Recurrent Cystocele Research Articles

Anterior and Apical Prolapse: Comparison of Vaginal Mesh Surgery to Vaginal Surgery with No Mesh.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the anatomical results after an anterior sacrospinous ligament fixation (ASSLF) with native tissue repair (anterior colporraphy and apical suspension with prolene) compared to mesh repair for the correction of anterior prolapse at 12 months after surgery. A monocentric prospective study comparing two similar cohorts who underwent ASSLF was conducted. The primary endpoint was the gain in the position of the Ba point relative to its position before surgery and twelve months after surgery. The secondary endpoints consisted of objective results, which were assessed using validated questionnaires. Fifty-three women were included in the native tissue repair group between June 2019 and March 2020. They were compared to 53 women operated on with anterior and apical mesh. There was no difference with respect to the Ba point after 1 year between the two groups (-2 [-3; 1.5]; -2 [-3; 1], p = 0.9789). The apex was significantly better corrected in the native tissue repair group (-7 vs. -6, p = 0.0007). There was also a better correction on the rectocele in the native tissue repair group (-3 vs. -2, p = 0.0178). The rate of Stage 2 anterior vaginal prolapse at one year was approximately 30% in both groups (no statistical difference). ASSFL without mesh does not increase the risk of cystocele recurrence at 1 year after surgery. A future prospective comparison of this native tissue repair technique with mesh suspension is necessary to explore these preliminary findings.

Triple-compartment strategy for abdominal sacral colpopexy using PVDF mesh: one-year report of anatomical and subjective outcomes.

Abdominal Sacral Colpopexy (ASC) is one of the best surgical methods to repair apical or uterine prolapse. We aimed to evaluate the short-term results of a triple-compartment open ASC strategy using polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) mesh in the treatment of patients with severe apical or uterine prolapse. Women with high-grade uterine or apical prolapse with or without cysto-rectocele were prospectively enrolled in the study from April 2015 to June 2021. We performed all-compartment repair using a tailored PVDF mesh for ASC. We assessed the severity of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) using the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POP-Q) system at baseline and 12 months after the operation. The patients completed the International Continence Society Questionnaire Vaginal Symptom (ICIQ-VS) questionnaire at baseline, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Thirty-five women with a mean age of 59.8±10.0 years were included in the final analysis. Stage III and stage IV prolapse was evident in 12 and 25 patients, respectively. After 12 months, the median POP-Q stage was significantly lower compared to the baseline (4 vs 0, p=<0.0001). Vaginal symptoms score was also reduced significantly at 3-month (7.5±3.5), 6-month (7.3±3.6), and 12-month (7.2±3.1) compared to the baseline (39.5±6.7) (p values < 0.0001). We did not observe any mesh extrusion or high-grade complications. Six (16.7%) patients had cystocele recurrence during the 12-month follow-up, and two of them needed reoperation. Our short-term follow-up showed that using an open ASC technique with PVDF mesh in treating high-grade apical or uterine prolapse is associated with a high rate of procedural success and low rates of complication.

Evaluating sexual function among women after recurrent pelvic organ prolapse transvaginal mesh repair

We aimed to evaluate women’s sexual function before and after pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery utilising light transvaginal mesh after a prior hysterectomy. Only sexually active women with recurrent cystocele stage 3–4 according to POP-Q, who had previously undergone vaginal hysterectomy with anterior native tissue repair without apical fixation, were enrolled in the study. Women with previous mesh implant POP surgery, persistent vaginal infection or pelvic inflammatory disease were excluded. All patients were surgically treated between 2012 and 2015 using single-incision transvaginal mesh Calistar A. Sexual function was evaluated before a surgery and two years postoperatively. The assessment was accomplished via the standardised validated Czech translation of PISQ-12SF questionnaire. For each patient, age, BMI and parity were monitored. Out of all (89) eligible patients, 48 patients met inclusion criteria and were subsequently enrolled in our study. Two years postoperatively, 31 women (79.5%) improved their PISQ-12 score; five (12.8%) had equivalent scores, and three patients (7.7%) reported lower scores. Overall PISQ-12 score was 37.1 ± 2.6 postoperatively with a 2.9 ± 2.3 statistically significant positive difference compared to the score preceding surgery. The majority of patients undergoing surgery using Calistar A experienced a significant improvement in sexual function. IMPACT STATEMENT What is already known on this subject? Pelvic organ prolapse has a significant impact on women’s sexual functioning in an adverse manner. Mesh implant repair is associated with lower rates of prolapse awareness and prolapse re-operation; however, it is linked with safety concerns. One of these concerns is the negative impact on women’s sexual function. Evaluative study results following sexual function among women with mesh implant transvaginal repair are contradictory. What do the results of this study add? The results showed, that contrary to finding some of the previous studies, transvaginal mesh implant use could benefit patients with previous native tissue POP surgery failure with a low risk of sexual function deterioration. What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? The study provides clinical data for vaginal mesh implants on women’s sexual function in the mid-term outcome. These data can be crucial for selecting the right POP surgical technique and evaluating its benefits and risks.

Clinical outcome and urodynamic changes of tailored transvaginal mesh surgery for pelvic organ prolapse: A mid-term 40 Months follow-up

To evaluate the changes in clinical outcome and urodynamic parameters after tailored anterior transvaginal mesh (ATVM) surgeries in a mid-term follow-up. Between November 2011 and December 2015, women with ≥stage II pelvic organ prolapse (POP) who underwent ATVM surgeries were retrospectively reviewed. The data-reviewing timeframe was until December 2021. Clinical and urodynamic diagnoses regarding urinary symptoms were evaluated before and after the operation. A total of 160 women were included. Stress urinary incontinence decreased significantly after the operation (99% (159/160) vs. 43% (68/160), p<0.01), as well as the pad weight (20.5±2.7 vs. 9.4±2.0, p<0.001) and diagnosis of urodynamic stress incontinence (83% (132/160) vs. 51% (82/160), p<0.01). Overactive bladder syndrome increased significantly after the operation (18% (29/160) vs. 28% (45/160), p=0.03), even though the objective parameters, such as first and strong desire to void, bladder oversensitivity, and detrusor overactivity, were all improved after the operation. The pad weight was mostly improved significantly within the first postoperative 2 years. Eighteen (11%) women had global recurrent POP, and only one (0.6%) woman had true recurrence of cystocele. Twenty-four (15%) women had mesh extrusion, and two-thirds of them could be managed in an office setting. In women with advanced cystocele, the ATVM surgery provides a favorable anatomic reduction outcome with an acceptable mesh extrusion rate. The ATVM provides an anti-incontinence effect, both in subjective symptoms and objective parameters, but this effect might decline after postoperative 2 years.

Improving of long-term follow-up after cystocele repair

IntroductionThe anterior vaginal wall is the most common site of repair compared with apex and posterior vaginal wall, and is also the site with the highest recurrence rate after surgery. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anatomical location of apex in patients with cystocele staged 2–3 (POP-Q), to correct all anatomical defects and to improve cystocele repair results. Materials and methodsThis was a single-center prospective study of women with cystocele of stage 2–3 with and without apical prolapse who underwent combined surgical treatment. The authors performed combined surgical procedures in women with apical prolapse, including pectopexy. Clinical and anatomical follow-ups were carried out at least in 12 months. ResultsAll patients revealed good to excellent results, with a high rate of satisfaction. There were no significant differences in recurrence among women with and without apical prolapse. Of the 22 women after pectopexy, the only one had apical prolapse of grade 1. The median cystocele recurrence rate was 3.8% in group without apical prolapse (grade 1), and 4.5% (grade 1) in pectopexy group. Sexual matters, incontinence score and QoL were significantly improved in both groups. The main reason for cystocele low recurrence rate is defect-oriented multicompartment strategy in all cases including patients with and without apical defect. ConclusionPectopexy can be a good choice for prolapse surgery, including the positive effect in cases of lateral anterior wall defect. Using this strategy, it becomes possible to perform native tissue vaginal repair with encouraged long-term follow-ups.

Long-Term Experience with Modified McCall Culdoplasty in Women Undergoing Vaginal Hysterectomy for Pelvic Organ Prolapse.

The incidence of post-hysterectomy vault prolapse following native tissue repair has been reported to be as high as 43%. The optimal way to maintain vault support is unknown. Our aim was to evaluate the long-term efficacy of modified McCall culdoplasty during vaginal hysterectomy for symptomatic uterine prolapse in preventing the recurrence of vaginal vault prolapse. We conducted a retrospective chart review involving 490 patients who underwent vaginal hysterectomy with modified McCall culdoplasty, with or without a concomitant stress incontinence procedure, between January 2008 and December 2018 at Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto. Data analyzed included patient demographics, preoperative prolapse staging, intraoperative and postoperative complications, and postoperative subjective and objective success rates. A total of 490 patients underwent vaginal hysterectomy with modified McCall culdoplasty. The mean follow-up period was 2.8 years. The objective success rate of vault support was 97.1%, and the subjective success rate was 94.1%. The total rate of reoperation for recurrence of vault prolapse was 1.0%. The objective cystocele recurrence rate was 8.6%, and 2.4% of these cases required reoperation. The objective rectocele recurrence rate was 4.7%, with 1.2% requiring reoperation. Unilateral ureteric kinking requiring intraoperative release of the McCall suture was recorded for 2.9% of patients. Overall, there was significant improvement in urinary, bowel, and prolapse symptoms post procedure. This cohort of patients who underwent modified McCall culdoplasty had low rates of vault prolapse recurrence and prolapse symptoms. The modified McCall culdoplasty technique practised at our institution is safe and effective in preventing post-hysterectomy vault prolapse.

Small intestinal submucosa xenograft to manage lower urinary tract prostheses perforation: a new path?

Tapes for stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and meshes for pelvic organ prolapse can result in postoperative complications, such as urethral (UP) or bladder (BP) perforations. Martius fat pad (MFP) is an historic procedure, widely used to treat lower urinary tract (LUT) fistulae. We report our experience with the insertion of the biological small intestinal submucosa (SIS) xenograft as an alternative to MFP in these prosthetic complications. We conducted a retrospective, monocentric study which included all patients who underwent SIS insertion during surgical removal of tape/vaginal mesh for UP or BP from 2011 to 2019. Preoperative assessment was based on history, symptoms, physical examination and urethrocystoscopy. Primary outcome was successful repair defined as absence of any LUT defect. Secondary outcomes were complications, LUT symptoms, pain and additional SUI surgical procedures. Thirty-eight patients were included. Twenty-six had a UP and eight a BP. In four cases, perforation involved both the bladder neck and urethra. All LUT defects were cured. Six postoperative complications were reported (five of grade ≤ 2 and one of grade 3b according to the Clavien-Dindo classification). At the mean follow-up of 37.2 (range 6-98)months, 14 patients (36.8%) presenting a postoperative SUI underwent a SUI surgical procedure and 1 patient had a laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy for cystocele recurrence. Absorbable SIS xenograft is an effective and safe graft for the management of lower urinary tract tape and mesh perforations. The cost has to be balanced with the good results, short operative time and no fat pad complications as in MFP.

Prospective ultrasonographic follow-up of transvaginal lightweight meshes: a 1-year multicenter study.

The use of new lightweight meshes in pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery may reduce complications related to mesh retraction (chronic pain, dyspareunia, and mesh exposure). The aim of this study was to investigate changes in the area and position of Uphold Lite™ mesh 6weeks and 12months after anterior and/or apical prolapse repair. This observational prospective multicenter study included patients who had undergone transvaginal surgery for symptomatic POP-Q stage ≥ II anterior and/or apical compartment prolapse with placement of Uphold Lite mesh. The dimensions and position of the mesh were evaluated at 6weeks and 12months by ultrasonography. Correlations between ultrasonographic mesh characteristics and POP recurrence were analyzed. Fifty evaluable women with an average age of 66.8years were included. No statistically significant difference in mesh area was found between week 6 and month 12 postoperatively, either at rest (1746.92 vs. 1574.48mm2; p = 0.15) or on Valsalva (1568.81 vs. 1542.98mm2; p = 0.65). The ROC-AUC of the distance between the mesh and the bladder neck (M-BN) at 6weeks for predicting cystocele recurrence at 12months was 0.764 (95% CI 0.573-0.955) at rest and 0.724 (95% CI 0.533-0.916) on Valsalva. An M-BN distance > 12.5mm could predict cystocele recurrence at month 12 with a sensitivity of 80% and a specificity of 69%. Ultrasonographic measurements of the Uphold Lite™ mesh appear to remain stable between 6weeks and 12months postoperatively. M-BN distance correlates with cystocele recurrence. These results appear to confirm the value of ultrasound in mesh evaluation.

Cystocele Repair with Platelet-Rich Plasma

Cystocele is the most common vaginal wall prolapse with high incidence of recurrence after operation. Our aim in this study was to show the effectiveness of using platelet-rich plasma with cystocele repair. Patients were assigned to 2 groups: (1) cystocele repair only and (2) cystocele repair with platelet-rich plasma injection. Each group consisted of 28 patients. There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of demographics features. They were re-assessed 4 weeks later, 6 months later and annually with the standard Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification system to detect anatomic recurrence, the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory for assessment of symptomatic recurrence and Patient Impression of Global Improvement questionnaire for assessment of subjective success. At the end of the 48-month follow-up period, the results were compared between the groups. The main outcome was low recurrence rate with platelet-rich plasma administration and secondary outcome was lower Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory scale score and higher Patient Impression of Global Improvement questionnaire results. The decrease in prolapse symptoms ascertained with the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory scale was more significant in group 2 (6 vs. 2, p = 0.002), reoperation rate for symptomatic cystocele recurrence was significantly lower in group 2 (5 (17.8%) vs. 1 (3.5%), p = 0.001) and also subjective success evaluated with Patient Impression of Global Improvement scale was significantly higher in group 2 (21 vs. 25, p = 0.012). Considering mesh complications, platelet-rich plasma administration may be a good alternative to prevent cystocele recurrence. However, further research is needed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of this treatment.

Transvaginal round-infundibulopelvic ligament colposuspension after vaginal hysterectomy in high-grade uterovaginal prolapse: 11-year outcome

ObjectiveTo interpret the long-term outcomes of transvaginal round-infundibulopelvic ligament colposuspension after vaginal hysterectomy in patients with stage 3–4 uterovaginal prolapse. Study designThis retrospective case–control study from 2007 to 2016 analysed patients’ medical records and evaluated gynaecological examinations over 11 years of follow-up. One hundred and forty-three patients who underwent transvaginal round-infundibulopelvic ligament colposuspension after vaginal hysterectomy were evaluated. The prespecified primary outcome evaluated at 11-year follow-up was apical prolapse of stage 2 or higher evaluated by the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification System (POP-Q), in combination with bothersome bulge symptoms or repeat surgery for recurrent apical prolapse. The secondary outcome was overall anatomical failure (recurrent prolapse of stage 2 or higher in apical, anterior or posterior compartment). The rate of recurrence of apical prolapse was compared between groups using the McNemar test. ResultsThe mean (± standard deviation) follow-up period was 88.15 ± 2.519 months (95 % confidence interval 83.17–93.13). The pre-operative diagnoses were stage 3 uterovaginal prolapse in 23 (16.08 %) patients, stage 4 uterovaginal prolapse in 120 (83.91 %) patients, rectocele in 119 (83.21 %) patients, cystocele in 138 (96.50 %) patients and stress urinary incontinence in 53 (37.06 %) patients. Ten (8.33 %) patients with stage 4 uterovaginal prolapse developed postoperative apical prolapse, whereas none of the patients with stage 3 uterovaginal prolapse developed postoperative apical prolapse. Postoperatively, the POP-Q stages of apical prolapse were significantly lower compared with pre-operatively (p < 0.001). Postoperatively, the apical prolapse rate was 7.0 %, the recurrent cystocele rate was 2.07 %, the recurrent rectocele rate was 5.5 %, and the recurrent stress urinary incontinence rate was 18.87 %. Overall, postoperative anatomical failure occurred in 21 of 143 (14.68 %) women. One (0.69 %) patient developed perioperative bladder perforation, two (1.39 %) patients experienced voiding difficulty, and eight (5.59 %) patients experienced vaginal spotting. ConclusionTransvaginal round-infundibulopelvic ligament colposuspension during vaginal hysterectomy is an effective and useful method that reduces the rate of postoperative apical prolapse in patients with high-grade uterovaginal prolapse.

One-year outcomes of a suture-less laparoscopic sacral hysteropexy using polypropylene Y-mesh grafts and fibrin sealant spray: A prospective comparative study

Laparoscopic sacral hysteropexy (SH) is a minimally invasive and effective treatment for uterovaginal prolapse in women who wish to retain the uterus. However, this procedure is limited by a steep learning curve and a long operating time. In this study, we aim to evaluate the surgical outcomes of a modified laparoscopic SH procedure using innovative methods of vaginal mesh attachment, which we hypothesized to be equally effective and time-saving. This was a prospective, parallel, comparative study conducted at a tertiary referral hospital. A total of 34 women with advanced (POPQ [Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification] stages ≧ 2) uterine prolapse, who underwent a laparoscopic SH procedure using lightweight polypropylene Y-mesh grafts (ALYTE), were studied. In half (n = 17) of the cases, fibrin sealant spray (TISSEEL) was applied to the meshes fixed at the anterior and posterior vaginal wall with fewer (six vs at least ten) sutures. A detailed comparison of one-year outcomes between groups was performed. Patient characteristics and perioperative results were comparable between groups with the exception of a significantly shorter total operating time (247.0 vs 292.9 minutes, p = 0.04) noted in the fibrin group. At 1 year, anatomic success (POPQ stage ≦1) rates (76.5% vs 76.5%) were not different between groups. There were eight patients, with four in each group, who had surgical failure. Notably, most (7/8; 87.5%) surgical failures were at the anterior compartment (i.e, recurrent cystocele). No vaginal mesh extrusions were noted. After statistical analysis, we found "cystocele as the dominant prolapse before operation" was a significant predisposing factor for prolapse recurrence (p = 0.019; odds ratio = 8.04). The modified laparoscopic SH procedure using Y-mesh grafts and fibrin sealant spray with fewer vaginal sutures was equally effective as conventional methods but saved time. Laparoscopic SH using Y-mesh grafts might not be as effective in repairing a concomitant dominant cystocele.

Comparison of clinical outcomes between tailored transvaginal mesh surgery and native tissue repair for pelvic organ prolapse

The most suitable surgical technique for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) remains undetermined. The aim of this study was to compare clinical outcomes of the tailored transvaginal mesh (TVM) surgery and vaginal native tissue repair (NTR) surgery for POP. Between November 2011 and August 2014, medical records of 339 women receiving POP surgeries were reviewed. Compared with the NTR group (n=169), the use of TVM surgery (n=170) was a predictor for longer operation time (coefficient=25.2min, P<0.001) and larger blood loss (coefficient=79.9mL, P<0.001) by multivariable analysis. However, a higher recurrence rate of cystoceles (log-rank test, P=0.001) was found in the NTR group, compared with the TVM group; but not apical prolapse (P=0.32) or rectocele (P=0.45). Multivariable analysis revealed that the TVM surgery (hazard ratio=0.24, 95% confidence interval=0.09-0.64, P=0.004) and old age (hazard ratio=1.07, 95% confidence interval=1.02-1.11, P=0.005) were independent predictors for the recurrence of cystoceles. Based on the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis, the cut-off age value was 64 years with an ROC area of 0.65. In women with intact uterus (n=162), the recurrence rate of cystoceles was lower in the TVM group (log-rank test, P=0.0001), compared with the NTR group. However, there was no between-group difference in the recurrence rate of cystoceles in women with prior or concomitant hysterectomy (n=177, P=0.17). In women with intact uterus, the TVM group has a lower recurrence rate of cystoceles than the NTR group. In addition, old age, especially more than 64 years old, is a risk factor for cystocele recurrence.

A long-term comparative study of Uphold™ transvaginal mesh kit against anterior colporrhaphy

Cystocele recurrence remains a major challenge. Anterior colporrhaphy (AC) offers variable success rates that are mostly poorer than native-tissue repairs in other compartments. We compared outcomes after the use of Uphold™ transvaginal mesh kit and AC. A retrospective external audit including patients after Uphold™ mesh implantation (2010-2016) analysed against previously published data obtained in identical fashion after AC at the same hospital (2002-2005). Patients underwent an interview, clinical examination and 4D-translabial ultrasound. Offline analysis was performed blinded against all other data. Of 264 patients after mesh and 242 patients after AC, we saw 82 (31%) and 83 (34%), after a median interval of 3.9years (range 0.4-7.3). Mean age was 64years (34-86), mean body mass index was 27.7kg/m2 (15-56) and median vaginal parity 3 deliveries (1-9). AC and mesh groups significantly differed with regard to median follow-up interval (4.3 vs 3.2years), mean age (61.3 ± 12 vs 67.2 ± 7.5years), vaginal parity (3 vs 2), past instrumental delivery (20 out of 83 vs 36 out of 82) and concurrent hysterectomy, other prolapse repair or midurethral sling (35 out of 83 vs 1 out of 82, 58 out of 83 vs 76 out of 82 and 12 out of 83 vs 29 out of 82 respectively). The mesh group had 9 cases of dyspareunia, 4 of chronic pelvic pain and 4 vaginal mesh exposures. Univariate comparison between groups for satisfaction and sonographic cystocele favoured mesh. However, point Ba, symptoms of prolapse and reoperation for prolapse were not significantly different. Associations were confirmed on multivariate analysis. This analysis of two audit projects suggests that the transvaginal Uphold™ mesh kit may confer some advantages over AC for cystocele repair.

Comparison of Unilateral and Bilateral Sacrospinous Ligament Fixation Using Minimally Invasive Anchorage.

Objective The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of a newly developed anchoring system for unilateral sacrospinous ligament fixation (USSLF) and bilateral sacrospinous ligament fixation (BSSLF) procedures. Material and Methods Ninety-three patients with pelvic prolapse who were treated surgically with the Anchorsure System ® between 2013 and 2018 were included in the study. USSLF was performed in 52 patients (group 1), and BSSLF was performed in 41 patients (group 2). Pelvic organ prolapse was assessed preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively. Results There were no significant differences between groups 1 and 2 with regard to age, parity, and demographic characteristics. Anatomical improvement rates were similar, irrespective of the type of SSLF used. No bleeding requiring blood transfusion or organ injuries occurred in any patient. Three patients in the group that received BSSLF developed small asymptomatic cystoceles (grade 1 to 2); there was no recurrence of rectoceles or enteroceles. Mild cystocele was found in 1 patient from the USSLF group. There was no significant difference between the groups with respect to the recurrence of cystocele. Recurrence of vaginal vault prolapse was found in 2 patients from the USSLF group (3.84%). There was no significant difference between the groups with regard to recurrence. Febrile morbidity, clinical outcomes, blood loss, duration of operation, intraoperative complications, and length of hospital stay were similar for the two groups. Conclusions Unilateral and bilateral SSLF techniques produce similar clinical outcomes. USSLF and BSSLF performed using the new anchoring system are safe and effective methods to treat pelvic organ prolapse.

Medium-term outcomes after robotic-assisted lateral suspension with mesh for advanced multi-compartmental prolapse

Introduction and hypothesisRobotic abdominal lateral suspension (RALS) is an innovative mini-invasive surgical technique that allows treating apical and anterior prolapse. The safety and efficacy of this strategy have not yet been tested.MethodsWe completed a prospective case series of 115 RALS to treat apical and anterior prolapse stage III or IV, with no or minimal (stage I) posterior defect. Clinical evaluation was performed with a simplified POP quantification system (POP-Q). Mean follow-up was 28 ± 4 months. Primary outcomes were objective and subjective cure; secondary outcomes were reoperation rate for recurrence, erosion rate and complications. Objective cure was defined as POP-Q ≤ 1. Subjective cure was defined as absence of vaginal bulge. Patient’s satisfaction was measured using the Patient Global Impression of Improvement Scale (PGI-I).ResultsThere was a significant improvement in POP-Q score in all treated compartments with an objective cure rate of 88.7% for the anterior and 93.1% for the apical compartment (p < 0.0001). Subjective cure rate was 82%. The emergence of de novo high rectoceles was not significant in the cohort, as much as the development of de novo stress or urge urinary incontinence. Reoperation rate for POP was 11.3% (8 recurrent cystoceles without apical descent and 5 apical and anterior relapses). No postoperative complications of Clavien-Dindo grade ≥ 3a were seen. Mesh exposure rate was 0.9%; 58.2% patients compiled a PGI-I score at 18–24 months post-surgery, reporting high satisfaction rates.ConclusionsRALS is highly effective at a mid-term follow-up for the treatment of advanced apical and anterior POP.

TWO CASES OF URETHRAL PROLAPSE MISDIAGNOSED AS PELVIC ORGAN PROLAPSE

We experienced two cases of urethral prolapse misdiagnosed as pelvic organ prolapse. One patient, an 87-year-old woman, was referred to us from a gynecological clinic with a supposed uterine prolapse. The other patient, an 84-year-old woman, was referred to us from the Department of Urology in a general hospital with a supposed recurrence of cystocele following a transvaginal mesh repair. We diagnosed both of them as having a urethral prolapse through pelvic examination and cystoscopy. Both patients were treated uneventfully with the four-quadrant excisional technique. Urethral prolapse is a relatively rare disease and as such, urologists and gynecologists may have little exposure to the symptoms in a clinical setting, resulting to misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis. We discussed the differential diagnosis of urethral prolapse.

Unilateral apical sling: a new look at the sacrospinous fixation

Hypothesis/aims of study. Nowadays a sacrospinous ligament fixation is one of the most studied and popular methods of colpo- and hysteropexy. Despite the high effectiveness against apical compartment defect, this technique has a number of specific side effects: chronic pain syndrome, dyspareunia, and а high rate of postoperative cystocele de novo. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of unilateral sacrospinous ligament fixation with use of a modern synthetic monofilament mesh combined with the original technique of pubocervical fascia reconstruction using subfascial colporrhaphy.&#x0D; Study design, materials and methods. This study involved 174 women suffering from anterior/apical prolapse. All patients were operated with the proposed method. Postoperative assessment was performed at 1, 6 and 12 months after surgery and included vaginal examination with evaluation of pelvic organ prolapse by standardized POP-Q system, uroflowmetry, bladder ultrasound with post-void residual urine volume measurement, and filling in validated questionnaires (PFDI-20, PFIQ-7, PISQ-12).&#x0D; Results. Mean operation time was 26 ± 7.8 min. No cases of damage to the bladder or intraoperative clinically significant bleeding were noted. During a postoperative period, most of the patients showed a significant improvement in POP-Q points while maintaining the total vaginal length. Within 12 months of follow-up, the recurrence was observed in 1 (0.7%) patient in the apical compartment and in 10 (6.8%) patients in the anterior compartment. It should be mentioned that only in 3 cases of cystocele recurrence did the vaginal wall descend beyond the hymen. There were no cases of mesh erosion and pelvic pain syndrome through 12 months postoperatively. In the postoperative period, an improvement in urination was observed in all women. Most of the patients after the treatment showed a significant improvement in the quality of life. Only one patient complained of dyspareunia de novo. According to the questionnaires, satisfaction with the result of treatment was 96.5%.&#x0D; Conclusion. A unilateral sacrospinous fixation using a synthetic mesh combined with pubocervical fascia reconstruction (subfascial colporrhaphy) provides a high efficiency, while significantly reducing the rate of complications related to the traditional sacrospinous fixation.

Improvement in the quality of life in women with stress urinary incontinence after surgery for pelvic organ prolapse

Introduction. Pelvic organ prolapse is commonly associated with symptomatic stress urinary incontinence, in up to 50% of patients. The aim of our research was to examine the quality of life of women with urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse after conventional surgical treatment. Material and Methods. The research included 50 patients with stress urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse that underwent vaginal hysterectomy with anterior and posterior colporrhaphy. The pelvic organ prolapse-quantification system was used to determine the degree of genital prolapse. All patients completed a questionnaire to determine the ?stress and urge? score preoperatively, as well as the Urinary Distress Inventory-6 and Urinary Impact Questionnaire-7 during the follow-up examination, a year after the surgery. Results. One year after surgery, 20 patients (40%) presented with a recurrence of cystocele. The average value of the Urinary Distress Inventory-6 questionnaire a year after surgery was 29.0 ? 10.8, while the average value of the Urinary Impact Questionnaire-7 questionnaire was 3.7 ? 16.3. After the surgery, 6 patients (12%) had persistent stress urinary incontinence and 4 patients (8%) had urge urinary incontinence. Among patients with persistent stress urinary incontinence, two patients reported pronounced symptoms of stress urinary incontinence and reoperation was performed. Conclusion. The classical surgical treatment of pelvic organ prolapse with anterior and posterior colporrhaphy leads to improvement in the quality of life of patients with pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence. If the symptoms of stress urinary incontinence persist after classical surgical treatment, other anti-incontinence surgical modalities should be considered.

Anterior and middle pelvic organ prolapse repair using a six tension-free strap low weight transvaginal mesh: long-term retrospective monocentric study of 311 patients

IntroductionTreatment of pelvic organ prolapse is an important public health issue due to the ageing population. The Food and Drug Administration, in 2011, issued a warning on complications after transvaginal insertion of high weight mesh. We evaluated a 6 tension-free straps, light prosthesis made from polypropylene monofilaments. Materials and methodsThis monocentric, retrospective study included patients undergoing anterior or apical prolapse repair surgery by placement of a six tension-free strap low weight vaginal mesh between 2008 and 2017. The surgical history, concomitant surgery, clinical examination results, pre and postoperative results of the Urinary Symptom Profile questionnaire, and intraoperative and postoperative complications were collected from patients’ medical records. Results311 patients were included (median follow-up: 33 months). The majority (93%) had stage ≥ III cystocele and 26% had stage ≥ III hysterocele. Postoperatively, there were nine cases (2.9%) of asymptomatic cystocele recurrence and 11 (3.5%) cases of hysterocele recurrence, among them six underwent reoperation. Vaginal comfort was significantly improved in 92% vs. 17% before surgery (p < 0,0001); two (1,76%) patients had de novo dyspareunia. Preoperatively, 104 patients had stress urinary incontinence (SUI), 45,2% of them were cured postoperatively. There were 62 (30%) cases of de novo SUI. A significant improvement of dysuria (p < 0,0001) and overactive bladder (OAB) was found for all severity stages (p < 0,0001). Severe complications included haematoma (7,4%), mesh exposure (1.3%), retraction (0.6%), bladder injury (0.6%) and chronic pain (0.6%). ConclusionTreatment of anterior and/or mid-segment prolapse by transvaginal insertion of a six-strap low-weight mesh is long-term effective, with acceptable morbidity.

Vaginal hysterectomy with apical fixation and anterior vaginal wall repair for prolapse: surgical technique and medium-term results.

Stabilization of the vaginal apex (level 1) is an important component of operations to correct pelvic organ prolapse (POP). We report functional and anatomical results and patient-reported outcomes of our technique of vaginal vault fixation at the time of vaginal hysterectomy. One hundred and nine patients-mean 69years, range 50.4-83.8; body mass index (BMI) 26.3, range 17.7-39.5-with symptomatic stage 2-3 uterine prolapse combined with stage 3-4 cystocele underwent vaginal hysterectomy with anterior vaginal wall repair; the apex was formed with high closure of the peritoneum and incorporation of the uterosacral and round ligaments. Only absorbable sutures were used. Follow-up included clinical examination with Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification system (POP-Q) scoring, introital ultrasonography, quality of life (QoL) Likert scale, and the German Pelvic Floor Questionnaire. Seventy patients (64%) were available for a follow-up after a mean of 2.8years (range, 1.6-4.2). At follow-up, point C was stage 0 in 55 (78.6%) women and stage 1 in 15 (21.4%). The anterior vaginal wall was stage 0 or 1 in 35 (50%), stage 2 (no cystocele beyond the hymen) in 34 (49%), and stage 3 in 1 (1.4%). Vaginal length (VL) was 9cm. Four women (4%) were reoperated for prolapse: two for recurrent anterior compartment prolapse and two for de novo rectocele. Postvoid residuals >150ml were seen in 21(30%) patients preoperatively and resolved postoperatively in 20. Urgency occurred in nine (13%), stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in ten (14%), and nocturia in 19 (27%). No patient had discomfort at the vaginal vault and 62 patients (87%) reported improved QoL, which did not correlate with anatomical results. Cystocele ≥ 2° at follow-up was associated with BMI >25 (p = 0.03). Our surgical technique without permanent material offers good apical support and functional and subjective results. Anatomical improvement was achieved in all cases of cystocele repair. Recurrent cystoceles are often asymptomatic.