Vaginal hysterectomy using local anesthesia and analgesics

Abstract

Context: Vaginal hysterectomy for pelvic organ prolapse is often performed under general or regional anesthesia. However, the performance of this operative procedure under local anesthetic has potential benefits, especially in resource-poor settings. Aims: The aim of this study was to review the outcome of vaginal hysterectomy and pelvic floor repair using local anesthesia and supplementary analgesia. Settings and Design: The study was retrospective and the setting was a cottage hospital in the northern Nigeria. Subjects and Methods: A review of the case records of women who underwent a vaginal hysterectomy and pelvic floor repair for uncomplicated 4th degree (Stage III) uterovaginal prolapse, using local lidocaine infiltration and supplemental pentazocine injection. Statistical Analysis Used: Descriptive statistics and frequencies were used to describe the population and outcomes of surgery. Results: Eighteen women successfully had vaginal hysterectomy and pelvic floor repair using local anesthesia with supplemental pentazocine intramuscular injection. Four (22.2%) of the women required supplemental pentazocine injection. The mean duration of surgery was 101.67 (± 14.14) min and the average hospital stay was 36.22 (± 17.16) h. Thirteen (72.2%) women were satisfied with the surgery, anesthesia, and early ambulation while the others desired a totally painless surgery in addition to the early ambulation and short hospitalization. Conclusions: The use of local anesthesia for vaginal hysterectomy and pelvic floor repair was successful in patients with severe uterovaginal prolapse. A larger, randomized controlled study is recommended.