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.
Vulvovaginal Procedures
The Fenton procedure is used when scar tissue at the vaginal opening causes pain, tightness, or difficulty with intercourse, often after childbirth. Tight tissue is carefully released and reshaped to improve comfort and function. Temporary pain or swelling may occur, and scar tissue can occasionally reform.
Drainage of a Bartholin gland is performed when a painful cyst or abscess develops near the vaginal opening. The area is opened to release trapped fluid or infection, providing rapid pain relief. Recurrence can occur, and bleeding or infection is uncommon.
This procedure removes a congenital partition within the vagina that may cause pain, obstruction, or difficulty with intercourse or menstruation. Removing the extra tissue restores normal vaginal anatomy. Bleeding or infection can occur, and scarring is rare.
Perineoplasty repairs damage or looseness in the tissue between the vagina and anus that may cause discomfort or functional problems. The area is strengthened surgically, often improving support and comfort. Pain and swelling during healing are common, while wound-healing problems are uncommon.
This procedure treats a small growth near the urinary opening that may cause pain or bleeding. Abnormal tissue is treated and any adhesions are gently released. Local irritation can occur, and scarring is rare.