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.
Diagnostic & Investigative Procedures
A dilation and curettage (D&C) is commonly performed to investigate or treat heavy, irregular, or unexplained bleeding from the uterus, and may also be used to remove tissue following a miscarriage. During the procedure, the cervix is gently opened and a small amount of tissue is removed from the lining of the uterus. This tissue helps identify the cause of bleeding and, in many cases, the procedure itself can reduce or stop ongoing bleeding. After the procedure, temporary cramping and light vaginal bleeding are common. Less commonly, infection or injury to the uterus can occur, and very rarely, scar tissue may form inside the uterus.
An endometrial biopsy is a simple test used to investigate abnormal uterine bleeding or a thickened uterine lining. A thin tube is passed into the uterus to collect a small sample of the lining for analysis. The procedure is quick and often avoids the need for surgery. Cramping or light spotting may occur for a short time afterward. Infection or injury to the uterus is rare.
Diagnostic laparoscopy is used when ongoing pelvic pain, infertility, or suspected conditions cannot be explained by scans or other tests. Small incisions are made on the abdomen, allowing a camera to look directly at the pelvic organs. This approach often allows diagnosis and treatment to occur at the same time, with faster recovery than open surgery. Temporary bloating or shoulder pain can occur, and there is a small risk of bleeding, infection, or injury to nearby organs.
Urodynamic testing is used to better understand bladder function when urinary leakage or other bladder symptoms are present. Thin tubes are placed to measure how the bladder fills and empties. The test helps guide the most appropriate treatment. Temporary discomfort is common, and there is a small risk of urinary infection.
Cystoscopy allows direct examination of the bladder when symptoms such as blood in the urine, recurrent infections, or concerns after previous surgery are present. A narrow camera is passed gently through the urinary opening into the bladder. Temporary burning or urgency with urination may occur afterward, and infection is uncommon.