Pelvic Symptoms, Body Image, and Regret after LeFort Colpocleisis: A Long-Term Follow-Up

Abstract

Study ObjectiveTo evaluate the impact of LeFort colpocleisis on body image, regret, and pelvic floor symptoms long-term after surgery. DesignRetrospective study (Canadian Task Force classification II-2). SettingTertiary university-affiliated hospital. PatientsBetween April 2011 and April 2015, 334 patients underwent LeFort colpocleisis. InterventionLeFort colpocleisis. Measurement and Main ResultsPatient characteristics (e.g., age, body mass index, parity, blood loss, and length of operation), comorbidities, and complications were obtained from medical records. The Chinese version of the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory Questionnaire (PFDI-20) was used to evaluate self-perceived quality of life. A modified body image scale was used to assess self-image. Regret was assessed by the following question: “Do you regret choosing to undergo colpocleisis for pelvic organ prolapse (yes or no)?” In total, 278 women responded and were considered for statistical evaluation. Of these women, 234 (84%) had at least 1 comorbid condition. After a median 3-year follow-up (range, 1.5–4.5), only 1 woman had experienced recurrent prolapse and required a second surgery. The mean and total body image scores improved significantly from preoperation (p < .001). Approximately 97% of the patients were satisfied with their decision to undergo surgery, and none of the patients regretted their decision. Pelvic symptoms improved significantly from baseline (i.e., preoperation) to follow-up according to the following measures: PFDI-20, 67.5 ± 23.1 versus 23.8 ± 15.0 (p < .001); Pelvic Organ Prolapse Distress Inventory-6, 33.2 ± 19.6 versus 11.4 ± 10.6 (p < .001); Colorectal-Anal Distress Inventory-8, 10.8 ± 10.3 versus 3.6 ± 5.3 (p < .001); and Urinary Distress Inventory-6, 23.5 ± 18.5 versus 8.8 ± 9.7 (p < .001). ConclusionsLeFort colpocleisis is a highly effective surgical treatment option for pelvic organ prolapse that improves both pelvic floor symptoms and body image. The high satisfaction and low regret in the long term after surgery indicate that LeFort colpocleisis is an excellent option for appropriate patients.