Changes in connective tissue in patients with pelvic organ prolapse—a review of the current literature

Abstract

Little is known about the pathophysiology of pelvic organ prolapse (POP). In 1996, Jackson presented a hypothesis on pelvic floor connective tissue that tried to explain the development of POP on a molecular level. The objective of this review is to test the hypothesis against recent literature. The method used was a review of literature. The association between POP and connective tissue metabolism is well established. However, the causality of this association is unclear. The characteristics of the pelvic floor connective tissue of POP patients relate to tissue repair. To resolve the question of cause and effect, the role of fibroblasts in producing the extracellular matrix should be clarified. With these data, the use of autologous or allogenic stem cells in the treatment of POP may come in sight. Recent literature supports the hypothesis of Jackson but does not resolve long-standing questions on the aetiology of POP.