The West Cancer Center Pelvic Surgery Fellowship Program is dedicated to advancing care for patients with complex pelvic floor disorders while training the next generation of highly skilled pelvic surgeons. Launched in 2025, the program is the first in the region to provide subspecialized training in pelvic floor care, addressing a critical need for advanced, patient-centered treatment close to home. The fellowship emphasizes clinical excellence, innovation, and research, preparing surgeons to become leaders in the field.
2025 / 2026 Fellow: Lynda Nthiga, DO
Program Details:
Fellows in this program gain extensive hands-on experience in the evaluation and management of a wide range of pelvic floor conditions, including pelvic organ prolapse, urinary and fecal incontinence, and complex reconstructive cases. The curriculum is designed to provide comprehensive training in:
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Advanced pelvic anatomy, with special emphasis on the pelvic floor, support structures, and neurovascular networks
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Minimally invasive surgical techniques, including both laparoscopic and robotic approaches
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Reconstructive procedures for pelvic organ prolapse
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Management of urinary and fecal incontinence
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Complex pelvic floor reconstruction for challenging surgical cases
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Evidence-based approaches to patient care, including perioperative planning and multidisciplinary collaboration
Through a combination of surgical mentorship, didactic teaching, and clinical exposure, fellows develop the technical skills, clinical judgment, and professional expertise necessary to provide exceptional care to patients with pelvic floor disorders. In addition, the program encourages involvement in research and innovation, enabling fellows to contribute to advancements in pelvic surgery and improve outcomes for future patients.
Message from the Program Director
Dr. Ben Abdu, Director of the Pelvic Surgery Fellowship, is a nationally recognized expert in pelvic floor surgery. He brings extensive experience in minimally invasive and reconstructive techniques and is deeply committed to surgical education. Dr. Abdu provides personalized mentorship to each fellow, focusing on advanced pelvic anatomy, complex reconstructive procedures, and evidence-based patient management. Under his guidance, fellows are prepared to become leaders in the field of pelvic surgery, combining technical mastery with compassionate, patient-centered care.
Primary Site
The primary teaching facility for the fellowship program is West Cancer Center. West Cancer Center treats approximately 99,000 cancer patients per year and unites multiple specialties – including our Comprehensive Breast Center, Surgical Oncology, Medical Oncology, Gynecologic Oncology, Radiation Oncology, and Clinical Research – into a single point of outpatient care. Our breast oncology surgeons treat more than 4,500 breast cancer patients, and manage over 2,600 patients with benign breast processes. At West, we are highly specialized in Breast and all cancer types across multispecialties.
Application Requirements: To be considered for this fellowship, please submit the following materials to Dr. A. Ben Abdu, MD at [email protected] by October 30, 2025 and Jessica Dougan. Program Coordinator at [email protected]
- Curriculum Vitae
- Three letters of recommendation
- United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) scores
- CREOG scores
- Personal statement
Eligibility: Candidates must be eligible for medical licensure in Tennessee and be board eligible or board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Compensation: Salary and benefits are competitive and aligned with PGY-5 level salary