Dr Kurinji Kannan as a Gynaecology and Urogynaecology Surgeon
Dr Kurinji Kannan is the most experienced female surgeon performing gynaecology and urogynaecology surgeries in the North Queensland region. She has worked across public and private hospitals in Townsville, Cairns, and Mackay for over 20 years since becoming an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist specialist consultant. Dr Kannan operates at least three times per week at Mater Hospital and Townsville University Hospital in Townsville.
She specialises in minimally invasive surgery to support faster recovery. Dr Kannan has performed more than 100 robotic surgeries since the Da Vinci robotic system became available at Mater Hospital, Townsville, and is the only female doctor from any discipline in the region to have done so. In total, she has performed more than 6,000 gynaecology and urogynaecology procedures.
Dr Kurinji Kannan also holds a master’s degree in Surgical Education from The University of Melbourne and is actively involved in training registrars and early-career consultants. Dr Kannan is the first obstetrician and gynaecologist to hold a surgical education degree in Australia.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT RISKS, BENEFITS AND INFORMED CONSENT
This document provides general, plain-English information only. The risks mentioned are not exhaustive, and all medical and surgical procedures carry additional potential risks, including uncommon or rare complications.
If a procedure is recommended for you, your gynaecologist or urogynaecologist will discuss why it is being advised, what it involves, the expected benefits, all material risks relevant to you, reasonable alternative options (including non-surgical treatments), and the option of not proceeding. This discussion supports shared decision-making and informed consent in line with RANZCOG and Australian Medical Board guidance, including the principles established in Rogers v Whitaker.
Apical Prolapse Procedures
This procedure restores strong internal support to the vaginal top using minimally invasive surgery. It provides durable support, with a small risk of ureter or nerve injury.
A vaginal approach is used to support the top of the vagina using pelvic ligaments. It avoids abdominal surgery. Nerve or ureter injury is rare.
This procedure attaches the vagina to a strong pelvic ligament through the vagina. It is effective, though temporary buttock pain may occur and nerve injury is rare.
Sacrocolpopexy uses mesh to support the vagina by attaching it to the lower spine. It offers excellent long-term results. Mesh exposure or sacral injury is uncommon.
This is the same repair performed with robotic assistance, offering precision and durability. Risks are similar to laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy.
Colpocleisis treats severe prolapse by closing the vaginal canal. It has a very high success rate and short recovery, but permanently eliminates vaginal intercourse.