About Us
The clinic is based in Bristol at the BUPA Women's Health Centre which offers excellent facilities for doctors and patients alike.
We're one of a small number of clinics in the UK to perform laparoscopic excision for endometriosis. This approach allows precise removal (excision) of the endometriosis rather than local techniques such as ablation which may only treat the surface endometriosis. In addition to this precision, laparoscopic surgery also gives women a quicker return to normal activities than open surgery.
Because however there's no one "right" treatment for this condition, we'll begin your care with a detailed assessment of your symptoms. For many women an accurate diagnosis is an important first, encouraging step to recovery.
At your first visit you will be seen by Sanjay Vyas, who will discuss the options of treatment available. Depending on your symptoms, severity of endometriosis and fertility wishes, you may also need to see other members of the team.
Now meet the team…
Mr Sanjay Vyas MD FRCOG, Consultant Gynaecologist.
Sanjay qualified from the London Hospital Medical College, University of London, in 1985 and has a special interest in endometriosis.
Having specialised in abdominal and vaginal surgery, he was appointed Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Southmead Hospital in 1994. The bulk of his surgical work now involves keyhole surgery. He’s also a recognised expert in pelvic ultrasound scans.
Sanjay studied the latest surgical techniques for treating endometriosis at the Endometriosis Institute in the United States. Here he observed acclaimed surgeon, David Redwine, and has brought his techniques to the UK, in the NHS and privately.
His clinical work in endometriosis has also led to a research programme in the documentation of the disease, based at Southmead.
Mr Valantine Akande PhD MRCOG, Consultant Gynaecologist.
Valentine is a Consultant Gynaecologist and infertility specialist who works closely with Sanjay, on the NHS at Southmead, and privately. His PhD thesis and research publications have included the effect of endometriosis on infertility.
Valentine undertakes assessment and treatment for women who have fertility problems in addition to endometriosis.
Mr Alan RoeChM FRCS FRCS(Ed), Consultant Colorectal Surgeon
Alan qualified from the University of Dundee in 1977 and has trained in Scotland, Manchester, Bristol and St. Mark’s Hospital in London.
He was appointed Consultant Surgeon at Southmead Hospital in 1994 and is now lead clinician for colorectal services at North Bristol Trust. His areas of expertise include surgery for bowel cancer, colitis and diverticulitis, along with the management of anorectal and pelvic floor disorders.
In looking after patients with endometriosis he is involved in operations where the disease has affected the bowel or appendix. The aim is to remove the endometriosis and restore intestinal function using minimally invasive techniques.
Mr Frank Keeley MD FRCS (Urol), Consultant Urologist
Frank qualified from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, USA in 1990 and has a special interest in laparoscopic urological surgery. He is Board Certified in the United States and is a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons, Edinburgh.
Having completed his residency training in Philadelphia, Frank trained for an additional two years in laparoscopic surgery in Edinburgh before he was appointed Consultant Urologist at Southmead Hospital in 1998. The bulk of his surgical work now involves laparoscopic surgery.
He and Sanjay operate together in endometriosis cases where the bladder, ureter or kidney is affected.