Risk factors for prolapse recurrence: systematic review and meta-analysis

Impact of postpartum pain and birth pain management on the pelvic floor function. A retrospective study including over 300 mothers

OBJECTIVES

It is known that pregnancy and childbirth bring biological, psychological and social changes in a woman's life. Studies regarding the pelvic floor function focus on the year after delivery, but unfortunately, long-term studies are rare. Furthermore, an association between postpartum pain and birth pain management on the pelvic floor function has rarely been examined. The aim of this study is the evaluation of the pelvic floor function years after delivery in order to detect possible risk factors.

STUDY DESIGN

This is a retrospective cohort study. All women who delivered in our hospital between 2015 and 2016 were contacted by mail between 2018 and 2019 and asked to participate. The letters included study information, declaration of consent, the "Pelvic floor questionnaire for pregnant women and women after childbirth" (PFQ), contact information and pre-paid envelopes. Questions about pain after childbirth and the management of birth related fear and pain were particularly of interest in the surveys. The interested participants were asked to return the completed declaration of consent and the questionnaire. Overall, 308 women were included in the analysis. Due to the large number of participants, different subgroups were defined in order to compare influencing factors adequately.

RESULTS

No significant association between the mode of delivery and the total score of the PFQ was found after 3-4 years in primiparous women (p = 0.688). Our study also showed that recorded pain after childbirth and insufficient pain and fear management after childbirth had a negative impact on the pelvic floor function (total scores: pain after childbirth p = 0.00; no pain management p = 0.04; no fear management p = 0.021).

CONCLUSION

No association was found between delivery mode and pelvic floor function in primiparous women three to four years after childbirth. On the other hand, a negative impact of birth related pain and fears on the pelvic floor function years after delivery was significant. Therefore, these revealing findings should certainly be considered in postpartum management.

Urogynaecology and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) can lead to a presentation to urogynaecology services with multiple symptoms including vaginal prolapse, overactive bladder symptoms, voiding dysfunction, bladder pain syndrome, recurrent urinary tracts infections, stress urinary incontinence, recurring bladder diverticula, vesicoureteral reflux, pelvic floor pain or spasms, and complicated postnatal perineal wounds. This article explores the pathophysiology of these conditions in causing urinary urgency, incontinence, and infections; highlighting the key investigations and management considerations for women with EDS including conservative, pharmacological, and surgical.

Pessary or surgery for a symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse: the PEOPLE study, a multicentre prospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To compare the 24-month efficacy of pessary or surgery as the primary treatment for symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse (POP).

DESIGN

Multicentre prospective comparative cohort study.

SETTING

Twenty-two Dutch hospitals.

POPULATION

Women referred with symptomatic POP of stage ≥2 and moderate-to-severe POP symptoms.

METHODS

The primary outcome was subjective improvement at the 24-month follow-up according to the Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I) scale. Secondary outcomes included improvement in prolapse-related symptoms measured with the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI-20), improvement in subjective severeness of symptoms according to the Patient Global Impression of Severity (PGI-S) scale and crossover between therapies. The primary safety outcome was the occurrence of adverse events.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

PGI-I at 24 months.

RESULTS

We included 539 women, with 335 women (62.2%) in the pessary arm and 204 women (37.8%) in the surgery arm. After 24 months, subjective improvement was reported by 134 women (83.8%) in the surgery group compared with 180 women (74.4%) in the pessary group (risk difference 9.4%, 95% CI 1.4-17.3%, P < 0.01). Seventy-nine women (23.6%) switched from pessary to surgery and 22 women (10.8%) in the surgery group underwent additional treatment. Both groups showed a significant reduction in bothersome POP symptoms (P ≤ 0.01) and a reduction in the perceived severity of symptoms (P ≤ 0.001) compared with the baseline.

CONCLUSIONS

Significantly more women in the surgery group reported a subjective improvement after 24 months. Both therapies, however, showed a clinically significant improvement of prolapse symptoms.

TWEETABLE ABSTRACT

Pessary treatment and vaginal surgery are both efficacious in reducing the presence and severity of prolapse symptoms, although the chance of significant improvement is higher following surgery.

A silent burden-prolapse, incontinence, and infertility in Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women: A systematic search and narrative review

BACKGROUND

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP), urinary incontinence, and infertility are all prevalent conditions associated with considerable reduction in quality of life. As a group, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women may be at higher risk of these conditions, but studies are scarce.

OBJECTIVE

To review the literature pertaining to the epidemiology, diagnosis, and management of these conditions in Indigenous Australian women.

SEARCH STRATEGY

Medline, Embase, and Scopus were searched for articles published between 1980 and 2021 pertaining to these conditions in Indigenous Australian women.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Studies that did not directly address the epidemiology, diagnosis, and management of these conditions were excluded.

MAIN RESULTS

It was possible to identify only 11 papers dealing with these conditions in Indigenous Australian women. Only one dealt with POP and was a retrospective audit of a health outreach program in the Northern Territory concluding that there was significant underreporting of the condition. Five papers dealt with urinary incontinence and, again, described significant underreporting and poor referral pathways. Five papers reported small studies about infertility, one reporting poor engagement from clinical directors.

CONCLUSION

It was concluded that despite the importance of these conditions, there is almost no body of research and this is an urgent national problem.

Serious complications and recurrences after pelvic organ prolapse surgery for 2309 women in the VIGI-MESH registry

OBJECTIVE

To assess the incidence of serious complications and reoperations for recurrence after surgery for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and compare the three most common types of repair.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study using a registry.

SETTING

Nineteen French surgical centres.

POPULATION

A total of 2309 women participated between 2017 and 2019.

METHODS

A multivariate analysis including an inverse probability of treatment weighting approach was used to obtain three comparable groups.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Serious complications and subsequent reoperations for POP recurrence.

RESULTS

The median follow-up time was 17.6 months. Surgeries were native tissue vaginal repairs (n = 504), transvaginal mesh placements (n = 692) and laparoscopic sacropexies with mesh (n = 1113). Serious complications occurred among 52 women (2.3%), and reoperation for POP recurrence was required for 32 women (1.4%). At 1 year the cumulative weighted incidence of serious complications was 1.8% for native tissue vaginal repair, 3.9% for transvaginal mesh and 2.2% for sacropexy, and the rates for reoperation for recurrence of POP were 1.5, 0.7 and 1.1%, respectively. Compared with native tissue vaginal repair, the risk of serious complications was higher in the transvaginal mesh group (weighted hazard ratio, wHR 3.84, 95% CI 2.43-6.08) and the sacropexy group (wHR 2.48, 95% CI 1.45-4.23), whereas the risk of reoperation for prolapse recurrence was lower in both the transvaginal mesh (wHR 0.22, 95% CI 0.13-0.39) and sacropexy (wHR 0.29, 95% CI 0.18-0.47) groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that native tissue vaginal repairs have the lowest risk of serious complications but the highest risk of reoperation for recurrence. These results are useful for informing women and for shared decision making.

TWEETABLE ABSTRACT

Laparoscopic sacropexy had fewer serious complications than transvaginal mesh and fewer reoperations for recurrence than vaginal repair.

A new 3D stress MRI measurement strategy to quantify surgical correction of prolapse in three support systems

AIMS

The aim of this study was to develop and test the feasibility of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based measurement strategy to evaluate the effectiveness of surgical procedures in restoring normal anatomy in all three systems of pelvic floor support and quantify the structural changes induced by prolapse surgery.

METHODS

Patients underwent clinical examination and stress MRI preoperatively and again 3 months postoperatively. Preoperative and postoperative measures of three MRI-based structural support systems were made: (1) vaginal wall, (2) apical and paravaginal support, and (3) hiatal closure system. Preoperative to postoperative structural changes were calculated and compared to normal values, and bivariate associations were determined.

RESULTS

The three structural support systems were successfully quantified for both preoperative and postoperative MRIs regardless of operative approaches in all 15 women in the pilot group. Apical support was restored to normal in 11 of 12 patients who underwent an apical suspension procedure and 9 of 14 patients with a posterior repair had normalization of genital hiatus size. Mid-vaginal paravaginal location was elevated an average of 2.5 ± 2.0 cm despite no paravaginal repairs being performed. Paravaginal location improvements were also significantly correlated with apical elevation (r values 0.99-0.87, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

A strategy that quantifies structural-specific preoperative impairments and improvements after prolapse surgery was successfully developed. Early findings reveal that prolapse surgery is more successful in restoring normal anatomy at Level I than Level III. Improvement in paravaginal location is significantly correlated with apical elevation.

Does preoperative resting genital hiatus size predict surgical outcomes?

AIM

To determine whether preoperative genital hiatus at rest is predictive of medium-term prolapse recurrence.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study of women who underwent native tissue prolapse surgery from 2002 to 2017 with pelvic organ prolapse quantification data including resting genital hiatus at one of three time points: preoperatively, 6 weeks, and ≥1 year postoperatively. Demographics and clinical data were abstracted from the chart. Prolapse recurrence was defined by anatomic outcomes (Ba > 0, Bp > 0, and/or C ≥ -4) or retreatment. Descriptive statistics, bivariate analyses, and logistic regression analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Of the 165 women included, 36 (21.8%) had prolapse recurrence at an average of 1.5 years after surgery. Preoperative resting genital hiatus did not differ between women with surgical success versus recurrence (3.5 cm [interquartile range, IQR 2.25, 4.0) vs 3.5 cm (IQR 3.0, 4.0), p = 0.71). Point Bp was greater in the recurrence group at every time point. Preoperative Bp (odds ratio [OR] 1.24, confidence interval [CI] [1.06-1.45], p = 0.01) and days from surgery (OR 1.001, CI [1.000-1.001], p < 0.01) were independently associated with recurrence. Preoperative genital hiatus at rest and strain were significantly larger among women who underwent a colpoperineorrhaphy (rest: 4.0 [3.0, 4.5] cm vs 3.5 [3.0, 4.0] cm, p < 0.01; strain: 6.0 [4.0, 6.5] cm vs 5.0 [4.0, 6.0] cm, p = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative genital hiatus at rest was not associated with prolapse recurrence when the majority of women underwent colpoperineorrhaphy. Preoperative Bp was more predictive of short-term prolapse recurrence. For every 1 cm increase in point Bp, there is a 24% increased odds of recurrence.

Age and/or postmenopausal status as risk factors for pelvic organ prolapse development: systematic review with meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Age is named as a risk factor for pelvic organ prolapse (POP), despite not being the primary outcome for many observational studies. Postmenopausal status is another associated factor but has many confounders. We aimed to systematically review the role of age and/or postmenopausal status in POP development.

METHODS

Systematic review addressing age and hormones, more specifically by postmenopausal status, from inception to March 2020 in four databases (PubMed, Embase, WOS, Cochrane Library). Quality of evidence was classified by the ROBINS-I classification for non-randomized studies. Experimental studies, animal studies, studies linking age with recurrent POP and case series were excluded. Effect estimates were collected from adjusted odds ratio plus 95% confidence intervals. Significance level was 5%. A discussion exploring mechanistic factors was also included.

RESULTS

Nineteen studies (11 cross sectional, 6 cohort and 2 case control) were included for quantitative analysis. Only two studies presented a low overall risk of bias for age; most of the domains were of moderate risk. Every additional year was responsible for a 10% increase in the risk to develop POP (OR = 1.102 [1.021-1.190]; i² = 80%, random analysis, p = 0.012). This trend was confirmed when age was dichotomized into a cutoff of 35 (p = 0.035) and 50 (p < 0.001) years. Although an increase in the risk for POP was noted in postmenopausal women, this did not reach statistical significance (OR = 2.080 [0.927-4.668], i² = 0%, p = 0.076).

CONCLUSION

Age is a risk factor for POP; postmenopausal status was not statistically associated with POP, prompting the need for further studies addressing this factor.

Natural history of levator ani muscle avulsion 4 years following childbirth

OBJECTIVES

The primary aim was to evaluate prospectively the natural history of levator ani muscle (LAM) avulsion 4 years following first delivery and its correlation with signs and symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD). The secondary aim was to investigate the effect of a second vaginal delivery on the incidence of LAM avulsion and PFD.

METHODS

This was a prospective longitudinal study of nulliparous women recruited antenatally, who were assessed at 36 weeks' gestation and 3 months, 1 year and 4 years postpartum for signs and symptoms of PFD and presence of LAM avulsion. Pelvic floor muscle strength was assessed by digital palpation, and pelvic organ prolapse (POP) was assessed using the POP quantification (POP-Q) system. Validated questionnaires were used to evaluate urinary, bowel and sexual function and symptoms of POP. Transperineal ultrasound was performed to assess LAM integrity and hiatal biometry. Differences in signs and symptoms of PFD over time were evaluated using a linear mixed model, separately in women who had had one delivery and in those who had two or more deliveries during the study period.

RESULTS

Of 269 women recruited, 147 (55%) attended the 4-year follow-up and were examined at a mean interval of 3.8 ± 0.4 years after their first delivery. Of these, 74 (50%) had a subsequent delivery. The prevalence of LAM avulsion 4 years after a first vaginal delivery was 13%, with no difference between women who had one and those who had two or more vaginal deliveries. Women with an intact LAM and one or more deliveries showed no change in signs and symptoms of PFD at 4 years compared with the previous assessments. Of women with one vaginal delivery who were diagnosed with LAM avulsion 3 months or 1 year postpartum, those in whom the LAM avulsion was no longer evident at 4 years (42%) showed worsening of POP-Q measurements, whereas those with persistent LAM avulsion (58%) showed significant worsening in pelvic floor muscle strength and hiatal area on ultrasound. After a second vaginal delivery, no new avulsions were diagnosed, however, previous LAM avulsion became more extensive in 44% of women and hiatal area increased in women with persistent LAM avulsion.

CONCLUSIONS

The first vaginal delivery carries the greatest risk for LAM avulsion, with impact on signs of PFD 4 years later. A second vaginal delivery could result in deterioration of LAM avulsion, but no new avulsions were found. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Four-Dimensional Introital Ultrasound in Assessing Perioperative Pelvic Floor Muscle Functions of Women with Cystoceles

PURPOSE

 Research on the use of ultrasound to explore the pelvic floor in women is rarely done with introital ultrasound. This study aimed to investigate the performance of four-dimensional (4D) introital ultrasound in the perioperative assessment of pelvic floor muscle (PFM) function in women with cystocele.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

 The reliability and agreement of ultrasound measurements were determined by intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) with 95 % confidence interval and Bland-Altman analysis in 20 women. The validity of ultrasound parameters was assessed by correlating squeezing ultrasound measurements with the modified Oxford scale (MOS) in 317 women. 4D introital ultrasound data of 241 women with (n = 29) and without (n = 212) postoperative cystocele at the 12-month postoperative assessment were retrospectively analyzed. Levator avulsion was diagnosed using tomographic ultrasound imaging. Involuntary and voluntary PFM functions were explored by dynamic changes in the bladder neck and genital hiatus, respectively, upon coughing and squeezing on 4D introital ultrasound.

RESULTS

 The ICC for the reliability of all tested ultrasound parameters was good to very good. The changes and change ratios of most ultrasound measurements from resting to squeezing were fairly correlated with MOS. Women with postoperative cystocele demonstrated more rates of complete levator avulsion [41.3 % vs. 4.7 %, P < 0.001, odds ratio (OR) 14.26, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 4.88-42.42] and fewer rates of capable voluntary PFM contraction (65.5 % vs. 92.5 %, P < 0.001, OR 0.16, 95 % CI 0.06-0.43) than those without postoperative cystocele postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

 4D introital ultrasound is feasible to assess perioperative PFM function in women with cystocele.

Advances in molecular mechanisms of pelvic organ prolapse (Review)

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a common gynecological benign disease occurring in middle-aged and elderly females. Its incidence increases every year. To date, the majority of studies investigating its etiology have not evaluated the underlying molecular mechanisms, which has caused substantial difficulties in the prevention, treatment and prognosis of POP. In the present narrative review, recent research studies concerning the molecular mechanisms of POP were systematically reviewed and the advances were summarized. The association between the incidence of POP and the reduction of the extracellular matrix, activation of oxidative stress, genetic susceptibility, denervation of the pelvic floor and reduction of estrogen infiltration were explored. POP is mainly associated with damage of pelvic floor muscles and connective tissue, which are directly caused by pregnancy and vaginal delivery. The majority of the molecular and genetic mutations associated with POP involve specific components of connective tissue synthesis and degradation. It is likely that macroscopic parameters, such as anatomy, lifestyle and reproductive factors, interact with microscopic parameters, such as physiology and genetics in the female pelvic floor, leading to POP. Additional research studies investigating the molecular mechanisms of POP should be performed, since they may aid public health strategies. In the present narrative review, a summary of these molecular mechanisms underlying the development of POP is provided. This included the relevant proteins and genes involved. On this basis, countermeasures were proposed.

Has the prevalence of levator avulsion after forceps delivery changed over the last six decades? A retrospective study in a urogynaecological population

OBJECTIVE

Forceps delivery is associated with a higher risk of maternal birth trauma. It is speculated that it is due to sub-optimal use of forceps in inexperienced hands. The aim of this study was to determine the association between time of forceps birth and prevalence of levator avulsion over the last six decades.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a retrospective analysis of datasets of women with a history of forceps delivery, seen at a tertiary urogynaecological centre between January 2014 and August 2018. They had undergone a standardized interview, clinical examination and four-dimensional translabial ultrasound. Archived imaging data was reviewed for levator avulsion offline at a later date, blinded against all clinical data. Associations between levator avulsion, maternal age at first vaginal birth, the weight of the first vaginally born baby, and time since forceps delivery categorised by decade were tested by univariable analysis. Factors found to be significant on univariable analysis were included in a multivariable logistic regression model to test the association between prevalence of levator avulsion and time of forceps delivery while controlling for confounders.

RESULTS

In total, 2026 patients were seen during the study period. Among them 511 (25.2%) had a history of forceps delivery. Fourteen volume datasets were incomplete or missing, leaving 497 complete datasets for analysis. Mean age at presentation was 58 ± 12 years (23-91). Mean body mass index was 29 ± 6 kg/m². Mean age at first delivery was 25 ± 5 years. Mean birth weight of the first vaginal birth was 3454 ± 557 g. 457 women (92%) had had one forceps delivery, 31 had two forceps deliveries (6%) and 9 had three forceps deliveries (2%). Mean time interval between forceps delivery and assessment was 32 ± 13 years (0.3-64.8). 229 women (46%) were diagnosed with levator avulsion. The prevalence of avulsion after forceps increased significantly from 34% to 56% between 1950 and 2017 (P = 0.04). However this difference became insignificant when controlling for maternal age at 1st vaginal delivery and birth weight.

CONCLUSIONS

We found no evidence of a changed prevalence of levator avulsion at forceps delivery over the last 67 years.

Levator ani avulsion: a Systematic evidence review (LASER)

BACKGROUND

There is variation in the reported incidence rates of levator avulsion (LA) and paucity of research into its risk factors.

OBJECTIVE

To explore the incidence rate of LA by mode of birth, imaging modality, timing of diagnosis and laterality of avulsion.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, AMED and MIDIRS with no language restriction from inception to April 2019.

STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

A study was included if LA was assessed by an imaging modality after the first vaginal birth or caesarean section. Case series and reports were not included.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

RevMan v5.3 was used for the meta-analyses and SW SAS and STATISTICA packages were used for type and timing of imaging analyses.

RESULTS

We included 37 primary non-randomised studies from 17 countries and involving 5594 women. Incidence rates of LA were 1, 15, 21, 38.5 and 52% following caesarean, spontaneous, vacuum, spatula and forceps births, respectively, with no differences by imaging modality. Odds ratio of LA following spontaneous birth versus caesarean section was 10.69. The odds ratios for LA following vacuum and forceps compared with spontaneous birth were 1.66 and 6.32, respectively. LA was more likely to occur unilaterally than bilaterally following spontaneous (P < 0.0001) and vacuum-assisted (P = 0.0103) births but not forceps. Incidence was higher if assessment was performed in the first 4 weeks postpartum.

CONCLUSIONS

LA incidence rates following caesarean, spontaneous, vacuum and forceps deliveries were 1, 15, 21 and 52%, respectively. Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging were comparable tools for LA diagnosis.

TWEETABLE ABSTRACT

Levator avulsion incidence rates after caesarean, spontaneous, vacuum and forceps deliveries were 1, 15, 21 and 52%, respectively.

Appearance of the levator ani muscle subdivisions on 3D transperineal ultrasound

BACKGROUND

The levator ani muscle (LAM) consists of different subdivisions, which play a specific role in the pelvic floor mechanics. The aim of this study is to identify and describe the appearance of these subdivisions on 3-Dimensional (3D) transperineal ultrasound (TPUS). To do so, a study designed in three phases was performed in which twenty 3D TPUS scans of vaginally nulliparous women were assessed. The first phase was aimed at getting acquainted with the anatomy of the LAM subdivisions and its appearance on TPUS: relevant literature was consulted, and the TPUS scan of one patient was analyzed to identify the puborectal, iliococcygeal, puboperineal, pubovaginal, and puboanal muscle. In the second phase, the five LAM subdivisions and the pubic bone and external sphincter, used as reference structures, were manually segmented in volume data obtained from five nulliparous women at rest. In the third phase, intra- and inter-observer reproducibility were assessed on twenty TPUS scans by measuring the Dice Similarity Index (DSI).

RESULTS

The mean inter-observer and median intra-observer DSI values (with interquartile range) were: puborectal 0.83 (0.13)/0.83 (0.10), puboanal 0.70 (0.16)/0.79 (0.09), iliococcygeal 0.73 (0.14)/0.79 (0.10), puboperineal 0.63 (0.25)/0.75 (0.22), pubovaginal muscle 0.62 (0.22)/0.71 (0.16), and the external sphincter 0.81 (0.12)/0.89 (0.03).

CONCLUSION

Our results show that the LAM subdivisions of nulliparous women can be reproducibly identified on 3D TPUS data.

Rotational forceps: a retrospective study evaluating anatomical and functional consequences for the pelvic floor

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The use of Kielland's rotational forceps is considered to involve greater technical difficulty and may be associated with a higher rate of pelvic floor trauma. Our main objective was to evaluate the association between avulsion of the levator muscle and rotational and non-rotational forceps.

METHODS

This was an observational study carried out at a tertiary hospital that recruited singleton cephalic vaginally primiparous women with previous Kielland's forceps delivery between March 2012 and May 2017. Patients were retrieved from a local database, contacted consecutively and blinded to all clinical data. Power calculations determined a sample of n = 160 patients. All women underwent a urogynecological interview, clinical examination and 4D translabial ultrasound (TLUS). The 4D TLUS volumes were stored and analyzed offline by an experienced ultrasound examiner who was blinded to all clinical data.

RESULTS

A total of 165 patients were available for analysis. Rotational forceps accounted for 27.3% (45 out of 165) of the study sample. Avulsion was present in 41.8% (69 out of 165) of all forceps deliveries. On multivariate analysis, rotational forceps was associated with avulsion, with an adjusted odds ratio (OR) of 2.57 (CI 95% 1.20-5.62, p = 0.016). Body mass index at the beginning of gestation was found to be a protective factor, with an adjusted OR of 0.918 (CI 95% 0.847-0.986, p = 0.025).

CONCLUSION

Rotational forceps is associated with a higher avulsion rate than non-rotational forceps, with an adjusted OR of over 2.5. Obstetricians need to consider the potential long-term consequences of performing a rotational forceps for mothers.

Pelvic organ prolapse recurrence after apical prolapse repair: does obesity matter?

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

We hypothesized obesity increases the risk of pelvic organ prolapse recurrence (POP-R) after primary apical prolapse repair.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 353 women who underwent primary apical prolapse surgery from 2011 to 2016. Demographic and clinical data were abstracted from medical records. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were used to generate hazard ratios (HR) for association between obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²) and POP-R (leading edge > 0), adjusting for potential confounders. Given the potential for outcome ascertainment bias due to differential loss to follow-up, a sensitivity analysis was performed assuming all patients with < 6 months of follow-up developed POP-R.

RESULTS

Ten percent of women developed POP-R. The median follow-up time was 7 months (range 1.4, 63.9). Twenty-four percent of patients were Black and 70% were White; 37% were obese. After controlling for confounders, obese women did not have an increased risk of POP-R (aHR 1.39; 95% CI 0.67, 2.86, p = 0.38). Although only marginally statistically significant, patients who developed POP-R were more likely to be current smokers (aHR 3.48, 95% CI 1.14, 10.67; p = 0.06) or previous smokers (aHR 1.86, 95% CI 0.82, 4.24, p = 0.06) in comparison to non-smokers. Sensitivity analysis showed loss to follow-up had the potential to influence our results.

CONCLUSIONS

Obesity was not a risk factor for POP-R in our cohort. Larger, prospective studies with longer postoperative follow-up time are needed to fully elucidate the relationship between obesity and POP-R.

The effect of reconstructive vaginal surgery on quality of life and sexual functions in postmenopausal women with advanced pelvic organ prolapse in intermediate-term follow-up

OBJECTIVE

To compare sexual function and quality of life in women who underwent McCall culdoplasty versus sacrospinous ligament fixation for pelvic organ prolapse.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study was conducted in our urogyanecology clinic between July 2015 and June 2019. We included sexually active postmenopausal women who had undergone either McCall culdoplasty (n:80 patients) or sacrospinous ligament fixation (n:38 patients) procedure for threatened POP. Patients in both groups were matched according to age and body mass index. Sexual function between both groups was evaluated with the pelvic organ prolapse/urinary incontinence sexual function 12 patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and quality of life with the prolapse quality of life (PQOL) PROMs.

RESULTS

Emotional domain was low in the McCall culdoplasty group (21.4 ± 10.1 vs. 30.8 ± 15.2; p = 0.03). There were no significant differences in other P-QOL domains. Pain during intercourse was more in the sacrospinous ligament fixation group (2.9 ± 1.6 vs. 1.3 ± 1.1; p = 0.04). The mean operation time in the McCall culdoplasty group was shorter than the sacrospinous ligament fixation group (p = 0.03). There was no difference between the two surgical procedures performed in terms of intraoperative blood loss and hospital stay. The prevalence of recurrence in the McCall culdoplasty group was 6.2%, and that of sacrospinous ligament fixation was 5% (p = 0.75) in one year follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrated that McCall culdoplasty has a more positive effect on QOL and sexuality than sacrospinous ligament fixation in appropriately selected patients. McCall culdoplasty could be considered as a good option in the treatment of advanced pelvic organ prolapse in elderly patients.

Levator ani muscle avulsion: Digital palpation versus tomographic ultrasound imaging

OBJECTIVE

To determine the diagnostic performance of digital palpation of levator ani muscle (LAM) avulsion compared with translabial tomographic ultrasound imaging (TUI).

METHODS

A cross-sectional study, incorporating 195 women involved in a longitudinal cohort study. Palpation for levator integrity was performed, followed by a four-dimensional translabial ultrasound. LAM avulsion defects were diagnosed in the presence of puborectalis muscle detachment from its insertion. Post-processing analysis of ultrasound volumes for LAM integrity on TUI was performed blinded against palpation findings. Agreement between methods was assessed using Cohen's κ.

RESULTS

In all, 388 paired assessments of LAM bilaterally, were available. Sixteen (8.2%) unilateral avulsion defects were detected on palpation. Sonographically, 31 (16%) were diagnosed with avulsions: 4.6% bilateral and 11.3% unilateral. An overall agreement of 91% was observed between digital palpation and TUI, yielding a Cohen's κ of 0.32 (95% confidence interval 0.15-0.48) demonstrating "fair agreement": and implying 25% sensitivity, 98% specificity, 63% positive predictive value, and 92% negative predictive value. Analysis of the first and last 20 palpations showed no change in performance during the 13-day study period.

CONCLUSION

Assessment of LAM avulsion defects by digital palpation is feasible but may require substantial training. Confirmation by imaging is crucial, especially if the diagnosis of avulsion may influence clinical management.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of genetic association studies of pelvic organ prolapse

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Family and twin studies demonstrate that pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is heritable, but the genetic etiology is poorly understood. This review aimed to identify genetic loci and specific polymorphisms associated with POP, while assessing the strength, consistency, and risk of bias among reported associations.

METHODS

Updating an earlier systematic review, PubMed and HuGE Navigator as well as relevant conference abstracts were searched using genetic and phenotype keywords from 2015 to 2020. Screening and data extraction were performed in duplicate. Fixed and random effects meta-analyses were conducted using co-dominant models of inheritance. We assessed credibility of pooled associations using interim Venice criteria.

RESULTS

We screened 504 new abstracts and included 46 published and 7 unpublished studies. In pooled analyses we found significant associations for four polymorphisms: rs2228480 at the ESR1 gene (OR 0.67 95% CI 0.46-0.98, I² = 0.0%, Venice rating BAB), rs12589592 at the FBLN5 gene (OR 1.46 95% CI 1.11-1.82, I² = 36.3%, Venice rating BBB), rs484389 in the PGR gene (OR 0.61 95% CI 0.39-0.96, I² = 32.4%, Venice rating CBB), and rs1800012 at the COL1A1 gene (OR 0.80 95% CI 0.66-0.96, I² = 0.0%, Venice rating BAB). Further credible novel variants have also been recently identified in genome-wide association studies.

CONCLUSION

The genetic contributions to POP remain poorly understood. Several biologically plausible variants have been identified, but much work is required to establish the role of these genes in the pathogenesis of POP or to establish a role for genetic testing in clinical practice.

Clinical applications of pelvic floor imaging: opinion statement endorsed by the society of abdominal radiology (SAR), American Urological Association (AUA), and American Urogynecologic Society (AUGS)

Pelvic floor dysfunction is prevalent, with multifactorial causes and variable clinical presentations. Accurate diagnosis and assessment of the involved structures commonly requires a multidisciplinary approach. Imaging is often complementary to clinical assessment, and the most commonly used modalities for pelvic floor imaging include fluoroscopic defecography, magnetic resonance defecography, and pelvic floor ultrasound. This collaboration opinion paper was developed by representatives from multiple specialties involved in care of patients with pelvic floor dysfunction (radiologists, urogynecologists, urologists, and colorectal surgeons). Here, we discuss the utility of imaging techniques in various clinical scenarios, highlighting the perspectives of referring physicians. The final draft was endorsed by the Society of Abdominal Radiology (SAR), American Urogynecologic Society (AUGS), and the American Urological Association (AUA).

Women with advanced pelvic organ prolapse and levator ani muscle avulsion would significantly benefit from mesh repair surgery

OBJECTIVES

Mesh repair surgery for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) has been suspended in some countries owing to concerns about its associated complications. However, mesh repair has been shown to reduce the risk of prolapse recurrence after surgery. In view of this controversy, our aim was to assess the incidence of subjective and objective recurrence of POP following mesh repair surgery vs native-tissue repair in women with Stage-III or Stage-IV POP.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study of women who presented with Stage-III or Stage-IV POP and received primary prolapse surgery between 2013 and 2018. Transperineal ultrasound was performed before the operation and volumes were analyzed offline to assess the presence of levator ani muscle (LAM) avulsion. All women were counseled on either mesh repair or native-tissue reconstruction. The mesh-repair group was followed up for up to 5 years and the native-tissue-repair group for up to 2 years after the operation. Prolapse symptoms and POP quantification (POP-Q) staging were assessed at follow-up. Subjective recurrence of POP was defined as symptoms of prolapse (vaginal bulge sensation or dragging sensation) reported by the patient. Objective recurrence was defined as POP-Q ≥ Stage II. The subjective and objective recurrences of prolapse were compared between women with and those without mesh use. Multivariate regression analysis was used to identify risk factors for the recurrence of POP.

RESULTS

A total of 154 Chinese women with Stage-III or Stage-IV prolapse were recruited. Of these, 104 (67.5%) underwent mesh repair (transabdominal in 57 women and transvaginal in 47 women) and 50 (32.5%) had native-tissue repair surgery. Ninety-five (61.7%) women had LAM avulsion. Both the subjective POP recurrence rate (4.8% vs 20.0%; P = 0.003) and the objective recurrence rate (20.2% vs 46.0%; P = 0.001) were significantly lower in the mesh-repair group than in the native-tissue-repair group. On multivariate logistic regression analysis, mesh repair was associated significantly with a reduced risk of subjective recurrence (odds ratio (OR), 0.20 (95% CI, 0.07-0.63)) and of objective recurrence (OR, 0.16 (95% CI, 0.07-0.55)) of prolapse. On subgroup analysis of women with LAM avulsion, mesh repair significantly reduced the risk of subjective recurrence (OR, 0.24 (95% CI, 0.07-0.87)) and objective recurrence (OR, 0.23 (95% CI, 0.09-0.57)) of POP. The incidence of mesh-related complications was low, and mesh exposure could be treated conservatively or by minor surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Mesh repair surgery, compared with native-tissue repair, was associated with a 5-fold reduction in the risk of subjective recurrence and a 6-fold reduction in the risk of objective recurrence of prolapse in women with Stage-III or Stage-IV POP. In women with concomitant LAM avulsion, mesh repair surgery was associated with a 4-fold reduction in both objective and subjective recurrence of POP. The rate of mesh-related complications was low, and mesh exposure could be treated conservatively or by minor surgery. The benefit of mesh surgery for these high-risk women appears to outweigh the risks of mesh complications, and it could be a treatment option for this group of women. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Ultrasound imaging of slings and meshes in urogynecology

Imaging is used increasingly in urogynecology. One of the main applications is in the assessment of synthetic implants. Ultrasound is particularly useful for this purpose as most such implants appear highly echogenic on ultrasound but are not visible using other imaging techniques. The worldwide success of synthetic mid-urethral slings, introduced in the late 90s, led to the subsequent introduction of transvaginal mesh in 2003-2004. Widespread use of synthetic implants for both urinary incontinence and prolapse has caused a rise in implant-related complications and increasing negative publicity and litigation, with many products removed from the market. It is not surprising that there is increasing demand for the assessment and evaluation of sling and mesh implants using imaging. This review article discusses the role of translabial/transperineal ultrasound in the evaluation of synthetic implants used in the treatment of urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. The discussion focuses on those applications of the technique that are useful for surgeons dealing with patients after mesh and/or sling placement. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Assessing pelvic organ prolapse recurrence after minimally invasive sacrocolpopexy: does mesh weight matter?

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

There has been a trend toward the use of ultra-lightweight mesh types for minimally invasive sacrocolpopexy. We hypothesized that ultra-lightweight mesh would have a greater proportion of composite anatomical pelvic organ prolapse recurrence than lightweight mesh.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort study of minimally invasive sacrocolpopexies at two academic institutions from 2009 to 2016. Our primary outcome was composite anatomical prolapse recurrence, defined as prolapse beyond the hymen or retreatment with pessary or surgery, compared between ultra-lightweight (≤21 g/m² [range 19-21]) and lightweight (>21 g/m² [range 35-50]) mesh types. We assessed time to prolapse recurrence using Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression.

RESULTS

The cohort consisted of 1,272 laparoscopic (n = 530, 41.7%) and robotic-assisted sacrocolpopexies (n = 742, 58.4%). Lightweight mesh was used in 745 procedures (58.6%) and ultra-lightweight mesh in 527 (41.4%). The lightweight mesh had longer median follow-up than the ultra-lightweight group (344 [IQR 50-670] vs 143 days [IQR 44-379], p < 0.01). There was no difference in composite anatomical prolapse recurrence between lightweight and ultra-lightweight mesh (54 [7.2%] vs 35 [6.6%], p = 0.68). Ultra-lightweight mesh demonstrated a shorter time to prolapse recurrence (p < 0.01), which remained significant on multivariate Cox regression (HR 2.38 [95% CI 1.47-3.87]). The lightweight mesh had significantly more mesh complications (43 [5.8%] vs 7 [1.3%], p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Ultra-lightweight mesh for minimally invasive sacrocolpopexy was not associated with a higher proportion of composite anatomical prolapse recurrence; however, it was associated with a shorter time to recurrence. Longer follow-up is needed to assess the clinical importance of this finding, particularly given the trade-off of more complications with lightweight mesh.

Ultrasound imaging of maternal birth trauma

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The term 'maternal birth trauma' has undergone substantial changes in meaning over the last 2 decades. Leaving aside psychological morbidity, somatic trauma is now understood to encompass not just episiotomy, perineal tears and obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASI), but also trauma to the levator ani muscle. This review covers diagnosis of maternal birth trauma by translabial ultrasound imaging.

METHODS

Narrative review.

RESULTS

Tomographic imaging of pelvic structures with the help of 4D ultrasound, used since 2007, has allowed international standardization and seems to be highly reproducible and valid for the diagnosis of OASI and levator avulsion.

CONCLUSIONS

Translabial and exo-anal ultrasound allows the assessment of maternal birth trauma in routine clinical practice and the utilization of avulsion and sphincter trauma as key performance indicators of maternity services. It is hoped that this will lead to a greater awareness of maternal birth trauma among maternity caregivers and improved outcomes for patients, both in the short term and in the decades to come.

Upregulation of PTK7 and β-catenin after vaginal mechanical dilatation: an examination of fibulin-5 knockout mice

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) in women is associated with deficiency of elastic fibers, and fibulin-5 is known to be a critical protein in the synthesis of elastin. The purpose of this study is to investigate the related pathway for the synthesis of elastin via fibulin-5 using fibulin-5 knockout mice.

METHODS

Fibulin-5 knockout mice were generated using the CRISPR/Cas9 system, and vaginal dilatation was used to mimic vaginal delivery. We divided the mice into three groups: Fbln5^+/+ mice immediately after dilatation (Fbln5^+/+ day0), Fbln5^+/+ mice 3 days after dilatation (Fbln5^+/+ day3) and Fbln5^-/- mice 3 days after dilatation (Fbln5^-/- day3). Proteins related to elastogenesis in the vaginal wall were measured by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis, and differences in the expression of these proteins between the Fbln5^-/- mice and the Fbln5^+/+ mice were analyzed using western blotting.

RESULTS

In the LC-MS/MS analysis, protein tyrosine kinase 7 (PTK7) was not detected in the Fbln5^-/- day3 group, although the expression increased by > 1.5 times between the Fbln5^+/+ day0 and day3 groups. PTK7 and β-catenin are known to act in the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, and both were upregulated after dilatation in the Fbln5^+/+ mice, though not in the Fbln5^-/- mice.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that these proteins are involved in elastogenesis via fibulin-5, and the impairment of these proteins might be the underlying cause of POP manifestation.

Extraperitoneal high vaginal cuff suspension at the time of vaginal hysterectomy for advanced uterovaginal prolapse: Results of a modified McCall technique from a longitudinal clinical study

BACKGROUND

Women with high-grade uterovaginal prolapse have a greater risk of recurrent prolapse after pelvic organ prolapse surgery. Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists guidelines have recommended sacrospinous suspension (sacrospinous fixation) at the time of vaginal hysterectomy, whenever there is a marked uterovaginal prolapse. We have modified the McCall culdoplasty by placing sutures extraperitoneally, higher and more lateral into the uterosacral/cardinal ligaments to re-support the vaginal cuff at the time of a vaginal hysterectomy.

AIMS

To evaluate the results of a modified technique of McCall high culdoplasty and native tissue repair at time of vaginal hysterectomy in women with advanced uterovaginal prolapse.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Longitudinal clinical follow-up conducted between 2000-2018, in a tertiary urogynaecology centre for patients presenting with stage 3-4 uterovaginal prolapse, who underwent vaginal hysterectomy and modified McCall vault suspension.

RESULTS

There were 176 cases meeting the inclusion criteria. Mean follow-up was 19.35 months. There were 25 recurrences (14%) of ≥ stage 2 (76% not symptomatic). Twelve of these recurrences (48%) occurred in anterior compartment, six (25%) posterior, three (12%) combined anterior/posterior, two (8%) combined posterior/central and one case had recurrence in all compartments. Only six cases (3%) required another surgical procedure for symptomatic prolapse, all with an enterocele recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Our described modified McCall technique incorporates high extraperitoneal approach to apical resuspension along with closure of any existing large hiatal defects of the levator plate at the time of vaginal hysterectomy for advanced uterine prolapse has excellent outcomes and extremely low complication rates and avoids the need for sacrospinous fixation.

Ten years' follow-up after iliococcygeus fixation for the treatment of apical vaginal prolapse

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Various surgical techniques have been described for vaginal vault prolapse repair, but the best surgical approach is still to be proven. The aim of this study is to report the long-term objective and subjective outcomes of women who underwent iliococcygeus fixation for the treatment of vaginal vault prolapse with a minimum follow-up of 10 years.

METHODS

Women with symptomatic vaginal vault prolapse (Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification [POP-Q] stage ≥ 2) who had previously undergone hysterectomy for any reason were prospectively enrolled and treated with iliococcygeus fixation. Subjective success was defined as Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I) ≤ 2 and an absence of bulging symptoms. Objective success was defined as stage of prolapse < 2 in all compartments. Overall success rate was defined as women without prolapse symptoms, PGI-I ≤ 2, stage of prolapse < 2, and no need for other surgery. Prolpase Quality of Life (P-QOL) questionnaires were completed at the preoperative visit and at every follow-up visit. Multiple logistic regression was performed to identify factors involved in the risk of recurrent POP.

RESULTS

After a median (range) follow-up of 120 (120-132) months, the subjective, objective, and overall cure rates were 82% (32/39), 74.4% (29/39), and 74.4% (29/39), respectively. Only stage IV vault descensus independently predicted POP recurrence after ICG (OR: 7.66 [95% CI: 1.21-9.02]; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Iliococcygeus fixation seems to be a safe and effective option for the treatment of vaginal vault prolapse at 10 years' follow-up.

A novel tropoelastin-based resorbable surgical mesh for pelvic organ prolapse repair

Pelvic organ prolapse is a common condition that affects 1 in 4 women across all age groups. It is mainly caused by vaginal birth injury and can be exacerbated by obesity and increased age. Until recently, treatment strategies often used non-degradable synthetic meshes for reconstructive surgery. However, owing to their frequent, unacceptable rate of adverse events such as mesh erosion, transvaginal meshes have been banned in many countries. Recent reports have highlighted the urgent need for biocompatible design of meshes for a safe and effective treatment in the long term. This study reports the design and evaluation of a novel, elastin based degradable mesh using an ovine model of POP as a potential surgical treatment. Elastin is a protein component of the ECM and provides elasticity to tissues throughout the body. Tropoelastin, the monomer subunit of elastin, has been used with success in electrospun constructs as it is a naturally cell interactive polymer. Biomaterials that incorporate tropoelastin support cell attachment and proliferation, and have been proven to encourage elastogenesis and angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. The biological properties of tropoelastin were combined with the physical properties of PCL, a degradable synthetic polymer, with the aim of producing, characterizing and assessing the performance of continuous tropoelastin:PCL electrospun yarns. Using a modified spinneret electrospinning system and adjusting settings based on relative humidity, four blends of tropoelastin:PCL yarns were fabricated with concentration ratios of 75:25, 50:50, 25:75 and 0:100. Yarns were assessed for ease of manufacture, fibrous architecture, protein/polymer content, yarn stability - including initial tropoelastin release, mechanical strength, and ability to support cell growth. Based on overall favorable properties, a mesh woven from the 50:50 tropoelastin:PCL yarn was implanted into the vagina of a parous ewe with vaginal wall weakness as a model of pelvic organ prolapse. This mesh showed excellent integration with new collagen deposition by SEM and a predominant M2 macrophage response with few pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages after 30 days. The woven tropoelastin:PCL electrospun mesh shows potential as an alternative to non-degradable, synthetic pelvic organ prolapse mesh products.

Preoperative ultrasound findings as risk factors of recurrence of pelvic organ prolapse after laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The objective of this study is to evaluate levator ani muscle avulsion (LAMA) and ballooning as risk factors for recurrence of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) after laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy (SCP). We hypothesize that these ultrasound findings are associated with a higher risk of POP recurrence.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent laparoscopic SCP between January 2015 and December 2018. Baseline translabial 3D ultrasound of the pelvic floor was performed. Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI-20) and the Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire (PFIQ-7) were applied. Both univariate and multivariate analyses were carried out.

RESULTS

One hundred thirty-four patients were included. On ultrasound, 32% of patients had levator ani muscle avulsion, and 36.5% had ballooning. Mean follow-up time was 16 months. There was a 13.4% anatomic recurrence; five of them (3.7%) also had symptomatic recurrence. After multivariate analysis we found that LAMA and ballooning were not significant: OR 0.99 (95% CI 0.098-10.1; p = 0.99) and OR 1.1 (95% CI 0.99-1.2; p = 0.06), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

LAMA and ballooning on pelvic floor US are not significant risk factors for anatomic POP recurrence after laparoscopic SCP. Laparoscopic SCP has a 13.4% and 3.4% anatomic and symptomatic recurrence rate, respectively, and the majority of patients reported significant improvement in quality of life.

Significance of hub genes and immune cell infiltration identified by bioinformatics analysis in pelvic organ prolapse

Objective

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) refers to the decline of pelvic organ position and dysfunction caused by weak pelvic floor support. The aim of the present study was to screen the hub genes and immune cell infiltration related to POP disease.

Methods

Microarray data of 34 POP tissues in the GSE12852 gene expression dataset were used as research objects. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was performed to elucidate the hub module and hub genes related to POP occurrence. Gene function annotation was performed using the DAVID tool. Differential analysis based on the GSE12852 dataset was carried out to explore the expression of the selected hub genes in POP and non-POP tissues, and RT-qPCR was used to validate the results. The differential immune cell infiltration between POP and non-POP tissues was investigated using the CIBERSORT algorithm.

Results

WGCNA revealed the module that possessed the highest correlation with POP occurrence. Functional annotation indicated that the genes in this module were mainly involved in immunity. ZNF331, THBS1, IFRD1, FLJ20533, CXCR4, GEM, SOD2, and SAT were identified as the hub genes. Differential analysis and RT-qPCR demonstrated that the selected hub genes were overexpressed in POP tissues as compared with non-POP tissues. The CIBERSORT algorithm was employed to evaluate the infiltration of 22 immune cell types in POP tissues and non-POP tissues. We found greater infiltration of activated mast cells and neutrophils in POP tissues than non-POP tissues, while the infiltration of resting mast cells was lower in POP tissues. Moreover, we investigated the relationship between the type of immune cell infiltration and hub genes by Pearson correlation analysis. The results indicate that activated mast cells and neutrophils had a positive correlation with the hub genes, while resting mast cells had a negative correlation with the hub genes.

Conclusions

Our research identified eight hub genes and the infiltration of three types of immune cells related to POP occurrence. These hub genes may participate in the pathogenesis of POP through the immune system, giving them a certain diagnostic and therapeutic value.

Body mass index influences the risk of reoperation after first-time surgery for pelvic organ prolapse. A Danish cohort study, 2010-2016

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The aims of this study were to evaluate the impact of body mass index (BMI) on the risk of reoperation for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) up to 5 years after first-time surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This nationwide register-based study includes first-time POP surgery in 2010 through 2016. The cumulative incidence proportions of reoperation were analyzed in a Cox regression model and described using Kaplan-Meier plots stratified in BMI categories.

RESULTS

A total of 28,533 first-time procedures were performed in 22,624 women; 76.6% had single-compartment repair. The 1- and 5-year reoperation rate within the same compartment was 2.6% and 6.1% respectively for women with BMI < 25, and for women with BMI > 35 it was 3.7% and 11.2 respectively. In the anterior compartment there was a significantly increased adjusted hazard ratio for reoperation in the same compartment with increasing BMI (reference group BMI < 25), BMI 30-34.9 with an aHR = 1.34 (CI 95% 1.04-1.71) and BMI ≥ 35 aHR = 1.77 (CI 95% 1.17-2.67). The 1- and 5-year reoperation rate in an adjacent compartment was 0.6% and 1.6% respectively for women with BMI < 25, and for women with BMI > 35 it was 1.0% and 4.4 respectively. For reoperation in an adjacent compartment the adjusted results were BMI 30-34.9 aHR = 1.64 (95% CI 1.05-2.56) and BMI > 35 aHR = 2.64 (95% CI 1.36-5.14) when the first-time operation was in the anterior compartment.

CONCLUSIONS

If the woman had BMI > 35 and first-time surgery was in the anterior compartment, she had an almost doubled risk of reoperation within 5 years both in the same compartment and in an adjacent compartment compared to women with BMI < 35. In the apical and posterior compartment there was a trend towards increasing risk of reoperation with increasing BMI, although with a broad confidence interval.

Factors involved in prolapse recurrence one year after anterior vaginal repair

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The aim of this study was to identify which factors are associated with anatomic and symptomatic prolapse recurrence in the anterior compartment 1 year after traditional anterior vaginal repair. Our study hypothesis was that major defects in pelvic floor support structures before surgery are associated with higher recurrence rates.

METHODS

This was a prospective multicenter study including women with symptomatic anterior compartment prolapse who underwent primary vaginal surgery. Prolapse examination was performed using the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POP-Q) system, prolapse symptoms were described using the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory short form (PFDI-20), and levator ani avulsion and hiatal area were identified by translabial 3D ultrasonography.

RESULTS

During the inclusion period, 455 patients were recruited and 442 (97.1%) attended the 1-year follow-up. In three cases, ultrasound data were not available, and the remaining 439 formed the study group. Anatomic and symptomatic recurrence rates were 45.1% and 6.8%, respectively. Levator avulsion increased the risk of anatomic (OR: 1.96) and symptomatic (OR: 2.60) recurrence; abnormal distensibility of the levator hiatal area increased the risk of anatomic (OR: 2.51) and symptomatic (OR: 2.43) recurrence; advanced prolapse increased the risk of anatomic recurrence: POP-Q stage 3 (OR: 2.34) and POP-Q stage 4 (OR: 5.47).

CONCLUSIONS

Major defects in pelvic floor support structures before surgery are associated with higher recurrence rates 1 year after native tissue vaginal repair. Advanced stage of prolapse increases the risk of anatomic recurrence, while levator avulsion and abnormal distensibility of the levator hiatus area increase the risk of both anatomic and symptomatic recurrence.

Common variants in LAMC1 confer risk for pelvic organ prolapse in Chinese population

BACKGROUND

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) affects around 15% of postmenopausal women in China. Although it has been widely accepted that genetic variants could confer risk for POP, the genetic susceptibility variants remain largely unknown. Previous studies indicated that LAMC1, which encodes the laminin gamma 1 chain and is critical for extracellular matrix, might be a susceptibility gene for POP. The study is to test the correlation of common variants across the LAMC1 gene with POP susceptibility in Chinese population.

METHODS

A total of 396 individuals, including 161 unrelated patients of POP and 235 healthy controls, were recruited. Ten SNPs, including rs20558, rs20563, rs10911193, rs6424889, rs10911241, rs3768617, rs12073936, rs729819, rs10911214 and rs869133, of LAMC1, were genotyped using standard Sanger sequencing. The UNPHASED program (version 3.1.5) was used to analyze the genotyping data for allelic and genotypic associations.

RESULTS

SNP rs10911241 was significantly associated with POP risk (χ² = 10.70, P = 1.1 E-03). The minor allele (rs10911241-G) carriers exhibited an increased risk of the disease (OR = 1.71, 95% CI = 1.24-2.36).

CONCLUSION

Association of LAMC1 with POP risk in Chinese population strongly supported the involvement of LAMC1 in POP development.

Effect of preoperative pelvic floor muscle training on pelvic floor muscle contraction and symptomatic and anatomical pelvic organ prolapse after surgery: randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effect of preoperative pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) on pelvic floor muscle (PFM) contraction, symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and anatomical POP, 6 months after prolapse surgery, and to assess the overall changes in PFM contraction, POP symptoms and pelvic organ descent after surgery.

METHODS

This was a randomized controlled trial of 159 women with symptomatic POP, Stage 2 or higher, scheduled for surgery. Participants were randomized to intervention including daily PFMT from inclusion to surgery (n = 81) or no intervention (controls; n = 78). Participants were examined at inclusion, on the day of surgery and 6 months after surgery. PFM contraction was assessed by: vaginal palpation using the Modified Oxford scale (MOS; 0-5); transperineal ultrasound, measuring the percentage change in levator hiatal anteroposterior diameter (APD) from rest to maximum PFM contraction; vaginal manometry; and surface electromyography (EMG). POP distance from the hymen in the compartment with the most dominant prolapse and organ descent in the anterior, central and posterior compartments were measured on maximum Valsalva maneuver. POP symptoms were assessed based on the sensation of vaginal bulge, which was graded using a visual analog scale (VAS; 0-100 mm). Linear mixed models were used to assess the effect of PFMT on outcome variables.

RESULTS

Of the 159 women randomized, 151 completed the study, comprising 75 in the intervention and 76 in the control group. Mean waiting time for surgery was 22 ± 9.7 weeks and follow-up was performed on average 28 ± 7.8 weeks after surgery. Postoperatively, no difference was found between the intervention and control groups with respect to PFM contraction assessed by vaginal palpation (MOS, 2.4 vs 2.2; P = 0.101), manometry (19.4 vs 19.7 cmH₂ O; P = 0.793), surface EMG (33.5 vs 33.1 mV; P = 0.815) and ultrasound (change in hiatal APD, 20.9% vs 19.3%; P = 0.211). Furthermore, no difference between groups was found for sensation of vaginal bulge (VAS, 7.4 vs 6.0 mm; P = 0.598), POP distance from the hymen in the dominant prolapse compartment (-1.8 vs -2.0 cm; P = 0.556) and sonographic descent of the bladder (0.5 vs 0.8 cm; P = 0.058), cervix (-1.3 vs -1.1 cm; P = 0.569) and rectal ampulla (0.3 vs 0.4 cm; P = 0.434). In all patients, compared with findings at initial examination, muscle contraction improved after surgery, as assessed by palpation (MOS, 2.1 vs 2.3; P = 0.007) and ultrasound (change in hiatal APD, 17.5% vs 20.1%; P = 0.001), and sensation of vaginal bulge was reduced (VAS, 57.6 vs 6.7 mm; P < 0.001). In addition, compared with the baseline examination, POP distance from the hymen in the dominant prolapse compartment (1.9 vs -1.9 cm; P < 0.001) and sonographic descent of the bladder (1.3 vs 0.6 cm; P < 0.001), cervix (0.0 vs -1.2 cm; P < 0.001) and rectal ampulla (0.9 vs 0.4 cm; P = 0.001) were reduced.

CONCLUSIONS

We found no effect of preoperative PFMT on PFM contraction, POP symptoms or anatomical prolapse after surgery. In all patients, PFM contraction and POP symptoms were improved at the 6-month follow-up, most likely due to the anatomical correction of POP. Copyright © 2020 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Update in native tissue vaginal vault prolapse repair

The lifetime risk of women for undergoing surgery for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is estimated to be 11-19%, and 30% of these women will require subsequent reoperation over time. Following hysterectomy, 3.6 per 1,000 person-years need surgical correction of prolapse, and in two-thirds of these cases multi-compartment prolapse is present. In the last decades, vaginally synthetic meshes were widely used in pelvic reconstructive surgery. However, after the decision of the Food and Drug Administration in 2019 to stop selling all surgical mesh devices for transvaginal prolapse repair, native tissue (NT) vaginal repair seems to regain an important role in pelvic reconstructive surgery. In the literature, various surgical techniques have been described for apical repair, but the best surgical approach is still to be proven. This paper analyzes the current evidence from recent literature on NT vaginal vault prolapse (VVP) repair, with special focus on the safety and efficacy of the various vaginal techniques.

The effect of replacing vacuum with forceps in operative vaginal delivery: an observational study

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

An increase in vaginal delivery with forceps may increase rates of pelvic floor trauma. This study was designed to predict trauma rates resulting from policies preferencing forceps.

METHODS

This is an observational cohort study utilizing data from 660 primiparae enrolled in an RCT in two tertiary obstetric units in Sydney, Australia. Participants were assessed clinically and with 4D translabial ultrasound in the late third trimester and again at 3-6 months postpartum. Incidence of trauma associated with mode of delivery was adjusted to reflect change associated with a conversion of vacuum to forceps delivery. Primary outcome measures were third-/fourth-degree tear, levator avulsion (LA) and external anal sphincter (EAS) trauma diagnosed sonographically.

RESULTS

Five hundred four women were seen at a mean of 5.1 (2.3-24.3) months postpartum. After exclusion of 21 because of missing data, 483 women were analysed: 112 (23%) had a CS, 268 (55%) a normal vaginal delivery (NVD), 69 (14%) a vacuum (VD) and 34 (7%) a forceps (FD). One hundred fifty-two women had EAS trauma and/or LA; 17 sustained both. After VD, 32/69 (46%) women suffered LA and/or EAS trauma; after FD, it was 33/34 (97%). Converting VD to FD was estimated to result in an increase in trauma from 152/483 (31%) to 187/483 (39%). A formula can be generated based on local obstetric and ultrasound data to estimate trauma incidence.

CONCLUSIONS

A change in obstetric practice resulting in the conversion of primary VD to primary FD would be expected to substantially increase the likelihood of pelvic floor trauma.

Position of Ibero-American Society of Neurourology and UroGynecology (SINUG) on the use of vaginal meshes in pelvic organ prolapse

AIMS

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a very prevalent condition with a great impact on women's quality of life. At present, there is great controversy regarding the use of mesh in POP surgery. To understand the current moment, it is advisable to make a brief summary of the historical evolution of mesh use for pelvic floor pathology. The aim of this paper is to establish the position of the Ibero-American Society of Neurourology and UroGynecology (SINUG for its acronym in Spanish) regarding vaginal mesh reconstructive surgery.

METHODS

A working committee from the SINUG's scientific board performed a literature search about the use of vaginal meshes for pelvic organ prolapse reconstructive surgery and about the position of different societies. We analyzed the evolution into three periods: before the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) statement, FDA statement, and after the statement. SINUG drew up a position statement regarding vaginal mesh reconstructive surgery, based on the available scientific evidence and the evolution of its use in different contexts.

RESULTS

Before mesh appearance in the 1990s, native tissue repair was the surgical treatment of choice for POP. Vaginal mesh reconstructive surgery has been frequently accompanied by procedure underestimation by inexperienced surgeons, besides inadequate diagnoses and indications. This situation led to the presentation of serious complications including mesh extrusion, exposure, and contraction.

CONCLUSIONS

Once reviewed the available evidence and the position of different societies, SINUG presents its vision in this communication, which is a summary of the document prepared by the society's scientific board.

Comparison of the vault prolapse rate after vaginal hysterectomy with or without residual uterine ligament ligations: A retrospective cohort study

PURPOSE

To evaluate the post-hysterectomy vault prolapse (PHVP) rates performed using different methods of vaginal total hysterectomy (VTH).

METHODS

A total of 251 women who underwent VTH with/without concomitant surgeries between January 1986 and December 2001 in a tertiary center. Thirty-eight women were excluded due to not only a vaginal approach. Of the remaining 213 women, 129 and 84 underwent VTH via the Tsuzi method with residual uterine ligament ligations (ligations group) and traditional VTH (without ligations group), respectively. The χ² and Mann-Whitney U tests were applied appropriately. The cumulative percentages of women without PHVP were calculated over time and compared using Kaplan-Meier curves and log-rank tests. A p value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Compared to the without ligations group, women in the ligations group had longer operation time (115.9 ± 37.1 vs. 103.3 ± 41.4 min, p = 0.002) and more blood loss (217.4 ± 137.8 vs. 148.2 ± 149.0 mL, p < 0.001). When focusing on women with uterine prolapse, only operation time and grade of uterine prolapse were different between the groups (117.3 ± 24.8 vs. 107.9 ± 40.5 min, p = 0.025, and 21% vs. 41%, p = 0.018, respectively). The rate of PHVP was significantly lower in the ligation group than in the without ligations group (0 vs. 5, p = 0.005).

CONCLUSION

VTH via the Tsuzi method with residual uterine ligament ligations resulted in fewer cases of PHVP than occurred in traditional VTH. If native tissue repair is planned in pelvic reconstruction surgery, VTH with residual uterine ligament ligations should be considered.

A novel measurement of pelvic floor cross-sectional area in older and younger women with and without prolapse

BACKGROUND

An increase in size of the aperture of the pelvis that must be spanned by pelvic floor support structures translates to an increase in the force on these structures. Prior studies have measured the bony dimensions of the pelvis, but the effect of changes in muscle bulk that may affect the size of this area are unknown.

OBJECTIVES

To develop a technique to evaluate the aperture size in the anterior pelvis at the level of the levator ani muscle attachments, and to identify age-related changes in women with and without prolapse.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a technique development and pilot case-control study evaluating pelvic magnetic resonance imaging from 30 primiparous women from the Michigan Pelvic Floor Research Group MRI Data Base: 10 younger women with normal support, 10 older women with prolapse, and 10 older menopausal women without prolapse. Anterior pelvic area measurements were made in a plane that included the bilateral ischial spines and the inferior pubic point, approximating the level of the arcus tendineus fascia pelvis. Measurements of the anterior pelvic area, obturator internus muscles, and interspinous diameter were made by 5 independent raters from the Society of Gynecologic Surgeons Pelvic Anatomy Group who focused on developing pelvic imaging techniques, and evaluating interrater reliability. Demographic characteristics were compared across groups of interest using the Wilcoxon rank sum test, χ2, or Fisher exact test where appropriate. Multiple linear regression models were created to identify independent predictors of anterior pelvic area.

RESULTS

Per the study design, groups differed in age and prolapse stage. There were no differences in race, height, body mass index, gravidity, or parity. Patients with prolapse had a significantly longer interspinous diameter, and more major (>50% of the muscle) levator ani defects when compared to both older and younger women without prolapse. Interrater reliability was high for all measurements (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.96). The anterior pelvic area (cm2) was significantly larger in older women with prolapse compared to older (60 ± 5.1 vs 53 ± 4.9, P = .004) and younger (60 ± 5.1 vs 52 ± 4.6, P = .001) women with normal support. The younger and older women with normal support did not differ in anterior pelvic area (52 ± 4.6 vs 53 ± 4.9, P = .99). After adjusting for race and body mass index, increased anterior pelvic area was significantly associated with the following: being an older woman with prolapse (β = 6.61 cm2, P = .004), and interspinous diameter (β = 4.52 cm2, P = .004).

CONCLUSION

Older women with prolapse had the largest anterior area, suggesting that the anterior pelvic area is a novel measure to consider when evaluating women with prolapse. Interspinous diameter, and being an older woman with prolapse, were associated with a larger anterior pelvic area. This suggests that reduced obturator internus muscle size with age may not be the primary factor in determining anterior pelvic area, but that pelvic dimensions such as interspinous diameter could play a role. The measurements were highly repeatable. The high intraclass correlation coefficient indicates that all raters were able to successfully learn the imaging software and to perform measurements with high reproducibility.

Development of anatomically based customizable three-dimensional finite-element model of pelvic floor support system: POP-SIM1.0

To develop an anatomically based customizable finite-element (FE) model of the pelvic floor support system to simulate pelvic organ prolapse (POP): POP-SIM1.0. This new simulation platform allows for the construction of an array of models that objectively represent the key anatomical and functional variation in women with and without prolapse to test pathomechanism hypotheses of the prolapse formation. POP-SIM1.0 consists of anatomically based FE models and a suite of Python-based tools developed to rapidly construct FE models by customizing the base model with desired structural parameters. Each model consists of anatomical structures from three support subsystems which can be customized based on magnetic resonance image measurements in women with and without prolapse. The customizable structural parameters include presence of levator ani (LA) avulsion, hiatus size, anterior vaginal wall dimension, attachment fascia length and apical location in addition to the tissue material properties and intra-abdominal pressure loading. After customization, the FE model was loaded with increasing intra-abdominal pressure (0-100 cmH2O) and solved using ABAQUS explicit solver. We were able to rapidly construct anatomically based FE models with specific structural geometry which reflects the morphology changes often observed in women with prolapse. At maximum loading, simulated structural deformations have similar anatomical characteristics to those observed during clinical exams and stress magnetic resonance images. Simulation results showed the presence of LA muscle avulsion negatively impacts the pelvic floor support. The normal model with intact muscle had the smallest exposed vaginal length of 11 mm, while the bilateral avulsion produced the largest exposed vaginal length at 24 mm. The unilateral avulsion model had an exposed vaginal length of 18 mm and also demonstrated a tipped perineal body similar to that seen in clinical observation. Increasing the hiatus size, vaginal wall length and fascia length also resulted in worse pelvic floor support, increasing the exposed vaginal length from 18 mm in the base model to 33 mm, 54 mm and 23.5 mm, respectively. The developed POP-SIM1.0 can simulate the anatomical structure changes often observed in women with prolapse. Preliminary results showed that the presence of LA avulsion, enlarged hiatus, longer vaginal wall and fascia length can result in larger prolapse at simulated maximum Valsalva.

Identification of pelvic organ prolapse risk susceptibility gene SNP locus in Xinjiang women

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Susceptibility genes play an important role and have regional specificity in the occurrence of pelvic organ prolapse (POP). This study aims to identify POP susceptibility genes and their loci in ethnic minorities with different genetic backgrounds from Xinjiang in China, providing a theoretical basis for early POP diagnosis, treatment and prevention.

METHODS

Genomic DNA from peripheral blood of 196 patients was prepared; there were 88 POP patients and 108 non-pelvic floor dysfunction patients. We selected 16 different susceptibility gene single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) loci, which had been identified as associated with POP risk by researchers in other countries, and carried out genotyping through the Snapshot reaction. The allele and genotype frequencies, odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were analyzed using SPSS 17.0 software.

RESULTS

The genotypic and allelic distributions demonstrated significant differences between the patients and the control subjects in the group of minority women, details are as follows: ESR1 rs17847075 AG: OR = 2.738, 95% CI = 1.067-7.025, P = 0.041; ESR1 rs2234693 TC: OR = 2.99, 95% CI = 1.163-7.684, P = 0.024; ZFAT rs1036819 CC: OR = 10.286, 95% CI = 1.158-91.386, P = 0.036; allele C: OR = 2.212, 95% CI = 1.146-4.269; P = 0.02; FBLN5 rs12589592 AA: OR = 0.111, 95% CI = 0.013-0.952, P = 0.029; allele A: OR = 0.482, 95% CI = 0.254-0.913, P = 0.028.

CONCLUSIONS

ESR1 rs17847075 genotype AG in the dominant model (P = 0.008) or heterozygous model (P = 0.045), ESR1 rs2234693 genotype TC in the dominant model (P = 0.008) or heterozygous model (P = 0.028), and ZFAT rs1036819 genotype CC and allele C in the recessive model (P = 0.042) were significantly associated with POP risk in Xinjiang woman.