Living with Endometriosis
Aga Mizgala has endured approximately seven years with suspected endometriosis, experiencing pain she describes as feeling like "a million little needles."
Now 34 years old, Aga is among the first patients to utilize a new augmented reality (AR) system at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital. This technology is designed to assist patients in comprehending a condition that is invisible yet profoundly impacts their lives.
Augmented Reality in Pre-Surgical Consultations
The hospital employs augmented reality, which overlays digital images onto the real world, during pre-surgical consultations. Patients wear a headset to view anatomically accurate 3D models, allowing them to visualize what may be occurring inside their bodies.
This visual tool, developed by Medical iSight, aims to facilitate patient understanding of complex surgical procedures.
"I think it's very helpful to actually see what the surgeon is talking about," Aga said.
Understanding Endometriosis
According to the World Health Organization, one in ten women live with endometriosis, an incurable condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside the uterus.
Doctors report that the AR technology enables them to precisely demonstrate which areas of endometriosis may be excised during surgery.
The objective is that this shared virtual visualization will simplify complex medical information for patients, helping them feel more confident and informed when making treatment decisions.
Aga’s Experience with Symptoms and Treatment
Aga described how the symptoms have affected her daily life.
"It started from pain in my pelvis every day since I wake up until I go to sleep. It just never goes away really," she said.
"I can't focus on my work. I had to take time off from work due to pain and I'm just miserable."
In 2023, she underwent a diagnostic laparoscopy, which did not provide definitive answers.
Since then, Aga has tried various treatments including medication, acupuncture, and pelvic-floor physiotherapy, all without success. She hopes that further surgery may bring relief.
Challenges in Diagnosis and Treatment
Aga’s experience reflects broader challenges faced by many patients. A recent report by the charity Endometriosis UK indicates that the average waiting time for an endometriosis diagnosis has reached nine years and four months.
The report found that 39% of respondents had to visit their general practitioner ten or more times before endometriosis was suspected. Additionally, 46% of those who attended hospital were discharged without treatment.
"I feel that I'm just being told 'oh it's something else, don't worry about it, it will just go away'," Aga said.
"Just take some painkillers, take some paracetamol, it's going to be OK."
Medical Insights on Endometriosis
Dr Tom Bainton, a consultant gynaecologist specializing in endometriosis at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, explained that the condition most commonly affects the pelvis, including the ovaries and peritoneum.
He noted that endometriosis can also extend to adjacent structures such as the bowel and urinary tract, and in some cases, it is found outside the pelvis entirely. Rarely, it has been identified on the diaphragm and even in the chest.
Dr Bainton stated that the goal of surgery is to remove affected tissue while preserving healthy organs. However, this can be challenging because endometriosis may cause fibrosis and infiltrate nearby structures.
"This 3D visualisation technology transforms the way we talk to patients about endometriosis.
Rather than relying on basic drawings, we can walk through detailed anatomical changes together with patients in a collaborative consultation, helping them more clearly understand their condition and the surgery they are preparing for."
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