Transvaginal Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery Sacrocolpopexy: Tips and Tricks

Study Objective

To demonstrate helpful tips and tricks for the successful use of transvaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) for performing sacrocolpopexy and salpingo-oophorectomy surgery. Minimally invasive approaches for treating pelvic organ prolapse via sacrocolpopexy have traditionally included laparoscopy either with or without robotic assistance. Transvaginal NOTES is a novel minimally invasive approach that both avoids abdominal incisions and provides improved visualization; however, it can be technically challenging.

Design

Stepwise demonstration with narrated video footage (Canadian Task Force classification III).

Setting

An academic tertiary care hospital in Guangdong, China.

Patient

A 61-year-old gravida 3, para 3 woman with 3 spontaneous vaginal deliveries and stage III uterine prolapse, stage III cystocele, and stage III rectocele. The preoperative vaginal length was 6?cm.

Intervention

After performing vaginal hysterectomy, we show the usefulness of NOTES for salpingo-oophorectomy. We also demonstrate useful techniques for transvaginal NOTES sacrocolpopexy including hydrodissection, division of the Y mesh, anchoring of the anterior mesh before reducing prolapse, retroperitoneal tunneling, and hand suturing of the mesh and vaginal cuff.

Measurements and Main Results

The procedure was successfully performed in approximately 190 minutes. The postoperative vaginal length was 5?cm. Postoperative pelvic organ prolapse quantification was stage 0.

Conclusion

The transvaginal NOTES approach is feasible and efficient for sacrocolpopexy and salpingo-oophorectomy; additionally, it is a reasonable option for patients who desire a minimally invasive approach with excellent cosmetic results. Surgical techniques that aid in effectively performing transvaginal NOTES sacrocolpopexy include the use of hydrodissection, Y mesh division, anterior mesh anchoring before reducing prolapse, retroperitoneal tunneling, and hand suturing. Using the techniques presented here, we were able to insert the port only 1 time, which improves the efficiency and safety of this surgery.