90 seconds * , your patients can have
freedom from heavy menstrual bleeding without
the need for IV Sedation **
Evaluates integrity of uterine
cavity for possible perforation
prior to treatment. Utilizes
tissue impedance monitoring
technology to achieve proper
depth of ablation
Can be used with local
anesthesia, with or without
IV sedation **
97% of patients experience
no post-procedural pain 1
91% of evaluable patients
return to normal levels of
menstrual bleeding, or lower 2
92% patient satisfaction 1
95% would recommend
NovaSure to other women 1
* The NovaSure procedure includes a 90 second average treatment time.
** While it may be possible to perform the NovaSure Endometrial Ablation procedure without IV sedation, Cytyc does not represent or guarantee that this
course of treatment is suitable for all patients. The choice of anesthesia protocols is solely within the discretion of the treating physician after a proper
evaluation of the patient.
1. NovaSure instructions for use.
2. Cooper J, Gimpelson R, Laberge P, et al. A randomized, multicenter trial of safety and efficacy of the NovaSure system in the treatment of menorrhagia.
J Am Assoc Gynecol Laparosc. 2002;9:418-428.
© CYTYC Corporation 2006 NovaSure is a registered trademark of Cytyc Corporation. 87230-001 Rev. A

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Ramzi Elias Aboujaoude, M.D.
Hani Abu-Halimeh, M.D.
Theresa Y. Acquaah, M.D.
Ejibunmi Adetola, M.D.
Nancy Aguirre, M.D.
Geraldine Alba, M.D.
Jamison C. Alexander, D.O.
Luigi Alio, M.D.
Arielle Allen, M.D.
Badria M. Alnouh, M.D.
Edy Amisial, M.D.
Cynthia L. Anderson, M.D.
Don M. Armstrong, M.D.
Amol Arora, M.D.
Rebecca Arthur, M.D.
Yelena A. Atlanova, M.D.
Leslie Ayensu-Coker, M.D.
Megan N. Beatty, M.D.
Lorena Benavides, M.D.
Rosa H. Bermudez Emmanuelli, M.D.
Lisa Bhagan, M.D.
Richard L. Biggs, D.O., MPH
Irene Bittencourt, M.D.
Julie A. Bleyenberg, D.O.
Emily Bowsher, M.D.
Emily B. Boyd, M.D.
Krystene Boyle, M.D.
Randall J. Bremner, M.D.
Maria A. Brito Perez, M.D.
Elizabeth R. Burchard, M.D.
Kathy Carlson
Kathleen Carroll, M.D.
Allison Carter, M.D.
Jori Carter, M.D.
Kimberly Carter, M.D.
Andrew P. Cassidenti, M.D.
Megan Cassidy, M.D.
Stephanie L. Caywood, M.D.
Giulia Cerenzia, M.D.
Donald H. Chamberlain, M.D., FAC
Amy Chapman, M.D.
Lorne H. Charles, M.D.
Hanna Chehade, M.D.
Vera K.F. Cheung, M.D.
Sophia Chin, M.D.
Jennifer Cho, M.D.
Carol Y. Choi, M.D.
Giuseppe Ciravolo, M.D.
Jennifer E. Coles, M.D.
Jeannette Colon-Marin, M.D.
Amber R. Cooper, M.D.
Chris Alita Cravey Hart, M.D.
Debra Crawford, M.D.
Patrick J. Culligan, M.D.
Mary Dahling, M.D.
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Roya K. Dehkordi, M.D.
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Angelo Di Sparti, M.D.
10 APR - JUN 2007
new members
Welcome New Members
March 2, 2007 to May 31, 2007
Fares Diarbakerli, M.D.
Hilda M. Diaz, M.D.
Courtenay Diehl, M.D.
Melissa Dietz, M.D.
Mert Dinc, M.D.
Danielle M. Dion, M.D.
Christina E. Dolhaniuk, M.D.
John J. Dougherty, M.D.
George L. Drake, D.O.
Marc H. Eigg, M.D.
Cheryl P. Ekkebus, M.D.
Cynthia Ann English, D.O.
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Amr Etman, M.D.
Thoraya Fadulelahi, M.D.
Elizabeth Ferries-Rowe, M.D.
Giuseppe Florio, M.D.
Tamra N. Fortenberry, M.D.
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Stephen D. Frausto, M.D.
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Oscar Gonzalez-Vera, M.D.
Kirsten Grabowska, M.D.
Ernesto Graham, M.D.
Marija Grahovac, M.D.
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Nidhi Khosla, M.D.
Amanda L. Kim, M.D.
Cheung Kim, M.D.
Ju H. Kim, M.D.
Sung H. Kim, M.D.
Sunghoon Kim, M.D.
Susan Kim, M.D.
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Armen Kirakosyan, M.D.
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Nucelio Lemos, M.D.
Alexey Levashkevich, M.D.
Chong-Hsiang Liang, M.D.
Kim Linn, R.N.C.F.A.
David P. Linton, D.O.
Lana E. Lipkin, M.D.
Randolph Dean Lizardo, M.D.
John A. Lovier, Jr., M.D.
William J. Lowery, M.D.
Richard R. Lubell, M.D.
Surekha Machupalli, M.D.
Paul M. Magtibay, M.D.
Shruthi Mahalingaiah, M.D.
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Afshin Malaki, M.D.
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Miriam B. Marcum, M.D.
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H. Sidney Mitchell, M.D.
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Mohammed M. Mohiuddin, M.D.
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HTA ® System In-Office Procedure
Expand Your Options for Endometrial Ablation
As physicians, you know that patient tolerability and consistent clinical outcomes are what matters. The ability to perform
the HTA System procedure in an In-Office environment may provide benefits for both you and your patient ... the comfort your
patients desire, and the clinical results you demand.
• Consistent Clinical Outcomes - The HTA System has been reported to have excellent
clinical amenorrhea rates vs. competitors at three years (per protocol patients) 1
• Tolerability - IV sedation may not be required
• Versatility - The HTA System may have the ability to treat irregular cavities, allowing
more patients to receive treatment
It’s no day
at the hospital.
For more information on the HTA System,
please call 1.888.272.1001.
MVA210 06/07
1 Carter, J. Endometrial Ablation:
More Choices, More Options.
Refer to the HTA System User’s Manual provided with product for complete instructions for use. INDICATIONS: The HTA System is a hysteroscopic thermal ablation device intended to ablate the endometrial
lining of the uterus in premenopausal women with menorrhagia (excessive uterine bleeding) due to benign causes for whom childbearing is complete. CONTRAINDICATIONS: The HTA System is contraindicated
for use in a patient: who is pregnant or wants to be pregnant in the future, as pregnancy after ablation can be dangerous to both mother and fetus; who has known or suspected endometrial carcinoma or
premalignant change of the endometrium, such as adenomatous hyperplasia; who has active pelvic inflammatory disease or pyosalpinx; hydrosalpinx; who has any anatomical or pathologic condition in which
weakness of the myometrium could exist, such as, prior classic cesarean section or transmural myomectomy; who has an intrauterine device in place; or who has active genital or urinary tract infection, e.g., cervicitis,
endometritis, vaginitis, cystitis, etc., at the time of treatment. POTENTIAL ADVERSE EFFECTS that may occur include: thermal injury to adjacent tissue including cervix, vagina, vulva, and/or perineum; heated
saline escaping from the device system into the vascular spaces; hemorrhage; perforation of uterus; complications with pregnancy (Note: pregnancy following ablation is dangerous to both the mother and the
fetus); risks associated with hysteroscopy. WARNINGS: NOTE: Failure to follow any instructions or to heed any Warnings or Precautions could result in serious patient injury. CAUTION: Federal Law (USA) restricts
this device to sale by or on the order of a physician. The physician using the device must be trained in diagnostic hysteroscopy.
© 2007 Boston Scientific Corporation or its affiliates. All rights reserved.
www.bostonscientific.com/gynecology

AAGL “Advancing Minimally Invasive Gynecology Worldwide”
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E-mail newsscope@aagl.org
Web site www.aagl.org
education calendar
2nd Annual Comprehensive Workshop on
Hysteroscopy, Suturing & Advanced
Laparoscopic Techniques (For Fellows Only)
Grace M. Janik, Scientifi c Program Chair
September 28-30, 2007
St. Mary’s Hospital Milwaukee, Wisconsin
2nd Workshop on Advanced Laparoscopic
Techniques for Gynecologic Oncologists
Javier F. Magrina, Scientifi c Program Chair
Resad P. Pasic, Scientifi c Program Chair
October 19-20, 2007
University of Louisville Louisville, Kentucky
36th Global Congress of Minimally Invasive
Gynecology/ AAGL Annual Meeting
Charles E. Miller, Scientifi c Program Chair
Pre-congress Workshops – November 13, 2007
Congress - November 14-17, 2007
Marriott Wardman Park Washington, D.C.
XVII Annual Congress of the ISGE
World Congress of Gynecological Endoscopy
In affi liation with AAGL Advancing Minimally
Invasive Gynecology Worldwide
Prof. Stefano Bettocchi, President
June 4-7, 2008
Bari, Italy
PERIODICALS
U.S. POSTAGE PAID
CYPRESS, CA
2nd AAGL International Congress on
Minimally Invasive Gynecology In conjunction
with V Brazilian Congress of SOBENGE
Paulo Roberto Cara, Scientifi c Program Chair
September 3-6, 2008
Hotel Serrano
Gramado-Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
37th Global Congress of
Minimally Invasive Gynecology/
AAGL Annual Meeting
Resad P. Pasic, Scientifi c Program Chair
October 29-Nov. 1, 2008
Paris Hotel Las Vegas, Nevada
3rd AAGL International Congress
on Minimally Invasive Gynecology
In conjunction with the Australian
Gynecological Endoscopy Society and ASM
May 2009
Brisbane, Australia
38th Global Congress of
Minimally Invasive Gynecology/
AAGL Annual Meeting
November 16-19, 2009
Gaylord Palms, Orlando, Florida