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Whitney Ann Barnes

Dr. Whitney Ann Barnes

Endometriosis Specialist

Gynecology & Minimal Invasive Surgery

Address

Northside Advanced Gynecologic Surgery
500 Medical Center Blvd suite 390, Lawrenceville, GA 30046

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Specialties
  • Endometriosis Excision Surgery
  • Pelvic Endometriosis
  • Fertility and Endometriosis
Profile Description

Dr. Whitney Ann Barnes, Gynecology & Minimal Invasive Surgery, Endometriosis Specialist.

City: Lawrenceville, Georgia

Philosophy:

The pathogenesis of endometriosis is complex and multifactorial. Despite continuous research efforts dedicated to unraveling the disease’s origins, its etiology remains elusive. Various theories have been proposed about its origin, with the initial theory of retrograde menstruation. However, this theory as the single cause of endometriosis has faced challenges, as it fails to account for the fact that more than 80% of women of reproductive age experience retrograde menstrual bleeding without developing endometriosis. Presently, a comprehensive understanding of the condition suggests that a combination of factors, including impaired immunologic response, genetic predisposition, and epigenetic and environmental factors, provide possible explanations as to the cause of the disease.
In my practice, my primary focus revolves around ensuring that patients understand the complex nature of endometriosis. I use an individualized approach, tailoring treatment options based on each patient’s unique preferences and circumstances, with the ultimate goal to improve the quality of life for my patients. I firmly believe that wide surgical excisional surgery offers the best solution because it removes both visible tissue and the surrounding microscopic disease, surpassing the efficacy of localized excision or ablation techniques.

Medication: Medication is tailored to each patient, taking into account their unique medical circumstances and indications. This personalized approach considers factors such as the patient’s current health status and past medical history, prior experiences with medications, and individual management goals. I utilize non-narcotic pain relief medications such as NSAIDS, gabapentinoids, and SNRI/SSRI medications for central pain desensitization and hormonal regulation when appropriate. Every medication option is presented to the patient along with a thorough explanation of its intended goal and potential risk. This process is done in close collaboration with the patient, respecting the patient’s preferences and addressing the patient’s needs.

 

Approach to Persistent Pain After Surgery: Similar to my approach to treating endometriosis, my approach to managing persistent pain after surgery is personalized. Before proceeding with surgery, I engage in individualized patient counseling to review the risk of persistent or reoccurring pain. This approach recognizes that for some patients, endometriosis excision surgery is a single facet within a broader spectrum of care that may involve central and peripheral pain management, pelvic floor physical therapy, gastroenterology, pain management specialists, and dietary modifications. My ultimate goal is to alleviate the patient’s symptoms and improve the patient’s quality of life.

Additional Info
Gender:

Female

Hospital Affiliations:

Northside Hospital Gwinnett
Northside Hospital Duluth

Insurance:

Most insurances

Waiting Time:

< 2 weeks

In Practice Since Year:

2022

Fellowship & Certificates:

Fellowship in Minimally Invasive Gynecological Surgery, Obstetrics & Gynecology, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, D.C., 2019 –2021.

Residency:

MedStar Georgetown University Hospital - Washington Hospital Center, Washington, D.C., 2015 – 2019

School:

e. Doctor of Medicine, Mercer University School of Medicine, Savannah, GA, 2011 – 2015

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Reviews:
5 1 vote
Knowledge of endometriosis
5 1 vote
Bedside manner
5 1 vote
Pre procedure explanation
5 1 vote
Follow up care
5 1 vote
Achieving your desired outcome
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Rachel Ingram
Knowledge of endometriosis :
     
Bedside manner :
     
Pre procedure explanation :
     
Follow up care :
     
Achieving your desired outcome :
     

Dr Barnes has been such a blessing. Every appointment with her has been so thorough and informative. She never makes you feel rushed, answers any and all questions, and goes above and beyond to make sure you are comfortable. My surgery for endometriosis went so smoothly. She makes sure you know what to expect at every step of the process and addresses all your concerns. I am 2 weeks post-op and this has been the easiest surgery recovery I’ve ever had, including my past endometriosis surgeries done elsewhere. I traveled 3 hours to be treated by her and if I had to do it all again, I would still travel to see her because she genuinely cares and wants the best outcomes possible for her patients. I could go on about how amazing she has been, but just know that if you need a good and knowledgeable gynecologic surgeon, she is incredible. Thank you Dr Barnes and team and everyone at Northside Gwinnett who took such wonderful care of me. 

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