A comparative study of laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy and total vaginal mesh procedure using lightweight polypropylene meshes for prolapse repair

ObjectiveUse of vaginal meshes for treatment of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) remains controversial. A trend toward abdominal approaches and the development of new meshes has been noted. We compared the 1-year results of two different approaches using new lightweight meshes.Materials and methodsSixty-nine (95.8%) of 72 women with POP Stage ≥ 2, who underwent laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy (LSC) (n = 39) or a total vaginal mesh (TVM) procedure (n = 30) using lightweight polypropylene meshes, were studied. Baseline and follow-up assessments included a pelvic examination and a composite condition-specific questionnaire. A detailed comparison of 1-year outcomes was made. Data were analyzed using appropriate statistical methods.ResultsCompared to the TVM group, the LSC group was characterized by a younger age (53.7 years vs. 64.1 years, p < 0.001) and a longer operating time (264 minutes vs. 177.6 minutes, p < 0.001). Objective anatomic success (POP Stage ≤ 1) rates were similar between groups after statistical adjustment, i.e., 84.6% (33/39) and 86.7% (26/30) after LSC and TVM (p = 0.94), respectively. However, the dominant recurrence sites were different with anterior (n = 6) most frequent after LSC and apical (n = 4) most frequent after TVM. Reoperations were needed for the four (13.3%) apical recurrences in the TVM group. No serious complications were noted. We found “cystocele as the dominant prolapse” (p = 0.016; odds ratio = 6.94) and “suspension of prolapsed (POP Stage ≥ 2) uterus” (p = 0.025; odds ratio = 7.00) significantly affected recurrence after LSC and TVM, respectively.ConclusionPOP repair by LSC or TVM using the new lightweight polypropylene meshes seems to be safe and has comparable outcomes, but limitations may vary.     

Prevalence and contributing factors of severe perineal damage following episiotomy-assisted vaginal delivery

ObjectiveThis study was conducted to investigate the risk factors of third- and fourth-degree lacerations following vaginal deliveries in Taiwanese women, and to offer clinical guidance for the reduction of severe perineal lacerations.Materials and methodsA total of 1879 women who underwent vaginal deliveries assisted by midline episiotomy at a tertiary hospital were included. Obstetric risk factors were analyzed for women with and without third- and fourth-degree lacerations.ResultsTwo hundred and five deliveries (10.9%) resulted in third- or fourth-degree lacerations. Parity, duration of first and second stages of labor, rate of instrument-assisted vaginal deliveries, the newborn's birth weight and head circumference, and the ratio of the newborn's birth weight to maternal body mass index were significantly different between women with and without severe perineal lacerations. Logistic regression demonstrated that nulliparity (odds ratio = 3.626, p < 0.001), duration of second stage of labor (odds ratio = 1.102, p = 0.044), instrument-assisted vaginal delivery (odds ratio = 4.102, p < 0.001), and newborn's head circumference (odds ratio = 1.323, p < 0.001) were independent risk factors of severe perineal lacerations. Instrument-assisted vaginal delivery was a common independent risk factor for severe lacerations shared between primiparous and multiparous women.ConclusionsWith regard to severe perineal lacerations during vaginal delivery, there are multiple obstetric contributory factors despite routine episiotomy, among them, nulliparity, longer labor duration, greater newborn head circumference, and instrument-assisted vaginal delivery. The latter should only be performed after careful evaluation.     

Correlation of severity of pelvic organ prolapse with lower urinary tract symptoms

ObjectiveRelationships between pelvic organ prolapse (POP) staging and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are controversial. In this study, we evaluated correlations of POP staging with LUTS in different compartments.Materials and methodsFrom January 2016 to December 2017, 250 consecutive patients with urogynecologic complaints who were referred to our urodynamic unit were recruited into this study. Different stages of different compartments (anterior, central and posterior) of POPs according to IUGA and ICS terminology were re-grouped into four categories as stage 0, 1, 2, and 3 (including stage 4 because of a limited number of patients in stage 4). Pearson correlation coefficient and general linear regression were used for correlations of POP staging in different compartments and LUTS (stress urinary incontinence, overactive bladder and voiding symptoms) as well as their associated factors.ResultsOnly OAB had a moderate correlation with different compartments of POP (anterior vaginal wall: ?0.3116; cervix: ?0.2954 and posterior vaginal wall: ?0.3779; all p < 0.05). Stage 1 AVWP significantly increased (39.6%) the occurrence of OAB compared to no prolapse. Posterior compartment (stage 1–3) prolapse reduced the occurrence of OAB.ConclusionOnly stage 1 AVWP is associated with an increase in OAB, and posterior compartment prolapse may reduce the occurrence of OAB.     

Regional Variation and Temporal Trends in Surgery for Pelvic Organ Prolapse in Canada, 2004-2014

ObjectivesWe sought to examine temporal trends in pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery in Canada.MethodsIn this observational cross-sectional study, we used diagnostic and procedure codes from all hospitalizations and outpatient clinic visits in Canada (excluding Québec) from 2004 to 2014 to identify and analyze data on POP surgery.ResultsThere were 204 301 POP surgery visits from 2004 to 2014, and the rate of POP surgery declined from 19.3 to 16.0 per 10 000 women during this period. The rates of “native tissue reconstructive repair” and “hysterectomy without other procedure” declined from 15.0 to 12.8 per 10 000 women and 2.6 to 1.6 per 10 000 women, respectively. The rate of obliteration increased from 0.1 to 0.3 per 10 000 women (all P values for trend <0.01). Mesh procedures increased from 1.6 per 10 000 women in 2004 to 2.4 per 10 000 women in 2007 and 2008, and then declined to 1.3 per 10 000 women in 2014. Reconstructive mesh surgery using an abdominal open approach declined, while laparoscopic procedures increased over the period examined.ConclusionThe rates of POP surgery declined in Canada between 2004 and 2014. An increase was observed in obliteration procedures and in laparoscopic vaginal suspension and fixation with mesh.     

Vasoactive intestinal peptide expression in the vaginal anterior wall of patients with pelvic organ prolapse

ObjectivePerimenopausal women are at high risk for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and stress urinary incontinence (SUI) diseases. In the present study, the expression of VIP in the vaginal epithelium of 70 perimenopausal women was correlated with the severity of POP with or without SUI.Materials and MethodsSeventy biopsy specimens from the anterior vaginal epithelium were obtained from postmenopausal patients. Immunohistochemical labeling for vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and hematoxylin and eosin staining were performed. The VIP innervation was then compared between eight patient groups. Semiquantitative analysis of VIP protein by Western blotting was performed and compared between the eight patient groups.ResultsThe results of the immunohistochemical study showed that the intensity of VIP-immunoreactivity (VIP-ir) in the eight groups was as follows (in decreasing order): Control; POPI; POP II; POP II + SUI; POP III; POP IV and POP III + SUI; and POP IV + SUI. The intensity of VIP-ir was obviously weak and similar among the POP IV, POP III + SUI, and POP IV + SUI groups. This result was validated by the Western blotting analysis. The level of the VIP peptide also deceased in POP patients and was as follows (in decreasing order): Control; POPI; POP II and POP II + SUI; POP III and POP III + SUI; and POP IV and POP IV + SUI.ConclusionThe present study found that reduced VIP innervation in the vaginal epithelium of the perimenopausal women was correlated with the severity of POP with or without SUI.     

Assessing the Impact of Vaginal Hysterectomy with Vaginal Mesh Attachment on Outcomes and Complications during Minimally Invasive Sacrocolpopexy

Study ObjectiveTo compare mesh complications and failure rates after 1 year in laparoscopic minimally invasive sacrocolpopexy (MISC) with ultralightweight mesh attached vaginally during total vaginal hysterectomy (TVH), laparoscopically if posthysterectomy (PH), or laparoscopically during supracervical hysterectomy.DesignSingle-center retrospective cohort study.SettingTertiary referral center.PatientsWomen with symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse who elected for MISC.InterventionsLaparoscopic MISC with ultralightweight mesh attached vaginally during TVH, laparoscopically if PH, or laparoscopically during supracervical hysterectomy. Composite failure was defined as recurrent prolapse symptoms, prolapse past the hymen, or retreatment for prolapse.Measurements and Main ResultsBetween 2010 and 2017, 650 patients met the inclusion criteria with 278 PH, 82 supracervical hysterectomy, and 290 vaginal hysterectomy patients. Median follow-up was similar for all groups (382 days vs 379 vs 345; p = .31). The majority in all groups were white (66.6%), nonsmokers (74.8%), postmenopausal (82.5%), and did not use estrogen (70.3%). Mesh complications did not differ among groups (1.6% PH, 2.5% supracervical hysterectomy, 2.2% vaginal hysterectomy; p >.99). There was no difference in anatomic failure (5% PH, 1.2% supracervical hysterectomy, 2.1% vaginal hysterectomy; p = .07), reoperation for prolapse (1.4% vs 1.2% vs 0.7%; p = .57), or composite failure (9.0% vs 3.7% vs 4.8%; p = .07).ConclusionsTVH with vaginal mesh attachment of ultralightweight mesh had similar adverse events, mesh exposure rates, and failure rates to those of laparoscopic PH sacrocolpopexy or supracervical hysterectomy with laparoscopic mesh attachment.     

The Effects of Vaginal Prolapse Surgery Using Synthetic Mesh on Vaginal Wall Sensibility,Vaginal Vasocongestion,and Sexual Function: A Prospective Single‐Center Study

IntroductionVaginal mesh surgery in patients with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) has been associated with sexual dysfunction. Implantation of synthetic mesh might damage vaginal innervation and vascularization, which could cause sexual dysfunction.AimWe aim to evaluate the effects of vaginal mesh surgery on vaginal vasocongestion and vaginal wall sensibility in patients with recurrent POP.MethodsA prospective study was performed among patients with previous native tissue repair, scheduled for vaginal mesh surgery. Measurements were performed before and 6 months after surgery, during nonerotic and erotic visual stimuli, using a validated vaginal combi‐probe.Main Outcome MeasuresThe combi‐probe involves vaginal photoplethysmography to assess Vaginal Pulse Amplitude (VPA) (representing vaginal vasocongestion) and four pulse‐generating electrodes to measure vaginal wall sensibility (representing vaginal innervation). Sexual function was assessed using validated questionnaires (Female Sexual Function Index, Female Sexual Distress Scale‐Revised, and Subjective sexual arousal and affect questionnaire).ResultsSixteen women were included, 14 completed the 6‐month follow‐up visit. Vaginal vasocongestion under erotic conditions did not significantly alter after mesh implantation. Vaginal wall sensibility of the distal posterior wall was significantly increased after mesh surgery (preoperative threshold 6.3 mA vs. postoperative 3.4 mA, P = 0.03). Sexual function as assessed with questionnaires was not significantly affected.ConclusionsIn women with a history of vaginal prolapse surgery, vaginal mesh surgery did not decrease vaginal vasocongestion or vaginal wall sensibility. Vaginal vasocongestion prior to mesh surgery appeared to be lower than that of women never operated on. Apparently, native tissue repair decreased preoperative vaginal vasocongestion levels to such extent that subsequent mesh surgery had no additional detrimental effect. Our findings should be interpreted cautiously. Replication of the findings in future studies is essential. Weber MA, Lakeman MME, Laan E, and Roovers JPWR. The effects of vaginal prolapse surgery using synthetic mesh on vaginal wall sensibility, vaginal vasocongestion, and sexual function: A prospective single‐center study. J Sex Med 2014;11:1848–1855.     

Hysterectomy Versus Uterine Preservation at the Time of Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery

ObjectiveTo evaluate national trends in apical prolapse surgery with and without uterine preservation using the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database.MethodsBased on the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) and Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes, patients diagnosed with uterovaginal prolapse who underwent apical suspensions between 2013 and 2018 were identified, and procedures involving uterine preservation were differentiated from those with concomitant hysterectomy. Patient characteristics and postoperative complications were analyzed.ResultsA total of 16 427 patients met inclusion criteria, with 2235 (13.6%) undergoing uterine-preservation procedures and 14 192 (86.4%) undergoing hysterectomy. Between 2013 and 2018, the rates of uterine preservation ranged from 12.8% to 15.3%, with the last 2 years having significantly lower rates. Patients in the uterine-preservation group were older (62.8 vs. 60.5 y; P < 0.001), had higher BMI (28.4 vs. 28.1 kg/m²; P = 0.018), and were more likely to have diabetes (12.4% vs. 10.5%; P = 0.006) and hypertension (43.4% vs. 38.0%; P < 0.001). These patients also had higher frailty index than hysterectomy patients. Patients in the uterine-preservation group were more likely to have vaginal mesh. There were no differences between the 2 groups in length of stay or postoperative complications. On multivariate logistic regression, older age (adjusted odds ratio [aoR] 1.02; P < 0.001), higher BMI (aOR 1.01; P = 0.009), and use of vaginal mesh (aOR 2.75; P < 0.001) were associated with higher odds of uterine preservation. Uterine preservation decreased operative time by about 30 minutes after controlling for confounders.ConclusionsPatients with more comorbidities were more likely to undergo uterine-preserving surgeries, which offered reduced operative time and no differences in postoperative complications.     

Advanced Cystocele is a Risk Factor for Surgical Failure after Robotic-assisted Laparoscopic Sacrocolpopexy

Study ObjectiveTo assess the outcome of robotic-assisted laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy (RALSCP) and to identify risk factors for surgical failure and long-term complications in patients at high risk for surgical failure.DesignRetrospective cohort study.SettingA university hospital.PatientsSixty-seven women with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) at high risk for surgical failure.InterventionsRALSCP from November 2012 to July 2020.Measurements and Main ResultsInformation was collected from the electronic medical records. Preoperative and postoperative assessment included urogynecologic history, prolapse staging, cough stress test, and validated quality of life questionnaires. Anatomic success was defined as POP stage < 2 at the last follow-up. Mean follow-up was 24.6 ± 17.9 months. Sixteen women (23.9%) reported bulge symptoms at the latest follow-up; upon POP Quantification staging, surgical failure or recurrence was observed in 35 patients (52.2%). On multiple logistic regression analysis, a preoperative POP Quantification point Ba measurement ≥3 cm beyond the hymen was independently related to surgical failure. Late postoperative complications included 3 cases (4.5%) of postoperative ventral hernia and 5 cases (7.5%) of mesh erosion, all in patients operated using Ethibond sutures.ConclusionsAnatomic success of RALSCP in POP patients at high risk for surgical failure is worse than previously reported. Advanced preoperative anterior vaginal wall prolapse is a risk factor for surgical failure. Delayed absorbable sutures for vaginal mesh fixation seem to be safer than multifilament, permanent sutures, in terms of the risk of mesh erosion.     

Role of MR imaging in surgical planning and prediction of successful surgical repair of pelvic organ prolapse

ObjectiveTo determine the role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in surgical planning for females with pelvic organ prolapsed (POP) and to determine the clinical utility of MR imaging in predicting successful surgical repair.MethodsFifteen patients with different varieties of pelvic floor dysfunction and 15 nulliparous females as control subjects were studied by magnetic resonance imaging (static and dynamic). Intraoperative findings related to POP were correlated to MRI findings. In the symptomatic patients, magnetic resonance imaging was repeated within 6–12 months after surgery.ResultsPreoperative MRI and operative findings showed a significant correlation in all types of prolapse, except rectocele. On the other hand preoperative pelvic examination and operative findings were significantly correlated for cystocele, rectocele and vaginal cuff prolapse (r = 0.75, P < 0.008). Preoperative magnetic resonance imaging added information that changed the management in 40% of symptomatic women. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging showed normal pelvic floor in asymptomatic patients (n = 13). Abnormal imaging findings were found in patients with persistent postoperative or de novo complaints (n = 2).ConclusionMagnetic resonance imaging can accurately localize pelvic floor defects, evaluate success or failure of surgical procedures, predict the need for more extensive reconstruction, and identify complications.     

Mesh-related complications in single-incision transvaginal mesh (TVM) and laparoscopic abdominal sacrocolpopexy (LASC)

ObjectiveFew studies have investigated the long-term impact of synthetic mesh reconstructive surgery for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) on patient outcomes. This study aimed to examine the incidence and risk factors of mesh exposure and the subsequent requirement for surgical interventions due to mesh-related complications.Materials and methodsThis retrospective study was conducted from November 2010 to April 2018. We recruited women with Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POP-Q) stage 3 or 4 who underwent mesh reconstructive surgery for POP, and enrolled 487 women who received transvaginal mesh (TVM) and 110 women who received laparoscopic abdominal sacrocolpopexy (LASC). Assessments included mesh exposure rate and mesh-related complications requiring surgical interventions in both groups.ResultsIn the LASC group, the overall mesh-related complication rate was 8.18% over a mean follow-up period of 18 months. Concomitant laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy was associated with mesh exposure (OR = 9.240; 95% CI = 1.752–48.728). No patients in the concurrent supracervical hysterectomy group were exposed to mesh. In the single-incision TVM group, the overall rate of mesh-related complications was 3.29% over a mean follow-up period of 19 months. Concomitant total vaginal hysterectomy was also a risk factor for mesh exposure (OR = 4.799; 95% CI = 1.313–17.359).ConclusionPreserving the cervix or uterus decreased the rate of mesh exposure in those undergoing TVM and LASC surgery. The overall rate of mesh-related complications was low after up to 8 years of follow-up.     

Vaginal mesh colpopexy for the treatment of concomitant full thickness rectal and pelvic organ prolapse: a case series

Objective

To present our case series of concomitant rectal and pelvic organ prolapse (POP) treated with vaginal colpopexy with synthetic mesh.

Study design

Charts of patients with full thickness rectal prolapse and POP were reviewed for presenting symptoms, physical examination with POP-Q including rectal prolapse evaluation, and perioperative complications and outcomes.

Results

Four patients aged 63-78 were identified with full thickness rectal prolapse and POP. All of them had symptoms related to both conditions. Rectal prolapse protrusion ranged from 2 cm to 3 cm outside the anus. All patients had vaginal mesh colpopexy; two of them with anterior and posterior vaginal mesh and 2 with posterior mesh only. At a follow-up of 6-44 months, all patients had resolution of both POP and rectal prolapse signs and symptoms.

Conclusion

Vaginal colpopexy with mesh may be a unique treatment to address both POP and full thickness rectal prolapse in selected patients. Further research is needed to determine the safety and efficacy of this method.     

Absorbable versus Permanent Suture for Vaginal Uterosacral Ligament Suspension for Treatment of Apical Prolapse

Study ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to compare surgical outcomes in women undergoing vaginal uterosacral ligament suspension using permanent as opposed to absorbable sutures. We also aimed to assess for specific risk factors for suture complications.DesignRetrospective cohort study.SettingFemale pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery unit at a university-affiliated tertiary medical center.PatientsWomen with apical prolapse who underwent vaginal hysterectomy with uterosacral ligament suspension during the study period.Interventionsnone.Measurements and Main ResultsA total of 197 women were included in the study. Of them, 118 (59.9%) underwent the procedure using a permanent suture and 79 (40.1%) using an absorbable suture. Women in the permanent suture group were less sexually active and had less prolapse of point C on pre-operative exam.With regard to intra-operative and postoperative data, women in the permanent suture group had increased frequency of concomitant procedures, regional anesthesia, surgical time, duration of hospital stay, and change in hemoglobin. Clinical, anatomical, and composite success did not differ between groups. Patient satisfaction recorded using the Patient Global of Improvement Questionnaire was similar as well. Women in the permanent suture group had a higher frequency of suture exposure compared with the absorbable suture group (9.3% vs 0.0%, p = .006).In order to assess for risk factors leading to suture complications, a comparison was performed between women who had suture exposure or granulation tissue and those who did not. Increasing parity by 1 increased the odds of having suture exposure or granulation tissue by a factor of approximately 1.2 (adjusted odds ratio = 1.24; Confidence interval, 1.05–1.47). Women with stage IV prolapse had 3.4 times the odds of suture complication compared with women with stage III prolapse (adjusted odds ratio = 3.4; Confidence interval, 1.1–10.6).ConclusionUse of an absorbable suture affords comparable success and lower frequency of suture exposure compared with permanent sutures in women undergoing vaginal uterosacral ligament suspension for treatment of apical prolapse.     

Operative outcomes of single-port-access laparoscopy-assisted vaginal hysterectomy compared with single-port-access total laparoscopic hysterectomy

ObjectiveThis study aims to compare between operative outcomes of single-port-access laparoscopy-assisted vaginal hysterectomy (SPA-LAVH) and single-port-access total laparoscopic hysterectomy (SPA-TLH), further subdivided by vaginal cuff closure via laparoscopic suture (VCC-L) or via the vaginal route (VCC-V).Materials and methodsA custom-made port was used for single-port laparoscopy in 111 patients who underwent SPA-LAVH (n = 33), SPA-TLH with VCC-L (n = 35), and SPA-TLH with VCC-V (n = 43) during October 2009–October 2010. Records were reviewed retrospectively.ResultsA significant difference in the operating time was observed among the groups (p = 0.009). SPA-TLH with VCC-L took a significantly longer time to be performed (118.6 ± 41.8 minutes) than SPA-TLH with VCC-V (98.6 ± 21.3 minutes) or SPA-LAVH (102.0 ± 20.3 minutes). The decrease in hemoglobin level on the 1^st day postsurgery was significantly smaller in case of SPA-LAVH (1.56 ± 0.97 g/dL, p = 0.005) compared with that in case of SPA-TLH with VCC-L (2.19 ± 0.95 g/dL) and SPA-TLH with VCC-V (2.24 ± 0.95 g/dL). No significant differences in other surgical outcomes were found.ConclusionSPA-TLH with laparoscopic vaginal suture required the longest operating time, and hemoglobin changes were smaller in the SPA-LAVH group than in the other groups. In patients undergoing SPA laparoscopy, we recommend the SPA-LAVH procedure.     

The effect of prolapse repair on sexual function in women

IntroductionSexual dysfunction is common in women with pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Treatment of symptomatic prolapse often requires surgery. The outcome of prolapse symptoms following surgery is well studied and reported, but evidence on outcomes of sexual function following pelvic reconstructive surgeries is limited.AimThe objective of this study was to assess the impact of different forms of surgery for POP on sexual function using prospectively collected data.MethodsIn this ethically approved project, data were collected prospectively for women undergoing prolapse repair between 2008 and 2010 and were stratified into four groups: “posterior repair,”“anterior repair,”“anterior repair with vaginal hysterectomy,” and “combined anterior and posterior repair.” The electronic personal assessment questionnaire‐pelvic floor (ePAQ‐PF) was used to assess symptoms. The sexual dimension of ePAQ‐PF computes domain scores for sexual dysfunction secondary to vaginal symptoms and dyspareunia on a scale of 0–100 (0 = best possible and 100 = worst possible health status). ePAQ‐PF was completed in 123 sexually active women both pre‐ and 3–6 month postoperatively. Results were analyzed using SPSS (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Pre‐ and postoperative scores for each domain were compared in all groups (Student's t‐test). Individual symptoms in these domains were compared using Wilcoxon signed‐rank test.Main Outcome MeasuresChange in sexual symptoms and dyspareunia following prolapse surgery in each group.ResultsWomen undergoing anterior repair or anterior repair and vaginal hysterectomy reported significant improvement in sexual symptoms and dyspareunia. Women undergoing a posterior repair in isolation had improved sexual function following surgery though improvement in dyspareunia was not significant. Women undergoing combined anterior and posterior repair had the least improvement in sexual function.ConclusionsSexual function improves in women following pelvic reconstructive surgery, but the improvement is more substantial following anterior repair either alone or in combination with a vaginal hysterectomy when compared with posterior repair. Dua A, Jha S, Farkas A, and Radley S. The effect of prolapse repair on sexual function in women. J Sex Med 2012;9:1459–1465.     

Efficacy and safety of anterior vaginal prolapse treatment using single incision repair system: Multicentric study

ObjectiveUp to 80% of all POP surgical procedures are due to anterior vaginal wall prolapse.The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of transvaginal anterior mesh for POP surgical repair.Materials and methods153 consecutive patients with symptomatic or recurrent anterior vaginal prolapse undergoing surgical single-incision mesh (Calistar S) were prospectively enrolled in the study. Preoperative evaluation was performed collecting urogynecological history and performing a clinical exam, 3-day voiding diary and urodynamic testing. All incontinent patients completed the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire – Short Form (ICIQ-SF). Operative time, blood loss, perioperative and postoperative complications were prospectively recorded. Postoperative follow-up was scheduled at 1, 6, and 12 months with a urogynecological interview and examination.Success rate was assessed at 1, 6 and 12 months postoperatively.ResultsThe median follow-up was 16.4 months. None of patients had intraoperative complications. Eight patients (5%) required surgical intervention for complications (5 patients (3%) for haematoma and 3 (2%) for vaginal erosion). At 12 months of follow up 130 out of 140 patients (93%) gained the subjective cure criterion, while 129 out of 140 patients (92%) obtained the objective cure criterion. Eleven (7.8%) patients experienced stage 2 or higher prolapse recurrence and three of them with a stage ≥3 underwent reintervention. No significant differences were recorded in primary outcome at 1, 6 or 12 months postoperatively.ConclusionsAnterior compartment prolapse repair by Calistar S (single-incision vaginal mesh) is an effective and safe procedure without significant complications.     

The efficacy of Marlex mesh in the repair of severe, recurrent vaginal prolapse of the anterior midvaginal wall

OBJECTIVE: The study assesses the efficacy and complications of Marlex mesh in repairing severe recurrent anterior vaginal wall prolapse. STUDY DESIGN: Twenty-four patients with two or more postsurgical recurrences of severe anterior vaginal wall prolapse were divided into control and treatment groups. Transvaginal repair was similar between groups except for reinforcement of the anterior vaginal wall with synthetic mesh. Two examiners graded preoperative and postoperative support over the following 2 years (K = 0.9). Fisher's exact test, log-linear analysis, and analysis of variance were used to compare categoric and continuous variables. RESULTS: Four patients in the control group and none in the treatment group had recurrent anterior vaginal wall prolapse (p < 0.05). Three patients had mesh-related complications. CONCLUSION: Repair with a synthetic mesh decreased the expected incidence of severe recurrent anterior vaginal prolapse but was associated with common complications related to synthetic mesh. Mesh reinforcement is an effective treatment for severe recurrent prolapse of the anterior midvaginal wall. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 1996;175:1472-5.)     

Concomitant trocar-guided transvaginal mesh surgery with a midurethral sling in treating advanced pelvic organ prolapse associated with stress or occult stress urinary incontinence

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and feasibility of concomitant trocar-guided transvaginal mesh (TVM) surgery with a midurethral sling (MUS) for treating women with advanced pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and stress urinary incontinence (SUI) or occult SUI (OSUI).Materials and methodsEighty-nine women with advanced POP and SUI or OSUI were retrospectively enrolled. The Total Prolift and Tension-free Vaginal Tape-Obturator Systems were used for trocar-guided TVM surgery and MUS. Patients received regular follow-up at 1 week, and 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months postoperatively, and then annually thereafter. The endpoints were the success rate for POP, and perioperative and postoperative complications. Functional outcomes were the presence of voiding difficulty, persistent or de novo overactive bladder symptoms, postoperative SUI, and paresthesia.ResultsThe median follow-up period was 35 months (range, 12–50 months). Within the follow-up period, 84 patients (94.4%) were objectively cured, five patients (5.6%) had vaginal apical mesh exposure, 29 individuals (32.6%) had persistent or de novo overactive bladder symptoms, six individuals (22.5%) had de novo SUI (two were found by urodynamics), and nine individuals (10.1%) had voiding difficulties (two were found by urodynamics). In addition, the vaginal hysterectomy group had greater blood loss, longer operation times, and a higher mesh erosion rate compared to the uterine suspension group.ConclusionConcomitant trocar-guided TVM surgery and MUS with the use of total Prolift and Tension-free Vaginal Tape-Obturator offer good efficacy in treating women with advanced POP and SUI or OSUI. The vaginal hysterectomy group had more perioperative complications.     

Anterior Transobturator Polypropylene Mesh in the Correction of Cystocele: 2-Point Method vs 4-Point Method

Study ObjectiveTo compare the effectiveness and safety of 2 anterior transobturator mesh methods for treating anterior vaginal wall prolapse.DesignRandomized controlled study (Canadian Task Force classification I).SettingUniversity hospital.PatientsEighty-seven women with anterior vaginal wall prolapse stage ≥2 (Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification [POP-Q]) underwent an anterior transobturator mesh procedure using macropore polypropylene mesh.InterventionsForty-five patients underwent the operation via the conventional 4-point, full-sized mesh method, and 42 patients underwent the operation via a novel 2-point, half-sized mesh method.Measurements and Main ResultsPatient characteristics were comparable between the 2 groups. The anatomic cure rate was significantly lower in the 2-point group compared with the 4-point group at 12 months after surgery (87.2% vs 100%; p = .03). Healing abnormalities were significantly higher in the 2-point group than in the 4-point group (12.8% vs 0%; p = .03). Bladder perforation (2.6% vs 0%), stress urinary incontinence (23.1% vs 22.5%), urinary frequency (12.8% vs 22.5%), and voiding difficulty and dyspareunia (0% vs 0%) were not statistically different between the 2 groups. At linear regression analysis, mean (SD) operation time did not differ between the 2 groups (74.9 [32.7] minutes vs 87.8 [36.7] minutes; p = .11).ConclusionCompared with the 4-point method, the 2-point anterior transobturator mesh method resulted in a lower rate of anatomic cure and a higher rate of healing abnormality.     

First report comparing the two types of single-incision robotic sacrocolpopexy: Single site using the da Vinci Xi or Si system and single port using the da Vinci SP system

ObjectiveThe gold standard procedure for treating patients with apical pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is sacrocolpopexy. However, no report comparing the two types of single-incision robotic sacrocolpopexy, namely, single-site robotic sacrocolpopexy (SS-RSC) and single-port robotic sacrocolpopexy (SP-RSC) exists. Therefore, we compared the safety and effectiveness of SS-RSC and SP-RSC.Materials and methodsIn this study, 48 patients who underwent single-incision RSC, 40 non-consecutive patients who underwent SS-RSC, and 8 consecutive patients who underwent SP-RSC for symptomatic POP quantification stage III–IV and were eligible for the 1-year follow-up (FU) were included. We compared the surgical time and operative outcomes of SS-RSC and SP-RSC. We also compared the data of the initial 8 cases in each group.ResultsThe mean patient age was 59.2 ± 11.0 years and 66.1 ± 8.0 years in the SS-RSC (n = 40) and SP-RSC (n = 8) groups, respectively. The mean operative time (OT) and console time were comparable between the SS-RSC and SP-RSC groups (135.3 ± 31.6 min vs 141.8 ± 23.5 min; 94.6 ± 32.2 min vs 89 ± 9.5 min, respectively). The docking time and cervix suturing time were short in the SP-RSC group (P < 0.05). However, in the analysis of the initial 8 cases in each group, all surgical times except the cervix suturing time were shorter in the SP-RSC group (P < 0.05). Three cases had intraoperative bladder injury (two [5.0%] in the SS-RSC and one [12.5%] in the SP-RSC group). Two cases (5.0%) had umbilical incisional hernia in the SS-RSC group. Two cases had vaginal mesh erosion on the posterior vaginal wall, with 1 case in each group. One case (2.5%) experienced a recurrence of POP; an anterior compartment POP-Q stage 2 following SS-RSC at the 4-week FU.ConclusionSingle-incision RSC, both SS-RSC and SP-RSC, is a feasible and effective surgical option for treating symptomatic apical POP with an aesthetic finish.