The Reading Hospital Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injury (OASIS) Program provides specialized postpartum perineal care to women who have a history of obstetric perineal trauma following a vaginal delivery. Perineal lacerations are common after vaginal deliveries. However, some women experience severe lacerations involving the anal sphincter muscles and rectal mucosa (3rd and 4th degree perineal lacerations, also known as OASIS) which can result in short and long-term complications such as wound infections, wound breakdown, vaginal scarring, perineal disfigurement, pelvic pain, and loss of bladder and/or bowel control.
Through this program, women who have had an OASIS and/or complex perineal lacerations are seen by Dr. Toya Gordon, a fellowship-trained Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgeon, who specializes in the management of OASIS associated complications. Dr. Gordon initially evaluates patients one week after delivery to ensure adequate wound healing and provides OASIS management counseling. She also manages any OASIS complications by providing in-office wound care and surgical intervention when needed.