History Of Pelvic Organ Prolapse Research Articles

Development and Validation of a Risk Prediction Model for Female Stress Urinary Incontinence in Rural Fujian, China.

With China's rapidly aging population and the rising proportion of obese people, an increase in the number of women suffering from urinary incontinence (UI) is to be expected. In order to identify high-risk groups before leakage occurs, we aimed to develop and validate a model to predict the risk of stress UI (SUI) in rural women. This study included women aged 20-70 years in rural Fujian who participated in an epidemiologic survey of female UI conducted between June and October 2022. Subsequently the data was randomly divided into training and validation sets in a ratio of 7:3. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify independent risk factors as well as to further construct a nomogram for risk prediction. Finally, concordance index (C-index), calibration curve and decision curve analysis were applied to evaluate the performance of the predictive models. A total of 5290 rural females were enrolled, of whom 771 (14.6%) had SUI. Age, body mass index (BMI), postmenopausal status, number of vaginal deliveries, vaginal delivery of large infant, constipation and family history of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and SUI were included in the nomogram. C-index of this prediction model for the training and validation sets was 0.835 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.818-0.851) and 0.829 (95% CI = 0.796-0.858), respectively, and the calibration curves and decision analysis curves for both the training and validation sets showed that the model was well-calibrated and had a positive net benefit. This model accurately estimated the SUI risk of rural women in Fujian, which may serve as an effective primary screening tool for the early identification of SUI risk and provide a basis for further implementation of individualized early intervention. Moreover, the model is concise and intuitive, which makes it more operational for rural women with scarce medical resources.

Pelvic floor muscle strength and influencing factors based on vaginal manometry among healthy women at different life stages: A multicentre cross-sectional study.

To assess pelvic floor muscle (PFM) strength and influencing factors among healthy women at different life stages. Multicentre cross-sectional study. Fourteen hospitals in China. A total of 5040 healthy women allocated to the following groups (with 1680 women per group): premenopausal nulliparous, premenopausal parous and postmenopausal. The PFM strength was evaluated by vaginal manometry. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine the influencing factors for low PFM strength. Maximum voluntary contraction pressure (MVCP). The median MVCP values were 36, 35 and 35 cmH2O in premenopausal nulliparous (aged 19-51 years), premenopausal parous (aged 22-61 years), and postmenopausal (aged 40-86 years) women, respectively. In the premenopausal nulliparous group, physical work (odds ratio, OR 2.05) was the risk factor for low PFM strength, which may be related to the chronic increased abdominal pressure caused by physical work. In the premenopausal parous group, the number of vaginal deliveries (OR 1.28) and diabetes (OR 2.70) were risk factors for low PFM strength, whereas sexual intercourse (<2 times per week vs. none, OR 0.55; ≥2 times per week vs. none, OR 0.56) and PFM exercise (OR 0.50) may have protective effects. In the postmenopausal group, the number of vaginal deliveries (OR 1.32) and family history of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) (OR 1.83) were risk factors for low PFM strength. Physical work, vaginal delivery, diabetes and a family history of POP are all risk factors for low PFM strength, whereas PFM exercises and sexual life can have a protective effect. The importance of these factors varies at different stages of a woman's life.

Association between the rs1036819 polymorphism of the ZFAT gene and pelvic organ prolapse: a case-control study.

The identification of risk factors for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) would contribute to planning prevention strategies. This study tests the hypothesis that the rs1036819 polymorphism in the ZFAT gene is associated with POP and investigates other risk factors for prolapse development. A case-control study was carried out including 826 postmenopausal women divided into POP cases (stages III and IV) and controls (stages 0 and I), assessed by anamnesis, examination, and peripheral blood samples. DNA was extracted from blood and genotyped by real-time RT-PCR. We used logistic regression models for the association analyses of variables, with p < 0.05 for significance. Five hundred and sixty-eight women were evaluated (315 POP and 253 controls). The minor allele C was found in 19.3% of our sample and the genotype frequencies of AA, AC, and CC were similar in both groups. Age (OR 1.09, 95% CI 1.06-1.13), number of pregnancies (OR 1.23, 95% CI 1.08-1.41), history of one vaginal delivery (OR 3.39, 95% CI 1.38-8.33) or two or more (OR 2.51, 95% CI 1.04-6.07), weight of the largest newborn (OR 1.0001, 95% CI 1-1.001), and family history of POP (OR 2.27, 95% CI 1.24-4.13) were independent risk factors for POP, whereas one cesarean section (OR 0.48, 95% CI 0.27-0.88) or two or more (OR 0.14, 95% CI 0.05-0.38) were protective. No association was detected between the rs1036819 polymorphism of the ZFAT gene and advanced POP. Age, number of pregnancies, at least one vaginal delivery, weight of the newborn, and POP family history were independent risk factors for POP.

RISK FACTORS FOR VAGINAL PROLAPSE AFTER HYSTERECTOMY

Objective:- To identify risk factors for pelvic organ prolapse and their influence on the occurrence of vaginal prolapse after hysterectomy. Methods:- Medical records from 2 groups of women who had undergone hysterectomy were reviewed retrospectively. The study group of 82 women who had undergone surgery for vaginal prolapse i.e. hysterectomy,the control group was 124 women who had undergone hysterectomy with no diagnosis vaginal prolapse at the time of study. All hysterectomy procedures had been performed for benign gynaecological disease, including POP. Both groups of women completed a self-administered questionnaire to obtain additional information on the occurrence of POP. Results:- the incidences of vaginal prolapsed after hysterectomy was significantly higher in women with a higher number of vaginal deliveries,more difficult deliveries,fewer caesareans,complication after hysterectomy, heavy physical work,neurological disease,hysterectomy for pelvic organ prlapse and/or family history of pelvic organ prolapse. Premenopausal women had vaginal prolapse corrected an average of 16 years after hysterectomy, and postmenopausal women 7 years post hysterectomy. Conclusion:- Before deciding on hysterectomy as the approach to treat a women with pelvic floor dysfunction, the surgeon should evaluate these risk factors and discuss then with the patient

Traumatic extraperitoneal bladder rupture in the absence of pelvic fracture in a patient with pelvic organ prolapse: A case report and review of the literature.

Introduction and importanceTraumatic bladder rupture is a rare occurrence. It is more likely to occur following blunt injury and is associated with pelvic fractures in patients presenting with hematuria. We present a unique case of an extraperitoneal bladder rupture in a female after sustaining a minor fall in the absence of a pelvic fracture.Presentation of caseThe patient is a morbidly obese female with a history of vaginal vault prolapse who reported profuse vaginal bleeding and lower abdominal and suprapubic pain shortly after falling off of her bed. The patient showed no signs of hemodynamic instability and genital bleeding was ruled out in the emergency department. A Computed Tomography (CT) cystogram confirmed bladder rupture confined to the extraperitoneal space without any evidence of pelvic fractures.DiscussionBlunt traumatic extraperitoneal bladder rupture is typically associated with concomitant pelvic fracture. These injuries tend to occur as a result of high-impact motor vehicle or motorcycle collisions and are associated with an increased morbidity and mortality.ConclusionDedicated bladder imaging should be considered in blunt abdominopelvic trauma patients presenting with hematuria in the absence of pelvic fracture when the patient's underlying medical conditions or comorbidities increase the risk of bladder rupture. Our patient's history of pelvic organ prolapse placed her at an increased risk of traumatic injury to the bladder.

Determinants of pelvic organ prolapse among gynecologic patients attending public referral hospitals in Amhara region, Ethiopia, 2020: Institution-based unmatched case-control study design.

Background:Pelvic organ prolapse is a common disorder, with up to 40% of women worldwide having some form of anatomical prolapse, and it is a significant public health problem in developing countries including Ethiopia. The prevalence of pelvic organ prolapse in Ethiopia is 13% in Benchi Maji. This study is designed to provide information about the determinants of pelvic organ prolapse among gynecologic patients attending public referral hospitals in the Amhara region, 2020.Method:Institution-based unmatched case-control study design was conducted from March to June 2020 among randomly selected 348 mothers (116 cases and 232 controls). A convenient sampling technique was used to select cases, and controls were selected by systematic random sampling technique. A pre-tested and structured interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect the data. Data were coded and entered into Epi data version 3.1 and then exported to the Statistical Package for Social Science IBM version 25 for analysis. Finally, adjusted odds ratio and 95% confidence intervals were used to declare statistical significance.Result:The result showed that being unable to read and write (illiterate) (adjusted odds ratio = 3.91; 95% confidence interval = 1.06–14.39), age of women >= 40 (adjusted odds ratio = 2.91; 95% confidence interval = 1.255–6.736), giving first birth before age of 20 (adjusted odds ratio = 5.72; 95% confidence interval = 1.73–18.94), carrying heavy objects (adjusted odds ratio = 2.296; 95% confidence interval = 1.102–4.785), parity ⩾ 4 (adjusted odds ratio = 7.02; 95% confidence interval = 1.16–42.45), and family history of pelvic organ prolapse (adjusted odds ratio = 3.09; 95% confidence interval = 1.24–7.71) were significantly associated with pelvic organ prolapse.Conclusion:This study concluded that being unable to read and write, age ⩾ 40, multiparity, family history of pelvic organ prolapse, early childbirth, and carrying heavy objects were the risk factors of pelvic organ prolapse. Providing health education on planning the number of children, and the impact of carrying heavy loads on pelvic organs, preventing early childbirth, and encouraging women to pursue their education at least up to primary school level is recommended.

Patient Frustration with Pelvic Organ Prolapse Education Met with Resilient Response.

Limited patient understanding due to challenges in physician-patient communication and inadequate patient education materials (PEMs) can result in poor outcomes after pelvic organ prolapse (POP) repair. Our objective was to identify how patients learned about POP and review their perception of available educational tools. Patients with a history of POP were recruited using ResearchMatch and invited to participate in a virtual semi-structured interview where they were shown a website, brochure, and video pertaining to POP. Information regarding patient preference for PEMs was obtained. The interviews were transcribed, coded, and qualitative data analysis was performed using grounded theory methodology. Qualitative analysis of interviews of 13 participants averaging 58 years old yielded several preliminary themes including: insufficient information to guide treatment decisions, preference for multimodal, dynamic, and comprehensive materials, and lack of support leading to avoidance of care, misinformation, and self-advocacy mechanisms. Emerging concepts included: lack of complete information regarding POP treatment resulted in misinformation, stress and desperation, distrust of healthcare providers leading to feelings of isolation, desire of support groups, and loss of follow up, and a desire for well-organized, detailed, multimodal, and destigmatizing materials as a guide to their disease process, prevention and risk factors, its natural progression, and treatment decisions. Participants developed self-reliant strategies for making treatment decisions, including the use of online resources, advice from friends, and independent search for more specialized physicians. Women with POP reported a lack of information and support which resulted in the generation of self-coping mechanisms. This led to significant anxiety surrounding their diagnosis and treatment and poor satisfaction. Developing a reproducible methodology to create evidence-based PEMs will significantly decrease patient misinformation, apprehension, and use of inaccurate sources of information.

31 Pessary incarceration complicated by vesicovaginal fistula requiring ureteroneocystostomy: A video case presentation

This presentation discusses a rare case of pessary incarceration complicated by vesicovaginal fistula requiring ureteroneocystostomy. The patient is an 81-year-old who presented to the office with continuous leakage of urine. She had a history of pelvic organ prolapse that was treated with a Gellhorn pessary for the past 5 years, however, she was lost to follow-up 2 years ago. On physical examination and cystoscopy, the patient’s pessary was found to be eroded into the bladder near the trigone. Office removal of the pessary was not possible. The patient initially underwent pessary removal under anesthesia with repair of her vesicovaginal fistula. On cystoscopy prior to and after the procedure, no efflux of urine was seen from the left ureter. A CT urogram performed on post-operative day 1 demonstrated hydronephrosis with obstruction of the left ureter, so a left nephrostomy tube was placed. A second CT urogram several weeks later demonstrated recurrence of the vesicovaginal fistula. One month following the initial procedure, she underwent a robotic-assisted ureteroneocystostomy with psoas hitch and vesicovaginal fistula re-closure. A postoperative CT urogram demonstrated patency of both ureters without leakage. Three weeks post-operatively she had only minor complaints, and denied leakage of urine from the vagina. A plan was made to repeat the CT urogram in 3 weeks and hopefully remove the left ureteral stent placed during her second surgery. This video enforces the importance of regular pessary follow-up, and highlights a rare but serious complication that could develop. It also showcases careful technique for robotic-assisted ureteral re-implantation.

Demographic risk factors for pelvic organ prolapse: Do smoking, asthma, heavy lifting or family history matter?

ObjectiveOur objective was to identify non-obstetric risk factors for pelvic organ prolapse in women attending a urogynecology clinic. Study designA retrospective study of 662 women referred for pelvic floor dysfunction between January 2017 and August 2018. Participants underwent a standardized interview, clinical exam including Pelvic Organ Prolapse Qualification (POP-Q) assessment, and four-dimensional transperineal ultrasound. They were questioned about smoking, asthma, heavy lifting and family history of pelvic organ prolapse, as well as prolapse symptoms. Significant clinical prolapse was defined as POP-Q stage ≥2 for anterior and posterior compartments and stage ≥1 for apical prolapse. Offline analysis of volume data was performed blinded against all other data. Statistical analysis included logistic regression with multivariable models adjusted for age, body mass index, vaginal parity, levator hiatal area and levator avulsion. ResultsParticipating women were assessed at a mean age of 58 (SD 13.3) years with a mean body mass index of 28.93 kg/m2 (standard deviation 5.98). The vast majority were vaginally parous (88.2 %) with a median of two vaginal deliveries (range 0−7). Previous hysterectomy was reported by 29.3 % of women (n = 194) and previous prolapse repair by 17.2 % (n = 114). Past or current smoking was reported by 300 (45.6 %) women, 113 (17.2 %) reported asthma, 246 (37.6 %) heavy lifting and 186 (28.6 %) a family history of pelvic organ prolapse. Heavy lifting was associated with sonographic prolapse (odds ratio 1.71, 95 % confidence interval 1.2−2.4), confirmed on multivariable analysis (P = 0.046). Heavy lifting was positively associated with symptoms (P = 0.053) and clinical signs of pelvic organ prolapse (P = 0.056) on univariate analysis; however, this became non-significant on multivariable analysis. No associations were found for individual compartments except for a trend towards more posterior compartment prolapse with heavy lifting. ConclusionsSmoking, asthma and family history of prolapse were not found to be a significant risk factor for prolapse in our study population. Heavy lifting may be a potential risk factor, in particular for posterior compartment prolapse.

Endoscopic management of transvaginal mesh kit bladder extrusion: A case report and literature review

Objective: A rare complication of transvaginal synthetic mesh kits is bladder mesh extrusion. Treatment options include abdominal or vaginal surgical mesh excision or endoscopic mesh vaporization. There are very few published studies detailing endoscopic management. This unique case describes how repeated endoscopic mesh vaporization may be required as mesh extrusion may progress. Methods: A 71-year old female with a history of pelvic organ prolapse managed with an anterior transvaginal mesh kit presented years later with persistent urgency incontinence and recurrent acute cystitis. Cystoscopy eventually revealed bladder calculi adherent to extruded mesh. The stones and extruded mesh were vaporized using the Holmium laser on three occasions over 3 years. Results: Our approach offered a minimally invasive technique with short recovery, no use of a catheter post-operatively and maintained original prolapse repair; however, these patients may be at risk of mesh extrusion recurrence. Conclusion: Bladder extrusion of transvaginal pelvic organ prolapse kit mesh is thankfully a rare complication. With no current consensus for treatment of bladder mesh extrusion, the decision to perform complete mesh excision versus endoscopic treatment should be based on the degree and location of the extrusion, the risk of major complications, mesh extrusion recurrence and the patient’s desired outcomes, including recovery time and risk for prolapse recurrence. Endoscopic vaporization of extruded pelvic organ prolapse mesh likely has a higher recurrence rate than vaginal or abdominal excision. The risks and benefits are important to discuss during counseling and informed consent in these difficult cases. Level of evidence: 4

Risk Factors for Dislodgment of Vaginal Pessaries in Women With Pelvic Organ Prolapse: A Cohort Study.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the associated factors associated with pessary dislodgment in women with advanced pelvic organ prolapse (POP). A cohort study with women (N = 98) with advanced POP who chose conservative treatment with ring pessary between December 2016 and 2018 identified by screening. Demographic data, history of POP, urinary, and/or bowel symptoms were collected. A medical visit was scheduled 3 and 6 months after pessary insertion to evaluate symptoms (vaginal discharge, bleeding, pain, discomfort, new-onset urinary, or fecal problems) and any pessary dislodgment. Two groups were created (women who were able to retain the pessary versus who were not able), and univariate and multivariate analysis were performed to look for risk factors for pessary dislodgment. Women who requested to have their pessaries removed during the 6-month follow-up were excluded. Ninety-three women included in the study, 78 successfully continued to use the pessary at 6 months, and 15 had pessary dislodgment (16.1%). Demographic characteristics were similar between the treatment group and the control group. After multivariate analysis, women who had their pessaries dislodged presented higher rates of previous surgery (odds ratio = 8.11; 95% confidence interval = 2.09-31.58; P = 0.003) with advanced Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification system staging (odds ratio, 13.41; confidence interval, 1.97-91.36; P = 0.008). The presence of advanced apical POP and previous POP surgery are risk factors for ring pessary dislodgment. This information should guide physicians for counseling patients before pessary insertion.

Risk of pelvic organ prolapse treatment based on extended family history

Family history of pelvic organ prolapse among first-degree relatives is an established risk factor for pelvic organ prolapse; however, consideration of the constellation of family history that extends to distant relationships allows for more accurate determination of risk and may improve pelvic organ prolapse risk prediction estimates. The purpose of this study was to assess risk for pelvic organ prolapse treatment based on varying family histories of pelvic organ prolapse and included number and types of affected relatives, ages of relatives at pelvic organ prolapse treatment, and whether the family history is of maternal or paternal origin. This was a retrospective, population-based study that involved the Utah Population Database, which is a population resource that includes extensive genealogy information linked to medical records. The study population included 453,522 total women: 4628 women with a diagnosis of treated (surgical or pessary) pelvic organ prolapse and their 15,530 first-degree relatives; 33,782 second-degree relatives, and 66,469 third-degree relatives. We estimated relative risk of treated pelvic organ prolapse based on specific family history constellations. Relative risk estimates increased with a family history of increasing numbers of treated first-degree relatives with pelvic organ prolapse (first-degree relatives, ≥1 [relative risk, 2.36; 95% confidence interval, 2.15-2.58], first-degree relatives, ≥2 [relative risk, 3.79; 95% confidence interval, 2.65-5.24], and first-degree relatives, ≥3 [relative risk, 6.26; 95% confidence interval, 1.29-18.30]). Having a family history of ≥3 affected third-degree relatives (eg, first cousins) and no affected first- or second-degree relatives was similar in risk to having 1 affected first-degree relative. Relative risk estimates decreased with increasing age of treatment for first-degree family members. Risks in individuals with a positive maternal family history for pelvic organ prolapse were consistently higher than risks in individuals with equivalent paternal family history, but paternal inheritance still played a role. Approximately 4% of the total studied female population was found to have a >2-fold risk of being treated for pelvic organ prolapse and is considered high-risk based on their family history. We provide estimates for treated pelvic organ prolapse based on an extensive family history of pelvic organ prolapse using a large population-based sample. Risk for treated pelvic organ prolapse increased with increasing numbers of affected close and distant female relatives, earlier age of pelvic organ prolapse treatment in relatives, and maternal inheritance. These risk estimates may be useful for genetic studies and investigation of risk reduction strategies in those at highest risk for pelvic organ prolapse.

Symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse in women who lift heavy weights for exercise: a cross-sectional survey.

The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse (POP), defined as the sensation of a vaginal bulge, and associated risk factors in women over 18years of age who lift light (≤15kg), moderate (16-50kg), and heavy (>50kg) weights for exercise, and those who do not lift weights for exercise. Women completed an online survey about risk factors for pelvic floor dysfunctions, physical activity history, and pelvic floor symptoms. A question about a vaginal bulge sensation from the validated Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI-20) was used to indicate symptoms of POP. Relationships between symptoms of POP and possible risk factors were assessed through logistic regression analysis. Of the 3,934 survey participants, the total prevalence of POP symptoms was 14.4% (n = 566). Category of weight lifted, age, vaginal parity, history of constipation or hemorrhoids, and family history of POP were significantly associated with symptoms. Physically active women lifting weights ≤15kg were more likely to report symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse than women lifting weights greater than 50kg (59.7% vs 15.2%; adjusted odds ratio 2.1; 95% confidence interval 1.7-3.4). There was no relationship between POP symptoms and body mass index, forceps delivery, cesarean section, hysterectomy, or menopausal status. Physically active women who lift heavy weights for exercise do not have an increased prevalence of POP symptoms. Advice on the contribution of heavy weight lifting as part of a physical activity regime to the pathophysiology of POP requires further investigation.

The Association Between Pelvic Floor Muscle Force and General Strength and Fitness in Postpartum Women.

The aim of the study was to determine whether measures of muscular strength and fitness are associated with pelvic floor muscle (PFM) force 1-year postpartum in a population of primiparous women who delivered vaginally. This cross-sectional analysis is an ancillary study to an ongoing prospective cohort study and includes 203 primiparous women. Procedures collected 1-year postpartum included maximal PFM force, grip strength, trunk flexor muscle endurance, percent body fat, intra-abdominal pressure during trunk flexor endurance testing, intra-abdominal pressure during strain, and self-reported physical activity. The mean (SD) age was 29.8 (5.0) years and the mean (SD) body mass index was 24.5 (5.2) kg/m. Nineteen percent were of Hispanic ethnicity. The median (interquartile range) PFM force was 5.05 (2.86-7.94) N. The median (interquartile range) trunk flexor endurance time was 146.0 (78.0-267.0), whereas the mean (SD) grip strength and percent fat were 32.4 (6.4) kg and 29.4% (10.0), respectively.There were no statistically significant associations between PFM force and any of the measures tested on analyses unadjusted or adjusted for self-report of doing PFM exercises. Of other factors evaluated, non-Hispanic ethnicity, increasing age, self-reported family history of pelvic organ prolapse or urinary incontinence, and normal and obese body mass index (both compared with overweight) were associated with lower PFM force. In primiparous women 1-year postpartum, we found no associations between PFM force and measures of strength and fitness. This study's results are consistent with existing literature that specific, targeted, and consistent pelvic floor exercises are the best way to improve PFM strength.

Patient-Reported Impact of Pelvic Organ Prolapse on Continence and Sexual Function in Women With Exstrophy-Epispadias Complex.

This study aimed to characterize long-term urogynecologic issues of women with a history of bladder exstrophy and pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and to assess the impact of POP repair on continence and sexual function. Patient demographics and surgical history related to exstrophy and POP were collected through chart review. Patient perceptions regarding sexual function, urinary continence, and quality of life were assessed through Web-based administration of validated questionnaires: International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Urinary Incontinence Short Form and POP-Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire. Maryland, United States. Review of a single-institution exstrophy-epispadias complex database resulted in 25 adult female patients with a history of POP treated at the authors' institution. Eleven patients participated and were included in the analysis. Urinary continence and sexual function. All participants underwent surgical repair for prolapse, with 7 (63.6%) experiencing unsuccessful initial repair and subsequent recurrence. Median total number of POP repairs was 2.5 (1-4). After correction of POP, patients reported a median improvement in International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Urinary Incontinence Short Form scores of 11 (21 to -1) of 21 and in POP-Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire scores of 9.5 (6.5-33.0) of 48.0. With regard to urinary continence, 6 (54.5%) patients presently reported no incontinence, 3 (27.3%) reported mild incontinence, and 2 (18.2%) reported continuous incontinence. Pelvic organ prolapse poses significant reductions in quality of life for women born with exstrophy, with effects on urinary continence and sexual function. Identification and correction of prolapse seems to result in notable improvements in the lives of these patients.

Thermosensitive hydrogels deliver bioactive protein to the vaginal wall.

The pathophysiology and natural history of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) are poorly understood. Consequently, our approaches to treatment of POP are limited. Alterations in the extracellular matrix components of pelvic support ligaments and vaginal tissue, including collagen and elastin, have been associated with the development of POP in animals and women. Prior studies have shown the protease MMP-9, a key player of ECM degradation, is upregulated in vaginal tissues from both mice and women with POP. On the other hand, fibulin-5, an elastogenic organizer, has been found to inhibit MMP-9 in the vaginal wall. Hence, we hypothesized that prolonged release of fibulin-5 may delay progression of POP. To test the hypothesis, oligo (ethylene glycol)-based thermosensitive hydrogels were fabricated, characterized and then used to deliver fibulin-5 to the vaginal wall and inhibit MMP-9 activity. The results indicate that hydrogels are cell and tissue compatible. The hydrogels also prolong the ½ life of fibulin-5 in cultured vaginal fibroblasts and in the vaginal wall in vivo. Finally, fibulin-5-containing hydrogels resulted in incorporation of fibulin-5 into the vaginal matrix and inhibition of MMP-9 for several weeks after injection. These results support the idea of fibulin-5 releasing hydrogel being developed as a new treatment for POP.

Long-term occurrence of secondary compartment pelvic organ prolapse after open mesh sacrocolpopexy for symptomatic prolapse.

To report on the long-term occurrence of secondary compartment pelvic organ prolapse (POP) after open mesh sacrocolpopexy (MSC). A prospectively maintained, IRB-approved database of non-neurogenic women with symptomatic triple compartment POP who underwent open MSC between 1999 and 2011 and had a 1-year minimum follow-up was reviewed. Length of follow-up was categorized as: intermediate (1-3 yr), late (3-5 yr), and very late (>5 yr). Demographic data, history of POP repairs, exam with Baden-Walker grading, validated questionnaires (Urogenital Distress Inventory short form [UDI-6], QoL), and outcomes at each follow-up visit were recorded. Failure was defined by either secondary compartment prolapse recurrence (BW > 2) on examination at the last visit or re-operation for POP. Out of sixty-eight, sixty-one women met study criteria. Mean age was 66 ± 11, mean BMI 26.1 ± 4.5, mean parity 2.8 ± 1.4 and cohort was mostly Caucasian. --Eighty seven percent had prior hysterectomy and 72% had prior POP repair. Mean follow-up was 6.8 ± 3.9 years with over 75% in the late or very late categories. There were 4/61 (7%) clinical failures, 3 of which underwent surgical repair (2 anterior and 1 posterior compartment repair) at 2-12 year interval post-MSC. Mean changes between baseline and last visit UDI-6, QoL, and BW prolapse grade trended favorably. Following open MSC, the rate of secondary prolapse compartment failure was found low at very long-term follow-up.

Natural history of pelvic organ prolapse in symptomatic patients actively seeking treatment.

At our institution many symptomatic patients must wait months or years for surgery. Our aim was to determine the rates of clinically significant pelvic organ prolapse (POP) progression and identify risk factors associated with POP progression. Data from a prospectively maintained database of POP patients evaluated between 2008 and 2013 were analyzed. Women with symptomatic POP and two or more POP-Q examinations prior to surgery were included. POP progression was defined as having any of the POP-Q points Aa, Ba, C, D, Ap or Bp above the hymen at the baseline examination and at or below the hymen at the follow-up examination. Multivariable logistic analysis was preformed and the results are presented as odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Of consecutive patients evaluated between July 2008 and June 2013, 388 met the inclusion criteria and were included. The median time between the POP-Q examinations was 9.9months (IQR 7.8 to 13.8months). The POP progression rate was 29.1% (95% CI 24.6-33.6%). Predictors of progression included age (OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.01-2.87) and the baseline status of points Ba, C, Bp and gH (OR 1.91, 95% CI 1.01-3.62; OR 0.53, 95% CI 0.3-0.94; OR 0.54, 95% CI 0.32-0.93; OR 2.15, 95% CI 1.13-4.1; respectively). POP-Q point correlations showed that anterior and posterior compartment points evolve with apical compartment points and gH evolves with both the anterior compartment and the apex. Up to 29.1% of symptomatic patients with POP showed clinically significant progression over a median follow-up of 9.9months. The likelihood of progression was not significantly associated with time. Those ≥60years of age as well as those with point Ba ≥4cm or gH ≥5cm at baseline were at increased risk of POP progression.

Prevalence of dynamic magnetic resonance imaging-identified pelvic organ prolapse in pre- and postmenopausal women without clinically evident pelvic organ descent.

Background Dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (dMRI) is an imaging tool that can be used to evaluate and stage pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Greater understanding of the incidental detection of POP in asymptomatic patients is needed. Purpose To evaluate the prevalence of dMRI-detected POP in pre-and postmenopausal women who were imaged for reasons unrelated to pelvic floor dysfunction. Material and Methods A total of 227 women who had diagnoses that did not include POP underwent abdominal/pelvic dMRI. Patients with a positive gynecological examination for or a clinical history of POP ( n = 11), hysterectomy ( n = 4), or gynecologic-oncology surgery ( n = 2) were excluded, as well as patients who were unable to strain during MRI ( n = 11). A total of 199 patients without visible prolapse were enrolled in the study. An H-line, M-line, pubococcygeal line (PCL), and mid-pubic line (MPL) were used to detect and grade prolapse. Results The prevalence of dMRI-identified POP was higher in postmenopausal subjects. The PCL led to a greater frequency of prolapse detection than the MPL. The frequency of middle compartment descent was similar regardless of whether the PCL or MPL was used as a reference line. There was a higher incidence of prolapse in the posterior compartment. Using an H-line and PCL as references, the anterior and posterior compartments were found to significantly differ between pre- and postmenopausal subjects. The MRI parameters that were used to define POP were not correlated with parity, vaginal birth, BMI, or fetal birth weight. With respect to the MPL, age was correlated with both the presence of an elongated H-line and with descent. Conclusion Dynamic MRI identified incidental pelvic organ prolapse in asymptomatic patients. The prevalence of dMRI-detected POP was higher in postmenopausal women without visible prolapse. These findings suggest the need for further studies to identify how to modify the currently used dMRI thresholds for postmenopausal women.

Anatomical Cystocele Recurrence: Development and Internal Validation of a Prediction Model.

To develop a prediction model that estimates the risk of anatomical cystocele recurrence after surgery. The databases of two multicenter prospective cohort studies were combined, and we performed a retrospective secondary analysis of these data. Women undergoing an anterior colporrhaphy without mesh materials and without previous pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery filled in a questionnaire, underwent translabial three-dimensional ultrasonography, and underwent staging of POP preoperatively and postoperatively. We developed a prediction model using multivariable logistic regression and internally validated it using standard bootstrapping techniques. The performance of the prediction model was assessed by computing indices of overall performance, discriminative ability, calibration, and its clinical utility by computing test characteristics. Of 287 included women, 149 (51.9%) had anatomical cystocele recurrence. Factors included in the prediction model were assisted delivery, preoperative cystocele stage, number of compartments involved, major levator ani muscle defects, and levator hiatal area during Valsalva. Potential predictors that were excluded after backward elimination because of high P values were age, body mass index, number of vaginal deliveries, and family history of POP. The shrinkage factor resulting from the bootstrap procedure was 0.91. After correction for optimism, Nagelkerke's R and the Brier score were 0.15 and 0.22, respectively. This indicates satisfactory model fit. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the prediction model was 71.6% (95% confidence interval 65.7-77.5). After correction for optimism, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 69.7%. This prediction model, including history of assisted delivery, preoperative stage, number of compartments, levator defects, and levator hiatus, estimates the risk of anatomical cystocele recurrence.