Surgical management of pelvic organ prolapse in women

Specialty-Specific Trends in Surgery for Apical Pelvic Organ Prolapse Post Vaginal Mesh

IMPORTANCE

Since transvaginal mesh (VM) kits for apical pelvic organ prolapse (APOP) were labeled "high-risk" in 2016 and subsequently banned in 2019 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the most common remaining surgical options include abdominal mesh-augmented sacrocolpopexy (AS) and transvaginal native tissue suspension (VN).

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to determine temporal trends in APOP procedures for urologists and gynecologists.

STUDY DESIGN

Between 2011 and 2020, the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was queried for AS, VM, and VN.

RESULTS

There were 26,477 cases of APOP repair (32% AS, 6% VM, 62% VN) included, 9% by urologists. Urologists operated on older (65 vs 61 years) patients with more medical comorbidities. Urologists performed significantly higher proportion of AS (65% vs 29%) and VM (8% vs 6%) relative to VN (27% vs 65%) than gynecologists ( P < 0.0001). Transvaginal mesh utilization has decreased over time for both specialties ( P < 0.05); nonsignificant trends toward increasing AS ( P = 0.1646) in urologists and VN ( P = 0.0913) in gynecologists concurrently occurred. Significant independent predictors of the operating surgeon being a urologist were surgery being performed in the latter half of the cohort (2016-2020; odds ratio [OR], 1.22), non-White patient race (OR < 1 for all), a concomitant sling being placed (OR = 0.89), the surgery being VM (OR = 2.95) or AS (OR = 4.36), the patient being older (OR > 1 for each age range), and having a higher frailty index score (OR = 1.16).

CONCLUSIONS

Significant differences in APOP repair choices exist between specialties. Urologists operate on older, more medically complex patients while demonstrating a strong preference for mesh-augmented compared with transvaginal native tissue repairs.

Translation, Cross-Cultural Adaptation, and Validation of Indonesian Version of Australian Pelvic Floor Questionnaire: An Interviewer-Administered Female Pelvic Floor Questionnaire

AIM

To adapt and determine the validity and reliability of the Indonesian version of the Australian Pelvic Floor Questionnaire (APFQ).

METHODS

The original APFQ was translated and validated to obtain an Indonesian, physician-administered version on 41 urogynecology patients and 41 age-matched women without pelvic floor dysfunction.

RESULTS

Missing answers never exceeded 2%. The questionnaire can significantly discriminate between pelvic floor dysfunction patients and those without dysfunctions. The results of each domain of the questionnaire correlated with clinical examinations and another questionnaire. Cronbach's alpha scores of all domains were 0.859 for bladder function, 0.829 for bowel function, 0.892 for prolapse symptoms, and 0.766 for sexual function.

CONCLUSION

The Indonesian version of the Australian Pelvic Floor Questionnaire (APFQ) is a valid and reliable questionnaire for assessing pelvic floor symptoms among women in Indonesia.

Apical Suspension Repair for Vaginal Vault Prolapse: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

The optimal surgical repair of vaginal vault prolapse after hysterectomy remains undetermined.

Objective

To compare the efficacy and safety of 3 surgical approaches for vaginal vault prolapse after hysterectomy.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This was a multisite, 3-arm, superiority and noninferiority randomized clinical trial. Outcomes were assessed biannually up to 60 months, until the last participant reached 36 months of follow-up. Settings included 9 clinical sites in the US National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) Pelvic Floor Disorders Network. Between February 2016 and April 2019, women with symptomatic vaginal vault prolapse after hysterectomy who desired surgical correction were randomized. Data were analyzed from November 2022 to January 2023.

Interventions

Mesh-augmented (either abdominally [sacrocolpopexy] or through a vaginal incision [transvaginal mesh]) vs transvaginal native tissue repair.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was time until composite treatment failure (including retreatment for prolapse, prolapse beyond the hymen, or prolapse symptoms) evaluated with survival models. Secondary outcomes included patient-reported symptom-specific results, objective measures, and adverse events.

Results

Of 376 randomized participants (mean [SD] age, 66.1 [8.7] years), 360 (96%) had surgery, and 296 (82%) completed follow-up. Adjusted 36-month failure incidence was 28% (95% CI, 20%-37%) for sacrocolpopexy, 29% (95% CI, 21%-38%) for transvaginal mesh, and 43% (95% CI, 35%-53%) for native tissue repair. Sacrocolpopexy was found to be superior to native tissue repair (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 0.57; 99% CI, 0.33-0.98; P = .01). Transvaginal mesh was not statistically superior to native tissue after adjustment for multiple comparisons (aHR, 0.60; 99% CI, 0.34-1.03; P = .02) but was noninferior to sacrocolpopexy (aHR, 1.05; 97% CI, 0-1.65; P = .01). All 3 surgeries resulted in sustained benefits in subjective outcomes. Mesh exposure rates were low (4 of 120 [3%] for sacrocolpopexy and 6 of 115 [5%] for transvaginal mesh) as were the rates of dyspareunia.

Conclusions and Relevance

Among participants undergoing apical repair for vaginal vault prolapse, sacrocolpopexy and transvaginal mesh resulted in similar composite failure rates at study completion; both had lower failure rates than native tissue repair, although only sacrocolpopexy met a statistically significant difference. Low rates of mesh complications and adverse events corroborated the overall safety of each approach.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02676973.

Single-Port Robotic Sacrocolpopexy: Description of an Advanced Minimally Invasive Approach and Review of the Relevant Literature

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Sacrocolpopexy is the gold standard for the surgical management of apical prolapse. Over the years, surgical advancements have transformed the procedure from a laparotomy with a hospital stay of several days to a minimally invasive approach with a much shorter hospital stay. One recent innovation has the potential to transform minimally invasive sacrocolpopexy.

METHODS

The da Vinci single-port robotic platform has allowed urological procedures to generate improved recovery, pain control, and cosmesis, with no differences in complications rates.

RESULTS

Although the data with respect to sacrocolpopexy are more limited owing to the novelty of this application, the results appear to be similar to those of urological procedures such as prostatectomy.

CONCLUSIONS

We present our surgical technique for completing single-port robotic sacrocolpopexy, with and without a hysterectomy, as well as a review of the relevant literature.

Multicentric data analysis of the learning curve for laparoscopic Shull's repair of pelvic floor defects

Introduction

Pelvic organs prolapse remains a significant health concern affecting millions of women worldwide. The use of native tissues to suspend the apex has acquired relevance in urogynecologic surgery. One of the most commonly used procedures performed without mesh is the technique described by Shull, consisting of suturing the vaginal apex to the uterosacral ligaments. The objective of the study is to evaluate the learning curve of laparoscopic Shull's repair for the correction of pelvic floor defects, including the surgery time and surgical outcomes.

Materials and methods

This is a retrospective study conducted at the Policlinico G. Martino, University of Messina, Messina, Italy, and Policlinico Vanvitelli, Vanvitelli University, Naples, Italy. All patients affected by grade I-IV POP, consisting of apical prolapse with or without cystocele, and who underwent laparoscopic Shull's technique for prolapse correction were enrolled. The endpoints to estimate the learning curve for the procedure were the percentage of laparoscopic procedures completed, operative time, and the early complication rate.

Results

A total of 31 laparoscopic Shull repairs were collected for the study. To evaluate the learning curve of the technique, we divided the 31 cases into three different groups: Procedures 0-10; 11-20; 21-31. The parameter for evaluating technique learning was the operative time. Group 21-31 demonstrated an operative time of 97 min (SD 20), compared with 121 min (SD 23) in group 0-10 and 120 min (SD 13) in group 11-20. A comparison of these means through ANOVA showed a p-value of 0.01 for the entire system, and 0.95 for the comparison between 0 and 10 and 11-20, 0.04 for 0-10 vs. 21-31, and 0.02 between 11 and 20 and 21-31.

Conclusions

The rate of surgical improvement in terms of time became effective after an average of 20 procedures. However, the improvement seems to be effective case by case for surgeons skilled in basic endoscopy.

Resolution of symptoms of rectal prolapse after repair of vaginal prolapse: A report of two cases

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a very common problem that can affect any aspect of the pelvic floor. Often, vaginal and rectal prolapse occur simultaneously. Prior case reports have suggested resolution of symptoms of rectal prolapse in those with concomitant rectal and vaginal prolapse; however, the overall body of evidence is limited. We present the cases of two patients who had complete resolution of their symptoms of rectal prolapse after repair of a concomitant vaginal prolapse. Both patients underwent a traditional rectocele repair and perineoplasty, and subsequently reported complete resolution of their symptoms of rectal prolapse, which persisted at their six-month post-operative visits. The second patient ultimately canceled a previously scheduled rectopexy with colorectal surgery. Perhaps a rectocele repair with perineoplasty is limiting rectal mobility, and therefore eliminating its ability to prolapse or intussuscept and cause bothersome symptoms. We suggest that those with concomitant vaginal and rectal prolapse desiring corrective surgery first undergo a less invasive vaginal repair. Post-operative re-evaluation of the symptoms rectal prolapse might then demonstrate that a more invasive rectal prolapse repair, which may involve a colon resection and prolonged hospital stay, was not in fact needed. Further prospective and randomized study is needed to determine the long-term outcomes of concomitant rectal and vaginal prolapse in those who first undergo a vaginal repair.

Efficacy and safety of transvaginal mesh repair in a cohort with a minimum of 10-year follow-up

Although transvaginal mesh (TVM) repair is no longer used in some countries, long-term outcomes after TVM surgery are of great importance globally. However, reports with follow-up >10 years are limited. Thus, this study aimed to report outcomes in a prospective cohort with at least 10 years of follow-up. Women with stage III-IV symptomatic prolapse were approached consecutively from 2008 to 2013 at one tertiary hospital. The main outcome measure was symptomatic failure. Secondary outcomes included anatomic failure, recurrence, patient satisfaction, complications, and reoperation. The Kaplan-Meier curve was used to estimate the cumulative failure rate. Of the 121 patients enrolled in the study, 103 (85.1%) completed a median follow-up of 11 years. The estimated probability rates of symptomatic and anatomic failure were 17.6% and 8.8% in 11 years, respectively. The estimated incidence of symptomatic failure increased by 8.2% between 5 and 11 years; however, the corresponding rate for anatomic failure was 3.7%. The most common complication was vaginal mesh exposure, and its estimated probability increased from 19.3% to 28.4% from 5 to 11 years, respectively. Office trimming resolved 80.0% of vaginal exposures. These patients did not report decreased overall satisfaction. Patients with vaginal mesh exposure requiring>3 office procedures or mesh removal in the operating room (5.8% by 11 years) had lower satisfaction rates (P<0.01) and were defined as having severe mesh exposure. The rates of postoperative pain, reoperation, and Patient Global Impression of Improvement ⩾2 were 2.5%, 3.3%, and 94.2%, respectively. The results of this study implied that TVM treatment gradually increased the symptomatic failure rate but provided durable anatomical support of the vaginal wall. Vaginal mesh exposure was common in women who were largely not sexually active; however, 80% of the cases could be managed in the outpatient clinic, which did not affect patient satisfaction.

Suture-Needle Management Device and Novel Port Configuration for Robotic Sacrocolpopexy

IMPORTANCE

Robot-assisted sacrocolpopexy (SCP) is a commonly performed procedure for the repair of apical pelvic organ prolapse; therefore, novel devices and techniques to improve safety and efficacy of this procedure should be explored.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to assess safety and efficacy of 8-mm trocar site for use of a disposable suture/needle management device (StitchKit; Origami Surgical, Madison, NJ) for robot-assisted SCP with a 4-arm configuration and no assistant port.

STUDY DESIGN

This is a retrospective case series of patients undergoing robot-assisted SCP at a tertiary center from 2018 to 2021. All surgical procedures were performed using four 8-mm robotic trocars and StitchKit device. Our objective was to review all cases in which this technique was used to determine whether the approach resulted in a safely completed procedure and any complications or adverse events. Secondary objectives were to describe patient and operative characteristics.

RESULTS

In total, 422 patients underwent robot-assisted SCP for pelvic organ prolapse. The mean age was 60 ± 10 years, and mean body mass index was 27 ± 6 (calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared). Most patients had stage 3 prolapse (73%) and underwent concomitant hysterectomy (70%). Ninety-nine percent (n = 416) of cases were completed robotically. StitchKit was successfully inserted and removed in all robotic cases with correct needle counts. All patients had postoperative visits, and 80% followed up at 3 months. No umbilical/port site hernias, operative site infections, or adverse events were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

Robot-assisted SCP can be performed safely using a 4-arm robotic configuration and suture kit device. This setup eliminates incisions greater than 8 mm and an assistant port, allowing for surgical efficiency without compromising patient outcomes.

A randomized clinical trial comparing internal and external pessaries in the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse in postmenopausal women: A pilot study

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Internal vaginal pessary is among the leading treatments for pelvic organ prolapse (POP); however, it has a high adverse event rate. An external pessary was recently developed as an alternative. The study's objective was to compare the efficacy of external and internal pessaries in treating POP in postmenopausal women.

METHODS

This parallel randomized (1:1 ratio) open-blind study included 40 symptomatic women with stage 2 or 3 POP. They were randomized into two groups: group 1 (internal pessary) and group 2 (external pessary) (n = 20 in each); and evaluated at the start of and 3 months after the treatment. Statistical analysis was performed to compare the results within and between the groups before and after the 3-month treatment.

RESULTS

The groups were homogeneous, except for the variables previous pregnancies (p = 0.030) and POP-Q score of apical prolapse (p = 0.023) whose values were higher in group 2. A significant improvement in quality of life was observed in both groups after 3 months of follow-up; however, internal pessaries were found to be more effective (p < 0.001). In group 1 there were differences between the initial and final POP-Q scores of anterior (0.004) and apical prolapse (p = 0.005). The complication rate associated with internal pessary use was high (p = 0.044).

CONCLUSIONS

The present data suggested that external pessaries have a similar effect to internal ones for the treatment of POP and improvement of the quality of life of postmenopausal women.

Association of the second birth mode of delivery and interval with maternal pelvic floor changes: a prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to explore the association of the second birth delivery mode and interval with maternal pelvic floor changes.

METHODS

This prospective cohort study included women who had a first delivery and were in weeks 36-41 of a subsequent pregnancy at Panzhihua Central Hospital between July 2017 and June 2018. The primary outcomes of the study were the hiatus area at 6 months postpartum and bladder neck (mm) at rest and during a maximum Valsalva maneuver.

RESULTS

There were 112 women with vaginal delivery and 182 with Cesarean section. The hiatus area and hiatus circumference decreased at all time points (all P < 0.001). The women with Cesarean section had a smaller hiatus area and circumference (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001). The hiatus diameters decreased with time in both groups (all P < 0.001) and were smaller after Cesarean section (both P < 0.001). The bladder neck at maximum Valsalva increased with time (all P < 0.001) without significant differences between the two groups. Finally, the proportion of patients with POP-Q stage 0/I increased with time in both groups (all P < 0.001), with the proportions being higher in the Cesarean group (P = 0.002). The birth interval was negatively correlated with the hiatus area (B=-0.17, 95%CI: -0.25, -0.08, P < 0.001) and positively correlated with the bladder neck at rest (B = 0.22, 95%CI: 0.08, 0.35, P = 0.001) and at maximum Valsalva (B = 0.85, 95%CI: 0.65, 1.05, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, the mode of delivery at the second birth could influence the hiatus area and circumference and bladder neck size. The birth interval was negatively correlated with the hiatus area and positively correlated with the bladder neck at rest and at maximum Valsalva.

Estimated National Cost of Pelvic Organ Prolapse Surgery in the United States

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the national cost of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery in the United States.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional, population-based study, we used the 2016-2018 Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project National Inpatient Samples and National Ambulatory Surgery Samples to identify patients undergoing POP surgery using International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10) diagnosis codes, ICD-10 procedural codes, and Current Procedural Terminology codes. Cost-to-charge ratios and weighted estimates were used to calculate nationwide costs. Descriptive analysis was used to identify the sociodemographic, clinical, and surgical characteristics of the population undergoing POP surgery.

RESULTS

Between 2016 and 2018, there were 140,762 POP surgical cases annually with an annual national cost estimated at $1.523 billion per year. The median cost per procedure increased slightly from $8,837 in 2016 to $8,958 in 2018. Overall, 82.5% of the total surgeries and 78% of the total national costs associated with POP surgery came from the ambulatory setting over this time period. Of these surgeries, 44.7% included an apical repair, and 42.3% included a concomitant hysterectomy. The average age of the population was 62 years, and 20% of the total population receiving prolapse surgery were younger than age 50 years.

CONCLUSION

The annual national cost associated with surgical correction of POP is substantial, and the majority of cases occur in an ambulatory setting. These findings will contribute to enhancing cost-effectiveness analyses and decision-making processes for both health care professionals and policymakers as the national population continues to age.

Retrospective Cohort Study of Recovery From Sacrocolpopexy Versus Nonmesh Prolapse Repair

IMPORTANCE

Providing recovery expectations for prolapse surgery is an important part of patient counseling and aids in patient-centered decision making.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to determine if postoperative recovery from minimally invasive sacrocolpopexy (MISCP) is noninferior to that of native tissue repair.

STUDY DESIGN

Recovery at 2 and 6 weeks was quantified using the Postdischarge Surgical Recovery 13 scale, where higher scores indicate greater patient-perceived recovery. A 2:1 MISCP to native tissue repair ratio was used. The study population was created from 3 prior studies involving patients who underwent prolapse surgery between 2013 and 2021.Independent-samples t test was used for normally distributed data, Mann-Whitney U tests for nonnormally distributed data, and the χ2 test for population proportions. A parsimonious linear regression analysis was performed to determine if the surgical group independently predicted postdischarge surgical recovery at 2 and 6 weeks, after controlling for significant confounders identified during bivariate analysis.

RESULTS

The study population included 476 patients: 352 underwent MISCP and 124 underwent native tissue repair.Postdischarge Surgical Recovery 13 scores for patients who underwent MISCP compared with native tissue repair were higher at 2 weeks (mean, 58.4 ± 18.2 vs 54.4 ± 18.7; P = 0.04) and at 6 weeks postoperatively (mean, 77.2 ± 15.6 vs 73.7 ± 18.7; P = 0.1).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicate that recovery after MISCP is noninferior to that of native tissue repair. This information is important for delivering patient-centered care during preoperative counseling.

Prevention of complications of surgical treatment of stage III-IV cystocele using light polypropylene mesh

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of study was to report the subjective and objective results of different methods of surgical treatment of cystocele using the transvaginal Mesh-system.

METHODOLOGY

A prospective study was conducted from January 2017 to December 2020 comparing anterior colporrhaphy with vaginal mesh and two distinct types of vaginal wall repair sutures in the surgical treatment of cystocele. The primary endpoint was the incidence rate of vaginal wall erosion complications 12 months after surgery. Secondary endpoints were anatomic outcomes, TVM-related morbidity, and patient satisfaction measured using validated questionnaires.

RESULTS

In total, 102 patients with stage III-IV cystocele and the average age of 67.2 ± 3.1 years (age range of 47-79 years old) took part in the study. Of the 102 women initially enrolled, 102 (100%) were successfully followed up 12 months after primary surgery. The primary result, the objective erosion development, was radically different in the comparison groups (1.6% against 23.5%, respectively). Analysis of the improved method of operative treatment showed a prominent level of positive, uncomplicated, surgery results of 98.4% (60/61). The anatomic success rate of recovery from cystocele was 99.9% (101/102) 12 months after surgery.

CONCLUSION

The suggested method of restoring the anterior vaginal wall in stage III-IV isolated cystocele without signs of incomplete and complete prolapse of the uterus showed a radically positive result. The number of complications was relatively high in the comparison group, but no difference was observed in satisfaction with the anatomical results of the surgery. The percentage of the vaginal wall erosion when using a single-layer suture is 23.5%, when using a two-layer suture is 1.6.

Determinants of Dissatisfaction After Laparoscopic Cure of Vaginal and/or Rectal Prolapse using Mesh: a Comprehensive Retrospective Cohort Study

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The primary objective is to identify determinants of dissatisfaction after surgical treatment of vaginal prolapse ± rectal prolapse, using laparoscopic mesh sacrohysteropexy (LSH) or sacrocolpopexy (LSC) ± ventral mesh rectopexy (VMR). The secondary objective is the evaluation of complications and objective/subjective recurrence rates.

METHODS

The study performed was a single-surgeon retrospective review of prospectively collected data. LSH/LSC ± VMR were performed between July 2005 and September 2022. Primary investigated outcome was patients' satisfaction, assessed using the Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I) score and the bother visual analog scale (VAS) obtained postoperatively (at a 1-month interval and on a 6-month/yearly basis thereafter). We looked for a correlation between the level of satisfaction (as reflected by the VAS) and potential determinants.

RESULTS

There were 355 patients with a mean age of 62 ±12 years. Nearly all the patients (94.3%) had a stage 3 or 4 prolapse according to the POP-Q classification. The mean postoperative bother VAS was 1.8, with only 12.7% of patients reporting a bother VAS score ≥ 3/10, indicating a dissatisfaction. PGI-I showed improvement in the vast majority of patients (96.4% scoring 1 to 3). Patients with anal incontinence preoperatively scored higher on the bother VAS postoperatively (r=0.175, p < 0.05). The use of a posterior arm mesh (for posterior vaginal prolapse) correlated with better satisfaction overall (r= -0.178, p = 0.001), whereas the performance of VMR was associated with a bothering sensation (r = 0.232, p < 0.001). A regression analysis confirmed the impact of posterior mesh and VMR on satisfaction levels, with odds of dissatisfaction being 2.18 higher when VMR was combined with LSH/LSC.

CONCLUSIONS

Posterior mesh use improves patient satisfaction when the posterior compartment is affected. In patients with concomitant vaginal and rectal prolapse, combining VMR with anterior LSC/LSH appears to negatively impact patients' satisfaction. Preoperative anal incontinence was demonstrated to be a risk factor for postoperative dissatisfaction.

Meta-analysis of the efficacy of laparoscopic uterosacral ligament suspension in patients with pelvic organ prolapse

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of laparoscopic uterosacral ligament suspension (LUSLS) for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) using a meta-analysis method.

METHODS

All articles about LUSLS published in English from Jan. 2010 to Jan. 2020 were retrieved using a computer from search engines, including PubMed, EMbase, Cochrane Library, CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, and Chinese Medical Journals. Meta-analysis was performed by two evaluators using RevMan 5.3 software according to the inclusion criteria.

RESULTS

A total of five studies were finally included, with 361 LUSLS cases and 361 control cases. LUSLS group showed a shorter operation duration (SMD-1.96; 95% CI = -3.90- -0.03; P = 0.05), more POP-quantification system (Q) (I) (SMD1.64; 95% CI = 1.05-2.56; P = 0.03), than the control group, with significant differences. There was no difference in the complication incidence, hospital stay, POP-Q>=II between the 2 groups (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

LUSLS was a safe and effective treatment for POP. Patients had higher postoperative satisfaction, shorter operation duration and satisfactory outcome. More high-quality randomized controlled trials are required in the future to make the results of the meta-analysis more accurate.

Laparoscopic Posterior Vaginal Plication plus Sacral Colpopexy for Severe Posterior Vaginal Prolapse: a Step-by-Step Video- Article

Background

In 2023, our Centre validated a surgical approach for patients with anterior/apical prolapse associated with severe posterior colpocele, using a laparoscopic posterior vaginal plication (LPP) combined with standard sacral colpopexy (LSC), demonstrating significant benefits in terms of anatomical repair.

Objectives

A step-by-step video demonstration of Laparoscopic Posterior Vaginal Plication (LPP) combined with "two-mesh" Sacral Colpopexy (LSC).

Material and Methods

Surgical technique of a LSC with 2 separate meshes is described.

Results

This video-article describes, with a step-by-step approach, a combined prosthetic and fascial laparoscopic technique to treat severe posterior colpocele.

Conclusions

LPP can be considered a feasible procedure during a standard LSC in patients with concomitant severe posterior prolapse.

Safety and Efficacy of Vaginal Implants in Pelvic Organ Prolapse Surgery: A Meta-analysis of 161 536 Patients

CONTEXT

Among the many surgical treatments for pelvic organ prolapse (POP), better results can be achieved with the use of vaginal implants. However, owing to perceived complications, vaginal implant surgeries have been restricted or banned in many countries.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the real value of vaginal implants in POP surgery and compare the safety and efficacy of operations with and without implants.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A systematic search was performed in three medical databases. Randomised controlled trials and observational studies comparing the safety and efficacy of vaginal POP surgery with implants versus native tissue were included. Safety outcomes were defined as different types of complications (functional and non-functional) and reoperations for complications. Efficacy outcomes were parameters of anatomical success and the rate of reoperations due to recurrence. A multivariate meta-analysis framework was used to estimate pooled odds ratios (ORs) with confidence intervals (CIs) with simultaneous control for study correlations and estimation of multiple correlated outcomes.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

We included 50 comparative studies in the analysis. Rates of reoperation for complications (OR 2.15, 95% CI 1.20-3.87), vaginal erosion (OR 14.05, 95% CI 9.07-21.77), vaginal bleeding (OR 1.67, 95% CI 1.25-2.23), and de novo stress urinary incontinence (OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.18-1.75) were significantly higher in the implant group. Rates of anatomical success (OR 3.22, 95% CI 2.06-5.0) and reoperation for recurrence (OR 0.55, 95% CI 0.36-0.85) were superior in the implant group.

CONCLUSIONS

POP surgeries with vaginal implants are more effective than surgeries without implants, with acceptable complication rates. Therefore, the complete prohibition of implants for POP surgeries should be reconsidered.

PATIENT SUMMARY

We compared vaginal surgery with and without implants for repair of pelvic organ prolapse. Despite higher complication rates, vaginal implants provide better long-term results overall than surgery without implants.

Comparative anatomy of the ovine and human pelvis for laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy: evaluating the effectiveness of the ovine model

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy (LSC) is a functional reconstructive surgery used to treat pelvic organ prolapse (POP) in middle-aged women. Although LSC is widely used, its implementation is hindered by perceived technical difficulties and surgical learning curves. Surgeons require adequate experience with LSC prior to performing the procedure on patients to improve their quality of life. This study is aimed at demonstrating the effectiveness of the ovine model (OM) for training and research in LSC, while also comparing anatomical differences between ovine and human models during the procedure.

METHODS

The animal model and training were provided by the Jesús Usón Minimally Invasive Surgery Centre. Urologists and gynecologists with experience in LSC participated in a course and their findings were recorded and documented.

RESULTS

Differences in patient positioning, trocar placement, and reperitonealization were identified between the ovine and human models. Hysterectomy is always performed in the ovine model, whereas it is not mandatory in humans. There are also differences in the dissection of the levator ani muscle and attachment point of the posterior mesh to the uterus between the two models. Despite differences in some areas, the ovine pelvic structure and vagina are similar in size to those of humans.

CONCLUSIONS

The ovine model is a valuable tool for surgeons in their learning curve for LSC, allowing for safe and effective practice prior to performing the procedure on patients. The use of the OM can help to improve the quality of life for women affected by pelvic organ prolapse.

Practice of laparoscopic prolapse surgery in Europe - ESGE Survey

Sacrocolpopexy is considered as the "gold standard" for management of women with apical prolapse. Numerous technical variants are being practiced. The first aim of this survey was to determine the habits of practice of laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy (LSCP) in Europe. The second aim was to determine whether surgeons who perform laparoscopic pelvic organ prolapse (POP) repair are familiar with the practice of alternative techniques and with mesh-less laparoscopic treatment of prolapse. The questionnaire was designed by the Urogynaecology Special Interest Group of the European Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy (ESGE). All ESGE-members were invited by email to respond to this survey consisting of 54 questions divided in different categories. Following review of ESGE member's responses, we have highlighted the great heterogeneity concerning the practice of LSCP and important variability in performance of concomitant surgeries. Alternative techniques are rarely used in practice. Furthermore, the lack of standardisation of the many surgical steps of a laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy is mainly due to the lack of evidence. There is a need for training and teaching in both standard and newer innovative techniques as well as the reporting of medium and long-term outcomes of both standard laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy and any of its alternatives.

Pelvic organ movements in asymptomatic nulliparous and symptomatic premenopausal women with pelvic organ prolapse in dynamic MRI: a feasibility study comparing midsagittal single-slice with multi-slice sequences

PURPOSE

To compare multi-slice (MS) MRI sequences of the pelvis acquired at rest and straining to dynamic midsagittal single-slice (SS) sequences for the assessment of pelvic organ prolapse (POP).

METHODS

This IRB-approved prospective single-center feasibility study included 23 premenopausal symptomatic patients with POP and 22 asymptomatic nulliparous volunteers. MRI of the pelvis at rest and straining was performed with midsagittal SS and MS sequences. Straining effort, visibility of organs and POP grade were scored on both. Organ points (bladder, cervix, anorectum) were measured. Differences between SS and MS sequences were compared with Wilcoxon test.

RESULTS

Straining effort was good in 84.4% on SS and in 64.4% on MS sequences (p = 0.003). Organ points were always visible on MS sequences, whereas the cervix was not fully visible in 31.1-33.3% on SS sequences. At rest, there were no statistically significant differences of organ point measurements between SS and MS sequences in symptomatic patients. At straining, positions of bladder, cervix, and anorectum were + 1.1 cm (± 1.8 cm), - 0.7 cm (± 2.9 cm), and + 0.7 cm (± 1.3 cm) on SS and + 0.4 mm (± 1.7 cm), - 1.4 cm (± 2.6 cm), and + 0.4 cm (± 1.3 cm) on MS sequences (p < 0.05). Only 2 cases of higher-grade POP were missed on MS sequences (both with poor straining effort).

CONCLUSION

MS sequences increase the visibility of organ points compared to SS sequences. Dynamic MS sequences can depict POP if images are acquired with sufficient straining effort. Further work is needed to optimize the depiction of the maximum straining effort with MS sequences.

The Surgical Management of Large Bladder Calculi and Irreducible Uterine Prolapse: A Case Report and Review of Literature

Bladder calculi are rare in women. We report a case of bladder calculi complicating irreducible uterovaginal prolapse. It provides diagnostic and operative challenges to the management team. A 77-year-old woman presented with irreducible complete uterovaginal prolapse. Bladder stones were appreciated on examination and confirmed with imaging. The patient was managed surgically with transabdominal hysterectomy with bilateral uterosacral colpopexy followed by cystolithotomy. The patient's postoperative course was uncomplicated, and she had an uneventful recovery at her 3-month postoperative visit without a recurrence of prolapse and gained good continence. The presence of bladder calculi should be considered in the setting of irreducible pelvic organ prolapse. The abdominal approach of cystolithotomy with a concomitant hysterectomy and vaginal apical suspension is safe and effective.

Bangle pessary: An unusual cause of vesicovaginal fistula

Vaginal pessaries are commonly used for uterine prolapse. Long forgotten pessaries get incarcerated in the vagina and may erode in the bladder and rectum. We present a unique case of a 60-year-old female patient who presented with dysuria and urge incontinence. In remote areas, bangles are still used as a pessary, which may present with atypical symptoms due to bladder perforation, encrustation, and Vesicovaginal fistula (VVF). VVF with a long curved tract can heal with prolonged catheterization. To our knowledge, this is the first case of glass bangle pessary being reported.

Measurement of extraction forces of non-absorbable suture and different anchoring systems used for pelvic organ prolapse surgery using soft-embalmed cadavers: A feasibility study

OBJECTIVE

Success of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) mesh procedures also depends on reliable anchoring systems (AS). Our primary aim was to assess the use of soft-embalmed cadavers in testing of different AS and our secondary aim was to compare extraction forces (EF) of different AS and non-absorbable suture (NAS).

STUDY DESIGN

IRB approval was obtained. NAS (Ti-cron®) and different AS were attached to force-measuring instrument (Dynamometer SS25LA) and anchored to anterior longitudinal (ALL) and pectineal ligament (PL) (Protack®, Uplift®, NAS), and sacrospinous ligament (SSL) (Surelift®, Elevate PC®, NAS) of Thiel soft-embalmed cadavers. EF were measured 2-4 times in each cadaver. Data were compared using non-parametric tests. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

Three female cadavers (age 59, 77 and 87) were used. NAS EF were significantly higher than AS EF for ALL and SSL, but not PL. Thiel soft-embalmed cadavers proved to be useful in testing of different AS.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of soft-embalmed cadavers in testing of different AS is feasible. According to our results, the NAS provides most reliable intra-corporeal fixation. However, significant inter- and intra-subject variability indicates that results may also be dependent on the tissue properties and anchoring procedure. Further testing using soft-embalmed cadavers could help optimise mesh procedures and establish a threshold EF necessary for reliable fixation.

Four-dimensional reconstruction and characterization of bladder deformations

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Pelvic floor disorders are prevalent diseases and patient care remains difficult as the dynamics of the pelvic floor remains poorly understood. So far, only 2D dynamic observations of straining exercises at excretion are available in the clinics and 3D mechanical defects of pelvic organs are not well studied. In this context, we propose a complete methodology for the 3D representation of non-reversible bladder deformations during exercises, combined with a 3D representation of the location of the highest strain areas on the organ surface.

METHODS

Novel image segmentation and registration approaches have been combined with three geometrical configurations of up-to-date rapid dynamic multi-slice MRI acquisitions for the reconstruction of real-time dynamic bladder volumes.

RESULTS

For the first time, we proposed real-time 3D deformation fields of the bladder under strain from in-bore forced breathing exercises. The potential of our method was assessed on eight control subjects undergoing forced breathing exercises. We obtained average volume deviations of the reconstructed dynamic volume of bladders around 2.5% and high registration accuracy with mean distance values of 0.4 ± 0.3 mm and Hausdorff distance values of 2.2 ± 1.1 mm.

CONCLUSIONS

The proposed framework provides proper 3D+t spatial tracking of non-reversible bladder deformations. This has immediate applicability in clinical settings for a better understanding of pelvic organ prolapse pathophysiology. This work can be extended to patients with cavity filling or excretion problems to better characterize the severity of pelvic floor pathologies or to be used for preoperative surgical planning.

Regional practice variation in pelvic organ prolapse surgery in Tuscany, Italy: a retrospective cohort study on administrative health data

OBJECTIVES

To explore determinants of practice variation in both access, and quality and efficiency of surgical care for pelvic organ prolapse (POP).

DESIGN AND SETTING

A retrospective cohort study employing administrative health data from the Tuscany region, Italy.

PARTICIPANTS

All women over 40 years hospitalised for apical/multicompartmental POP reconstructive surgery (excluding anterior/posterior colporrhaphy without concomitant hysterectomy) from January 2017 to December 2019.

OUTCOMES

We first computed treatment rates just for women residing in Tuscany (n=2819) and calculated the Systematic Component of Variation (SCV) to explore variation in access to care among health districts. Then, using the full cohort (n=2959), we ran multilevel models for the average length of stay and reoperations, readmissions and complications, and computed the intraclass correlation coefficient to assess the individual and hospital determinants of efficiency and quality of care provided by hospitals.

RESULTS

The 5.4-fold variation between the lowest-rate (56/100 000 inhabitants) and the highest-rate (302/100 000) districts and the SCV over 10% confirmed high systematic variation in the access to care. Higher treatment rates were driven by greater provisions of robotic and/or laparoscopic interventions, which showed highly variable usage rates. Both individual and hospital factors influenced quality and efficiency provided by hospitals, but just low proportions of variation were explained by hospital and patient characteristics.

CONCLUSIONS

We found high and systematic variation in the access to POP surgical care in Tuscany and in quality and efficiency provided by hospitals. Such a variation may be mainly explained by user and provider preferences, which should be further explored. Also, supply-side factors may be involved, suggesting that wider and more uniform dissemination of robotic/laparoscopic procedures may reduce variation.

Surgical management of genital prolapse and combined gynecological pathologies in women: A meta-analysis

<b>Introduction:</b> Prolapse can be fixed using a variety of surgical procedures. The goal of the present study was to examine the current literature on various surgical techniques for treating female genital organ prolapse.<br /> <b>Methods:</b> The PubMed and Medline databases were explored for pertinent literature up through August 2022 for this meta-analysis. The terms [surgery] AND [management] AND [genital prolapse OR gynaecological diseases] AND [randomised control studies OR randomised control trials] were used as search criteria. The studies that met the inclusion criteria were considered qualified using the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Cochrane handbook of “Systematic reviews of interventions” was used for risk of bias assessment.<br /> <b>Results:</b> The investigations found significant difference in the heterogeneity between the groups with a 76% I² value (p&lt;0.00001). There was little variability among the six trials that examined robotic and laparoscopic therapy of prolapse (I²=0%, p=0.94). In six investigations, the odd ratio revealed no statistically significant difference between groups (1.05; 95% CI, 0.52, 2.12). However, generally there were no appreciable differences between robotic and laparoscopic treatment of female prolapse. There was a low-risk bias among the selected studies.<br /> <b>Conclusion:</b> According to this meta-analysis study, laparoscopic surgery performed better job of managing prolapse than abdominal surgery.

Three-dimensional vs two-dimensional endoscopic approach in urogynecology: A retrospective cohort study of laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy

AIM

The gold standard to treat an apical pelvic organ prolapse is the abdominal route via a sacrocolpopexy, which is also reproduced by laparoscopic route. A laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy however, requires surgical expertise. Three-dimensional (3D) laparoscopy has been developed to overcome the lack of depth perception, that is a known disadvantage of conventional two-dimensional (2D) laparoscopy. This procedure can accelerate the learning curve and optimize the intra-, peri-, and postoperative outcomes. This study aims to compare 3D laparoscopy to traditional 2D laparoscopy for sacrocolpopexy.

METHODS

Data from 132 patients who underwent a sacrocolpopexy with 2D or 3D laparoscopy in Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, between June 2012 and September 2021, were collected retrospectively. Seventy-one laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy operations in 2D (n = 23) and 3D (n = 48) group were reviewed and compared regarding the duration of surgery, blood loss and the length of hospital admission as primary objectives.

RESULTS

There were no differences in the baseline demographics between the two groups. The estimated blood loss (1.0 (±0.6) g/dL vs 1.7 (±1.0) g/dL, p = 0.010), and duration of surgery (115.4 (±34.7) min. vs 134.7 (±26.2) min., p = 0.012) was significantly better in favor of 3D laparoscopy. The length of hospital stay was comparable in both groups (p = 0.833). Furthermore, no differences were observed between the groups regarding other surgical outcomes.

CONCLUSION

3D laparoscopy shows a significant benefit in terms of estimated blood loss and surgery duration among complex urogynecological surgeries compared to traditional 2D laparoscopy.

Postoperative results of laparoscopic lateral suspension operation: A clinical trials study

Background

Pelvic organ prolapse surgery carries potential risks, and Laparoscopic lateral suspension (LLS) surgery is being performed in increasing numbers with advances in minimally invasive surgery. Our study aims to report the postoperative results of LLS operations.

Patients and Methods

41 patients at POP Q stage 2 and above underwent LLS operations in a tertiary center between 2017 and 2019. Postoperative patients 12 (12-37) months and older were evaluated in terms of anterior and apical compartments.

Results

In our study, laparoscopic lateral suspension (LLS) was applied to 41 patients. The mean age of all patients was 51.45 ± 11.51, and the operation time was 71.13 ± 18.70 min, The mean hospital stay was 1.35 ± 0.4 days. The apical compartment success rate was 78% and the anterior compartment success rate was 73%. In terms of patient satisfaction, 32 (78.1%) patients were satisfied, While 37 (90.1%) patients did not have abdominal mesh pain, 4 (9.9%) patients had mesh pain. Dyspareunia was not observed.

Conclusions

Laparoscopic lateral suspension in pop surgery; Considering the success rate below expectation, some patient groups can be applied as an alternative surgical method.

Strengthen the sacral ligament and paravagina by equilibrium control severe pelvic organ prolapse

Objective

To evaluate and analyze the clinical effect of the combination of laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy (LSC), sacral ligament fusion and vaginal suspension in the treatment of severe pelvic organ prolapse.

Methods

A total of 76 cases of patients with pelvic organ prolapse in our hospital between January 2010 to December 2020 were enrolled for research. They had been evaluated pre- and post-operative through pelvic organ prolapse quantification (POP-Q) system, Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Questionnaire Short Form (PFDI-20), Pelvic Floor Function Impact Questionnaire Short form (PFIQ-7), and the Sexual Function Questionnaire Score (PIQS-31).

Results

All 76 patients went through the procedure successfully without any complications. None of the 76 cases had relapsed. Post-operational results of PFDI-20 and PFIQ-7 were evidently lower than pre-operational results, post-operational results of PIQS-31 were higher than before operation.

Conclusions

For patients with severe pelvic organ prolapse,a balanced control of the pelvic floor centred on the preservation of the stereoscopic ring around the cervix through revascularization is significantly effective, and has no recurrence after surgery, high patient satisfaction, fewer postoperative complications. It is safe and reliable and worthy of clinical application and promotion.

Comparative study of absorbable suture and permanent suture in sacrocolpopexy: a meta-analysis and systematic review

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The aim of this study was to compare the surgical results and the complications of absorbable suture (AS) versus permanent suture (PS) in sacrocolpopexy (SCP).

METHODS

We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the Cochrane Library Central Register of Controlled Trials for articles in which researchers compared AS with PS in SCP. The primary outcomes were the surgical success rate and suture-related complications (suture exposure/erosion, mesh erosion, and suture removal). All analyses were performed with Review Manager 5.3.

RESULTS

Four articles involving 689 patients were ultimately included. Our findings demonstrated that AS had similar surgical success rates to those of PS (OR=1.34; 95% CI, 0.60-2.96) and no significant differences in failure rates were noted between the two groups (OR=0.75; 95% CI, 0.34-1.66). Subgroup analyses in patients with anatomical failure revealed no significant differences in recurrent posterior prolapse (OR=0.33; 95% CI, 0.05-2.10) or in recurrent apical (OR=0.64; 95% CI, 0.03-13.66) or anterior prolapse (OR=0.45; 95% CI, 0.13-1.57). However, the AS group were at a lower risk of suture exposure/erosion (OR=0.18; 95% CI, 0.06-0.58) and a lower suture removal rate (OR=0.14; 95% CI, 0.03-0.61) and retreatment (OR=0.36; 95% CI, 0.16-0.82), but the mesh erosion was not significantly different (OR=1.00; 95% CI, 0.49-2.08).

CONCLUSIONS

The data showed that AS had a similar success rate, less exposure/erosion, and were less likely to be removed and require retreatment than PS, which supported the notion that AS is as effective as PS but safer.

Clinical outcomes and complications of laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy with versus without concomitant hysterectomy for pelvic organ prolapse in Hong Kong Chinese patients after median follow-up of 7 years

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

This retrospective cohort study is aimed at comparing outcomes and complications of laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy (LSC) with or without concomitant hysterectomy in the Hong Kong Chinese population.

METHODS

Women with stage II or above uterine or apical vault prolapse who underwent LSC with or without concomitant hysterectomy in a regional referral unit from 2007 to 2019 were included. The primary objectives were to compare the anatomical outcomes by pelvic organ prolapse quantification system (POP-Q) and recurrence of apical vault prolapse (≥stage II). The secondary objective was to compare the functional outcomes and complications. Anatomical recurrence and incidence of mesh exposure were analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier method. Cox proportional hazard regression was performed to identify risk factors of anatomical recurrence.

RESULTS

Seventy-six women were included for analysis. The recurrence rate of apical vault prolapse was 3.9% after a median follow-up time of 83 months (20-190 months). A significant reduction of POP-Q scores of three compartments in both groups of women were demonstrated (p<0.001). There was no difference between the two groups in terms of functional outcomes and complications. 6.6% of women developed mesh exposure. The time to recurrence of apical vault prolapse was shorter in women who had LSC with prior hysterectomy (p =0.019). No risk factors were identified for recurrence of apical vault prolapse.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy with concomitant hysterectomy is comparable with LSC alone. The recurrence and complication rates are low. We suggest that LSC with concomitant hysterectomy might be offered to women with pelvic organ prolapse, with women's preference taken into account.

Vaginal Vault Prolapse in an Elderly Woman

Vaginal vault prolapse is a painful condition in which the vaginal cuff descends. This report presents a case of a 65-year-old obese and diabetic female who was suffering from a third-degree vault prolapse. Conventionally used non-surgical treatments, such as exercises for the pelvic floor, are not as effective as surgical approaches for the treatment of third-degree vault prolapse. Post-hysterectomy vaginal vault prolapse can be treated safely and effectively with abdominal sacral colpopexy using a permanent mesh. Due to several risk factors, such as grand parity, advancing age, and poor lifestyle mainly involving exercise to strengthen pelvic floor musculature, the vaginal route of surgery was employed, which was found to be effective, and thus the treatment was successful. In conclusion, such individualized as well as unique approaches to such rare cases can produce efficacious results.

Characteristics Associated With Postoperative Catheterization at Discharge in Women Undergoing Colpocleisis

IMPORTANCE

Although transient voiding dysfunction is common after surgical correction of pelvic organ prolapse, it has not been well studied in women undergoing colpocleisis.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to identify characteristics associated with discharge home with a urinary catheter in women undergoing colpocleisis.

STUDY DESIGN

This is a secondary analysis of a multicenter prospective study examining the effect of pelvic support, symptoms, and satisfaction in women undergoing colpocleisis. Publicly accessible deidentified data sets of the index study were analyzed. Primary outcome was discharge with a urinary catheter postoperatively. Characteristics associated with discharge with catheter after colpocleisis were assessed via logistic regression. Covariates were selected based on statistical significance at 0.05 and clinical relevance on bivariate analysis.

RESULTS

Of the 136 women (mean age, 77.8 ± 5.5 years) undergoing colpocleisis in the index study, 68 (50.0%) were discharged with catheter. Baseline characteristics did not differ, except that the catheter group had lower prior incontinence surgery (7.4% vs 22.1%, P = 0.02) and higher preoperative postvoid residual volume (PVR; 189.8 ± 187.6 vs 91.3 ± 124.2 mL, P < 0.01). Those discharged with catheter had greater estimated blood loss (128.7 ± 88.5 vs 95.3 ± 74.5 mL, P = 0.02), operative time (125.2 ± 56.3 vs 100.8 ± 45.4 minutes, P < 0.01), and concomitant levator myorrhaphy (82.4% vs 58.8%, P < 0.01). Multivariable analysis revealed preoperative PVR (adjusted odds ratio, 1.2; 95% confidence interval, 1.0-1.4 for every 50-mL increase in PVR) and levator myorrhaphy (adjusted odds ratio, 4.3; 95% confidence interval, 1.6-11.3) were associated with postoperative catheterization.

CONCLUSIONS

In women undergoing colpocleisis, higher preoperative PVR and levator myorrhaphy were associated with discharge with catheter.

Long term surgical outcomes of vaginal colposuspension using the Uphold Lite™ mesh system vs. vaginal vault uterosacral ligament suspension for treatment of apical prolapse

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to compare long-term outcomes (7-10 years) between vaginal hysterectomy with uterosacral ligament suspension (VHUSLS) and sacrospinous hysteropexy with the Uphold™ Lite mesh System (SHU) for management of apical prolapse.

METHODS

Patients undergoing VHUSLS or SHU from 2008 to 2012 at a single tertiary referral center were included. Patients were contacted, asked to return for physical examination, and to complete the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI-20) questionnaire. Our primary outcome was anatomic failure defined as Stage 2 POP or higher of any compartment. The secondary outcome was subjective changes in symptoms based upon PFDI-20 responses.

RESULTS

Two-hundred and two women were identified to have undergone the index surgeries from 2008 to 2012. Sixty-three agreed to return for follow up symptom evaluation and examination (30 VHUSLS and 33 SHU). Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. Clinical cure was high for both groups reaching 93.4 % and 94.0 % for the VHUSLS and SHU groups, respectively (p = 0.721). Anatomical success was lower with 44.7 % and 66.7 % of patients in the VHUSLS and SHU groups, respectively, meeting criteria for success (p = 0.138). There were no mesh complications among patients returning for exams. However, two patients who were contacted and were not interested in this study reported mesh complications and need for additional surgeries. Anterior vaginal wall support was noted to be significantly better supported for SHU (Ba -2.03 ± 0.75 vs -1.42 ± 0.92, p = 0.008). There were no differences between groups for overall PFDI-20 scores postoperatively. However, SHU patients reported higher rates of stress urinary incontinence compared to VHUSLS patients.

CONCLUSION

In women with apical prolapse, VHUSLS and SHU afford similar long-term outcomes. SHU patients reported higher rates of stress urinary incontinence.

Laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy versus abdominal sacrocolpopexy for vaginal vault prolapse: long-term follow-up of a randomized controlled trial

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The objective of this study was to evaluate long-term outcomes of laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy (LSC) versus abdominal sacrocolpopexy (ASC) for vaginal vault prolapse (VVP).

METHODS

Long-term follow-up of a multicenter randomized controlled trial (SALTO trial). A total of 74 women were randomly assigned to LSC (n=37) or ASC (n=37). Primary outcome was disease-specific quality of life, measured with validated questionnaires. Secondary outcomes included anatomical outcome, composite outcome of success, complications, and retreatment.

RESULTS

We analyzed 22 patients in the LSC group and 19 patients in the ASC group for long-term follow-up, with a median follow-up of 109 months (9.1 years). Disease-specific quality of life did not differ after long-term follow-up with median scores of 0.0 (LSC: IQR 0-17; ASC: IQR 0-0) on the "genital prolapse" domain of the Urogenital Distress Inventory in both groups (p = 0.175). Anatomical outcomes were the same for both groups on all points of the POP-Q. The composite outcome of success for the apical compartment is 78.6% (n = 11) in the LSC group and 84.6% (n = 11) in the ASC group (p = 0.686). Mesh exposures occurred in 2 patients (12.5%) in the LSC group and 1 patient (7.7%) in the ASC group. There were 5 surgical reinterventions in both groups (LSC: 22.7%; ASC: 26.3%, p = 0.729).

CONCLUSIONS

At long-term follow-up no substantial differences in quality of life, anatomical results, complications, or reinterventions between LSC and ASC were observed. Therefore, the laparoscopic approach is preferable, considering the short-term advantages.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Dutch Trial Register NTR6330, 18 January 2017, https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/5964.

Pregnancy outcomes after abdominal sacrocervicopexy

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Various methods are used in pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery. Organ-preserving methods are gaining importance and popularity. Although the success rates of abdominal sacrocervicopexy, which is one of these methods, are known, data on pregnancy outcomes are insufficient. The aim of this study was to investigate pregnancy outcomes after abdominal sacrocervicopexy.

METHODS

This study included 72 patients with a diagnosis of POP who underwent abdominal sacrocervicopexy with monofilament polypropylene mesh in Diyarbakir Gazi Yaşargil Training and Research Hospital between 2008 and 2016. Anterior and posterior colporrhaphy operations were performed. Postoperatively, these patients were followed up for a mean of 29.68 ± 6.55 (20-49) months. Pregnancy and recurrence outcomes of those who became pregnant were recorded and analyzed.

RESULTS

On average, pregnancies occurred 23.2 (18-30) months after the operation. During follow-up, eight patients became pregnant and gave birth without any issues or complications. One had a normal vaginal delivery, and seven gave birth by cesarean section. One of the pregnant women had a twin pregnancy. When 24 patients who underwent bilateral tubal ligation and postmenopausal (n = 2) were excluded, the pregnancy rate was found to be 17.3%. The weeks of the deliveries were 35 weeks (twin pregnancy), 38 weeks (n = 2), 39 weeks (n = 3), and 40 weeks (n = 1), for an average of 38.5 weeks.

CONCLUSIONS

Eight patients who had undergone abdominal sacrocervicopexy had healthy pregnancies and deliveries.

The Effect of Age on Surgical Outcomes Following Uterine Preserving Surgery for Treatment of Apical Prolapse

STUDY OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of age on outcomes after uterine-preserving surgical treatment for apical prolapse.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery unit at a tertiary, university-affiliated teaching medical center.

PATIENTS

Women who underwent surgical management of apical prolapse with uterine preservation between 2010 and 2020. Excluded were women who had ≤1 month of follow-up and those for whom medical records were substantially incomplete.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Included in the study were 140 women who underwent apical prolapse repair with uterine preservation and who met the inclusion criteria. The cohort was divided into 2 groups: (1) women aged 65 years and older (≥65 group) and (2) women younger than 65 years of age (<65 group). Pre-, intra-, and postoperative data were compared between the groups. A total of 103 women (73.6%) were in the <65 group and 37 women (26.4%) in the ≥65 group. Mean age for the entire cohort was 58 ± 9.8 years, body mass index 25.9 ± 4.8 kg/m2, and duration of follow-up was 25.9 ± 21.0 months. Women in the ≥65 group had more comorbidities, were less sexually active, and were less likely to have a midurethral sling performed during their surgery. Clinical and anatomical success rates were somewhat higher in the ≥65 group; however, these differences did not reach statistical significance (97.3% vs 85.4%, p = .069 and 89.2% vs 81.2%, p = .264, respectively). Composite outcome success was higher in the ≥65 group (89.2% vs 72.5%, p = .039). Patient satisfaction recorded using the Patient Global Impression of Improvement questionnaire was high for both groups. A multivariable logistic regression analysis for the dependent parameter of composite outcome success was performed, during which none of the parameters investigated reached statistical significance. Subgroup analysis was performed including only women who were postmenopausal. This was done to address the possible confounding effect that menopausal status may have had on our results. No differences were found between the groups with regard to clinical, anatomical, and composite outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Uterine-preserving surgery is a safe and effective surgical treatment for women aged ≥65 years.

Laparoscopic Sacrocervicopexy Using Ethibond Suture Graft: A Very Economic Yet Effective Fertility Preserving Surgery for Pelvic Organ Prolapse

BACKGROUND

The modern era has witnessed a transition to a phase of uterus-preserving surgeries and so holds true for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgeries as well. Laparoscopic sacrocervicopexy has become a preferred surgical modality for moderate to severe degrees of POP in most women of the childbearing age group. With the alarming incidences of mesh erosion, synthetic mesh has almost gone off the market. We advocate a very simple and cost-effective technique of laparoscopic sacrocervicopexy using an Ethibond suture graft.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

It was a pilot prospective observational study over one year. Consecutive consenting women with symptomatic prolapsed uterus Stage-II of the central component of the quantitative POP classification (POP-Q) were recruited. Laparoscopic sacrocervicopexy was performed under general anesthesia using the standard protocols, and patients were prospectively followed for six months after surgery. The duration of surgery and hospital stay were noted. Patient satisfaction was rated using a five-point Likert scale. The vaginal length was measured immediately after and six months post-surgery. Sexual function was assessed using the validated female sexual function index (FSFI) scale six months after sacrocervicopexy.

RESULTS

Out of 28 recruited women, the majority were multiparous, highly qualified, and belonged to the middle socio-economic class. Seven patients had co-morbidity in the form of hypertension (17.8%), diabetes (7.1%), and cardiovascular diseases (7.1%). The mean duration of surgery was 105.8±7.2 minutes in the study population. The mean duration of hospital stay was 2.2±0.6 days. No surgical site infection was noted in any of the cases. Most patients rated "very satisfied" experiences following surgery (67.9%). The mean vaginal length after surgery was 7.6±1.2 centimeters. After a follow-up period of six months, the mean vaginal length was 7.4±0.8 centimeters. The mean FSFI score was 30.8±2.4.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic sacrocervicopexy with Ethibond suture graft is a cost-effective and safe surgical technique for POP in resource-limited settings. It also obviates the additional cost of synthetic mesh and the long-term risks of mesh erosion.

Prevalence and surgical outcomes of stage 3 and 4 pelvic organs prolapse in Jimma university medical center, south west Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) affects about half of the women and affects their quality of life. The current study is, therefore, aimed at determining the prevalence and surgical outcomes of severe stage POP at Jimma University medical center from November 2016 to May 2018.

METHOD

A Hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted on all patients with stage 3 and 4 POP, who were admitted, and had surgery. Data were collected from the patient's chart, and logbooks, which were filled up from entry till her discharge. A Simplified POPQ(S-POPQ) was used to stage the prolapse at admission, at discharge, and three months follow-ups.

RESULTS

Among 92 patients who were analyzed, POP accounts for 10.6% of all gynecologic admissions, and 43.8% of all gynecologic surgeries. The mean age of patients is 46 (± 12) years, and nearly 34% of the patients had stage 3 and 66% had stage 4 POP. Based on the type of prolapse, 93.5% of patients had stage 3 and more anterior vaginal wall prolapse (AVWP) and apical prolapse, while 57.6% had stage 3 or more posterior vaginal wall prolapse. Out of 72 patients who had anterior colporrhaphy, 58.7% had anterior colporrhaphy with colposuspension. Out of 83 patients who had apical suspension, 48.2%, 39.8%, and 12% had uterosacral, sacrospinous, and Richardson respectively. Ninety-seven patients had stage 0 or 1 POP at discharge while 90% of 20 patients who returned for follow-up at three months had stage 0 or 1 POP. Eight patients had surgery-related complications; bladder injury, urinary retention, Hemorrhage during SSLF, and rectal injury.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of pelvic organ prolapse is high and the majority of patients presented with advanced-stage pelvic organ prolapse, with a long duration of symptoms and associated problems. The surgical techniques used have resulted in a high immediate success rate of 97% and 90% at discharge and three months follow up respectively. Therefore, awareness creation activities are important to facilitate an early presentation for treatment to improve the quality of life and the current surgical technique; native tissue vaginal repair (NTVR), being practiced in the setup has had better success.

Comparison of first versus second line sacrocolpopexies in terms of morbidity and mid-term efficacy

To compare pelvic organ prolapse (POP) recurrence and morbidity between first and second line sacrocolpopexies. We conducted a retrospective chart review of all laparoscopic or robotic sacrocolpopexies for POP-Q stage ≥ 2, with or without a history of previous prolapse repair, performed with a similar technique between January 2012 and June 2019 in 3 European Gynecologic Surgery Departments. Patients were separated into two groups: first line sacrocolpopexy (FLS) and second line sacrocolpopexy (SLS). Each patient from the SLS group was age-matched with a patient from the FLS group. The primary outcome measure was reoperation procedures for recurrent POP defined as a symptomatic POP-Q stage ≥ 2 POP in at least one vaginal compartment. Secondary outcomes included operative time, intraoperative organ trauma, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative POP recurrence (operated on or not), global reoperation and mesh-related complications. During this period, 332 patients were included. After age-matching, 170 patients were analyzed: 85 patients in the FLS and SLS groups, respectively. After a mean follow-up of 3 years, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of recurrent POP (9.4% versus 10.6%, p = 0.7), recurrent POP reoperation (3.5% versus 5.9% p = 0.7), mesh-related reoperation (0% versus 2.4%, p = 0.5), global reoperation (3.5 versus 8.2%, p = 0.3), operative time (198 ± 67 min versus 193 ± 60 min, p = 0.5), intraoperative complications such as organ injury (4.7% versus 7.1%, p = 0.7) and blood loss > 500 mL (2.4% versus 0%, p = 0.5). Patients who underwent a first or a second line sacrocolpopexy seemed to have similar rates of prolapse recurrence and complications.

Therapy of chronic extensor mechanism deficiency after total knee arthroplasty using a monofilament polypropylene mesh

Introduction

Lesions of the quadriceps or patellar tendon after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are a rare but serious complication which, if left untreated, can lead to loss of function of the knee joint. While acute and subacute extensor mechanism disruptions may have several causes, chronic deficiencies are often related to multiple prior revision surgeries for joint infection or aseptic TKA failure. Up to date, biological allograft reconstruction showed unsatisfying results. The use of a monofilament polypropylene mesh is a promising approach for this pathological condition. The aim of the present study was to evaluate clinical, functional and patient reported outcomes of this procedure in patients with chronic extensor mechanism deficiency.

Materials and Methods

Twenty-eight patients with chronic extensor mechanism deficiency (quadriceps tendon rupture n = 9, patellar tendon rupture n = 19) after TKA were included in this retrospective study. None of the patients were lost to follow-up. Surgical reconstruction was performed at one institution between 2014 and 2020 with a monofilament polypropylene mesh (Marlex Mesh, Bard, Murray Hill, USA). The mean age at the time of surgery was 69 years. Patients presented with a mean BMI of 33 kg/m². The mean follow-up period was 23 months.

Results

The 2-year survivorship free of mesh revision was 89% [95% confidence interval (CI): 75% to 100%]. Three patients (11%) had to undergo revision because of mechanical mesh failure and received another polypropylene mesh. No further revisions were performed thereafter. Flexion was 87° (range, 30–120°) on average. The majority of patients (75%, 21/28) had a full active extension. The mean active extension lag after surgery was 4 degrees (range, 0–30°).

Discussion

We observed a substantial improvement of extensor mechanism function. The majority of patients had full extension and showed good clinical results. A failure rate of over 50% has been published for alternative procedures. Thus, the use of the described augmentation technique represents a reasonable treatment option for chronic extensor mechanism disruptions of the patellar tendon as well as the quadriceps tendon after total knee arthroplasty. However, there might be a potentially higher risk for infection persistence in periprosthetic joint infection cases due to the presence of a foreign material.

Female Sexual Dysfunctions and Urogynecological Complaints: A Narrative Review

Female sexual dysfunctions represent a real widespread problem, usually faced from a psychological point of view; however, millions of women worldwide are impacted by pelvic floor dysfunction, personal shame and social taboos, however, continue to inhibit free conversation on the subject. Women's quality of life is considerably improved by screening, diagnosing, and controlling urogenital and sexual issues. This review aims to provide a critical perspective of urogenital conditions and common disturbances in female sexual function associated with these issues. It also includes a discussion of postpartum pelvic dysfunction.

How and on whom to perform uterine-preserving surgery for uterine prolapse

The demand for uterine preservation in pelvic reconstructive surgery for uterovaginal prolapse is steadily increasing, and several procedures have been introduced, such as sacrospinous hysteropexy, uterosacral hysteropexy, sacrohysteropexy, and hysteropectopexy. However, the benefits and risks of uterine-preserving surgeries are not well understood. This review discusses the current evidence surrounding uterine-preserving surgery for uterovaginal prolapse repair. This may help surgeons and patients have a balanced discussion on how and on whom to perform uterine-preserving surgery.

Effect of electroacupuncture on symptoms of female pelvic organ prolapse (stage II-III) (EAPOP study): protocol of a randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is downward descent of pelvic organs, which causes symptoms of the lower genital, urinary and gastrointestinal tracts, and undermines women's daily activities and quality of life. Although studies indicated that electroacupuncture (EA) may be effective in improving the POP symptoms, evidences were not robust. Therefore, this study aims to conduct a randomised controlled trial (RCT) to evaluate the efficacy and safety of electroacupuncture on relieving symptoms of a POP stage II and III among women.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

A two-arm, multicentre, patient-blind RCT will be conducted to compare EA with sham electroacupuncture (SEA) for treating symptoms of POP stage II and III among women in six tertiary hospitals in China. One hundred and sixty eligible women will be assigned with a 1:1 ratio to have received either EA or SEA for 24 times in 12 weeks and followed-up for 24 weeks. The primary outcome will be the change on the total score of the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory-short form 20 at week 12 from baseline, and will be analysed by t-test or multiple regression model. Intention-to-treat analysis will be performed for all outcomes, and a p value of less than 0.05 (two-sided testing) will be considered as statistical significance.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study protocol has been approved by the Medical Ethical Committee of Guang'ammen Hospital (No. 2019-249-KY-01). Patients will be informed about the details of the study and asked to sign consent form before enrolment. The results of this study are expected to be written and published on peer-reviewed journals.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT04589715.

Mesh complications after total vs supracervical laparoscopic hysterectomy at time of minimally invasive sacrocolpopexy

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Our objective was to compare mesh exposure rates (4 months and 1 year) after total (TLH) vs supracervical (SLH) laparoscopic hysterectomy at time of minimally invasive sacrocolpopexy (SCP). Secondary outcomes included 30-day complications and midurethral mesh exposure rates.

METHODS

This a retrospective cohort study at a tertiary care referral center from 2011 to 2018. Subjects were identified using Current Procedural Terminology codes. Demographics, operative characteristics, and perioperative complications were abstracted from medical records.

RESULTS

Four hundred three women met the inclusion criteria: 91 SLH+SCP and 312 TLH+SCP. Median follow-up was 52 weeks with an overall mesh exposure rate of 1.5%. Follow-up was available for 90% of patients at 4 months and 51% at 1 year. Half of patients had lightweight mesh (n = 203), and half had ultralightweight mesh (n = 200). Vaginal mesh fixation was performed with permanent suture in 86% (n = 344) and delayed absorbable suture in 14% (n = 56) of patients. At 4 months, vaginal mesh exposure rates did not differ between groups (0% SLH vs 1% TLH, p = 1.00). All mesh exposures in the study period occurred with lightweight mesh in the TLH arm. No differences were noted in 1-year mesh exposure rates, 30-day perioperative complications (p = 0.57), or midurethral mesh exposure rates at 4 months (p = 0.35) and 1 year (p = 1.00) between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Short-term mesh exposure following SCP with ultralightweight and lightweight polypropylene mesh is rare regardless of type of hysterectomy and much lower than reported in earlier studies with heavier weight mesh. These data suggest TLH at the time of SCP is a safe option in appropriately counseled patients.

Postoperative complications and pelvic organ prolapse recurrence following combined pelvic organ prolapse and rectal prolapse surgery compared with pelvic organ prolapse only surgery

BACKGROUND

There is a growing interest in combined pelvic organ prolapse and rectal prolapse surgery for concomitant pelvic floor prolapse despite a paucity of data regarding complications and clinical outcomes of combined repair.

OBJECTIVE

The primary objective of this study was to compare the <30-day postoperative complication rate in women undergoing combined POP + RP surgery with that of women undergoing pelvic organ prolapse-only surgery. The secondary objectives were to describe the <30-day postoperative complications, compare the pelvic organ prolapse recurrence between the 2 groups, and determine the preoperative predictors of <30-day postoperative complications and predictors of pelvic organ prolapse recurrence.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a multicenter, retrospective cohort study at 5 academic hospitals. Patients undergoing combined pelvic organ prolapse and rectal prolapse surgery were matched by age, pelvic organ prolapse stage by leading compartment, and pelvic organ prolapse procedure compared with those undergoing pelvic organ prolapse-only surgery from March 2003 to March 2020. The primary outcome measure was <30-day complications separated into Clavien-Dindo classes. The secondary outcome measures were (1) subsequent pelvic organ prolapse surgeries and (2) pelvic organ prolapse recurrence, defined as patients who complained of vaginal bulge symptoms postoperatively.

RESULTS

Overall, 204 women underwent combined surgery for pelvic organ prolapse and rectal prolapse, and 204 women underwent surgery for pelvic organ prolapse only. The average age (59.3±1.0 vs 59.0±1.0) and mean parity (2.3±1.5 vs 2.6±1.8) were similar in each group. Of note, 109 (26.7%) patients had at least one <30-day postoperative complication. The proportion of patients who had a complication in the combined surgery group and pelvic organ prolapse-only surgery group was similar (27.5% vs 26.0%; P=.82). The Clavien-Dindo scores were similar between the groups (grade I, 10.3% vs 9.3%; grade II, 11.8% vs 12.3%; grade III, 3.9% vs 4.4%; grade IV, 1.0% vs 0%; grade V, 0.5% vs 0%). Patients undergoing combined surgery were less likely to develop postoperative urinary tract infections and urinary retention but were more likely to be treated for wound infections and pelvic abscesses than patients undergoing pelvic organ prolapse-only surgery. After adjusting for combined surgery vs pelvic organ prolapse-only surgery and parity, patients who had anti-incontinence procedures (adjusted odds ratio, 1.85; 95% confidence interval, 1.16-2.94; P=.02) and perineorrhaphies (adjusted odds ratio, 1.68; 95% confidence interval, 1.05-2.70; P=.02) were more likely to have <30-day postoperative complications. Of note, 12 patients in the combined surgery group and 15 patients in the pelvic organ prolapse-only surgery group had subsequent pelvic organ prolapse repairs (5.9% vs 7.4%; P=.26). In the combined surgery group, 10 patients (4.9%) underwent 1 repair, and 2 patients (1.0%) underwent 2 repairs. All patients who had recurrent pelvic organ prolapse surgery in the pelvic organ prolapse-only surgery group had 1 subsequent pelvic organ prolapse repair. Of note, 21 patients in the combined surgery group and 28 patients in the pelvic organ prolapse-only surgery group reported recurrent pelvic organ prolapse (10.3% vs 13.7%; P=.26). On multivariable analysis adjusted for number of previous pelvic organ prolapse repairs, combined surgery vs pelvic organ prolapse-only surgery, and perineorrhaphy at the time of surgery, patients were more likely to have a subsequent pelvic organ prolapse surgery if they had had ≥2 previous pelvic organ prolapse repairs (adjusted odds ratio, 6.06; 95% confidence interval, 2.10-17.5; P=.01). The average follow-up times were 307.2±31.5 days for the combined surgery cohort and 487.7±49.9 days for the pelvic organ prolapse-only surgery cohort. Survival curves indicated that the median time to recurrence was not statistically significant (log-rank, P=.265) between the combined surgery group (4.2±0.4 years) and the pelvic organ prolapse-only surgery group (5.6±0.4 years).

CONCLUSION

In this retrospective cohort study, patients undergoing combined pelvic organ prolapse and rectal prolapse surgery had a similar risk of <30-day postoperative complications compared with patients undergoing pelvic organ prolapse-only surgery. Furthermore, patients who underwent combined surgery had a similar risk of recurrent pelvic organ prolapse and subsequent pelvic organ prolapse surgery compared with patients who underwent pelvic organ prolapse-only surgery.

Current techniques used to perform surgery for anterior and posterior vaginal wall prolapse in South Korea

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the current surgical techniques for anterior and posterior vaginal wall prolapse repair in South Korea.

Methods

A web-based questionnaire survey was sent to 780 members of the Korean Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology. The items assessed in the questionnaire were the demographic characteristics and current surgical techniques used for the correction of anterior and posterior vaginal wall prolapse.

Results

The response rate was 16%. There were variations in the suture materials and methods used for anterior and posterior colporrhaphy. Most respondents used only rapid absorbable suture materials to plicate the fibromuscular layer and close the mucosal layer of the anterior and posterior vaginal wall. Simple interrupted sutures are the most popular suture method for both the fibromuscular and mucosal layers. Thirty-one and eleven percent of the respondents used mesh for surgical correction of anterior and posterior vaginal wall prolapse, respectively. Concomitant perineorrhaphy was routinely performed with posterior vaginal wall repair by 42% of the respondents, whereas 58% performed perineorrhaphy only in cases with perineal defects.

Conclusion

There is considerable diversity in the current surgical techniques for anterior and posterior vaginal wall prolapse repair in Korea. Further research is required to standardize the surgical techniques.