Changes in female sexual function after pelvic organ prolapse repair: role of hysterectomy

A systematic review of uterine cervical elongation and meta-analysis of Manchester repair

OBJECTIVE

This review aims to consolidate current research on cervical elongation, a common but often overlooked complication in pelvic organ prolapse and hysteropexy procedures. It seeks to define, diagnose, and manage cervical elongation, aiming to establish standardized criteria and strategies to enhance clinical outcomes for this condition.

DATA SOURCES

A comprehensive search of the PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases was executed utilizing the keywords: "cervical elongation," "long cervix uteri," "Manchester," and "cervical amputation". Data were gathered and organized in an Excel spreadsheet, with the analysis conducted according to each category, methodology, or reference range.

STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

All types of study designs with full-text availability, including randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, case-control studies, case reports, and systematic reviews, were considered for inclusion. Included studies were fully accessible in English and focused on the topic of interest. Exclusions were made for studies addressing cervical elongation not pertinent to pelvic organ prolapse, and publications such as secondary analyses, case reports, literature reviews, and opinion papers.

RESULTS

Out of 108 relevant studies, only 63 defined their inclusion criteria; of these, 57 were utilized for the narrative review and 8 were used in a meta-analysis comparing the Manchester operation with vaginal hysterectomy. Magnetic Resonance Imaging offers the highest sensitivity in measuring cervical elongation, its practical limitations and high cost necessitate the use of the more feasible Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification System (POP-Q), particularly effective for stage 2 and 3 prolapse cases. The POP-Q point C emerges as a pivotal marker for identifying cervical elongation, with specific measurements indicating the condition's presence. The Manchester-Fothergill procedure presents a viable management option for isolated cervical elongation, showing fewer complications and comparable recurrence rates to vaginal hysterectomy.

CONCLUSION

This review highlights the diagnostic and definitional diversity of cervical elongation within populations experiencing pelvic organ prolapse. It emphasizes the critical role of preoperative cervical evaluation, particularly in patients with uterine descensus for selecting the most appropriate surgical intervention.

Pelvic Floor Disorders and Sexual Function: A Review

Pelvic floor disorders can result in laxity, hypertonicity or spasm, all of which can impact sexual function. It is important for clinicians to understand this impact in order to appropriately counsel and treat their patients.

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.

Associations between perceptions of shared decision making and health among hysterectomy patients: A prospective observational study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate patient and clinical factors that are associated with perceptions of shared decision making between hysterectomy patients and surgeons and to evaluate associations between shared decision making and postoperative health.

METHODS

This study is based on a prospective cohort scheduled for hysterectomy for benign conditions in Vancouver, Canada. Validated patient-reported outcomes assessed shared decision making, pelvic health, depression, and pain. Regression analyses measured the association between perceptions of shared decision making with patient and clinical factors. Then, associations between shared decision making with postoperative pelvic health, pain and depression were evaluated using regression analysis and adjusted for patient and clinical factors.

RESULTS

In this study, 308 participants completed preoperative measures, and a subset of 146 participants also completed the postoperative measures. More than 50% of participants reported less than optimal shared decision making scores. No significant associations were identified between patients' perceptions of shared decision making with patients' age, comorbidities, socioeconomic factors, indication for surgery, or preoperative depression and pain. Regression analyses found that higher/better self-reported shared decision making scores were associated with fewer postoperative pelvic organ symptoms (P = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Many patients' reporting lower than optimal scores on the shared decision making instrument highlight the opportunity to improve surgeon-patient communication in this surgical cohort. Strengthening shared decision making between surgeons and their patients may be associated with improved self-reported postoperative health.

Uterine-sparing laparoscopic lateral suspension in the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse

AIM

Apical prolapse is an important component of pelvic organ prolapse. The aim of our study was to investigate the effectiveness of laparoscopic lateral suspension (LLS) surgery, which we performed while sparing the uterus.

METHODS

LLS surgery was performed on 62 patients due to apical prolapse, preserving their uterus. The patients' pelvic organ prolapse quantification system (POP-Q) points and sexual function using pelvic organ prolapse/urinary incontinence sexual function questionnaire (PISQ-12) prior to and 12 months following the surgery were compared, and the results were evaluated.

RESULTS

The POP-Q points and PISQ-12 scores evaluating sexual function of the patients who underwent LLS were significantly improved compared to pre-operation values (p ˂ 0.001). No intraoperative complications were observed in the patients. Recurrence was observed in 6 (9.6%) of 62 total cases in post-operative follow-up. Apical prolapse was seen in two patients (3.2%), and anterior vaginal wall recurrence was observed in one patient (1.6%). Posterior vaginal wall recurrence was seen in three patients (4.8%). Pelvic pain complications were observed in four patients (6.4%) in the postoperative follow-up. Mesh erosion was not observed in any of the cases. It was observed that 5 (38%) of 13 patients with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) had improved SUI complaints after surgery. The mean operation time was 66.3 ± 12.3 min.

CONCLUSION

LLS is an effective and safe method for patients with apical prolapse who want to preserve their uterus. LLS can be applied as an alternative to the sacrocolpopexy procedure, which has risks such as potentially serious neurological and life-threatening vascular injury in the sacral region.

Comparison of the safety between cervical conization and hysterectomy for patients with cervical adenocarcinoma in situ

OBJECTIVE

To compare the safety between cervical conization (CC) alone and hysterectomy for patients with adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS) of the cervix.

METHODS

Patients diagnosed with AIS after CC during 2007-2021 were identified by computerized databases at Women's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine. A total of 453 AIS patients were divided into 2 groups according to uterus preservation: hysterectomy group (n=300) and CC(s) alone group (n=153). The prevalence of residual disease and disease recurrence was compared between patients treated by CC(s) alone and hysterectomy. The prevalence of residual disease in specimens from women who had a hysterectomy and repeat CC were compared between positive and negative margins of CC. The factors influencing residual disease and disease recurrence were assessed.

RESULTS

Among 310 specimens from women who had a hysterectomy or repeat CC, the prevalence of residual disease was 50.6% (45/89) for a positive margin and 2.3% (5/221) for a negative margin (p=0.000). Four patients had recurrence of vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia in those treated by hysterectomy and one had recurrence of cervical squamous intraepithelial neoplasia in those treated by CC(s) alone. The prevalence of recurrence was 0.7% (1/153) for CC(s) alone and 1.3% (4/300) for hysterectomy (p=0.431). Hysterectomy did not influence residual disease or disease recurrence.

CONCLUSION

CC is an efficacious and safe option for patients with AIS of the cervix provided the margin is negative.

Bilateral Sacrospinous Hysteropexy Versus Bilateral Sacrospinous Ligament Fixation with Vaginal Hysterectomy for Apical Uterovaginal Prolapse

Purpose

The aim of this retrospective study was to compare the anatomical and functional outcomes between bilateral sacrospinous hysteropexy (BSHP) and bilateral sacrospinous ligament fixation with vaginal hysterectomy (BSLF/VH) in women with apical-predominant uterovaginal prolapse.

Methods

Clinical data from patients with symptomatic Pelvic Organ Prolapse-Quantification (POP-Q) stage 2 or higher uterovaginal prolapse who underwent either BSHP (48 patients) or BSLF/VH (69 patients) between January 2014 and December 2018 were reviewed retrospectively. The primary outcome was the subjective satisfaction rate evaluated by Patient Global Impression of Improvement, and the secondary outcomes included objective anatomical success rates, impact on disease-specific quality of life evaluated by the Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire-12, Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory-Short Form 20, and Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire 7, and surgical complications.

Results

After a median follow-up of 35 months (range, 25–58 months), all patients in both groups demonstrated significant postoperative improvements in anatomical and functional outcomes (P<0.001). There were no significant differences in postoperative subjective and objective results, sexual satisfaction outcomes, or disease-specific quality of life between the BSHP and BSLF/VH groups, and similar incidence rates of intraoperative and postoperative complications were also recorded.

Conclusions

The uterus-sparing BSHP procedure yielded noninferior anatomical and functional outcomes compared to the BSLF/VH procedure and could be adopted as an alternative to conventional hysterectomy-based native-tissue repair modalities for symptomatic apical-predominant uterovaginal prolapse.

Role of Hysteropexy in the Management of Pelvic Organ Prolapse

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To discuss considerations for hysteropexy for apical pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and summarize available literature comparing various hysteropexy techniques to analogous procedures involving hysterectomy.

RECENT FINDINGS

Hysteropexy for apical POP has increased in popularity in recent years, although anatomic factors and gynecologic cancer risk must be taken into account. Native tissue hysteropexy options include the LeFort colpocleisis, sacrospinous hysteropexy, and uterosacral hysteropexy. Although vaginal mesh was banned by the Food and Drug Administration in 2019, abdominal mesh sacrohysteropexy done either open or laparoscopically remains an option in the USA. Overall, short-term prolapse outcomes appear to be comparable between uterus-sparing approaches and hysterectomy, with less blood loss and shorter operating room time observed with the uterine-sparing approaches, although long-term outcome data remains variable and limited. Uterine-sparing apical POP repair may be offered to appropriate patients without certain risk factors, although longer-term data will be required to evaluate durability.

Uterine preserving technique in the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse: Laparoscopic pectopexy

OBJECTIVE

Apical prolapse constitutes an important part of pelvic organ prolapse. In this study, our aim was to investigate the effectiveness of laparoscopic pectopexy that we made by preserving the uterus in the surgical treatment of apical prolapse.

METHODS

A total of 36 patients with apical prolapse who wanted to preserve their uterus underwent laparoscopic rectopexy. Apical prolapse and sexual function of the patients were evaluated preoperatively and 12 months after surgery using the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POP-Q) scale and Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire (PISQ-12) sexual questionnaire form. Preoperative medical records and postoperative clinical results were recorded.

RESULTS

There were no intraoperative or postoperative complications in the patients who underwent laparoscopic pectopexy. The average duration of surgery was 48.7 ± 9.8 min. Two patients had a recurrence of apical prolapse. In the Aa, Ba, C, and D points in the POP-Q staging, significant changes were observed. Postoperative PISQ-12 scores improved significantly (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Uterine-preserving laparoscopic pectopexy is a safe, feasible, and effective method for treating pelvic organ prolapse. It also improved the PISQ-12 and POP-Q scores in POP patients. Laparoscopic pectopexy may increase a surgeon's technical perspective for pelvic organ prolapse surgery.

Surgical Management of Symptomatic Apical Pelvic Organ Prolapse: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To systematically review objective and subjective success and complications of apical suspensions for symptomatic uterine or vaginal vault pelvic organ prolapse (POP).

DATA SOURCES

MEDLINE, CENTRAL, ClinicalTrials.gov, and EMBASE (2002-2019) were searched using multiple terms for apical POP surgeries, including comparative studies in French and English.

METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION

From 2,665 records, we included randomized controlled trials and comparative studies of interventions with or without hysterectomy, including abdominal apical reconstruction through open, laparoscopic, or robotic approaches and vaginal apical reconstructions. Repairs using transvaginal mesh, off-the-market products, procedures without apical suspension, and follow-up less than 6 months were excluded.

TABULATION, INTEGRATION, AND RESULTS

Relative risk (RR) was used to estimate the effect of surgical procedure on each outcome. For each outcome and comparison, a meta-analysis was conducted to pool the RRs when possible. Meta-regression and bias tests were performed when appropriate. The GRADE (Grades for Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation) system for quality rating and PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) reporting were used. Sixty-two articles were included in the review (N=22,792) and 50 studies in the meta-analyses. There was heterogeneity in study quality, techniques used, and outcomes reported. Median follow-up was 1-5 years. Vaginal suspensions showed higher risk of overall and apical anatomic recurrence compared with sacrocolpopexy (RR 1.82, 95% CI 1.22-2.74 and RR 2.70, 95% CI 1.33-5.50) (moderate), whereas minimally invasive sacrocolpopexy showed less overall and posterior anatomic recurrence compared with open sacrocolpopexy (RR 0.59, 95% CI 0.47-0.75 and RR 0.59, 95% CI 0.44-0.80, respectively) (low). Different vaginal approaches, and hysterectomy and suspension compared with hysteropexy had similar anatomic success. Subjective POP recurrence, reintervention for POP recurrence and complications were similar between most procedures.

CONCLUSION

Despite variations in anatomic outcomes, subjective outcomes and complications were similar for apical POP procedures at 1-5 years. Standardization of outcome reporting and comparative studies with longer follow-up are urgently needed.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO, CRD42019133869.

High uterosacral ligament hysteropexy for the management of pelvic organ prolapse

Objective:

To demonstrate our transvaginal high uterosacral ligament (HUL) hysteropexy technique as an alternative mesh-free uterine-preserving pelvic organ prolapse (POP) repair approach and present our institutional outcomes. Concurrent hysterectomy with POP repair is controversial as uterine-preserving techniques may beneficially allow fertility, body image and sexual function preservation (1, 2).

Materials and Methods:

This video illustrates a step-by-step sequence of our HUL hysteropexy technique in a symptomatic Stage III POP patient. Retrospective single-institution, single-surgeon analysis of patients treated by either HUL hysteropexy or hysterectomy with HUL suspension for symptomatic prolapse was performed with minimum 2 years of follow-up. Patient demographics, operative characteristics, pre and post-operative POP-Q evaluation, American Urological Association Symptom scores (AUASS) and post-operative Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI-20) were compared.

Results:

Surgery time was 3 hours 24 minutes. No immediate/early complications were noted, with successful repair on follow-up. Outcomes of 18 patients (10 HUL hysteropexy, 8 hysterectomy and HUL suspension) were assessed (Supplemental Table). The only baseline difference was a lower body mass index in the HUL hysteropexy cohort (25.8 vs. 35.8kg/m2, p=0.008). In the HUL hysteropexy cohort, blood loss (mean: 58 vs. 205ml, p=0.00086) and operative time (190.4 vs. 279.1minutes, p=0.0021) were significantly reduced. There was no difference in post-operative AUASS, POP-Q or PFDI-20 at 2 years.

Conclusion:

We present our HUL hysteropexy technique. Although limited by sample size and retrospective design, resulted in significantly reduced blood loss and operative time with comparable post-operative 2 year outcomes to non-uterine-preserving techniques. In our opinion, HUL hysteropexy is a safe, durable POP management option for women without significant endometrial pathology risk factors.

A Systematic Review of Clinical Trials Assessing Sexuality in Hysterectomized Patients

In hysterectomized patients, even though there is still controversy, evidence indicates that in the short term, the vaginal approach shows benefits over the laparoscopic approach, as it is less invasive, faster and less costly. However, the quality of sexual life has not been systematically reviewed in terms of the approach adopted. Through a systematic review, we analyzed (CRD42020158465 in PROSPERO) the impact of hysterectomy on sexual quality and whether there are differences according to the surgical procedure (abdominal or vaginal) for noncancer patients. MEDLINE (through PubMed), Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, ClinicalTrials.gov and Scopus were reviewed to find randomized clinical trials assessing sexuality in noncancer patients undergoing total hysterectomy, comparing vaginal and abdominal (laparoscopic and/or open) surgery. Three studies that assessed the issue under study were finally included. Two of these had a low risk of bias (Cochrane risk of bias tool); one was unclear. There was significant variability in how sexuality was measured, with no differences between the two approaches considered in the review. In conclusion, no evidence was found to support one procedure (abdominal or vaginal) over another for non-oncological hysterectomized patients regarding benefits in terms of sexuality.

Directive clinique no 413 : Traitement chirurgical du prolapsus génital apical chez les femmes

OBJECTIF

Comparer les taux de réussite et de complications des interventions de suspension apicale pour le traitement du prolapsus symptomatique de l'utérus ou du dôme vaginal.

POPULATION CIBLE

Les femmes présentant un prolapsus symptomatique de l'utérus ou du dôme vaginal qui souhaitent obtenir un traitement chirurgical.

OPTIONS

Les interventions abordées sont les méthodes reconstructives apicales par voie abdominale (colposacropexie, hystérosacropexie ou hystéropexie avec suspension aux ligaments utéro-sacrés) par chirurgie ouverte, laparoscopique ou robotisée; les méthodes reconstructives apicales par voie vaginale (suspension du dôme vaginal ou hystéropexie, sacrospinofixation, suspension aux ligaments utéro-sacrés, suspension au muscle ilio-coccygien, culdoplastie de McCall ou amputation du col [technique de Manchester]); et les interventions vaginales oblitérantes (avec ou sans utérus in situ). Les interventions individuelles ou les grandes catégories d'interventions ont été comparées : (1) reconstruction par voie vaginale versus abdominale, (2) interventions reconstructives par voie abdominale, (3) interventions reconstructives par voie vaginale, (4) reconstruction par hystérectomie avec suspension par comparaison à la reconstruction par hystéropexie et (5) options reconstructives versus oblitérantes. RéSULTATS: Le comité d'urogynécologie a sélectionné les résultats cliniques suivants : échec objectif (obtenu par des systèmes validés de quantification du prolapsus génital et défini comme un échec global objectif et un taux d'échec par compartiment); échec subjectif (réapparition de la sensation de protubérance déterminée subjectivement, avec ou sans l'utilisation d'un questionnaire validé); réopération pour un prolapsus génital récidivé; complications postopératoires de troubles mictionnels (incontinence urinaire d'effort de novo ou postopératoire; réopération d'une incontinence urinaire d'effort de novo, persistante ou récidivée; incontinence urinaire par urgenturie; et dysfonction mictionnelle); lésion des voies urinaires détectée en périopératoire (vessie ou uretère); autres complications (exposition prothétique, définie comme un treillis visible et exposé dans le vagin et une douleur pelvienne non sexuelle); et fonction sexuelle (dyspareunie de novo et score de la fonction sexuelle d'après un questionnaire validé). BéNéFICES, RISQUES ET COûTS: Cette directive clinique sera bénéfique pour les patientes qui souhaitent obtenir une correction chirurgicale du prolapsus génital apical en améliorant les conseils sur les options de traitement chirurgical et les résultats cliniques possibles. La directive sera également utile pour les fournisseurs de soins chirurgicaux en améliorant leurs connaissances sur diverses méthodes chirurgicales. Les données présentées pourraient servir à élaborer des cadres et des outils pour la prise de décision partagée. DONNéES PROBANTES: Nous avons effectué des recherches dans les bases de données Medline, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) et Embase pour des articles publiés entre 2002 et 2019. Les termes de recherche étaient nombreux et portaient sur les interventions de correction du prolapsus génital apical, les voies d'abord et les complications. Nous avons exclu les reconstructions par treillis transvaginal et les études comparant les interventions sans suspension apicale. Nous avons inclus des essais cliniques randomisés et des études comparatives prospectives ou rétrospectives. Nous avons limité nos recherches aux articles publiés en anglais ou en français dont le texte intégral était accessible. Une revue systématique des articles avec méta-analyse a ensuite été effectuée. MéTHODES DE VALIDATION: Les auteures ont évalué la qualité des données probantes et la force des recommandations en utilisant lecadre méthodologique d'évaluation, de développement et d'évaluation (GRADE). Voir l'annexe A en ligne (tableau A1 pour les définitions et tableau A2 pour l'interprétation des recommandations fortes et faibles).

PROFESSIONNELS CIBLES

Gynécologues, urologues, urogynécologues et autres fournisseurs de soins de santé qui évaluent, conseillent et soignent des femmes ayant un prolapsus génital. DÉCLARATIONS SOMMAIRES: Toutes les déclarations font référence à la correction du prolapsus génital apical à court et à moyen terme (jusqu'à 5 ans), sauf indication contraire. RECOMMANDATIONS.

Guideline No. 413: Surgical Management of Apical Pelvic Organ Prolapse in Women

OBJECTIVE

To compare success and complication rates of apical suspension procedures for the surgical management of symptomatic uterine or vaginal vault prolapse.

TARGET POPULATION

Women with symptomatic uterine or vaginal vault prolapse seeking surgical correction.

OPTIONS

Interventions included abdominal apical reconstructive repairs (sacrocolpopexy, sacrohysteropexy, or uterosacral hysteropexy) via open, laparoscopic, or robotic approaches; vaginal apical reconstructive repairs (vault suspensions or hysteropexy, sacrospinous, uterosacral, iliococcygeus, McCall's, or Manchester types); and vaginal obliterative procedures (with or without uterus in situ). Individual procedures or broad categories of procedures were compared: (1) vaginal versus abdominal routes for reconstruction, (2) abdominal procedures for reconstruction, (3) vaginal procedures for reconstruction, (4) hysterectomy and suspension versus hysteropexy for reconstruction, and (5) reconstructive versus obliterative options.

OUTCOMES

The Urogynaecology Committee selected outcomes of interest: objective failure (obtained via validated pelvic organ prolapse [POP] quantification systems and defined as overall objective failure as well as failure rate by compartment); subjective failure (recurrence of bulge symptoms determined subjectively, with or without use of a validated questionnaire); reoperation for POP recurrence; complications of postoperative lower urinary tract symptoms (de novo or postoperative stress urinary incontinence; reoperation for persistent, recurrent, or de novo stress urinary incontinence; urge urinary incontinence; and voiding dysfunction); perioperatively recognized urinary tract injury (bladder or ureter); other complications (mesh exposure, defined as mesh being visible and exposed in the vagina, and non-sexual pelvic pain); and sexual function (de novo dyspareunia and sexual function score according to a validated questionnaire).

BENEFITS, HARMS, AND COSTS

This guideline will benefit patients seeking surgical correction of apical POP by improving counselling on surgical treatment options and possible outcomes. It will also benefit surgical providers by improving their knowledge of various surgical approaches. Data presented could be used to develop frameworks and tools for shared decision-making.

EVIDENCE

We searched Medline, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and Embase from 2002 to 2019. The search included multiple terms for apical POP surgical procedures, approaches, and complications. We excluded POP repairs using transvaginal mesh and studies that compared procedures without apical suspension. We included randomized controlled trials and prospective or retrospective comparative studies. We limited language of publication to English and French and accessibility to full text. A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed.

VALIDATION METHODS

The authors rated the quality of evidence and strength of recommendations using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. See online Appendix A (Tables A1 for definitions and A2 for interpretations of strong and weak recommendations).

INTENDED USERS

Gynaecologists, urologists, urogynaecologists, and other health care providers who assess, counsel, and care for women with POP.

SUMMARY STATEMENTS

All statements refer to correction of apical vaginal prolapse in the short and medium term (up to 5 years), except when otherwise specified.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Treatment Outcomes of Vaginal Infections on Sexual Function

Vaginal infections are the most common gynecological diseases and one of the causes of sexual dysfunction. In more than 50% of patients, sexual dysfunction is twice as common. Evaluation of the treatment outcome of vaginal infections can be effective in identifying factors related to the sexual function. This is a descriptive-observational study that included patients referred to Imam Sajjad Shahriar Hospital during 2017-2018. Patients that met the inclusion criteria (with vaginal infections of Candida, Gardnerella and mixed infections - Candida and Gardnerella - Mixed group) completed the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire before and one month after treatment. Data were analyzed by SPSS 16, paired t-test, ANOVA, and multiple regression. P-value <0.05 was considered significant. After the treatment of vaginitis, there was a significant increase in all aspects of the FSFI questionnaire. The mean and standard deviation of sexual function of women before and after treatment were 18.26 ± 4.36 and 26.27 ± 4.97 in the Candida group, 20.06 ± 4.94 and 25.87 ± 5.32 in the Gardnerella group, and 19.69 ± 4.25 and 27.05 ± 5.12 in the Mixed group. Prior to treatment in the Mixed and Gardnerella group, the most important sexual dysfunction was related to the dyspareunia component, while in the Candida group, the most important sexual dysfunction was related to the desire component. After treatment, the components of dyspareunia in the Mixed and Gardnerella group and the orgasmic component in the Candida group showed the greatest improvement. The regression test showed that the effect of age, body mass index and duration of sex on sexual function was significant (P <0.05). Duration of the disease had the greatest impact on sexual dysfunction, and after treatment of the disease, sexual function improved significantly. Proper diagnosis and treatment are effective in improving women’s sexual function. The results of this study can be promoted to midwives and gynecologists.

Pelvic organ prolapse and uterine preservation: a survey of female gynecologists (POP-UP survey)

Background

The aim of this study was to explore the personal views of female gynecologists regarding the management of POP with a particular focus on the issue of uterine sparing surgery.

Methods

A questionnaire based survey of practicing female gynecologists in the Czech Republic, Slovenia and Slovakia.

Results

A total of 140 female gynecologists from 81 units responded to our questionnaire. The majority of respondents stated they would rely on a urogynecologist to aid them with their choice of POP management options. The most preferred options for POP management were sacrocolpopexy and physiotherapy. Almost 2/3 of respondents opted for a hysterectomy together with POP surgery, if they were menopausal, even if the anatomical outcome was similar to uterine sparing POP surgery. Moreover, 81.4% of respondents, who initially opted for a uterine sparing procedure, changed their mind if the anatomical success of POP surgery with concomitant hysterectomy was superior. Discussing uterine cancer risk in relation to other organs had a less significant impact on their choices.

Conclusions

The majority of female gynecologists in our study opted for hysterectomy if they were postmenopausal at the time of POP surgery. However, variation in information provision had an impact on their choice.

The Evolution of the Female Sexual Disorder/Dysfunction Definitions, Nomenclature, and Classifications: A Review of DSM, ICSM, ISSWSH, and ICD

INTRODUCTION

The 2 most well-known classification systems that include sexual medicine diagnoses are the International Classification of Diseases and Statistics (ICD) and the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). Sexual medicine experts from international societies representing an array of disciplines have revised and redefined female sexual dysfunctions (FSDs) to reflect current scientific evidence and the state of the art.

AIM

To summarize the evidence and interactive and chronological process by which sexual medicine societies' consensus groups developed the current nomenclature, classifications, and definitions for FSDs.

METHODS

We review the contributions and collaborations of the Fourth International Consultation in Sexual Medicine (ICSM), the International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health (ISSWSH), and the World Association of Sexual Health in conjunction with the World Health Organization.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The ICSM and ISSWSH diagnostic systems are contrasted with the DSM classification. We discuss innovations and strengths; relevant evidence regarding epidemiology, etiology, and risk factors; and key differences. We describe how sexual medicine expertise informed FSD codes in the ICD-11 classification.

RESULTS

ICSM and ISSWSH published evidence-based guidelines on the definitions, nomenclature, and diagnostic criteria for FSD that diverge from the DSM psychiatric compendia. These definitions and nomenclature recommend the separation of female sexual desire and arousal disorders, elaborate on subtypes of arousal problems, broaden the scope of sexual pain definitions, and provide a greater understanding of etiologies and risk factors for FSDs.

CONCLUSIONS

These collaborations among sexual medicine experts and their role in the ICD-11 development process provide confidence that the ICD-11 Sexual Dysfunction codes are based on current scientific evidence for diagnosing and coding FSDs in clinical settings worldwide, can serve as endpoints in clinical trials, and will provide specificity for treatment outcomes for FSD therapies. Parish SJ, Cottler-Casanova S, Clayton AH, et al. The Evolution of the Female Sexual Disorder/Dysfunction Definitions, Nomenclature, and Classifications: A Review of DSM, ICSM, ISSWSH, and ICD. Sex Med 2021;9:36-56.

Sexual function after total laparoscopic hysterectomy or transabdominal hysterectomy for benign uterine disorders: a retrospective cohort

The objective of this study was to evaluate changes in sexual function after total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH) or transabdominal hysterectomy (TAH). This retrospective cohort study included patients with benign uterine tumors that were divided into TLH group and TAH group based on the hysterectomy technique used. Baseline, intraoperative, and postoperative characteristics were compared between groups. Postoperative sexual function was assessed using the Brief Index of Sexual Functioning for Women. The TLH and TAH groups contained 119 patients (age, 51.5±6.1 years) and 126 patients (age, 50.0±4.7 years), respectively. Baseline characteristics were comparable between groups, although uterine size was larger in the TAH group (P<0.001). Compared with the TAH group, the TLH group had a longer operative time (130.0±36.2 vs 107.3±28.5 min, P<0.001), lower pain index at 24 h (2.0±1.6 vs 4.0±2.6, P<0.001), and shorter hospitalization time (5.7±1.1 vs 8.1±1.2 days, P<0.001). Many patients in the TLH and TAH groups reported decreased satisfaction with their sexual life (67.5 and 56.0%, respectively), reduced frequency of sexual activity (70.1 and 56.0%, respectively), decreased libido (67.5 and 56.0%, respectively), orgasm dysfunction (42.9 and 42.9%, respectively), and increased dyspareunia (77.9 and 85.7%, respectively). However, there was no significant difference between groups in any of the indexes of postoperative sexual function (P>0.05). Both TLH and TAH had comparable negative effects on sexual function in women treated for benign uterine tumors in China, with a decreased frequency of sexual activity, reduced libido, orgasm dysfunction, and increased dyspareunia.

Time-frame comparison of hystero-preservation in the surgical treatment of uterine prolapse: a population-based nation-wide follow-up descriptive study, 2006-2013 versus 1997-2005

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The purpose of our study was to describe the surgical trend and time-frame comparison between 1997-2005 (1^stperiod) and 2006-2013 (2nd period) of hystero-preservation for uterine prolapse, based upon a nationwide population-based National Health Insurance (NHI) claim data in Taiwan.

METHODS

Women, who underwent primary surgeries for uterine prolapse, either uterine suspension with hystero-preservation or hysterectomy during 1997-2013, were identified from National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD).We analyzed the related variables including surgical types (hystero-preservation or hysterectomy), patient age and concomitant anti-incontinence surgery, surgeon age, gender, and service volume; and hospital accreditation level, and service volume.

RESULTS

We identified a total of 46,968 inpatients, 6629 (14.11%) hystero-preservation group, and 40,339 (85.89%) hysterectomy group. Hystero-preservation significantly increased during the 17 year follow-up study period (1997 to 2013) (P value =0.0147). The overall surgeries for uterine prolapse increased among patients ≥70 years, with concomitant anti-incontinence surgery, surgeons ≥45 years, high volume surgeons, and hospitals. Multiple logistic regression revealed hysterectomy was less used in 2nd period (OR 0.45, 95%, confidence interval (CI) 0.43-0.48). Hysterectomy was more often used in patient aged ≥50 years, surgeon aged ≥45 years, and low volume hospitals. In case of concomitant anti-incontinence surgery (OR 0.48, CI 0.45-0.52), high volume surgeons (more than 30 surgeries) and hospitals (more than 73 surgeries) hystero-preservation was more often used.

CONCLUSIONS

Time-frames, younger patients, concomitant anti-incontinence surgery, younger surgeons, and high volume surgeons and hospitals increase hystero-preservation for uterine prolapse. Surgeons and hospitals should be ready to respond to the wishes of female patients who want to preserve the uterus.

Current surgical management of pelvic organ prolapse: Strategies for the improvement of surgical outcomes

There are a variety of surgical management strategies to help surgeons repair pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Surgical treatment for POP includes native tissue repair, augmentation with mesh, and minimally invasive surgeries. Currently, laparoscopic or robotic techniques for POP repair are increasing in popularity and continuing to evolve. The aim of this review is to present an up-to-date review of surgical techniques used for POP repair and to discuss ways to optimize surgical outcomes.

Association Between Concomitant Hysterectomy and Repeat Surgery for Pelvic Organ Prolapse Repair in a Cohort of Nearly 100,000 Women

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the association of hysterectomy at the time of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) repair with the risk of undergoing subsequent POP surgery in a large population-based cohort.

METHODS

Data from the California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development were used in this retrospective cohort study to identify all women who underwent an anterior, apical, posterior or multiple compartment POP repair at nonfederal hospitals between January 1, 2005, and December 31, 2011, using Current Procedural Terminology and International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision procedure codes. Women with a diagnosis code indicating prior hysterectomy were excluded, and the first prolapse surgery during the study period was considered the index repair. Demographic and surgical characteristics were explored for associations with the primary outcome of a repeat POP surgery. We compared reoperation rates for recurrent POP between patients who did compared with those who did not have a hysterectomy at the time of their index POP repair.

RESULTS

Of the 93,831 women meeting inclusion criteria, 42,340 (45.1%) underwent hysterectomy with index POP repair. Forty-eight percent of index repairs involved multiple compartments, 14.0% included mesh, and 48.9% included an incontinence procedure. Mean follow-up was 1,485 days (median 1,500 days). The repeat POP surgery rate was lower in those patients in whom hysterectomy was performed at the time of index POP repair, 3.0% vs 4.4% (relative risk [RR] 0.67, 95% CI 0.62-0.71). Multivariate modeling revealed that hysterectomy was associated with a decreased risk of future surgery for anterior (odds ratio [OR] 0.71, 95% CI 0.64-0.78), apical (OR 0.76, 95% CI 0.70-0.84), and posterior (OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.65-0.75) POP recurrence. The hysterectomy group had increased lengths of hospital stay (mean 2.2 days vs 1.8 days, mean difference 0.40, 95% CI 0.38-0.43), rates of blood transfusion (2.5% vs 1.5, RR 1.62, 95% CI 1.47-1.78), rates of perioperative hemorrhage (1.5% vs 1.1%, RR 1.32, 95% CI 1.18-1.49), rates of urologic injury or fistula (0.9% vs 0.6%, RR 1.66, 95% CI 1.42-1.93), rates of infection or sepsis (0.9% vs 0.4%, RR 2.12, 95% CI 1.79-2.52), and rate of readmission for an infectious etiology (0.7% vs 0.3%, RR 2.54, 95% CI 2.08-3.10) as compared with those who did not undergo hysterectomy.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrate in a large population-based cohort that hysterectomy at the time of prolapse repair is associated with a decreased risk of future POP surgery by 1-3% and is independently associated with higher perioperative morbidity. Individualized risks and benefits should be included in the discussion of POP surgery.

[Uterine preservation or not during prolapse surgery: Review of the literature]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the impact of hysterectomy in case of genital prolapse on the anatomical and functional results, and on per and post operative complications compared with uterine preservation.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We conducted a review of the Pubmed, Medline, Embase and Cochrane literature using the following terms and MeSH (Medical Subject Headings of the National Library of Medicine): uterine prolapse; genital prolapse; prolapse surgery; vaginal prolapse surgery; abdominal prolapse surgery; hysterectomy; hysteropexy; sacrocolpopexy; surgical meshes; complications; sexuality; neoplasia; urinary; incontinence; cancer.

RESULTS

Among the 168 abstracts studied, 63 publications were retained. Whatever performance of hysterectomy or not, anatomical and functional results were similar in abdominal surgery (sacrocolpopexy) (OR=2.21 [95% CI: 0.33-14.67]) or vaginal surgery (OR=1.07 [95% CI: 0.38-2.99]). There was no difference in terms of urinary symptoms or sexuality after surgery. Hysterectomy was associated to a higher morbidity (bleeding, prolonged operating time, longer hospital stay), to an increased risk of mesh exposure particularly in case of total hysterectomy (8.6%; 95% CI: 6.3-11).

CONCLUSION

In the absence of evidence of superiority in terms of anatomical and functional outcomes, with an increased rate of complications, concomitant hysterectomy with prolapse surgery should probably not be performed routinely.

Pelvic organ prolapse patients' attitudes and preferences regarding their uterus: comparing German- and Russian-speaking women

Introduction and hypothesis

The aim of this study was to compare preferences of patients with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) regarding their uterus between German- and Russian-speaking areas.

Methods

Six urogynecologic tertiary referral centers participated in this prospective study: three centers from German-speaking countries and three from different regions of Russia. To assess the uterus-related preferences as well as the attitude toward hysterectomy versus uterus-sparing prolapse surgery, we developed a structured questionnaire that included 5-point Likert scales related to benefit of uterus (BOU) and benefit of not having uterus (BNU). Each scale consisted of 12 items (range of possible scores: 12–60). Finally, patients were asked if they preferred uterus removal or preservation when undergoing prolapse surgery.

Results

One hundred and seventy-eight German-speaking and 206 Russian-speaking patients were included in the study. There was no significant difference in patients’ preference before undergoing POP surgery regarding uterus preservation versus hysterectomy between German- and Russian-speaking patients: 40% of German-speaking and 54% of Russian-speaking patients preferred to retain their uterus before undergoing POP surgery.

Comparison of BOU mean scores showed a significant difference between groups: 20.6 ± 6.7 for German-speaking compared with 32.5 ± 9.1 for Russian-speaking patients (p < 0.01). The Russian-speaking group had significantly higher mean scores on domains sexuality, body image, and partnership of the BOU scale (2.6 ± 1.0 vs. 1.8 ± 0.9 for sexuality; 2.4 ± 1.1 vs. 1.5 ± 0.7 for body image, and 2.6 ± 0.9 vs. 1.6 ± 0.7 for partnership domains; p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Although a large proportion of German- and Russian-speaking patients prefers uterus preservation when undergoing prolapse surgery, the uterus was more important for sexuality, partnership, and body image in Russian-speaking patients.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1007/s00192-019-03918-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Laparoscopic Mesh-Less Cervicosacropexy for Uterovaginal Prolapse

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate surgical and clinical outcomes of laparoscopic mesh-less cervicosacropexy for the treatment of uterovaginal prolapse.

METHODS

This single institutional review board-approved prospective cohort study enrolled 46 consecutive, sexually active symptomatic women requiring surgical correction of uterovaginal prolapse, from July 2013 to March 2016. After supracervical laparoscopic hysterectomy, the cervix was suspended to the anterior longitudinal ligament of the sacral promontory through a continuous suture with plication and shortening of the right uterosacral ligament. Pelvic organs' function was evaluated through validated questionnaires during preoperative and postoperative follow-up evaluations. The anatomical recurrences of genital prolapse with a Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantitative stage 2 or higher, in particular of central compartment (Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantitative score C ≥-1), were recorded.

RESULTS

Mean ± SD age was 55.5 ± 10.9 years. Mean ± SD operating time was 97.4 ± 25.6 (range, 60-180) minutes. Mean ± SD hospitalization length was 3.6 ± 0.9 (range, 2-6) days. No intraoperative complications were recorded. Median length of follow-up was 24 (range, 12-38) months. During the follow-up period, the objective success rates for central compartment prolapse and for all compartments were 93.5% and 89.1%, respectively. No woman presented dyspareunia at follow-up. Thirty-nine women (84.8%) reported very high satisfaction related to surgery and 6 (13%) a moderate satisfaction. Overall Female Sexual Function Index, Knowles-Eccersley-Scott Symptom, and Bristol Female Lower Urinary Tract scores improved significantly after surgery, except for incontinence score domain.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic mesh-less cervicosacropexy represents an effective and feasible option for the surgical treatment of uterovaginal prolapse in sexually active women, avoiding postoperative complications due to the mesh use.

Comparisons of Functional Apical Support After Sacral Hysteropexy Versus Sacral Colpopexy: A Cadaveric Study

OBJECTIVES

Prolapse procedures with uterine preservation offer an alternative to colpopexy with hysterectomy. Few studies have examined the differences in anatomic or subjective outcomes following sacral hysteropexy versus sacral colpopexy with hysterectomy. This study sought to compare the ability of sacral hysteropexy and sacral colpopexy with hysterectomy to resist downward traction as an estimate of apical support in human cadavers.

METHODS

Sacral hysteropexy was performed on unembalmed female cadavers. A metal bolt/washer was threaded through the uterine fundus, down the cervical canal. and out the vagina and fastened to a waxed surgical filament, which ran over a fixed pulley at the table's end. Successive weights were added to provide increasing loads on the uterine fundus, and the distances traversed by the fundus were recorded. The same process was repeated after completion of a total hysterectomy (with vaginal cuff closure) and subsequent sacral colpopexy in the same specimen. Data were analyzed using paired-sample t test and repeated-measures analysis of variance (Sigma Plot version 13.0), with P ≤ 0.05 considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Eight female cadavers were utilized. With the addition of each weight, the average distance traversed by the uterine fundus or vaginal cuff gradually increased. There were no statistical differences in the distances moved by the apex between sacral hysteropexy and total hysterectomy/sacral colpopexy.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that functional support provided by sacral hysteropexy and sacral colpopexy with hysterectomy may be similar. Further studies are needed to correlate these findings with patient satisfaction, which may vary despite similar anatomic results.

The Effect of Hysterectomy on Women's Sexual Function: a Narrative Review

BACKGROUND

Regarding the contradictions about positive and negative effects of hysterectomy on women's sexual functioning, this study was conducted to review the studies on the effect of hysterectomy on postoperative women's sexual function.

METHOD

This study was a narrative review and performed in 5 steps: a) Determining the research questions, b) Search methods for identification of relevant studies, c) Choosing the studies, d) Classifying, sorting out, and summarizing the data, and e) reporting the results.

FINDINGS

The review of the studies yielded 5 main categories of results as follows: The effect of hysterectomy on Sexual desire, the effect of hysterectomy on sexual arousal, the effect of hysterectomy on orgasm, the effect of hysterectomy on dyspareunia, and the effect of hysterectomy on sexual satisfaction.

CONCLUSION

According to the studies reviewed in this study, most of the sexual disorders improve after hysterectomy for uterine benign diseases, and most of the patients who were sexually active before the surgery experienced the same or better sexual functioning after the surgery. An important solution for making these women ready to face with postoperative sexual complications is to train them on the basis of needs assessment in order that the patients undergoing hysterectomy be ready and capable of coping with the complications, and their sexual functioning improves after the surgery.

Uterine preservation vs hysterectomy in pelvic organ prolapse surgery: a systematic review with meta-analysis and clinical practice guidelines

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to systematically review the literature on apical pelvic organ prolapse surgery with uterine preservation compared with prolapse surgeries including hysterectomy and provide evidence-based guidelines.

DATA SOURCES

The sources for our data were MEDLINE, Cochrane, and clinicaltrials.gov databases from inception to January 2017.

STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

We accepted randomized and nonrandomized studies of uterine-preserving prolapse surgeries compared with those involving hysterectomy.

STUDY APPRAISAL AND SYNTHESIS METHODS

Studies were extracted for participant information, intervention, comparator, efficacy outcomes, and adverse events, and they were individually and collectively assessed for methodological quality. If 3 or more studies compared the same surgeries and reported the same outcome, a meta-analysis was performed.

RESULTS

We screened 4467 abstracts and identified 94 eligible studies, 53 comparing uterine preservation to hysterectomy in prolapse surgery. Evidence was of moderate quality overall. Compared with hysterectomy plus mesh sacrocolpopexy, uterine preservation with sacrohysteropexy reduces mesh exposure, operative time, blood loss, and surgical cost without differences in prolapse recurrence. Compared with vaginal hysterectomy with uterosacral suspension, uterine preservation in the form of laparoscopic sacrohysteropexy improves the C point and vaginal length on the pelvic organ prolapse quantification exam, estimated blood loss, postoperative pain and functioning, and hospital stay, but open abdominal sacrohysteropexy worsens bothersome urinary symptoms, operative time, and quality of life. Transvaginal mesh hysteropexy (vs with hysterectomy) decreases mesh exposure, reoperation for mesh exposure, postoperative bleeding, and estimated blood loss and improves posterior pelvic organ prolapse quantification measurement. Transvaginal uterosacral or sacrospinous hysteropexy or the Manchester procedure compared with vaginal hysterectomy with native tissue suspension both showed improved operative time and estimated blood loss and no worsening of prolapse outcomes with uterine preservation. However, there is a significant lack of data on prolapse outcomes >3 years after surgery, the role of uterine preservation in obliterative procedures, and longer-term risk of uterine pathology after uterine preservation.

CONCLUSION

Uterine-preserving prolapse surgeries improve operating time, blood loss, and risk of mesh exposure compared with similar surgical routes with concomitant hysterectomy and do not significantly change short-term prolapse outcomes. Surgeons may offer uterine preservation as an option to appropriate women who desire this choice during apical prolapse repair.

Sacrospinous Ligament Fixation Under Local Anesthesia in Elderly Patients at High Risk of General Anesthesia

Introduction and Hypothesis: Sacrospinous ligament fixation(SSLF) is a commonly used surgical procedure in pelvic organ prolapse due to high treatment success rates. Many intraoperative and postoperative anesthesia-related obstacles may be encountered by the elderly population. Local anesthesia alone or with intravenous sedation may provide simple, cheap, and safe anesthesia. For elderly patients at high risk for general anesthesia according to the American Society of Anesthesiologists(ASA), it is better to operate through the vaginal route under local anesthesia. To perform minimal invasive SSLF surgery, the Pelvic Floor Repair Tissue Fixing Anchor, which is a target-specific system, can be used. In this prospective observational study, evaluation was made of elderly patients who underwent SSLF under local anesthesia. Materials and Methods: The study included 11 patients evaluated as high risk for general and regional anesthesia who underwent SSLF under local anesthesia as pelvic organ prolapse surgery. All operations were performed by a single experienced surgeon using 1% lidocaine infiltration and the Pelvic Floor Repair Tissue Fixing Anchor system. Results: The mean age of the patients was 69.6 years. Stage IV prolapse was determined in 7 (63.6%) patients, 4 (36.3%) had a history of hysterectomy, 5 (45.4%) were classified as ASA 3, and 6 (54.6%) as ASA 4. No complications occurred and patients were followed up for 24 months. In two patients, recurrence of POP was observed at postoperative 8 and 10 months, respectively. Conclusions: The results of this study demonstrated the surgical and anesthetic safety of SSLF under local anesthesia for pelvic organ prolapse in elderly patients.

Hysteropreservation versus hysterectomy in the surgical treatment of uterine prolapse: systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The efficacy and safety of removing or preserving the uterus during reconstructive pelvic surgery is a matter of debate.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies that compared hysteropreservation and hysterectomy in the management of uterine prolapse. PubMed, Medline, SciELO and LILACS databases were searched from inception until January 2017. We selected only randomized controlled trials and observational cohort prospective comparative studies. Primary outcomes were recurrence and reoperation rates. Secondary outcomes were: operative time, blood loss, visceral injury, voiding dysfunction, duration of catheterization, length of hospital stay, mesh exposure, dyspareunia, malignant neoplasia and quality of life.

RESULTS

Eleven studies (six randomized and five non-randomized) were included involving 910 patients (462 in the hysteropreservation group and 448 in the hysterectomy group). Pooled data including all surgical techniques showed no difference between the groups regarding recurrence of uterine prolapse (RR 1.65, 95% CI 0.88-3.10; p = 0.12), but the risk of recurrence following hysterectomy was lower when the vaginal route was used with native tissue repair (RR 10.61; 95% CI 1.26-88.94; p = 0.03). Hysterectomy was associated with a lower reoperation rate for any prolapse compartment than hysteropreservation (RR 2.05; 95% CI 1.13-3.74; p = 0.02). Hysteropreservation was associated with a shorter operative time (mean difference -12.43 min; 95% CI -14.11 to -10.74 ; p < 0.00001) and less blood loss (mean difference -60.42 ml; 95% CI -71.31 to -49.53 ml; p < 0.00001). Other variables were similar between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, the rate of recurrence of uterine prolapse was not lower but the rate of reoperation for prolapse was lower following hysterectomy, while operative time was shorter and blood loss was less with hysteropreservation. The limitations of this analysis were the inclusion of nonrandomized studies and the variety of surgical techniques. The results should be interpreted with caution due to potential biases.

Postoperative Quality of Life and Sexual Function in Premenopausal Women Undergoing Laparoscopic Myomectomy for Symptomatic Fibroids: A Prospective Observational Cohort Study

Introduction

Uterine leiomyomas are the most common benign gynecologic tumors. To date laparoscopy myomectomy is the gold standard for treatment of symptomatic fibroids in reproductive-aged women. Detailed counseling about the effects of this procedure on postoperative sexuality and quality of life is important in these patients. However, available data on these subjects are limited and contradictory. The aim of this study was to assess sexual function and quality of life in premenopausal women undergoing laparoscopic myomectomy for symptomatic uterine fibroids.

Material and Methods

All premenopausal women who underwent laparoscopic myomectomy for symptomatic fibroids between April 2012 and August 2014 at a tertiary university center were enrolled in this prospective observational cohort study. Sexual function and quality of life were assessed for the pre- and postoperative (six months post-operatively) state using two validated questionnaires, the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the European Quality of Life Five-Dimension Scale (EQ-5D).

Results

Ninety-five of the 115 (83%) eligible patients completed the study. Overall a significant improvement in quality of life and sexual function was observed in the study cohort: Median FSFI (28 (18.7–35.2)) and EQ-5D scores (1 (0.61–1) after laparoscopic myomectomy were significantly higher than preoperative scores (21.2 (5.2–33.5); 0.9 (0.2–1); p ≤ 0.01). The number, position and localization of the largest fibroids were not correlated with pre- or postoperative sexual function or quality of life.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic myomectomy might have positive short-term effects on postoperative quality of life and sexual function in premenopausal women suffering from symptomatic fibroids.

Sexual functioning before and after vaginal hysterectomy to treat pelvic organ prolapse and the effects of vaginal cuff closure techniques: a prospective randomised study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate sexual function in women before and after vaginal hysterectomy (VH) and to compare the effects of horizontal and vertical vaginal cuff closure on sexual function.

STUDY DESIGN

Women with uterine prolapse of stage 2 or higher were included to this prospective, randomized study. All patients underwent VH with McCall Culdoplasty and patients were randomized into two groups in terms of the vaginal cuff closure technique employed which is either vertically (group 1, right to left) or horizontally (group 2, anterior to posterior). Pelvic Organ Prolapse Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire-12 Short Form was used to assess sexual function before and 6 months after surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 78 women participated, 37 in group 1 and 41 in group 2. Significant improvements in were thus evident in both groups 1 (p=0.000) and 2 (p=0.000) after surgery; no significant between-group differences were evident. Overall, 61 women (78,2%) had improved PISQ-12 scores postoperatively, 11 (14,1%) scored the same pre- and post-operatively, and 6 (7,9%) scored lower postoperatively. Women who reported poorer sexual function postoperatively, or no improvement, had new-onset or worsening dyspareunia and/or incontinence.

CONCLUSION

Most women with uterine prolapse of stage 2 or higher who underwent VH with prolapse repair experienced improved sexual lives postoperatively, regardless of the cuff closure technique used. Although VH to treat POP improves anatomical and sexual concerns, surgery per se may have negative effects on sexual function if new-onset or worsening dyspareunia or incontinence develop.

The Impact of Sacrospinous Hysteropexy and Vaginal Hysterectomy With Suspension of the Uterosacral Ligaments on Sexual Function in Women With Uterine Prolapse: A Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Comparative Study

INTRODUCTION

Studies on pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery show conflicting evidence regarding the impact of uterus preservation and hysterectomy on sexual function and no large randomized trials with long-term follow-up have been published on this topic.

AIMS

The aim of this secondary analysis was to evaluate and compare sexual function after sacrospinous hysteropexy and vaginal hysterectomy with suspension of the uterosacral ligaments in women with uterine prolapse.

METHODS

This is a secondary analysis of the SAVE U trial data, a multicenter trial in 4 nonuniversity hospitals in the Netherlands comparing sacrospinous hysteropexy and vaginal hysterectomy with suspension of the uterosacral ligaments in primary surgery of uterine prolapse stage II or higher. Primary outcome of the original study was recurrent prolapse stage II or higher of the uterus or vaginal vault (apical compartment) evaluated by POP-Q examination in combination with bothersome bulge symptoms or repeat surgery for recurrent apical prolapse at 12 months follow-up. Secondary outcomes were overall anatomical recurrences, functional outcome, complications, hospital stay, postoperative recovery, and sexual functioning. Data from patients who had completed the POP/urinary incontinence sexual questionnaire (PISQ-12) at baseline and 24 months after surgery were used in the present trial. Total, subscale, and individual question analyses were performed. The SAVE U trial is registered in the Dutch trial registry, number NTR1866.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Differences and changes in sexual function 24 months after surgery, measured by the PISQ-12 questionnaire.

RESULTS

Between November 2009 and March 2012, 208 women were randomized between sacrospinous hysteropexy (n = 103) and vaginal hysterectomy with suspension of the uterosacral ligaments (n = 105). Of these, 99 women completed questionnaires at baseline and after 24 months follow-up and were included in the present study. During a follow-up period of 24 months, no significant differences in total PISQ-12 scores were observed between the groups. After both interventions the item "avoidance of intercourse due to prolapse" significantly improved, as did the physical subscale of the PISQ-12 questionnaire.

CONCLUSION

There was no statistically significant difference in overall sexual functioning (total PISQ-12 scores) between uterus-preserving sacrospinous hysteropexy and vaginal hysterectomy with suspension of the uterosacral ligaments after a follow-up period of 24 months.

The effect of education given before surgery on self-esteem and body image in women undergoing hysterectomy

Objective:

To evaluate the effect of information provided before surgery on the self-esteem and body image of women undergoing hysterectomy.

Materials and Methods:

The study had a semi-experimental design with pre-post tests. A total of 60 women were included in the study and divided into two groups, the intervention group (n=30) and control group (n=30). A questionnaire, the Rosenberg self-esteem scale, and the body image scale were used to collect data.

Results:

The pre- and post-test body image scores were similar in the intervention group patients, but the post-test scores were significantly higher in the control group (p<0.05). The pre- and post-test self-esteem scores were again similar in the intervention group, but the post-test scores were significantly lower in the control group (p<0.05).

Conclusion:

This study revealed that health education given to patients prior to hysterectomy protects body image and consequently self-esteem.

Does prolapse equal hysterectomy? The role of uterine conservation in women with uterovaginal prolapse

Hysterectomy has historically been a mainstay in the surgical treatment of uterovaginal prolapse, even in cases in which the removal of the uterus is not indicated. However, uterine-sparing procedures have a long history and are now becoming more popular. Whereas research on these operations is underway, hysteropexy for the treatment of prolapse is not as well studied as hysterectomy-based repairs. Compared with hysterectomy and prolapse repair, hysteropexy is associated with a shorter operative time, less blood loss, and a faster return to work. Other advantages include maintenance of fertility, natural timing of menopause, and patient preference. Disadvantages include the lack of long-term prolapse repair outcomes and the need to continue surveillance for gynecological cancers. Although the rate of unanticipated abnormal pathology in this population is low, women who have uterine abnormalities or postmenopausal bleeding are not good candidates for uterine-sparing procedures. The most studied approaches to hysteropexy are the vaginal sacrospinous ligament hysteropexy and the abdominal sacrohysteropexy, which have similar objective and subjective prolapse outcomes compared with hysterectomy and apical suspension. Pregnancy and delivery have been documented after vaginal and abdominal hysteropexy approaches, although very little is known about outcomes following parturition. Uterine-sparing procedures require more research but remain an acceptable option for most patients with uterovaginal prolapse after a balanced and unbiased discussion reviewing the advantages and disadvantages of this approach.

Functional outcome after pelvic floor reconstructive surgery with or without concomitant hysterectomy

PURPOSE

When counseling patients about surgical alternatives for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) repair, numerous things have to be considered. Uterine preservation vs. hysterectomy is one relevant issue. Hysterectomy has been traditionally performed for POP, but its benefit regarding outcome has never been proven. Furthermore, a growing number of women ask for uterine preservation.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study, 384 patients who had undergone surgery for POP between 2000 and 2012 at Freiburg University Medical Center were included. Using a standardized questionnaire, further surgeries, urinary incontinence, recurrent POP, pessary use, and satisfaction with the surgical outcome were evaluated. The functional results after uterine preservation vs. concomitant hysterectomy were compared using t test.

RESULTS

196 (51.04%) women were available for follow-up and agreed to participate (n = 122 with hysterectomy, n = 72 with uterine-preserving surgery, respectively). After a mean follow-up time of 67 months, vaginal bulge symptoms and urinary incontinence did not differ between treatment groups. We observed higher success rates and satisfaction scores in the uterine-preserving group. Regarding satisfaction with surgery and whether the patients thought it had been successful, we observed a trend toward better results in the uterine-preserving group (mean satisfaction score: 8.45 ± 2.15 vs. 7.76 ± 2.91, range 0-10, p = 0.061; success: 91.4 vs. 81.7 %, p = 0.087).

CONCLUSIONS

There was no difference with regard to functional outcome between patients with or without concomitant hysterectomy. Satisfaction with the operation was slightly higher after uterus preserving surgery. Therefore, uterine-preserving surgery is a valuable option unless there are contraindications.

Psychological outcomes after hysterectomy for benign conditions: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Hysterectomy is one of the commonest operative procedures in the developed world, mostly occurring among premenopausal women, with contradictory results regarding post-operative psychological wellbeing. This review aims to inform practice by examining whether hysterectomy predicts depression or anxiety outcomes. We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and PsycINFO electronic databases for articles published before November 2012. Reference lists of relevant articles were hand searched, and expert opinions were sought. Refereed studies investigating an association between hysterectomy for benign (non-cancerous) conditions and post-operative symptoms of depression or anxiety were chosen for this review. Two authors independently abstracted data from original articles. Authors of relevant studies were contacted for data that could not be extracted from the published articles. Review Manager 5.1 was used throughout the meta-analysis to calculate the summary relative risks (RRs), and the weighted standardized mean difference (WstdMD), and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI). A random effects model was used in data analysis and verified using a fixed effect model. Overall, hysterectomy was associated with a decreased risk of clinically relevant depression (RR=1.69, 95% CI 1.19-2.38). Additionally, hysterectomy was associated with a decrease in standardized depression outcomes (standardized mean difference (SMD) 0.38 (95% CI 0.27-0.49)). Conversely, there was no significant association between hysterectomy and risk of clinically relevant anxiety (RR=1.41, 95% CI 0.72-2.75). In conclusion, data from before and after studies suggest that hysterectomy for benign gynecological conditions is not adversely associated with anxiety and may be positively rather than adversely associated with depression.