Indications, contraindications, and complications of mesh in surgical treatment of pelvic organ prolapse

Predictor of Surgical Failure Following Transvaginal Mesh Repair Using Minimally Invasive Prolapse System Device (MIPS)

Background: The Minimally Invasive Prolapse System (MIPS) device, a novel single-incision transvaginal mesh, represents recent advancements in mesh technology, providing lightweight, biocompatible support for pelvic organ prolapse while reducing erosion, allowing for customization and improving surgical outcomes. This study aimed to identify factors associated with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) recurrence after transvaginal mesh (TVM) repair using the Minimally Invasive Prolapse System device. Methods: Two hundred and eighteen women with symptomatic stage II to IV POP underwent TVM. Preoperative and postoperative assessments included urinalyses and pelvic examinations using the POP quantification (POP-Q) staging system. Results: During a follow-up period of 12-46 months, 7 of 218 (3.2%) women experienced POP recurrence. Univariate analysis was conducted to identify predictors of surgical failure, revealing no significant differences in body mass index, POP stage, or preoperative urinary symptoms between the recurrence and success groups (p > 0.05). However, functional urethral length <20 mm based on urodynamics (p = 0.011), ICI-Q scores ≥7 (p = 0.012), and the first 60 surgical cases (p = 0.018) were significant predictors of surgical failure. Multivariate logistic regression confirmed these findings. Conclusions: Functional urethral length <20 mm, ICI-Q scores ≥7, and limited surgical experience were significant predictors of TVM failure using the Minimally Invasive Prolapse System kit. POP recurrence after mesh repair is less likely beyond the learning curve.

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

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

Posterior rectus fascia prolapse (PREFAP) repair: a new native tissue approach to pelvic organ prolapse via vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery

INTRODUCTION

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a common condition in women. During lifetime, up to 40% of all women will develop (POP).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between June and December 2021, five patients were successfully treated via vNOTES Posterior Rectus Fascia Prolapse ( PREFAP) repair. No intra-operative complications or conversions occurred.

CONCLUSION

In this study we demonstrated a new technique for prolapse repair, harvesting the autologous posterior rectus fascia sheath via vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (vNOTES) as an alternative for a synthetic mesh.

Bowel Obstruction After Sacrocolpopexy: A Case Series

OBJECTIVES

Bowel obstruction after sacrocolpopexy (SC) can cause significant morbidity. The aim of this study was to delineate clinical and surgical factors associated with bowel obstruction after SC and to describe its presentation, management, and sequelae.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective case series of patients who underwent open, laparoscopic, or robotic SC within a large health maintenance organization and a single academic medical center between January 1, 2009, and December 31, 2019.

RESULTS

Of 3,231 patients who underwent SC, 32 (1.0%) experienced a bowel obstruction. Sacrocolpopexy was performed laparoscopically or robotically in 19 (59.4%) and abdominally in 13 (40.6%). The mean time to bowel obstruction was 1.9 years (SD, 2.5; range, 3 days to 8.8 years). In patients who experienced bowel obstruction, medical management was undertaken in 19 (61.3%) cases. Eight of the 13 (61.5%) surgically managed cases underwent bowel resection, and 3 cases (23.1%) reported partial mesh excision. Recurrent obstruction was seen in 2 (10.5%) of the medically managed and 2 (15.4%) of the surgically managed cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Bowel obstruction is a rare complication of SC and our rate of at least 1.0% corroborates those in the literature. Obstruction occurs from days to years after SC. Nonsurgical management was effective in most cases, with low rates of recurrent obstruction. In surgically managed cases, the majority included bowel resection or mesh excision; however, mesh excision was not associated with a subsequent identifiable procedural intervention for recurrent prolapse. These data inform patient counseling and surgical planning before SC and aid in diagnosis and management of bowel obstruction after SC.

Risk factors for recurrence of pelvic organ prolapse after vaginal surgery among Ugandan women: a prospective cohort study

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

This study was aimed at determining the recurrence rate and risk factors for the recurrence of pelvic organ prolapse (POP), at 1 year post-vaginal reconstructive surgery in a resource-limited setting.

METHODS

We enrolled women who underwent vaginal surgery for POP at the urogynecology unit of Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital (MRRH) in southwestern Uganda between December 2018 and February 2020. The surgeries that were performed include anterior colporrhaphy for cystocele, posterior colporrhaphy for rectocele, vaginal hysterectomy with vault suspension for uterine prolapse, and cervicopexy in those with uterine prolapse where uterine-sparing surgery was desired. The women were followed up for a period of 1 year after surgery. Pelvic examinations in lithotomy position under maximum strain were carried out to assess for recurrence using the Pelvic Organ Quantification (POP-Q) system. Recurrence was defined as a prolapse of ≥POP-Q stage II. Descriptive analyses and multivariate log binomial regression were performed to determine risk factors for recurrence.

RESULTS

Of the 140 participants enrolled, 127 (90.7%) completed the follow-up at 1 year. The recurrence rate was 25.2% (32 out of 127). Most (56.3%) of the recurrences occurred in the anterior compartment and in the same site previously operated. Women aged <60 years (RR = 2.34; 95% CI: 1.16-4.72; p = 0.018) and those who had postoperative vaginal cuff infection (RR = 2.54; 95% CI: 1.5-4.3; p = 0.001) were at risk of recurrence.

CONCLUSION

Recurrence of POP was common. Younger women, and those with postoperative vaginal cuff infection, were more likely to experience recurrent prolapse after vaginal repair.

Mesh-augmented transvaginal repair of recurrent or complex anterior pelvic organ prolapse in accordance with the SCENIHR opinion

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

To evaluate the performance of mesh-augmented repair of anterior pelvic organ prolapse (POP) with or without apical vaginal wall involvement in women with recurrent or complex prolapse.

METHODS

This multicenter cohort study included women undergoing surgery with Calistar S (Promedon, Argentina) for anterior POP between 2016 and 2018. The SCENIHR opinion was considered for patient selection, surgeon's experience and choice of implant. Patients were prospectively invited to assess effectiveness and safety by anamnesis, validated questionnaires and pelvic examination. A composite endpoint defined by POP-Q ≤ 1, absence of a vaginal bulge symptom and repeated surgery for POP was used to define treatment success. Descriptive statistics were applied. McNemar or Wilcoxon signed rank tests were used as paired samples tests. The significance level was set at 5%.

RESULTS

A total of 107 non-fertile women with a mean age of 70.6 years were enrolled. Ninety-three (86.9%) women presented with recurrent prolapse. The mean follow-up time was 18.5 months. Treatment success was achieved in 76% of cases according the composite endpoint, with 98% reaching POP-Q ≤ 1 and a significant improvement in quality of life (p < 0.001). Mesh exposure occurred in six (5.6%) patients, although none required further surgery. Four (3.7%) patients reported dyspareunia, and a single (0.9%) patient displayed a prominence due to mesh folding.

CONCLUSIONS

Mesh-augmented repair of anterior POP is effective and safe in women with recurrent or complex prolapse. Hence, in a select patient population, the benefits of mesh-augmented POP repair still outweigh the risks.

Erosion of soft tissue by polypropylene mesh products

Surgical mesh products made from polypropylene (PP) have been extensively used in the treatment of stress urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and other conditions. Since the onset of the use of such implants, major complications have been reported. Mesh erosion, where neighbouring tissues are worn from the rubbing of mesh, occurs in a significant number of cases. However, there is still a lack in literature exploring the mechanics of this phenomenon. In this study, a purpose-built apparatus was used to generate erosion in soft tissue (porcine muscle) through the application of a force and a reciprocating action. Four different commercial products were tested, all made from knitted PP fibres: Monarc™ Gynecare™ and Obtryx™ slings and Sutulene™ mesh sheet material. A PP suture and three PP sheets with different edge roughness were also tested. Large differences were found in the erosion rates. Significantly, we found that meshes in which the edge had been formed using heat to cause partial melting gave much higher rates of erosion than mechanically cut edges. Heat-formed edges tended to retain their shape whilst mechanically cut edges degraded by unravelling. Several features of the mesh edge appear to be significant, including roughness, flexibility and the tendency to degrade. Constant load (non-reciprocating) tests were also carried out, revealing that creep can also cause erosion. These findings have significance for the design of surgical mesh products to minimise their adverse effects.

Anterior Vaginal Wall Prolapse Repair and the Rise and Fall of Transvaginal Mesh. Did We Come Full Circle? A Historical Perspective

OBJECTIVE

To present a brief historical review of treatment options for pelvic organ prolapse with a focus on anterior vaginal wall defects and highlight changing practice patterns in the era of synthetic mesh controversy.

METHODS

A MEDLINE and PubMed search was performed using the keywords pelvic organ prolapse, anterior colporrhaphy, and cystocele followed by a manual search of bibliographies.

RESULTS

Ancient treatments included Hippocratic succession, local astringent, and use of pomegranates as crude pessaries. More sophisticated surgical techniques evolved in the 19th century with further refinement in the early 20th century. Numerous native tissue apposition techniques were popularized by Kelly, Kennedy, Burch, and Raz. Due to poor durability, surgeons sought alternate approaches including biologic and synthetic grafts. Synthetic transvaginal mesh (TVM) initially included use of Tantalum and Marlex to repair anterior wall defects. Both were eventually abandoned due to complications. TVM was re-designed, re-marketed, and re-introduced. Type 1 polypropylene monofilament TVM use became ubiquitous in female pelvic surgery peaking between 2004 and 2008. Initial promising outcomes were soon eclipsed by a surge of adverse events leading to multiple FDA warnings, reclassification to Class III, high-risk medical device, and ultimately a complete recall in 2019.

CONCLUSION

The bidirectional pendulum swing on use of synthetic TVM has been occurring since its introduction 50 years ago. In the current era of mesh controversy, more practitioners are now revisiting previously described native tissue and biologic graft techniques. It appears that history has repeated itself.

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

OBJECTIVES

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSIONS

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

Stress Urinary Incontinence and Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Biologic Graft Materials Revisited

Symptomatic stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and pelvic organ prolapse (POP) refractory to conservative management with pelvic floor muscle training or vaginal pessaries may warrant surgical intervention with different forms of biologic or synthetic material. However, in recent years, several global regulatory agencies have issued health warnings and recalled several mesh products due to an increase in complications such as mesh erosion, infection, chronic pain, and perioperative bleeding. At present, current surgical treatment strategies for SUI and POP are aimed at developing biological graft materials with similar mechanical properties to established synthetic meshes, but with improved tissue integration and minimal host response. This narrative review aims to highlight recent studies related to the development of biomimetic and biologic graft materials as alternatives to traditional synthetic materials for SUI/POP repair in female patients. We also investigate complications and technical limitations associated with synthetic mesh and biological biomaterials in conventional SUI and POP surgery. Our findings demonstrate that newly developed biologic grafts have a lower incidence of adverse events compared to synthetic biomaterials. However there remains a significant disparity between success in preclinical trials and long-term clinical translation. Further characterization on the optimal structural, integrative, and mechanical properties of biological grafts is required before they can be reliably introduced into clinical practice for SUI and POP surgery. Impact statement Our review article aims to outline the clinical history of developments and controversies associated with the use of synthetic mesh materials in the surgical treatment of stress urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse, as well as highlighting recent advancements in the area of biological graft materials and their potential importance in an area that remains an enduring issue for patients and clinicians alike. This article aims to provide a concise summary of previous controversies in the field of urinary incontinence, while evaluating the future of potential biomaterials in this field.

A new technique of laparoscopic fixation of the uterus to the anterior abdominal wall with the use of overfascial mesh in the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse

Introduction and hypothesis

Pelvic organ prolapse is one of the most common pathological conditions in postmenopausal women. There is still a lack of fully effective and safe surgical techniques, especially in the advanced stages of apical defects. The purpose of the video is to present a new technique of laparoscopic treatment in women with an advanced stage of genital prolapse, stage III and IV according to the POP-Q scale. The technique involves uterine fixation for the anterior abdominal wall using overfascial mesh.

Methods

We used a live-action surgical demonstration to describe laparoscopic fixation of the uterus to the anterior abdominal wall with the use of overfascial mesh.

Results

This video provides a step-by-step approach to laparoscopic fixation of the uterus to the anterior abdominal wall with the use of overfascial mesh. The video can be used to educate and train those performing female pelvic reconstructive surgery.

Conclusions

Based on our experience, this technique of laparoscopic suspension of the uterus to the anterior abdominal wall with the use of overfascial mesh is an effective, safe, and easy procedure for the treatment of advanced stages of pelvic organ prolapse.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1007/s00192-020-04287-4) contains supplementary material. This video is also available to watch on http://link.springer.com/. Please search for this article by the article title or DOI number, and on the article page click on ‘Supplementary Material’

Pelvic Organ Prolapse: ACOG Practice Bulletin, Number 214

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a common, benign condition in women. For many women it can cause vaginal bulge and pressure, voiding dysfunction, defecatory dysfunction, and sexual dysfunction, which may adversely affect quality of life. Women in the United States have a 13% lifetime risk of undergoing surgery for POP (). Although POP can occur in younger women, the peak incidence of POP symptoms is in women aged 70-79 years (). Given the aging population in the United States, it is anticipated that by 2050 the number of women experiencing POP will increase by approximately 50% (). The purpose of this joint document of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American Urogynecologic Society is to review information on the current understanding of POP in women and to outline guidelines for diagnosis and management that are consistent with the best available scientific evidence.

Sacrocolpopexy: Patient Outcomes Support the Use of Non-Crosslinked Acellular Dermal Matrix as an Alternative to the Synthetic Polypropylene Mesh

Objective: This study was conducted to evaluate the use of non-crosslinked acellular dermal matrix (ADM) in laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy by analyzing clinical outcomes and patient-satisfaction surveys.

Materials and Methods: Two hundred and eleven patients underwent laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) between January 6, 2012, and December 31, 2017. Each patient had her pelvic-floor measurements diagrammed with the POP-Q [Quantification] system using the interactive tool provided by the American Urogynecologic Society. The Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI-20) and Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire (PFIQ-7), used to make comprehensive assessments of women with urogynecologic problems, were mailed to all patients. If responses were not received, the patients were contacted by telephone. Patients who were not reached by either mail or telephone had their charts individually reviewed to extract the information. Trained surveyors scored the PFDI-20 and the PFIQ-7 questionnaires. The de-identified data were analyzed for patient satisfaction and outcomes. This information was obtained by a review of patient charts at 4-week postoperative and annual examinations; any phone calls with complaints and/or problem office visits were noted. Biopsies from the sacrocolpopexy area were taken if a patient had another incidental gynecologic procedure unrelated to the prolapse or at the time of repeat sacrocolpopexy for POP and the paraffin cell block was sent to McGowan Institute for Tissue Regeneration.

Results: One hundred and five patients responded to the survey. Charts were completed for 106. The majority of interviewed patients stated that they were doing a “little better” or “much better” (77/88; 87.5%). The third-quartile PFDI-20 score was 93 with a median of 60 and the PFIQ-7 score was 43 with a median of 29. Five patients underwent reoperations (4.76%). The most-common postoperative complaint was overactive bladder symptoms, followed by vaginal discharge. Histology showed either a lack of regenerative healing tissue at the failure site or good results showing neovascularization and a presence of connective and ligamentous tissue around the matrix. No intense fibrosis or neoplastic formation was reported.

Conclusions: A non-crosslinked ADM patch can be a good alternative to synthetic polypropylene mesh in patients undergoing sacrocolpopexy for POP.

Multidisciplinary management of women with pelvic organ prolapse, urinary incontinence and lower urinary tract symptoms.A clinical and psychological overview

Although female sexual dysfunctions are common among women with urogynecological conditions, they have not been thoroughly studied and there are still many questions without an answer. The recent evidence on sexual disorders in women with urogynecological diseases shows a quite wide spectrum of therapeutic approaches, which require the physicians to take into account not only the primary symptoms, but also all the associated factors negatively affected. It has been widely underlined that gynecological diseases are often associated with high stress and have a negative impact on quality of life and psychological well-being of women affected. For this reason, a multidisciplinary approach for the management of these diseases is highly recommended. Also in the case of urogynecological disorders, it is important to take into account psychological outcomes throughout the diagnostic and therapeutic process. In the light of these considerations, the aim of this short review is to evaluate the impact of the main urogynecological diseases and the currently available therapeutic options in order to improve quality of life and sexuality of these patients and to stress the need for a multidisciplinary approach in order to minimize the negative consequences of these diseases for the sexual well-being of women and their partners.

Observational analysis of mesh related complications in urogynecologic procedures

Since the 1990s, the use of mesh has expanded in gynecologic surgeries in the aim of correcting pelvic organ prolapse. Because there has been a lot of complications that were reported, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has requested the withdrawal of many products from the market. Recently, many countries have called for the suspension of vaginal mesh products from the market. The objective of this review is to analyze the incidence of the complications that arise after vaginal mesh surgeries with an insight to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommendations on the management of those complications.

FIGO review of statements on use of synthetic mesh for pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence

The use of synthetic mesh implantation for the surgical management of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and stress urinary incontinence (SUI) has grown in popularity since mesh was marketed for widespread use in the early 1990s. As mesh usage has expanded, patterns of previously unexpected complications have become apparent. In the United States and other countries, the increase in reported outcomes (both positive and negative) has led to the initiation of medico-legal actions by patients reporting negative effects of the implanted mesh. As a result, several national and professional societies have convened expert panels to publish summaries of reported outcomes and provide clinical recommendations regarding mesh use. Despite their recommendations and further dissemination of the potential complications reported after urogynecologic mesh use, the popularity of mesh use for POP and SUI has continued to expand, with apparent geographic and national patterns. As the largest global association focusing on women's health, FIGO, via its Urogynecology and Pelvic Floor Committee, has reviewed published national recommendations regarding the use of mesh, and has summarized them for the FIGO membership to help disseminate important recommendations to surgeons who may not be aware of the existence and content of these recommendations.

Long-term results of genital prolapse surgery with polypropylene mesh

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE

The risk of intervention due to urogenital prolapse in a woman's life is 11.1%. Recurrences after classic surgery reach up to 38%. With the aim of improving these results, transvaginal mesh kits are used. The purpose of the study is to describe the results of efficacy and long-term safety of vaginal prolapse surgery with polypropylene mesh, assess subjective symptoms before and after surgery and the level of satisfaction.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A descriptive, retrospective study of 58 women with symptomatic genital prolapses operated with polypropylene mesh between September / 2011-November / 2016. Mean age: 66.53 years, 98.27% menopausal women, 77.59% overweight/obesity, 29.31% with previous gynaecological surgery and 55.17% with combined prolapse. 46 Elevate anterior and 12 posterior were inserted. The mean follow-up period was 34.02 months. The PFDI questionnaire was used pre and post-surgery, as well as the satisfaction questionnaire.

RESULTS

Healing rate of 91.38%. Recurrences were associated with a higher BMI and with background of recurrence of previous surgery. Mean length of stay: 2.5 days. 70.69% did not need analgesia at discharge. Clavien-Dindo complications: 1 type I (urinary retention), 5 type II (urinary tract infection) and 1 type IIIa (erosion). De novo stress urinary incontinence occurred in 3.44%, while de novo dyspareunia 14.28%. 89.36% patients improved subjective symptoms, and 95.92% were satisfied.

CONCLUSION

This surgery achieves high healing rates, with few complications, improvement of subjective symptoms and high level of satisfaction of the patients.

Pelvic organ prolapse: the impact on quality of life and psychological well-being

The aim of this work is to propose a brief comment about the impact of pelvic organ prolapse on the quality of life and the psychological well-being of the affected women.

Pathological findings in explanted vaginal mesh

In light of the legal issues and the shortage of data on histopathological findings, we summarized our experience on how explanted vaginal mesh specimens were managed in a surgical pathology practice during the last 5 years. Clinical history and pathology reports were collected from 155 women undergoing transvaginal tape excision. The degree of chronic inflammation, fibrosis, foreign-body giant cell reactions, the number of capillary vessels and nerve fibers, and the presence or absence of adipose tissue were recorded. Among the 155 patients, 65 (41.9%) were active medicolegal cases, with a significant increase in recent years. The main medical indications for mesh excision were pelvic pain, mesh erosion, voiding dysfunction, genital organ prolapse, and vaginal bleeding. In most cases, mild to moderate chronic inflammation with a mild degree of foreign-body giant cell reaction and minimal to mild fibrosis were found in explanted mesh specimens. The specimens were well vascularized without any evidence of nerve abnormality. Patient age correlated negatively with vaginal pain (P = .007) but positively with erosion (P = .005). In addition, the presence of adipose tissue within the explanted mesh correlated significantly with pelvic pain (P = .016). Overall, there was good tissue integration in all specimens. Considering the significant increase in the number of lawsuits in recent years, we recommend that all explanted vaginal mesh specimens be examined microscopically as well as grossly. A list of microscopic findings, including the presence or absence of adipose tissue, is suggested.

A case of renal dysfunction caused by pelvic organ prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is the descent of pelvic organs through the vagina, and sometimes causes hydronephrosis. Although the association between POP and hydronephrosis has long been recognized, severe hydronephrosis and renal dysfunction are rarely seen. We report a case of 66-year-old woman who had a vaginal delivery presented with externalized uterine and bladder prolapse during the previous 2 years. She had a 3-day history of hypophagia and vomiting, and laboratory analysis resulted in serum creatinine of 5.75 mg/dL and blood urea of 78.1 mg/dL. The patient was treated urgently with vaginal pessary to return the uterine and bladder into the pelvis. After 2 weeks, her serum creatinine dropped to 3.66 mg/dL, but chronic renal failure persisted. Hydronephrosis caused by POP may lead to renal dysfunction and can advance to irreversible renal damage if left untreated. Important is early evaluation of renal function and images of the kidney and ureter.

Effects of repeated biaxial loads on the creep properties of cardinal ligaments

The cardinal ligament (CL) is one of the major pelvic ligaments providing structural support to the vagina/cervix/uterus complex. This ligament has been studied mainly with regards to its important function in the treatment of different diseases such as surgical repair for pelvic organ prolapse and radical hysterectomy for cervical cancer. However, the mechanical properties of the CL have not been fully determined, despite the important in vivo supportive role of this ligament within the pelvic floor. To advance our limited knowledge about the elastic and viscoelastic properties of the CL, we conducted three consecutive planar equi-biaxial tests on CL specimens isolated from swine. Specifically, the CL specimens were divided into three groups: specimens in group 1 (n = 7) were loaded equi-biaxially to 1 N, specimens in group 2 (n = 8) were loaded equi-biaxially to 2N, and specimens in group 3 (n = 7) were loaded equi-biaxially to 3N. In each group, the equi-biaxial loads of 1N, 2N, or 3N were applied and kept constant for 1200s three times. The two axial loading directions were selected to be the main in-vivo loading direction of the CL and the direction that is perpendicular to it. Using the digital image correlation (DIC) method, the in-plane Lagrangian strains in these two loading directions were measured throughout the tests. The results showed that CL was elastically anisotropic, as statistical differences were found between the mean strains along the two axial loading directions for specimens in group 1, 2, or 3 when the equi-biaxial load reached 1N, 2N, or 3N, respectively. For specimens in group 1 and 2, no statistical differences were detected in the mean normalized strains (or, equivalently, the increase in strain over time) between the two axial loading directions for each creep test. For specimens in group 3, some differences were noted but, by the end of the 3rd creep test, there were no statistical differences in the mean normalized strains between the two axial loading directions. These findings indicated that the increase in strain over time by the end of the 3rd creep test were comparable along these directions. The greatest mean normalized strain (or, equivalently, the largest increase in strain over time) was measured at the end of the 1st creep test (t=1200s), regardless of the equi-biaxial load magnitude or loading direction. Mean normalized strains during the 2nd and 3rd creep tests (t = 100, 600, and 1200s), along each loading direction, were not statistically different. Isochronal data collected at 1N, 2N, or 3N equi-biaxial loads indicated that the CL may be a nonlinear viscoelastic material. Overall, this experimental study offers new knowledge of the mechanical properties of the CL that can guide the development of better treatment methods such as surgical reconstruction for pelvic organ prolapse and radical hysterectomy for cervical cancer.

Transvaginal rectocele repair with human dermal allograft interposition and bilateral sacrospinous fixation with a minimum eight-year follow-up

BACKGROUND

Human dermal allografts have been used for over a decade for interpositional repair of rectoceles. How do dermal allografts perform with regards to success rate and complications with 8 years' minimum follow-up?

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 41 consecutive patients undergoing dermal allograft interposition procedures between October 2001 and December 2005 (Repliform, Boston Scientific, Natick, MA, USA) for stage two, three, and four International Continence Society (ICS) symptomatic rectocele repairs with bilateral sacrospinous fixation. Failure was defined as recurrent stage two International Continence Society prolapse (Ap ≥ -1 and/or Bp ≥ -1). All questionnaires were completed 1 week before surgery and at follow-up (September 2014 through December 2014).

RESULTS

The mean preoperative and postoperative A(p) were 0.95 ± 0.70,-1.90 ± 0.52 and B(p) 1.30 ± 0.84,-2.13 ± 0.51 (p < 0.001). With a mean follow-up of 116.5 ± 18.9 months, a success rate of 73 % (30/41) was achieved, with anatomical reduction of prolapse. For splinting and digitations, an 82 % cure rate was realized. The Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI) pre- and post-operative results showed significant improvement (p < 0.001). There were two incisional exposures (5 %). Seventy percent of patients were secondary repairs while 30 % were primary repairs (81 % success rate, p < 0.36). One patient experienced nerve entrapment and subsequent unilateral takedown. Patient satisfaction was 77 %.

CONCLUSIONS

Our retrospective study approaching long-term results demonstrated that symptomatic rectocele procedures with human dermal allograft interposition provide an effective anatomical and functional repair with acceptable complication rates.

Degradation of polypropylene in vivo: A microscopic analysis of meshes explanted from patients

Polypropylene meshes, originally introduced for hernia repair, are presently utilized in several anatomical sites. Several million are implanted annually worldwide. Depending on the device, up to 10% will be excised to treat complications. The excised meshes can provide material to study the complications, however, they have remained underutilized over the last decades and the mechanisms of complications continue to be incompletely understood. The fundamental question as to whether polypropylene degrades in vivo is still debated. We have examined 164 excised meshes using conventional microscopy to search for features of polypropylene degradation. Four specimens were also examined by transmission electron microscopy. The degraded material, detected by its ability to absorb dyes in the degradation nanopores, formed a continuous layer at the surface of the mesh fibers. It retained birefringence, inclusions of non-degraded polypropylene, and showed ability to meld with the non-degraded fiber core when heated by the surgical cautery. Several features indicated that the degradation layer formed in vivo: inflammatory cells trapped within fissures, melting caused by cautery of excision surgery, and gradual but progressive growth of the degradation layer while in the body. Cracking of the degraded material indicated a contribution to clinically important mesh stiffening and deformation. Chemical products of degradation need to be analyzed and studied for their role in the mesh-body interactions. The described methods can also be used to study degradation of other materials. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 105B: 237-248, 2017.

The role of vaginal mesh procedures in pelvic organ prolapse surgery in view of complication risk

Synthetic transvaginal mesh has been employed in the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse for more than a decade. As the use of these devices increased during this period so did adverse event reporting. In 2008, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Public Health Notification informed physicians and patients of rising concerns with the use of synthetic transvaginal mesh. Shortly thereafter and in parallel to marked increases in adverse event reporting within the Manufacturer and User Device Experience (MAUDE), the FDA released a Safety Communication regarding urogynecologic surgical mesh use. Following this report and in the wake of increased medical industry product withdrawal, growing medicolegal concerns, patient safety, and clinical practice controversy, many gynecologists and pelvic reconstructive surgeons are left with limited long-term data, clinical guidance, and growing uncertainty regarding the role of synthetic transvaginal mesh use in pelvic organ prolapse. This paper reviews the reported complications of synthetic transvaginal mesh with an evidence-based approach as well as providing suggested guidance for the future role of its use amidst the controversy.