Clinical relevance of occult stress urinary incontinence (OSUI) following vaginal prolapse surgery: long-term follow-up

International Urogynecology consultation chapter 2 committee 3: the clinical evaluation of pelvic organ prolapse including investigations into associated morbidity/pelvic floor dysfunction

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

This manuscript from Chapter 2 of the International Urogynecology Consultation (IUC) on Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) reviews the literature involving the clinical evaluation of a patient with POP and associated bladder and bowel dysfunction.

METHODS

An international group of 11 clinicians performed a search of the literature using pre-specified search MESH terms in PubMed and Embase databases (January 2000 to August 2020). Publications were eliminated if not relevant to the clinical evaluation of patients or did not include clear definitions of POP. The titles and abstracts were reviewed using the Covidence database to determine whether they met the inclusion criteria. The manuscripts were reviewed for suitability using the Specialist Unit for Review Evidence checklists. The data from full-text manuscripts were extracted and then reviewed.

RESULTS

The search strategy found 11,242 abstracts, of which 220 articles were used to inform this narrative review. The main themes of this manuscript were the clinical examination, and the evaluation of comorbid conditions including the urinary tract (LUTS), gastrointestinal tract (GIT), pain, and sexual function. The physical examination of patients with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) should include a reproducible method of describing and quantifying the degree of POP and only the Pelvic Organ Quantification (POP-Q) system or the Simplified Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (S-POP) system have enough reproducibility to be recommended. POP examination should be done with an empty bladder and patients can be supine but should be upright if the prolapse cannot be reproduced. No other parameters of the examination aid in describing and quantifying POP. Post-void residual urine volume >100 ml is commonly used to assess for voiding difficulty. Prolapse reduction can be used to predict the possibility of postoperative persistence of voiding difficulty. There is no benefit of urodynamic testing for assessment of detrusor overactivity as it does not change the management. In women with POP and stress urinary incontinence (SUI), the cough stress test should be performed with a bladder volume of at least 200 ml and with the prolapse reduced either with a speculum or by a pessary. The urodynamic assessment only changes management when SUI and voiding dysfunction co-exist. Demonstration of preoperative occult SUI has a positive predictive value for de novo SUI of 40% but most useful is its absence, which has a negative predictive value of 91%. The routine addition of radiographic or physiological testing of the GIT currently has no additional value for a physical examination. In subjects with GIT symptoms further radiological but not physiological testing appears to aid in diagnosing enteroceles, sigmoidoceles, and intussusception, but there are no data on how this affects outcomes. There were no articles in the search on the evaluation of the co-morbid conditions of pain or sexual dysfunction in women with POP.

CONCLUSIONS

The clinical pelvic examination remains the central tool for evaluation of POP and a system such as the POP-Q or S-POP should be used to describe and quantify. The value of investigation for urinary tract dysfunction was discussed and findings presented. The routine addition of GI radiographic or physiological testing is currently not recommended. There are no data on the role of the routine assessment of pain or sexual function, and this area needs more study. Imaging studies alone cannot replace clinical examination for the assessment of POP.

Incidence of de novo stress urinary incontinence following minimally invasive sacrocolpopexy

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The objective was to investigate the incidence and risk factors of postoperative de novo stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in stress-continent women following minimally invasive sacrocolpopexy without an anti-incontinence procedure.

METHODS

We completed a multicenter, retrospective cohort study of women undergoing laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy without concurrent anti-incontinence procedures from October 2006 through January 2021.

RESULTS

Of the 169 women who underwent minimally invasive sacrocolpopexy, 17.1% (n=30) developed de novo SUI, and 7.1% eventually underwent a midurethral sling placement. On logistic regression, BMI, preoperative urinary urgency, and history of transvaginal mesh repair were found to be significantly associated with and predictive of de novo SUI. When the concordance index (C-index) was calculated with the model published by Jelovsek et al. for women who developed de novo SUI within 12 months of the prolapse surgery, the current de novo SUI calculator was able to discriminate de novo SUI outcome (C-index = 0.71).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of de novo SUI after minimally invasive sacrocolpopexy without anti-incontinence procedure correlates directly with higher BMI, preoperative urinary urgency, and transvaginal mesh history for POP. Preoperative counseling for minimally invasive sacrocolpopexy should include discussing the risk of de novo SUI and preoperative factors that may increase this risk.

Long-Term Outcomes after Pelvic Organ Prolapse Repair in Young Women

The aim of the study was to describe the long-term outcomes of Pelvis Organ Prolapse (POP) repair in women under 40 years old. A retrospective chart review of all POP repairs performed in women ≤40 years old between January 1997 and December 2015 in the Gynecologic Surgery Department of Lille University Hospital was performed. Inclusion criteria were all women ≤40 years old who underwent a POP repair with a stage ≥2 POP according to the Baden and Walker classification. The study population was separated into three groups: a sacrohysteropexy group, a vaginal native tissue repair (NTR) group, and a transvaginal mesh surgery (VMS) group. The primary outcome was reoperation procedures for a symptomatic recurrent POP. Secondary outcomes were other complications. During the study period, 43 women ≤ 40 years old who underwent a POP repair were included and separated into three groups: 28 patients (68%), 8 patients (19%), and 7 patients (16%) in the sacrohysteropexy, VMS, and NTR groups respectively. The mean followup time was 83 ± 52 months. POP recurrence, reoperated or not, was essentially diagnosed in the VMS group (87.5%) and the NTR group (50%). POP recurrence repairs were performed for nine patients (21%): 7%, 62.5%, and 25% in the sacrohysteropexy, VMS, and NTR groups, respectively. Global reoperation concerned 10 patients (23%) whatever the type of POP surgery, mainly patients from the VMS group (75%) and from the NTR group (25%). It occurred in only 7% of patients from the sacrohysteropexy group. Two patients (4%) presented a vaginal exposure of the mesh (in the VMS group). De novo stress urinary incontinence was encountered by nine patients (21%): 29% and 12.5% in the sacrohysteropexy and NTR groups, respectively. Despite the risk of recurrence, POP repair should be proposed to young women in order to restore their quality of life. Vaginal native tissue repair or sacrohysteropexy should be performed after explaining to women the advantages and disadvantages of each procedure.

Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Paravaginal Repair and Sacrocolpopexy in Patients with Pelvic Organ Prolapse

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the surgical effects of robotic paravaginal repair and sacrocolpopexy in patients diagnosed with lateral cystocele due to paravaginal defect.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Robotic paravaginal repair and sacrocolpopexy were performed contemporaneously in 43 patients with high-grade pelvic organ prolapse combined with a lateral or mixed cystocele. To objectively evaluate prolapse correction, the POP-Q test was performed at the 12-month visit and the results compared to those of the preoperative period. Subjective satisfaction was scored using the PGI-I questionnaire.

RESULTS

POP-Q measurement results before and after surgery, an objective indicator of surgery, the Ba and C scores improved significantly from 2.1 ± 1.2 preoperatively to -2.0 ± 1.1 postoperatively (p<0.01), and from 0.3 ± 1.3 preoperatively to -4.3 ± 1.1 postoperatively (p<0.01), respectively. In PGI-I questionnaire, the numbers of patients who awarded scores of 1 and 2 (evidencing high-level symptom improvement) were 33 at 1 month (76.7%), 30 at 3 months (69.8%), and 28 (65.1%) at 12 months. When respondents awarding 3 points (a little improvement) were included, the numbers rose to 38 (88.4%) at 1 and 3 months and 35 (81.4%) at 12 months, indicating satisfaction with symptom improvement. There were no critical complications during and after surgery, but complications such as de novo SUI that lower patient satisfaction occurred in some cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Robot-assisted paravaginal repair and sacrocolpopexy can be safely performed in patients with cystocele-predominant pelvic organ prolapse and good surgical results can be expected with excellent effects.

International Urogynecology Consultation Chapter 1 Committee 5: relationship of pelvic organ prolapse to associated pelvic floor dysfunction symptoms: lower urinary tract, bowel, sexual dysfunction and abdominopelvic pain

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

This article from Chapter 1 of the International Urogynecology Consultation (IUC) on Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) establishes the prevalence of lower urinary tract disorders, bowel symptoms, vulvo-vaginal/lower abdominal/back pain and sexual dysfunction in women with POP.

METHODS

An international group of nine urogynecologists/urologists and one medical student performed a search of the literature using pre-specified search terms in Ovid, MEDLINE, Embase and CINAHL from January 2000 to March 2019. Publications were eliminated if not relevant or they did not include clear definitions of POP or the symptoms associated with POP. Definitions of POP needed to include both a physical examination finding using a validated examination technique and the complaint of a bothersome vaginal bulge. Symptoms were categorized into symptom groups for ease of evaluation. The Specialist Unit for Review Evidence (SURE) was used to evaluate for quality of the included articles. The resulting list of articles was used to determine the prevalence of various symptoms in women with POP. Cohort studies were used to evaluate for possible causation of POP as either causing or worsening the symptom category.

RESULTS

The original search yielded over 12,000 references, of which 50 were used. More than 50% of women with POP report lower urinary tract symptoms. Cohort studies suggest that women with POP have more obstructive lower urinary tract symptoms than women without POP. Pain described in various ways is frequently reported in women with POP, with low back pain being the most common pain symptom reported in 45% of women with POP. In cohort studies those with POP had more pain complaints than those without POP. Sexual dysfunction is reported by over half of women with POP and obstructed intercourse in 37-100% of women with POP. Approximately 40% of women have complaints of bowel symptoms. There was no difference in the median prevalence of bowel symptoms in those with and without POP in cohort studies.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of lower urinary tract disorders, bowel symptoms, vulvo-vaginal/lower abdominal/back pain and sexual dysfunction in women with POP are common but inconsistently reported. There are few data on incidence of associated symptoms with POP, and cohort studies evaluating causality are rare or inconsistent. Obstructive voiding, lower abdominal and pelvic pain, and sexual dysfunction are most frequently associated with POP.

External validation of a model predicting de novo stress urinary incontinence after pelvic organ prolapse surgery

AIMS

De novo stress urinary incontinence (SUI) may develop after surgical correction of advanced pelvic organ prolapse (POP) in otherwise continent women. Prediction of which women with POP will develop SUI after the prolapse is corrected is difficult. We aimed to externally validate a previously described prediction model for de novo SUI after performing vaginal surgery for POP and to assess its clinical performance when used as a diagnostic test.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included all continent women with ≥ stage 2 POP according to the POP-Quantification System who underwent reconstructive surgery for symptomatic POP. Surgical correction for prolapse of the anterior and/or apical compartment was performed using native tissue or vaginal mesh repair. Seven parameters of the prediction model including age at surgery, number of vaginal births, body mass index, preoperative stress test, previous continence procedure history, urine leakage associated with a feeling of urgency, and diagnosis of diabetes for each patient was provided from the medical records, and the predicted probability of de novo SUI after POP surgery was calculated. The primary outcome used to validate the prediction model was the presence of SUI 1 year after surgery. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was generated to evaluate the predictive accuracy. A cut-off point of ≥ 50% was used to evaluate its clinical performance as a diagnostic test.

RESULTS

Two hundred twenty-five women were suitable for analysis. The rate of de novo SUI was 5.3%. The predictive accuracy of the model in our population using the area under the ROC curve was 0.56 (95% confidence interval = 0.35-0.77). Its performance as a diagnostic test was poor (positive likelihood ratio = 1.20 and negative likelihood ratio = 0.89).

CONCLUSIONS

Our clinical validation of this model showed that it did not have good clinical performance. We need future prospective studies to identify and incorporate additional markers of de novo SUI to improve the prediction capacity.

Determining the risk factors and characteristics of de novo stress urinary incontinence in women undergoing pelvic organ prolapse surgery: A systematic review

OBJECTIVE

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is a common problem in women that affects their quality of life. According to the current evidence, 15%-50% of severe pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgeries lead to de novo urinary incontinence (UI). This study aimed at determining the risk factors and characteristics of de novo SUI after POP surgeries in a systematic review.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We conducted a systematic search of articles in English related to the risk of UI after POP surgery published until December 2019 in the selected bibliographic databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and ProQuest.

RESULTS

The initial search resulted in 2,363 studies, and after reviewing the titles and abstracts, 146 studies were identified. Moreover, 2 independent reviewers, using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklists, evaluated the risk of biases in the selected studies. Finally, 40 studies met the inclusion criteria. The most important predictors of UI after POP surgery were positive pessary testing, age >50 years, and maximum urethral closure pressure (MUCP) <60 cmH₂O.

CONCLUSION

Positive pessary testing, older age, and low MUCP were the most important risk factors for de novo incontinence after POP surgeries.

Change over time in the surgical management of pelvic organ prolapse between 2008 and 2014 in France: patient profiles, surgical approaches, and outcomes

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a common pathological condition that may require surgical management. Several surgical treatment options are possible, and practice varies from one center to another. The objective of the present study was to describe the surgical management and outcomes of POP in France from 2008 to 2014.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study of all patients operated on for POP from 2008 to 2014, according to the French national hospital discharge summary database. Patient characteristics, surgical approaches, concomitant hysterectomy and/or incontinence surgery, the length of stay, the proportion of day-case operations, and patient outcomes were analyzed.

RESULTS

We analyzed 310,938 hospital stays with POP surgery between 2008 and 2014; 130,908 (42%) of the operations took place in hospitals performing more than 100 prolapse surgical procedures per year. The proportion of day-case operations was low, but rose significantly from 1.2% to 4.6% during the study period. More than half of the operations featured a vaginal approach. The proportions of operations with concomitant hysterectomy or urinary incontinence surgery fell from 41.0% to 36.1% and from 33.0% to 25.8% respectively. The proportions of laparoscopic procedures increased. The mortality rate was stable (0.07% for all years).

CONCLUSIONS

The number of patients undergoing POP surgery remained stable from 2008 to 2014. The proportion of laparoscopic procedures increased (in parallel with the rising proportion of day-case operations) and the proportion of procedures with concomitant hysterectomy or incontinence treatment decreased.

The effect of sacrospinous ligament fixation during vaginal hysterectomy on postoperative de novo stress incontinence occurrence: a prospective study with 2-year follow-up

Background/aim

To investigate the risk of de novo stress urinary incontinence (SUI) occurrence in women who were treated for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) with sacrospinous ligament fixation (SSLF) in addition to vaginal hysterectomy (VAH) and antero-posterior colporrhaphy (CAP) over a 24-month follow-up period.

Materials and methods

A prospective randomized study was designed. Women without occult or obvious SUI were randomized into either one of the study groups: Group 1: VAH + CAP, and Group 2: VAH + CAP + SSLF. Postoperatively, the patients were reevaluated for de novo SUI occurrence.

Results

A total of 150 women were analyzed [G1 = VAH + CAP (n: 77) and G2 = VAH + CAP + SSLF (n: 73)]. Mean age, parity, body mass index, menopausal status, and preoperative POP degree, grade 1 and grade 2-3 cystocele and rectocele frequencies were similar between the 2 groups. During follow-up period, de novo SUI developed in 7 patients (9.1%) of Group 1, and in 6 patients (8.2%) of Group 2 (P > 0.05). In Groups 1 and 2, POP recurrence occurred in 5 (6.4%) vs. 1 (1.3%) cases,respectively (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

In patients undergoing surgery for POP, the addition of SSLF did not result in an increased rate of de novo SUI. Careful patient selection, and informing the patients about the risks and benefits of the planned surgical procedure are essential steps in each case of POP.

Complications and reoperation after pelvic organ prolapse, impact of hysterectomy, surgical approach and surgeon experience

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The surgical treatment of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is associated with specific complications. Our primary objective was to assess the recurrence requiring reoperation after prolapse surgery, and our secondary objectives were to assess the early complications and secondary surgery for urinary incontinence.

METHODS

Retrospective study of a population-based cohort of all hospital or outpatient stays including POP surgery from 2008 to 2014, using the French nationwide discharge summary database. We calculated the rates of hospital readmission following surgery as well as the rates of reoperation for recurrent prolapse and subsequent procedures performed for urinary incontinence.

RESULTS

A total of 310,938 patients had undergone surgery for POP. Two hundred fourteen (0.07%) patients died, and 0.45% were admitted to an intensive care unit; 4.4% of the patients underwent surgery for the recurrence of prolapse. Concomitant hysterectomy in the first surgery was associated with a significantly lower risk of POP surgery recurrence: (hazard ratio (HR) [95% confidence interval (CI)] = 0.51 [0.49; 0.53]). A total of 1386 (2.5%) patients were readmitted to the hospital for early (30-day) complications of prolapse surgery. The most frequent reasons for early readmission were local infection (32.8%), hemorrhage (21.4%) and pain (17.2%). Risk factors for complications were obesity, hospitals with low levels of activity and associated incontinence surgery; 4.6% of the patients required secondary surgery for urinary incontinence; obesity was a risk factor (HR [95% CI] = 1.12 [1.01; 1.24]), and the vaginal route was a protective factor (odds ratio = 1.86 for laparoscopy, 1.44 for laparotomy and 1.25 for multiple approaches).

CONCLUSIONS

POP surgery is associated with low rates of complication and recurrence. Complications occurred most commonly following combined surgeries for both prolapse and incontinence and in hospitals with low surgical volumes. Concomitant hysterectomy appears to be protective for the need for additional prolapse surgery, and the vaginal route leads to a lower frequency of secondary surgery for urinary incontinence.

Testing for Occult Stress Urinary Incontinence in Patients With Pelvic Organ Prolapse? Results of a Pragmatic Approach

OBJECTIVE

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery may unmask occult stress urinary incontinence (OSUI) in otherwise asymptomatic patients. Preoperative urodynamic studies (UDSs) with prolapse reduction may, by potentially unmasking OSUI, assist surgical decision making. This study investigated the long-term objective postoperative rate of SUI, according to the presence of OSUI.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study was conducted with a cross-sectional survey of women with no SUI or rare SUI presenting at Kingston General Hospital in Kingston, Ontario from 2003-2013 for POP. Patients were compared on the basis of preoperative UDS results and whether an anti-incontinence procedure was performed in addition to POP surgery. The study included a chart review of 1-year follow-up subjective results and a survey of long-term objective results (symptoms and quality of life) ascertained by validated questionnaires.

RESULTS

The study enrolled 113 women, 51 of whom had undergone anti-incontinence surgery (42 for identified OSUI, 9 prophylactically). In women whose UDS results indicated OSUI, 1-year subjective and long-term objective postoperative SUI results were, respectively, 8.8% and 12.5% among women undergoing POP and anti-incontinence surgery and 18.2% and 42.9% among those undergoing POP surgery alone. In women with negative UDS results, those rates were 0.0% and 50.0% and 12.8% and 27.6%, respectively. There was no significant difference in any outcomes, according to procedure choice in the OSUI-positive group. There were no predictors for postoperative SUI.

CONCLUSION

Although a trend was seen for less long-term validated subjective SUI in women having a concomitant SUI procedure along with POP corrective surgery, no significant difference in outcomes was found, on the basis of procedure of choice, and no reliable predictors for postoperative SUI could be identified. UDS testing may be useful to rule in OSUI, but its clinical value in surgical decision making is uncertain.

De novo urinary incontinence after pelvic organ prolapse surgery-a national database study

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

To investigate the prevalence and risk factors of de novo urinary incontinence (UI) after pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery.

METHODS

Data from 2013 to 2016 were collected from the Danish Urogynecological Database, where registration for any urogynecological procedure performed in Denmark is mandatory. Inclusion criteria were urinary continent women who underwent POP surgery. A woman was urinary continent if her total score on the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Urinary Incontinence-short form (ICIQ-UI-sf) was 0 and she answered 'never' to 'When does urine leak?' Postoperatively, the women were categorized as continent or women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI), urgency urinary incontinence (UUI), mixed urinary incontinence (MUI) or undefined UI. We performed multivariate logistic regression analyses. The included parameters were preoperative POP stage (POP-Q), compartment, BMI and age. P values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

We included 1198 women. The risk of de novo UI was 15%; 45% had SUI, 30% had UUI, 16% had MUI, and 10% had undefined UI. BMI was highly associated with de novo UI; the risk was 12% for women with BMI < 25, 16% for women with BMI 25 - < 30 and 23% for women with BMI ≥ 30. Age, compartment and POP stage were not associated with de novo UI.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of de novo UI is the same regardless of the involved compartment/s and POP stage. BMI is significantly associated with de novo UI; twice as many women with BMI ≥ 30 had de novo UI compared with women with BMI < 25.

Anterior and middle pelvic organ prolapse repair using a six tension-free strap low weight transvaginal mesh: long-term retrospective monocentric study of 311 patients

INTRODUCTION

Treatment of pelvic organ prolapse is an important public health issue due to the ageing population. The Food and Drug Administration, in 2011, issued a warning on complications after transvaginal insertion of high weight mesh. We evaluated a 6 tension-free straps, light prosthesis made from polypropylene monofilaments.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This monocentric, retrospective study included patients undergoing anterior or apical prolapse repair surgery by placement of a six tension-free strap low weight vaginal mesh between 2008 and 2017. The surgical history, concomitant surgery, clinical examination results, pre and postoperative results of the Urinary Symptom Profile questionnaire, and intraoperative and postoperative complications were collected from patients' medical records.

RESULTS

311 patients were included (median follow-up: 33 months). The majority (93%) had stage ≥ III cystocele and 26% had stage ≥ III hysterocele. Postoperatively, there were nine cases (2.9%) of asymptomatic cystocele recurrence and 11 (3.5%) cases of hysterocele recurrence, among them six underwent reoperation. Vaginal comfort was significantly improved in 92% vs. 17% before surgery (p < 0,0001); two (1,76%) patients had de novo dyspareunia. Preoperatively, 104 patients had stress urinary incontinence (SUI), 45,2% of them were cured postoperatively. There were 62 (30%) cases of de novo SUI. A significant improvement of dysuria (p < 0,0001) and overactive bladder (OAB) was found for all severity stages (p < 0,0001). Severe complications included haematoma (7,4%), mesh exposure (1.3%), retraction (0.6%), bladder injury (0.6%) and chronic pain (0.6%).

CONCLUSION

Treatment of anterior and/or mid-segment prolapse by transvaginal insertion of a six-strap low-weight mesh is long-term effective, with acceptable morbidity.

Management of Urinary Incontinence before and after Total Pelvic Reconstruction for Advanced Pelvic Organ Prolapse with and without Incontinence

Background:

The effectiveness of an anti-incontinence procedure concomitant with prolapse reconstruction for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) in preventing urinary incontinence (UI) after surgery remains controversial. Our study aimed to describe the incidence of pre- and postoperative UI for pelvic reconstructive surgery and evaluate the management of POP associated with UI.

Methods:

A total of 329 patients who underwent total pelvic reconstruction between June 2009 and February 2015 at a single institution were identified. These patients were divided into two groups (Group A [Prolift reconstruction]: n = 190 and Group B [modified total pelvic reconstruction]: n = 139). Data regarding surgical procedures and patient demographic variables were recorded. Chi-square and Student's t-tests were used for two independent samples.

Results:

A total of 115 patients presented with UI preoperatively. The average follow-up time was 46.5 months, with 20 patients lost to follow-up (6.1%). The cure rates of stress UI (SUI), urgency UI (UUI), and mixed UI (MUI) were 51% (30/59), 80% (16/20), and 48% (14/29), respectively. The cure rate of UUI after total pelvic reconstruction (80% [16/20]) was higher than that of SUI (50.8% [30/59], χ²= 5.219, P = 0.03), and the cure rate of MUI (48%, 14/29) was the lowest. The cure rate of patients with UI symptoms postoperatively was lower than that of those with symptoms preoperatively (9.1% [28/309] vs. 16.2% [50/309], χ²= 7.101, P = 0.01). There was no difference in the incidence of UI postoperatively between Groups A and B (P > 0.05). The cure rate of SUI in patients undergoing tension-free vaginal tape-obturator was not higher than that in those who did not undergo the procedure (42.9% [6/14] vs. 53.3% [24/45], χ²= 0.469, P = 0.49). There were no differences in the cure rate for POP or UI between these two types of reconstructions (P > 0.05).

Conclusions:

No correlation between the incidence of UI and POP was identified. The results suggest that UI treatment should be performed after POP surgery for patients with both conditions.

Risk factors for stress urinary incontinence after native-tissue vaginal repair of pelvic organ prolapse

OBJECTIVE

To identify risk factors for postoperative stress urinary incontinence (POSUI) after native-tissue prolapse repair without a concomitant anti-incontinence procedure.

METHODS

The present single-center retrospective study included women with genital prolapse who underwent high uterosacral ligament suspension without a concomitant anti-incontinence procedure during 2008-2013. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify risk factors for POSUI (identified through clinical interview and International Consultation on Incontinence Modular Questionnaire-Short Form [ICIQ-SF] self-administration) at 6 months.

RESULTS

In total, 87 (20.9%) of 417 women developed POSUI. Preoperative stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and urodynamically diagnosed SUI were significantly associated with POSUI; moreover, women with POSUI had a higher preoperative ICIQ-SF score, a lower opening detrusor pressure, and a lower detrusor pressure at maximum flow than did women without POSUI (P<0.05 for all comparisons). In the multivariate analysis, preoperative SUI (odds ratio 3.11), a detrusor pressure at maximum flow of less than 30 cm H₂ O (odds ratio 2.93), and urodynamically diagnosed SUI (odds ratio 2.26) were independent risk factors for POSUI.

CONCLUSION

Preoperative urodynamic parameters, obtained before prolapse repair surgery, were associated with POSUI and could be useful in providing adequate counseling to facilitate decision making on whether to add a concomitant anti-incontinence procedure.

The urethral closure mechanism is deteriorated after anterior colporrhaphy

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Urethral pressure reflectometry (UPR) has proven highly reproducible in women with pelvic organ prolapse. We hypothesized that urethral parameters would decrease after anterior colporrhaphy.

METHODS

A prospective, observational study where women with anterior vaginal wall prolapse ≥stage II were assessed before and after anterior colporrhaphy. Assessments consisted of prolapse staging according to the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification system, UPR measurements at rest, during squeezing and straining (at a standardized abdominal pressure of 50 cmH₂O, P_{O-Abd 50}), standardized stress tests with 300 ml saline, and answering the International Consultation on Incontinence - Urinary incontinence short form. Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) was defined as a positive stress test and a questionnaire with symptoms of SUI and a bother score > 1. Sample size was 30, power was 100% and the level of significance was 5%. We analyzed data with paired t-tests or non-parametric Wilcoxon signed rank tests; p-values <0.05 were considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight women who underwent anterior colporrhaphy completed the study. P_{O-Abd 50} decreased 12 cmH₂O after surgery (p < 0.0001). Five women developed postoperative SUI and one had persistent SUI; the six women's preoperative P_{O-Abd 50} was lower than the rest (p < 0.01). If preoperative P_{O-Abd 50} was ≤65 cmH₂O, the positive predictive value for postoperative SUI was 50%, and if P_{O-Abd 50} was ≥85 cmH₂O, the negative predictive value was 100%.

CONCLUSIONS

The urethral closure mechanism deteriorates after anterior colporrhaphy. Using UPR, we can calculate a woman's risk of SUI after anterior colporrhaphy.

The predictive value of demonstrable stress incontinence during basic office evaluation and urodynamics in women without symptomatic urinary incontinence undergoing vaginal prolapse surgery

AIMS

Women with pelvic organ prolapse without symptoms of urinary incontinence (UI) might demonstrate stress urinary incontinence (SUI) with or without prolapse reduction. We aimed to determine the value of demonstrable SUI during basic office evaluation or urodynamics in predicting SUI after vaginal prolapse repair in these women.

METHODS

Women included in the CUPIDO trials without bothersome UI or UI more than once a week were eligible if they had undergone prolapse repair without incontinence surgery. The diagnostic and predictive value of demonstrable SUI was studied for postoperative SUI (POSUI). POSUI was defined as bothersome SUI at 1-year follow-up or treatment for SUI in the first postoperative year.

RESULTS

In 45% (77/173) of the included women urodynamics was performed. In 19% (32/172) SUI was demonstrated with basic office evaluation, against 29% (22/77) with urodynamics. Nine percent (16/172) developed POSUI, six women underwent surgery for de novo SUI. Women with demonstrable SUI were more at risk to face POSUI: twenty-eight percent versus five percent (Diagnostic Odds Ratio: 7; 95%CI 3-22). Urodynamics predicted one more woman having POSUI, but all women who underwent treatment for de novo SUI showed SUI during basic office evaluation. Test performance did not improved with the adding of urodynamics.

CONCLUSIONS

The predictive value of demonstrable SUI in symptomatically continent women undergoing vaginal prolapse repair is limited. Urodynamics added no value. The twenty-eight percent POSUI risk must be balanced against the increased complication risk if a prophylactic midurethral sling is considered.

[Treatment of Urinary incontinence associated with genital prolapse: Clinical practrice guidelines]

INTRODUCTION

Prolapse and urinary incontinence are frequently associated. Patente (or proven) stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is defined by a leakage of urine that occurs with coughing or Valsalva, in the absence of any prolapse reduction manipulation. Masked urinary incontinence results in leakage of urine occurring during reduction of prolapse during the clinical examination in a patient who does not describe incontinence symptoms at baseline. The purpose of this chapter is to consider on the issue of systematic support or not of urinary incontinence, patent or hidden, during the cure of pelvic organs prolapse by abdominal or vaginal approach.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This work is based on an systematic review of the literature (PubMed, Medline, Cochrane Library, Cochrane database of systematic reviews, EMBASE) for meta-analyzes, randomized trials, registries, literature reviews, controlled studies and major not controlled studies, published on the subject. Its implementation has followed the methodology of the HAS on the recommendations for clinical practice, with a scientific argument (with the level of evidence, NP) and a recommendation grade (A, B, C, and professional agreement).

RESULTS

In case of patent IUE, concomitant treatment of prolapse and SUI reduces the risk of postoperative SUI. However, the isolated treatment of prolapse can treat up to 30% of preoperative SUI. Concomitant treatment of SUI exposed to a specific overactive bladder and dysuria morbidity. The presence of a hidden IUE represents a risk of postoperative SUI, but there is no clinical or urodynamic test to predict individually the risk of postoperative SUI. Moreover, the isolated treatment of prolapse can treat up to 60% of the masked SUI. Concomitant treatment of the hidden IUE therefore exposes again to overtreatment and a specific overactive bladder and dysuria morbidity.

CONCLUSION

In case of overt or hidden urinary incontinence, concomitant treatment of SUI and prolapse reduces the risk of postoperative SUI but exposes to a specific overactive bladder and dysuria morbidity (NP3). The isolated treatment of prolapse often allows itself to treat preoperative SUI. We can suggest not to treat SUI (whether patent or hidden) at the same time, providing that women are informed of the possibility of 2 stages surgery (Grade C). © 2016 Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.

[Assessment before surgical treatment for pelvic organ prolapse: Clinical practice guidelines]

INTRODUCTION

The issue addressed in this chapter of recommendations is: What is the clinical and para-clinical assessment to achieve in women with genital prolapse and for whom surgical treatment has been decided. What are the clinical elements of the examination that must be taken into account as a risk factor of failure or relapse after surgery, in order to anticipate and evaluate possible surgical difficulties, and to move towards a preferred surgical technique?

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This work is based on a systematic review of the literature (PubMed, Medline, Cochrane Library, Cochrane Database of Systemactic Reviews, EMBASE) for meta-analyzes, randomized trials, registries, literature reviews, controlled studies and major not controlled studies, published on the subject. Its implementation has followed the methodology of the HAS on the recommendations for clinical practice, with a scientific argument (with the level of evidence, NP) and a recommendation grade (A, B, C, and professional agreement [AP]).

RESULTS

It suits first of all to describe prolapse, by clinical examination, helped, if needed, by a supplement of imagery if clinical examination data are insufficient or in case of discrepancy between the functional signs and clinical anomalies found, or in case of doubt in associated pathology. It suits to look relapse risk factors (high grade prolapse) and postoperative complications risk factors (risk factors for prothetic exposure, surgical approach difficulties, pelvic pain syndrome with hypersensitivity) to inform the patient and guide the therapeutic choice. Urinary functional disorders associated with prolapse (urinary incontinence, overactive bladder, dysuria, urinary tract infection, upper urinary tract impact) will be search and evaluated by interview and clinical examination and by a flowmeter with measurement of the post voiding residue, a urinalysis, and renal-bladder ultrasound. In the presence of voiding disorders, it is appropriate to do their clinical and urodynamic evaluation. In the absence of any spontaneous or hidden urinary sign, there is so far no reason to recommend systematically urodynamic assessment. Anorectal symptoms associated with prolapse (irritable bowel syndrome, obstruction of defecation, fecal incontinence) should be search and evaluated. Before prolapse surgery, it is essential not to ignore gynecologic pathology.

CONCLUSION

Before proposing a surgical cure of genital prolapse of women, it suits to achieve a clinical and paraclinical assessment to describe prolapse (anatomical structures involved, grade), to look for recurrence, difficulties approach and postoperative complications risk factors, and to appreciate the impact or the symptoms associated with prolapse (urinary, anorectal, gynecological, pelvic-perineal pain) to guide their evaluation and their treatment. © 2016 Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.

Incidence and Risk Factors of De novo Stress Urinary Incontinence after Pelvic Floor Reconstruction: A Nested Case-control Study

Background:

Some patients with pelvic organ prolapse may suffer from lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), especially stress urinary incontinence (SUI) named de novo SUI after pelvic floor reconstruction. This study aimed to investigate the incidence and risk factors of de novo SUI.

Methods:

This is a nested case-control study of 533 patients who underwent pelvic floor reconstruction due to pelvic organ prolapse (POP) at the Department of Gynecology in Peking University People's Hospital from January 2011 to March 2013. According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 401 patients were enrolled in the study with the follow-up rate of 74.8% (101 patients lost to follow-up). There were 75 patients with de novo SUI postoperatively. According to the ratio of 1:3, we ensured the number of control group (n = 225). The preoperative urinary dynamics, POP-quantification scores, and LUTS were compared between the two groups by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses to investigate the risk factors of de novo SUI.

Results:

The incidence of de novo SUI was 25% (75/300). Univariate analysis showed that the ratio of lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO) before surgery in de novo SUI group was significantly higher than the control group (odds ratio [OR] = 2.1, 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.1–4.0], P = 0.022). The interaction test of LUTO and other factors displayed that Aa value was an interaction factor. With the increasing score of Aa, the incidence of de novo SUI become higher (OR = 2.1, 95% CI [1.0–3.7], P = 0.045). After multivariable adjustment, multiple regression analysis showed that LUTO was independently associated with a greater risk of de novo SUI after pelvic floor surgery (OR = 2.3, 95% CI [1.2–4.6], P = 0.013).

Conclusions:

Preoperative LUTO in patients with POP is a high-risk factor of de novo SUI, and high score of Aa-point is related to the occurrence of de novo SUI, which might be due to the outlet obstruction caused by bladder prolapse.

Under what circumstances should stress incontinence surgery be performed at the same time as prolapse surgery? ICI-RS 2015

AIMS

An International Consultation on Incontinence-Research Society (ICI-RS) Think Tank in 2015 discussed and evaluated the evidence of when stress incontinence surgery should be performed with prolapse surgery and highlighted evidence gaps, with the aim of recommending further clinical and research proposals.

METHODS

A review of the literature assessing randomized studies where women with vaginal prolapse have been randomized to vaginal prolapse surgery with or without continence surgery were evaluated. The different clinical presentations were also evaluated and their impact on outcome was critically reviewed.

RESULTS

There are three symptomatic groups of women with vaginal prolapse who are treated. The first group is continent women with vaginal prolapse. The second group has stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and vaginal prolapse. The last group has vaginal prolapse and have been found through testing to have occult SUI. The studies have reported a range of outcomes for each of these groups. There are different outcomes based on the surgical method used to correct the prolapse and also the different continence surgical techniques. There are insufficient studies to allow firm conclusions to be drawn. The economic impact of the different management pathways is also discussed although costs vary according to different national medical funding systems.

CONCLUSIONS

There is considerable uncertainty about the optimal method of managing women with vaginal prolapse and stress incontinence due to the different surgical techniques available. In particular the group of women with occult SUI are a challenge as the optimal diagnostic method has not yet been defined.

Urethral pressure reflectometry in women with pelvic organ prolapse: a study of reproducibility

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The mechanism of continence in women with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) before and after surgery remains unknown. Urethral pressure reflectometry (UPR) separates women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) from continent women by measuring urethral opening pressure at an abdominal pressure of 50 cmH₂O (P _{O-Abd 50}). UPR can help identify women with POP at risk of postoperative de novo SUI. The aim of this study was to investigate the reproducibility of UPR in women with POP.

METHODS

Women with anterior or posterior vaginal wall prolapse were recruited for this prospective, observational study from our outpatient clinic. The women were examined with UPR on two occasions. Measurements were done at rest, and during squeezing and straining. Statistical analyses were performed using SAS 9.4. A Bland-Altman analysis with limits of agreement and coefficients of variation was used to determine the level of agreement between measurements. Paired t tests were used to estimate the difference; a two-tailed P value of <0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

We recruited 19 women with anterior vaginal wall prolapse and 11 women with posterior vaginal wall prolapse. There were no significant differences in the opening pressures at rest or during squeezing or in the values of P _{O-Abd 50}. P _{O-Abd 50} showed limits of agreement of 15.3 cmH₂O and a coefficient of variation of 9.9 %.

CONCLUSIONS

UPR was found to be a highly reproducible method in women with POP. UPR may be used in future studies to help reveal urodynamic features predictive of postoperative de novo SUI in women with POP.

De novo stress urinary incontinence after pelvic organ prolapse surgery in women without occult incontinence

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

There is a paucity of data evaluating the risk of de novo stress urinary incontinence (SUI) after surgery for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) in women with no preoperative occult SUI. We hypothesized that apical suspension procedures would have higher rates of de novo SUI.

METHODS

This was a retrospective database review of women who had surgery for POP from 2003 to 2013 and developed de novo SUI at ≥6 months postoperatively. Preoperatively, all patients had a negative stress test and no evidence of occult SUI on prolapse reduction urodynamics. The primary objective was to establish the incidence of de novo SUI in women with no objective evidence of preoperative occult SUI after POP surgeries at ≥6 months.

RESULTS

A total number of 274 patients underwent POP surgery. The overall incidence of de novo SUI was 9.9 % [95 % confidence interval (CI) 0.07-0.14]. However, the incidence of de novo SUI in those with no baseline complaint of SUI was 4.4 % (95 % CI 0.03-0.1). There was no difference in de novo SUI rates between apical [9.7 % (n = 57)] and nonapical [10.5 %, (n = 217] procedures (p = 0.8482). Multivariate logistic regression identified sacrocolpopexy [adjusted odds ratio (OR) 4.54, 95 % CI 1.2-14.7] and those with a baseline complaint of SUI (adjusted OR 5.1; 95 % CI 2.2-12) as risk factors for de novo SUI.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of de novo SUI after surgery for POP without occult SUI was 9.9 %. We recommend counseling patients about the risk of de novo SUI and offering a staged procedure.

Occult Stress Urinary Incontinence in Women With Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Is the One Step Surgical Approach a Risky Choice?

OBJECTIVES

Occult stress urinary incontinence (SUI, OSUI) is defined as the demonstration of SUI after pelvic organ prolapse (POP) reduction. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and complication rates of the 1-step surgical approach for treating women with POP and OSUI.

METHODS

Retrospective study of women with POP and OSUI who underwent a concomitant prolapse and midurethral sling procedure was conducted. Main outcome measures were absence of postoperative urodynamic stress incontinence (USI) and absence of postoperative SUI at 12 months. Secondary outcome measures included evaluation of objective and subjective parameters related to the lower urinary tract function and assessment of the quality of life.

RESULTS

Of the 244 women, 205 women (84%) attended the 12-month postoperative follow-up visit and were included in the study. Overall, 87.8% (180/205) of the patients had absence of postoperative urodynamic stress incontinence, whereas 95.1% (195/205) did not report postoperative SUI. Evaluation of parameters related to the postoperative lower urinary tract dysfunction showed that (a) 43% of women with preexisting urgency symptoms continued to have urgency, (b) 16.7% of patients presented de novo urgency, (c) de novo detrusor overactivity occurred in 9.3% of patients, and (d) 4.9% of women with preoperative obstructive voiding symptoms continued to have obstructive voiding symptoms after combined surgery. King's Health Questionnaire data analysis showed a statistically significant improvement in all domains.

CONCLUSIONS

This 1-step approach is both safe and effective and could be offered as a valid operative choice for those women who wish or should avoid a repeat surgical procedure for postoperative SUI.

The value of the preoperative 1-h pad test with pessary insertion for predicting the need for a mid-urethral sling following pelvic prolapse surgery: a cohort study

PURPOSE

Part of the patients with pelvic organ prolapse but without symptoms of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) may demonstrate SUI after prolapse surgery (occult SUI), and no optimal preoperative screening method is currently available for it. The aim of this study was to estimate the value of the preoperative 1-h pad test with pessary insertion for predicting the need for a mid-urethral sling (MUS) following prolapse surgery.

METHODS

Two hundred and six patients were enrolled for advanced prolapse without complaining of urinary incontinence (UI) in this prospective cohort study. Exclusion criteria included prior or concomitant anti-incontinence surgery. Preoperatively, a stress test, the 1-h pad test and uroflowmetry were performed with prolapse reduction. Primary outcome was postoperative de novo UI. Median follow-up was 31 months (range 12-48 months).

RESULTS

Of the 206 patients, 45 (21.8 %) had evidence of occult SUI preoperatively, 62 (30.1 %) exhibited de novo UI postoperatively, and only 13 (6.3 %) opted MUSs. Patients with occult SUI experienced higher de novo UI rate (53.3 vs. 23.6 %; P = 0.000). The OSUI and concomitant hysterectomy were identified as independent risk factors related to de novo UI (P = 0.000, P = 0.044). We performed receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis to evaluate the value of preoperative 1-h pad test. The area under ROC curve was 0.816 ± 0.085 (95 % CI 0.649-0.983); the cutoff value was 1.9 g (sensitivity 80.0 %, specificity 83.9 %).

CONCLUSIONS

The preoperative 1-h pad test with prolapse reduction is feasible for screening occult SUI, and more than 1.9 g may be a practical indicator of a postoperative subsequent MUS.

Stress incontinence surgery at the time of prolapse surgery: mandatory or forbidden?

INTRODUCTION

Concomitant anti-incontinence surgery at the time of prolapse repair has been a long-debated topic. Still today, there remains no clear answer to this question, although in recent years the literature has become more robust with the addition of more randomized controlled trials. The lifetime risk for women of undergoing surgical correction of pelvic organ prolapse is significant, and concomitant anti-incontinence surgery is an important question during surgical planning.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This review delves further into the current literature to discuss a possible algorithm for managing the risk of stress incontinence after pelvic organ prolapse repair and examines the support in the literature for the following treatment methods: (1) anti-incontinence surgery for all women undergoing pelvic organ prolapse repair, (2) anti-incontinence surgery for no women undergoing pelvic organ prolapse repair, and (3) anti-incontinence surgery in select women undergoing pelvic organ prolapse repair.

CONCLUSIONS

While there are data both for and against each of these approaches, after a review of the literature, we recommend anti-incontinence surgery for select women undergoing pelvic organ prolapse repair, including women with a history of symptomatic and occult stress incontinence diagnosed preoperatively.

A model for predicting the risk of de novo stress urinary incontinence in women undergoing pelvic organ prolapse surgery

OBJECTIVE

To construct and validate a prediction model for estimating the risk of de novo stress urinary incontinence (SUI) after vaginal pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery and compare it with predictions using preoperative urinary stress testing and expert surgeons' predictions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Using the data set (n=457) from the Outcomes Following Vaginal Prolapse Repair and Midurethral Sling trial, a model using 12 clinical preoperative predictors of de novo SUI was constructed. De novo SUI was determined by Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory responses through 12 months postoperatively. After fitting the multivariable logistic regression model using the best predictors, the model was internally validated with 1,000 bootstrap samples to obtain bias-corrected accuracy using a concordance index. The model's predictions were also externally validated by comparing findings against actual outcomes using Colpopexy and Urinary Reduction Efforts trial patients (n=316). The final model's performance was compared with experts using a test data set of 32 randomly chosen Outcomes Following Vaginal Prolapse Repair and Midurethral Sling trial patients through comparison of the model's area under the curve against: 1) 22 experts' predictions; and 2) preoperative prolapse reduction stress testing.

RESULTS

A model containing seven predictors discriminated between de novo SUI status (concordance index 0.73, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.65-0.80) in Outcomes Following Vaginal Prolapse Repair and Midurethral Sling participants and outperformed expert clinicians (area under the curve 0.72 compared with 0.62, P<.001) and preoperative urinary stress testing (area under the curve 0.72 compared with 0.54, P<.001). The concordance index for Colpopexy and Urinary Reduction Efforts trial participants was 0.62 (95% CI 0.56-0.69).

CONCLUSION

This individualized prediction model for de novo SUI after vaginal POP surgery is valid and outperforms preoperative stress testing, prediction by experts, and preoperative reduction cough stress testing. An online calculator is provided for clinical use.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Follow-up of mesh complications using the IUGA/ICS category-time-site coding classification

INTRODUCTION

The International Urogynecological Association (IUGA) and the International Continence Society (ICS) developed a complication classification to facilitate international comparison and to improve our understanding of complications. This code was applied to surgical cases for the analysis of complications after mesh insertion.

METHODS

The study included patients who had undergone vaginal prolapse repair with a trocar-guided polypropylene mesh between 2006 and 2010 in a Dutch peripheral hospital. Complications were assessed at secondary follow-up and classified using category (C), timing (T), and site (S) components (CTS).

RESULTS

Of the 107 women included, 84 returned for secondary follow-up (response rate 80 %, median time after surgery 36 months, range 12-64). In 45 patients no complications occurred. In the remaining 39 patients, 43 complication codes were established. Six of the seven categories of complications were found at all different time codes. Concerning the site of the complication codes S1, S2, and S3 were applicable. Perioperative complications (6 %) included hemorrhage and bladder perforation. Six patients were reoperated for symptomatic mesh exposure or local pain. At secondary follow-up exposure was diagnosed in another 4 patients (12 %). In 36 % mesh wrinkling or shrinkage was discovered, although without complaints in most. Eight women had daily complaints or dyspareunia. Eighty-two percent of patients indicated strong improvement after surgery. Several limitations of the classification are discussed.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite limitations, the IUGA/ICS code is demonstrated to be useful in describing mesh complications. We advise the use of the CTS code at follow-up consultations after a minimum of 2 years for improved insight into and knowledge on the occurrence of complications.

Utilizing preoperative 20-minute pad testing with vaginal gauze packing for indicating concomitant midurethral sling during cystocele repair

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the feasibility of using preoperative 20-minute pad testing with vaginal gauze packing for cystocele reduction to indicate a concomitant midurethral sling during cystocele repair.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective review of the records of consecutive women with pelvic organ prolapse quantification≥stage II symptomatic cystocele who visited the urogynecologic outpatient clinics and underwent cystocele repair between July 2005 and December 2010. Only patients who underwent preoperative urodynamic studies and 20-minute pad testing with vaginal gauze packing for cystocele reduction were enrolled.

RESULTS

Twenty-one patients did not demonstrate any stress urinary incontinence. For evident stress urinary incontinence (>1g pad weight before reduction), the criterion of ≥8g pad weight before reduction was chosen for concomitant midurethral sling. For patients with occult stress urinary incontinence (≤1g pad weight before reduction), the criterion of ≥8g pad weight after reduction was chosen as an indication for concomitant midurethral sling. Among 22 patients with evident stress urinary incontinence (<8g) without concomitant midurethral sling, only one patient (4.5%) received a midurethral sling during the follow-up period (median follow-up interval: 30.5 months). Among 21 patients with occult stress incontinence but <8g after reduction without concomitant midurethral sling, only one patient (4.8%) received midurethral sling during the follow-up period (median follow-up interval: 38 months).

CONCLUSIONS

A preoperative 20-minute pad test with vaginal gauze packing for cystocele reduction is a feasible and practical method to decide for a concomitant midurethral sling.