The Care Pathway at the Complex Endometriosis Center

Name: Complex Endometriosis Center
Address: 95, chemin du Pont des 2 Eaux
Telephone: + 33 (0)4 90 20 00 00

Endometriosis is a complex, chronic condition whose symptoms and forms can vary significantly from one patient to another.

Given this diversity, there is no single path to follow, but rather a system organized into several levels of care.

The 3 Levels of Endometriosis Care

First option:

suspicion, diagnosis, and initial treatment

The first level of care involves cases of suspected endometriosis. Patients are then monitored by their primary care physician, gynecologist, or midwife, who orders initial tests and prescribes hormone therapy if necessary. The goal is to establish an initial diagnosis and assess the response to medical treatment.

Second option:

treatment-resistant forms

When symptoms persist despite hormone therapy, patients may be referred for a second level of care. This referral applies to more resistant forms of endometriosis that require a thorough evaluation. At this stage, testing is more comprehensive and treatment strategies are adjusted. The complexity of the disease becomes apparent in cases of persistent pain or when multiple organs are affected.

Third appeal:

treatment of complex cases

The third level addresses complex forms of endometriosis, particularly when surgery becomes necessary. These are cases involving multiple lesions affecting the gynecological, digestive, urological, or thoracic organs. This is where the Complex Endometriosis Center steps in, offering a multidisciplinary approach and recognized surgical expertise.

The CEC: A Center of Excellence for Complex Forms of Endometriosis

The Complex Endometriosis Center specializes in the treatment of severe or complex forms of endometriosis. Its approach is based on close coordination among various specialists, with the goal of providing a tailored response for each patient.

The approach integrates the medical, surgical, and personal aspects of the disease. The goal is to provide a coherent, structured, and personalized care plan that takes into account each patient’s symptoms, expectations, and life goals.

A structured and coordinated care pathway

Request for an expert opinion

The patients in question have complex endometriosis, persistent pain, or suspected multi-organ involvement.

This first step helps ensure that patients with endometriosis are referred to care that is appropriate for the complexity of their condition.
A simple, guided introduction
The Complex Endometriosis Center offers several ways to get in touch to make it easier to access care:

- a hotline staffed by a coordination team

- an online contact form for submitting medical information

- potential job placement through specialized networks such as the Rofim platform

This organization aims to streamline procedures and ensure a prompt and structured response.
An initial consultation

The initial consultation allows for a comprehensive assessment of the patient’s condition, taking into account all symptoms, previous test results, and medical history.

Beyond the medical aspect, this consultation also incorporates a human dimension, offering patients the opportunity to receive supportive care and emotional support. The goal is to provide a space where patients can be heard and understood—something that is essential when dealing with a challenging chronic condition like complex endometriosis.
Targeted follow-up tests

Depending on the situation, additional tests may be ordered. These may include medical imaging to refine the diagnosis and accurately assess the extent of the lesions.

These tests are not routine. They are offered on a case-by-case basis, tailored to each individual situation, in order to avoid unnecessary testing and to prioritize a personalized approach.
A Multidisciplinary Consultation Meeting (RCP)

Once all the relevant information has been gathered, the patient’s case is discussed at a Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) meeting.

It brings together various specialists to assess the situation and determine the most appropriate treatment strategy. This collaborative decision ensures consistent care based on shared expertise.
Specialized consultations
Depending on the findings of the multidisciplinary team meeting, the patient may be referred to various specialist clinics:

- gynecological surgery

- gastrointestinal surgery

- urological care

- Pain management consultation

- anesthesia

- support for assisted reproductive technology (ART)

This approach allows the treatment plan to be tailored to the complexity of the disease and the specific needs of each patient.
Surgical treatment

When surgery is indicated, the procedure is tailored to the location and extent of the lesions, with a clear goal: to effectively treat the disease while preserving organs and functions.

The techniques used require the specific expertise of the CEC, particularly in complex cases involving multiple organs.
Personalized post-operative care

After the procedure, a support plan is put in place to ensure optimal recovery. Personalized home nursing care is provided.

Pain management and postoperative follow-up are incorporated at this stage of the care pathway.
A post-operative follow-up with the surgeons

A post-operative follow-up appointment is scheduled with the surgeons who performed the procedure. This appointment provides an opportunity to review the post-operative course, evaluate the results, and adjust the treatment plan if necessary.
A suitable suite

The process doesn’t end after surgery. A follow-up care plan is established in collaboration with the referring surgeon and the gynecologist.

The goal is to monitor the progression of the disease, adjust treatment as needed, and provide ongoing support to the patient.

Pain management, quality of life, psychological impact, and plans for motherhood are all factors taken into account in the care pathway. Each patient receives personalized attention and a treatment plan tailored to her specific situation.

Patient-centered care

The care pathway offered by the Complex Endometriosis Center is based on a clear and rigorous structure, tailored to the complexity of the disease. Each step is designed to provide patients with consistent, progressive, and personalized care.

Endometriosis remains underdiagnosed and is sometimes poorly managed. Access to the specialized expertise of the Complex Endometriosis Center allows patients to receive care that takes a comprehensive view of their situation and provides a treatment strategy tailored to their needs.

+ 33 (0)4 90 20 00 00

Monday to Friday from 9am to 12pm

secretariat.cec.endo@gmail.com

Please note that this address is not to be used in the case of a post-operative emergency.

Complex Endometriosis Center

Bâtiment Le Saphir - 2nd floor - 477 Avenue Jules Verne - Sorgues