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.
Continence Procedures
A mesh sling supports the urethra to treat leakage with coughing or exercise. It is highly effective. Difficulty emptying the bladder or mesh issues are uncommon.
This procedure uses the patient’s own tissue to support the urethra, avoiding synthetic mesh. Recovery may be longer, and bladder emptying issues can occur.
Burch colposuspension lifts and supports the bladder neck to treat stress incontinence. Results are durable, though voiding issues or later prolapse may occur.
Bladder suspension lifts the bladder neck to improve continence. Urinary retention is uncommon.
Bulkamid injection treats mild to moderate leakage by injecting a soft gel around the urethra. It is low-risk and repeatable, though the effect may reduce over time.
This minimally invasive procedure narrows the urethra using injected material to reduce leakage. Results may diminish with time.