Specialist in Painful Bladder Syndrome Joins Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center

December 29, 2009

WINTON-SALEM, N.C. – Robert J. Evans III, M.D. [Full Size Photo], has joined the Department of Urology at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center. A specialist in painful bladder syndrome, Evans is a member of the Medical Advisory Board of the Interstitial Cystitis Association.

Evans received his medical degree from Jefferson Medical College and completed his residency at the University of Virginia. He is board certified and is a fellow in the American College of Surgeons.

Interstitial cystitis (IC), or painful bladder syndrome, is a condition in which the lining of the bladder is dysfunctional and is tender and easily irritated. Symptoms include discomfort or pain in the bladder and pelvic area, urinary urgency and frequency, and painful sexual intercourse.

Evans said that because the symptoms of IC mimic those of those of other diseases, such as incontinence, kidney stones and endometriosis, it takes patients an average of eight years and going to five doctors to be correctly diagnosed.

While there is no cure for the condition, it can be managed through treatments such as physical therapy, diet and behavior changes, and a pacemaker for the bladder. Evans is the principal investigator on a clinical trial evaluating a new drug for treating the condition.

The Department of Urology is at 140 Charlois Blvd. in Winston-Salem. In addition, the department’s physicians see patients in Burlington, Greensboro, Hickory, Lenoir and Statesville.

Media Relations

Karen Richardson: krchrdsn@wakehealth.edu, 336-716-4453

Bonnie Davis: bdavis@wakehealth.edu, 336-713-1597