Setting up a multidisciplinary clinic

Chronic pelvic pain can be a perplexing and complex problem, frustrating to both clinicians and patients. The traditional medical and surgical model does not always relieve symptoms, and many patients suffer years of pain and undergo multiple surgical procedures without long-term benefit. The biopsychosocial model for chronic pelvic pain gives clinicians the opportunity to broaden the scope for management. A multidisciplinary team can offer simultaneous assessment and management of somatic, behavioural and psychosocial components of the pain. Key members of the team are identified and their roles explored. Practical aspects of operating a multidisciplinary clinic are discussed. A multidisciplinary approach comprises many elements. Further research is needed to identify which are the essential elements to secure optimum outcome for the individual patient.