Watson Clinic OB-GYN and Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgeon Tarek G. Garas, MD recently enjoyed the honor of being named an InterStim™ Center of Excellence by Medtronic, the world’s largest medical device manufacturer. This distinction is awarded to caregivers who have demonstrated particular expertise in the use of the InterStim™ system to treat overactive bladder (also known as OAB), as well as non-obstructive urinary retention and chronic fecal incontinence.
According to the National Association for Continence, more than 33 million Americans live with incontinence, and many of them don’t realize that their condition may be treatable. The InterStim™ technology delivers relief by gently stimulating the patient’s sacral nerves through a small device implanted in the lower back.
“Patients have had tremendous results utilizing the InterStim™ system,” said Dr. Garas. “My office works to provide personalized and innovative solutions to common issues faced by women. It’s very gratifying that Medtronic has recognized these effects by designating us a Center of Excellence.”
Receiving the Center of Excellence designation is a noteworthy accomplishment in the field. Through a highly selective process, Medtronic identifies those practices that are particularly proficient in the placement of the InterStim™ system, reviewing such factors as the number of procedures performed, patient satisfaction, outcomes and more.
Dr. Garas received his medical degree from Creighton University of Medicine in Omaha, NE, and then completed his internship and residency in obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, FL. He is board-certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology, as well as Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery, by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Dr. Garas is a Fellow of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, and a member of the American Urogynecologic Society, the Florida Obstetric and Gynecologic Society and the Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons. The Surgical Review Corporation also recognized him as a Surgeon of Excellence for his expertise in performing robotic surgical procedures.
His areas of expertise include comprehensive obstetric and gynecologic services for all stages of life, as well as minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, advanced robotic surgery, and the latest treatment options for pelvic organ prolapse, urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, painful bladder syndrome and other common pelvic floor disorders.
Dr. Garas offers his services at two convenient Watson Clinic locations - the Watson Clinic Bella Vista Building at 1755 N. Florida Ave in Lakeland, and the Watson Clinic Bartow Building B at 2000 Osprey Blvd., Suite 201 in Bartow.
Appointments with Dr. Garas may be scheduled by calling 863-680-7312.