Uterosacral Ligament Suspension Research Articles

Long-term costs of minimally-invasive sacral colpopexy compared to native tissue vaginal repair with concomitant hysterectomy.

To determine the long-term costs of hysterectomy with minimally-invasive sacrocolpopexy (MISCP) versus uterosacral ligament suspension (USLS) for primary uterovaginal prolapse repair. A hospital-based decision analysis model was built using TreeAge Pro (TreeAge Software Inc, Williamstown, MA). Those with prolapse were modeled to undergo either vaginal hysterectomy with uterosacral ligament suspension (USLS) or minimally invasive total hysterectomy with sacrocolpopexy (MISCP). We modeled the chance of complications of the index procedure, prolapse recurrence with the option for surgical retreatment, complications of the salvage procedure, and possible second prolapse recurrence. The primary outcome was cost of the surgical strategy. The proportion of patients living with prolapse after treatment was the secondary outcome. Tertiary center for urogynecology PATIENTS: Female patients undergoing surgical repair by the same team for primary uterovaginal prolapse INTERVENTIONS: Comparison analysis of estimated long-term costs was performed MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Our primary outcome showed that a strategy of undergoing MISCP as the primary index procedure cost $19,935 and that undergoing USLS as the primary index procedure cost $15,457, a difference of $4,478. Furthermore, 21.1% of women in the USLS group will be living with recurrent prolapse compared to 6.2% of MISCP patients. Switching from USLS to MISCP to minimize recurrence risk would cost $30,054 per case of prolapse prevented. Additionally, a surgeon would have to perform 6.7 cases by MISCP instead of USLS in order to prevent 1 patient from having recurrent prolapse. The higher initial costs of MISCP compared to USLS persist in the long term after factoring in recurrence and complication rates, though more patients who undergo USLS live with prolapse recurrence.

Three-Year Outcomes of a Randomized Clinical Trial of Perioperative Vaginal Estrogen as Adjunct to Native Tissue Vaginal Apical Prolapse Repair.

As the muscular and connective tissue components of the vagina are estrogen-responsive, clinicians may recommend vaginal estrogen to optimize tissues preoperatively and as a possible means to reduce prolapse recurrence, but long-term effects of perioperative intravaginal estrogen on surgical prolapse management are uncertain. To compare the efficacy of perioperative vaginal estrogen vs. placebo cream in reducing composite surgical treatment failure 36 months following native tissue transvaginal prolapse repair. This is the extended follow-up of a randomized superiority trial conducted at 3 tertiary US sites. Postmenopausal patients with bothersome anterior/apical vaginal prolapse were randomized 1:1 to 1g conjugated estrogen cream (0.625mg/g) or placebo, inserted vaginally twice-weekly for ≥5wk preoperatively and continued twice-weekly for 12mo postoperatively. All participants underwent a vaginal hysterectomy (if uterus present) and standardized uterosacral or sacrospinous ligament suspension at surgeon discretion. The primary report's outcome was time-to-failure by 12mo postoperatively defined by a composite outcome of objective prolapse of the anterior or posterior walls beyond the hymen or the vaginal apex descending below one-third the total vaginal length; subjective bulge symptoms; and/or retreatment. After 12mo, participants could choose to use-or not use-vaginal estrogen for atrophy symptom bother. Secondary outcomes included pelvic organ prolapse quantification (POP-Q) points, subjective prolapse symptom severity using the Patient Global Impression of Severity (PGI-S), Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I), and prolapse-specific subscales of the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI-20) and Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire (PFIQ-7). Data were analyzed as intent-to-treat and "per-protocol" (i.e., ≥50% of expected cream use per medication diary). Of 206 postmenopausal patients, 199 were randomized and 186 underwent surgery; 164 (88.2%) provided 36-month data. Mean (SD) age was 65 (6.7) years; characteristics were similar at baseline between groups. Composite surgical failure rates were not significantly different for the estrogen vs. placebo groups through 36 months with model-estimated failure rates of 32.6% (95% CI: 21.6-42.0%) vs. 26.8% (95% CI: 15.8-36.3%), respectively, adjusted hazard ratio, 1.55 (95% CI: 0.90-2.66), P=0.11. Results were similar for the per-protocol analysis. Objective/anatomic failures were more common than subjective/symptomatic failures, combined objective and subjective failures, or retreatment. Using the PGI-I, 75 of 80 (94%) estrogen and 72 of 76 (95%) placebo participants providing 36-month data reported they were much- or very much better 36 months after surgery, P>0.99; these data include reporting from 51 of the 55 "surgical failures". POP-Q measurements, PGI-S scores, and prolapse subscale scores of the PFDI-20 and PFIQ-7 all significantly improved for both estrogen and placebo groups from baseline to 36 months postoperatively without differences between groups. Of the 160 providing data on vaginal estrogen usage at 36 months postoperatively, 40 of 82 (49%) originally assigned to estrogen were using prescribed vaginal estrogen, and 47 of 78 (60%) assigned to placebo were using vaginal estrogen, P=0.15. Adjunctive perioperative vaginal estrogen applied ≥5wk preoperatively and 12mo postoperatively did not improve surgical success rates 36 months after uterosacral or sacrospinous ligament suspension prolapse repair. Patient perception of improvement remained very high at 36 months.

Obesity and Native Tissue Repairs: A Secondary Analysis of the OPTIMAL Trial.

The Operations and Pelvic Muscle Training in the Management of Apical Support Loss (OPTIMAL) Trial compared sacrospinous ligament fixation (SSLF) and uterosacral ligament suspension (ULS) surgical outcomes. Increasing body mass index (BMI) is associated with an increased risk of pelvic organ prolapse, and the prevalence of obesity is increasing worldwide. The purpose of this study was to better understand the effect of obesity on the results of native tissue vaginal apical suspension procedures. This was a secondary analysis of the OPTIMAL Trial data set. Subgroup analysis was performed to compare surgical failure rates between SSLF and ULS across BMI subgroups after 2 years. There were 75, 120, 63, and 39 patients in the normal, overweight, class 1 obesity, and class 2 obesity or greater BMI subgroups, respectively. There were no statistically significant differences in surgical failure rates between SSLF and ULS within BMI subgroups; however, failure rates increased in the ULS group between the nonobese and obese groups (normal, 35.9% SSLF vs 30.6% ULS [P = 0.81]; overweight, 38.6% vs 30.2% [P = 0.44]; class 1 obesity, 38.7% vs 40.6% [P = 0.92]; class 2 obesity or greater, 21.1% vs 45% [P = 0.21]). The risk of surgical failure between SSLF and ULS was not significant across BMI subgroups. Additional investigation is required to further elucidate whether SSLF or ULS is a more reliable option for obese patients.

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) in prolapse repair: A prospective study on pre-emptive uterosacral/cervical block.

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols have been introduced in gynecology. Postoperative pain management after vaginal procedures remains a relevant issue. In the present study we aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of pre-emptive uterosacral/cervical block (PUCB) for postoperative pain control in patients with uterovaginal prolapse undergoing vaginal hysterectomy and pelvic floor repair. We also evaluated the impact on the length of recovery. This was a pilot study analyzing 40 women who underwent pelvic organ prolapse repair through uterosacral ligament suspension. Patients who chose to undergo PUCB were considered as cases, otherwise as controls. After general or spinal anesthesia induction, the treatment group received the PUCB with ropivacaine plus clonidine injections at 2, 4, 8, and 10 o'clock of the cervix. The control group did not receive additional treatment. Pain intensity was measured at rest and after forceful cough at 1, 4, 8, 12, 24, and 48 h postoperatively. We found a significant reduction in pain values at 1 h (rest and forceful cough) and 24 h (forceful cough) in the PUCB group. The incidence of moderate/severe pain was inferior in the PUCB group at 1 h (rest) and 24 h (rest and forceful cough). There were no differences in terms of the use of rescue opioids (0% vs. 5%; P = 0.311) and length of hospital stay (2.5 ± 0.6 vs. 2.3 ± 0.6; P = 0.180). For the first time, we demonstrated the impact of pre-emptive uterosacral/cervical block on pain control up to 24 h after surgery. Clonidine as a sensory blockade extender appears promising in enhancing the efficacy of local anesthetics.

[Lower urinary tract injury in transvaginal reconstructive pelvic surgery].

Objective: To explore the characteristics, prevention and treatment strategies of lower urinary tract injury in transvaginal reconstructive pelvic surgery (vRPS). Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 24 patients who suffered lower urinary tract injuries occuring in vRPS from January 2005 to June 2021, among which 4 cases were referred to our hospital from other hospitals. Results: (1) In our hospital, 1 952 patients underwent vRPS for anterior and (or) middle pelvic organ prolapse during that study period, with a 1.0% (20/1 952) incidence of lower urinary tract injuries occurring in 20 cases. (2) Ureteral injuries were observed in 14 cases who underwent transvaginal high uterosacral ligament suspension (1.4%, 14/966). The symptoms were relieved after the removal of sutures. (3) Bladder injuries occurred in 6 cases in our hospital, with 4 cases (0.7%, 4/576) in anterior transvaginal mesh surgery (aTVM), one (0.4%, 1/260) in colpocleisis, and one (0.7%, 1/150) in apical suspension for fornix prolapse. An additional 4 cases of bladder injury were referred to our hospital after aTVM. Among the 8 cases of bladder injury during aTVM, 2 cases were intraoperative incidents. Cystoscopy confirmed that the superficial branch or puncture rod of anterior vaginal mesh had penetrated into the bladder. Re-puncturing and placement of the mesh were successfully performed. No abnormalities were observed during a follow-up period of 4-5 years. Postoperative bladder injuries were identified in 6 cases, characterized by mesh erosion into the bladder and formation of calculi. These injuries were confirmed between 6 months to 2 years after vRPS. The exposed mesh and calculi in the bladder were removed through laparotomy or cystoscopy, followed up for 2-12 years. One case experienced slight re-erosion of mesh to the bladder. Conclusions: Lower urinary tract injuries are difficult to avoid in vRPS, particularly in transvaginal high uterosacral ligament suspension and aTVM. However, the incidence is low. Lower urinary tract injuries during vRPS could be easily detected and managed intraoperatively because of the use of cystoscopy. As long-term postoperative complications, erosion of transvaginal mesh to lower urinary tract postoperatively could be treated correctly, seldom with severe sequelae.

Impact of Mannitol Bladder Distension in the Intraoperative Detection of Ureteral Kinking During Pelvic Floor Surgery

Introduction and HypothesisUreteral injuries are the most feared complications of gynecological surgery and therefore intraoperative recognition is of the utmost importance. Intraoperative cystoscopy represents the diagnostics of choice to investigate ureteral patency thanks to the direct visualization of ureteral flows after administration of infusion mediums. In this study, we aimed to compare the diagnostic performance of saline versus mannitol intraoperative cystoscopy in terms of false negatives in a large cohort of patients.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed data of patients who underwent vaginal hysterectomy and high uterosacral ligament suspension for POP. Patients were divided in two groups based on the use of saline or mannitol medium for intraoperative cystoscopy. Postoperative daily control of serum creatinine was performed until discharge, as well as urinary tract imaging, in symptomatic patients.ResultsA total of 925 patients underwent vaginal hysterectomy followed by high USL suspension for POP. Saline and mannitol medium were used in 545 patients and 380 patients respectively. Postoperative ureteral injuries were identified in 12 patients, specifically in 2% of the saline group and in 0.3% of the mannitol group.ConclusionsThe use of mannitol instead of saline as a bladder distension medium was able to significantly reduce the occurrence of postoperative ureteral sequelae.

Minimally Invasive Sacrohysteropexy Versus Vaginal Hysterectomy With Uterosacral Ligament Suspension for Pelvic Organ Prolapse: A Prospective Randomized Non-Inferiority Trial

Study ObjectiveTo investigate whether minimally invasive Sacrohysteropexy (SH) is non-inferior to Vaginal hysterectomy (VH) with uterosacral ligament suspension (USLS) in women with symptomatic uterovaginal prolapse. DesignProspective, randomized, non-inferiority study SettingTertiary university-based hospital. PatientsA total of 146 patients with uterovaginal prolapse between July 2016 and August 2019. InterventionsPatients were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to either laparoscopic or robotic SH surgery or VH with USLS surgery. Measurements and Main ResultsThe primary outcome was prolapse recurrence at 1 year after surgery, defined as prolapse ≥ stage 2 evaluated using the pelvic organ prolapse quantification system, bothersome vaginal bulge symptoms, or retreatment for prolapse. The secondary outcomes included operation time, estimated blood loss, hospital stay, operation-related complications, pain intensity, quality of life, and activities of daily living. Of 146 women who underwent randomization, 73 in the SH group and 73 in the VH with USLS group were analyzed. SH was non-inferior for recurrence compared with VH with USLS (16.4% vs.15.8%, 95% confidence interval: -13.0%, 14.2%). Operating duration and transvaginal length were significantly longer in the SH group, while there were no significant differences in the estimated blood loss, length of hospital stay, or postoperative complication rates. Although perioperative pain intensity was greater from 1 week to 1 month in the SH group, the quality of life and activities of daily living did not differ between the groups throughout postoperative year 1. ConclusionLaparoscopic or robotic SH was non-inferior to VH with USLS for the recurrence of pelvic organ prolapse at the 1-year follow-up.

Clinical Efficacy of Modified Nonmesh Sacral Colpopexy for Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Importance As an increasing number of mesh-related complications have been reported, the availability of nonmesh alternatives becomes crucial for situations where mesh is not desired or unavailable. A new modified procedure of nonmesh laparoscopic sacral colpopexy (LSC) was performed in our department, which used a nonabsorbable polyester suture (Ethibond) combined with uterosacral ligament suspension. Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy of the modified procedure in comparison with traditional LSC in patients with pelvic organ prolapse. Methods This retrospective study assessed the treatment outcomes of 60 patients who were underwent LSC with or without mesh from January 2017 to April 2019. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on the presence or absence of mesh during the operation: mesh group (n = 34) and nonmesh group (n = 26). General data, perioperative indexes, postoperative complications, and recurrence rates were comparatively analyzed between 2 groups. Results In perioperative indexes, the nonmesh group exhibited shorter operation time (P < 0.001) and less intraoperative blood loss compared with the mesh group (P = 0.004). There was no significant difference in postoperative indwelling urinary catheter duration (P = 0.425) and hospitalization time (P = 0.827) between the 2 groups. In postoperative complications, the incidence of postoperative complications showed no significant difference between the 2 groups (P > 0.05). No occurrences of mesh exposure and erosion were observed in the mesh group during at least a 2-year follow-up period. In postoperative recurrence, none of the patients in either group experienced prolapse recurrence. Conclusions In comparison with the traditional LSC with mesh, the modified laparoscopic nonmesh sacral colpopexy presents advantages of reduced surgical trauma, less pain, and lower cost. However, a long-term and large sample study is required for evaluating the surgery’s long-term efficacy.

Diagnosis and management of complications following pelvic organ prolapse surgery using a synthetic mesh: French national guidelines for clinical practice

Complications associated with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery using a synthetic non-absorbable mesh are uncommon (<5%) but may be severe and may hugely diminish the quality of life of some women. In drawing up these multidisciplinary clinical practice recommendations, the French National Authority for Health (Haute Autorité de santé, HAS) conducted an exhaustive review of the literature concerning the diagnosis, prevention, and management of complications associated with POP surgery using a synthetic mesh. Each recommendation for practice was allocated a grade (A,B or C; or expert opinion (EO)), which depends on the level of evidence (clinical practice guidelines). Preoperative patients’ informationEach patient must be informed concerning the risks associated with POP surgery (EO). Hemorrhage, hematomaVaginal infiltration using a vasoconstrictive solution is not recommended during POP surgery by the vaginal route (grade C). The placement of vaginal packing is not recommended following POP surgery by the vaginal route (grade C). During laparoscopic sacral colpopexy, when the promontory seems highly dangerous or when severe adhesions prevent access to the anterior vertebral ligament, alternative surgical techniques should be discussed per operatively, including colpopexy by lateral mesh laparoscopic suspension, uterosacral ligament suspension, open abdominal mesh surgery, or surgery by the vaginal route (EO). Bladder injuryWhen a bladder injury is diagnosed, bladder repair by suturing is recommended, using a slow resorption suture thread, plus monitoring of the permeability of the ureters (before and after bladder repair) when the injury is located at the level of the trigone (EO). When a bladder injury is diagnosed, after bladder repair, a prosthetic mesh (polypropylene or polyester material) can be placed between the repaired bladder and the vagina, if the quality of the suturing is good. The recommended duration of bladder catheterization following bladder repair in this context of POP mesh surgery is from 5 to 10 days (EO). Ureter injuryAfter ureteral repair, it is possible to continue sacral colpopexy and place the mesh if it is located away from the ureteral repair (EO). Rectal injuryRegardless of the approach, when a rectal injury occurs, a posterior mesh should not be placed between the rectum and the vagina wall (EO). Concerning the anterior mesh, it is recommended to use a macroporous monofilament polypropylene mesh (EO). A polyester mesh is not recommended in this situation (EO). Vaginal wall injuryAfter vaginal wall repair, an anterior or a posterior microporous polypropylene mesh can be placed, if the quality of the repair is found to be satisfactory (EO). A polyester mesh should not be used after vaginal wall repair (EO). Mesh infection (abscess, cellulitis, spondylodiscitis)Regardless of the surgical approach, intravenous antibiotic prophylaxis is recommended (aminopenicillin + beta-lactamase inhibitor: 30 min before skin incision +/- repeated after 2 h if surgery lasts longer) (EO).When spondylodiscitis is diagnosed following sacral colpopexy, treatment should be discussed by a multidisciplinary group, including especially spine specialists (rheumatologists, orthopedists, neurosurgeons) and infectious disease specialists (EO).When a pelvic abscess occurs following synthetic mesh sacral colpopexy, it is recommended to carry out complete mesh removal as soon as possible, combined with collection of intraoperative bacteriological samples, drainage of the collection and targeted antibiotic therapy (EO). Non-surgical conservative management with antibiotic therapy may be an option (EO) in certain conditions (absence of signs of sepsis, macroporous monofilament polypropylene type 1 mesh, prior microbiological documentation and multidisciplinary consultation for the choice of type and duration of antibiotic therapy), associated with close monitoring of the patient. Bowel occlusion related to non-closure of the peritoneumPeritoneal closure is recommended after placement of a synthetic mesh by the abdominal approach (EO). Urinary retentionPreoperative urodynamics is recommended in women presenting with urinary symptoms (bladder outlet obstruction symptoms, overactive bladder syndrome or incontinence) (EO). It is recommended to remove the bladder catheter at the end of the procedure or within 48 h after POP surgery (grade B). Bladder emptying and post-void residual should be checked following POP surgery, before discharge (EO). When postoperative urine retention occurs after POP surgery, it is recommended to carry out indwelling catheterization and to prefer intermittent self-catheterization (EO). Postoperative painBefore POP surgery, the patient should be asked about risk factors for prolonged and chronic postoperative pain (pain sensitization, allodynia, chronic pelvic or non-pelvic pain) (EO).Concerning the prevention of postoperative pain, it is recommended to carry out a pre-, per- and postoperative multimodal pain treatment (grade B). The use of ketamine intraoperatively is recommended for the prevention of chronic postoperative pelvic pain, especially for patients with risk factors (preoperative painful sensitization, allodynia, chronic pelvic or non-pelvic pain) (EO). Postoperative prescription of opioids should be limited in quantity and duration (grade C).When acute neuropathic pain (sciatalgia or pudendal neuralgia) resistant to level I and II analgesics occurs following sacrospinous fixation, a reintervention is recommended for suspension suture removal (EO).When chronic postoperative pain occurs after POP surgery, it is recommended to systematically seek arguments in favor of neuropathic pain with the DN4 questionnaire (EO).When chronic postoperative pelvic pain occurs after POP surgery, central sensitization should be identified since it requires a consultation in a chronic pain department (EO).Concerning myofascial pain syndrome (clinical pain condition associated with increased muscle tension caused by myofascial trigger points), when chronic postoperative pain occurs after POP surgery, it is recommended to examine the levator ani, piriformis and obturator internus muscles, so as to identify trigger points on the pathway of the synthetic mesh (EO).Pelvic floor muscle training with muscle relaxation is recommended when myofascial pain syndrome is associated with chronic postoperative pain following POP surgery (EO). After failure of pelvic floor muscle training (3 months), it is recommended to discuss surgical removal of the synthetic mesh, during a multidisciplinary discussion group meeting (EO). Partial removal of synthetic mesh is indicated when a trigger point is located on the pathway of the mesh (EO). Total removal of synthetic mesh should be discussed during a multidisciplinary discussion group meeting when diffuse (no trigger point) chronic postoperative pain occurs following POP surgery, with or without central sensitization or neuropathic pain syndromes (EO). Postoperative dyspareuniaWhen de novo postoperative dyspareunia occurs after POP surgery, surgical removal of the mesh should be discussed (EO). Vaginal mesh exposureTo reduce the risk of vaginal mesh exposure, when hysterectomy is required during sacral colpopexy, subtotal hysterectomy is recommended (grade C).When asymptomatic vaginal macroporous monofilament polypropylene mesh exposure occurs, systematic imaging is not recommended. When vaginal polyester mesh exposure occurs, pelvic +/- lumbar MRI (EO) should be used to look for an abscess or spondylodiscitis, given the greater risk of infection associated with this type of material.When asymptomatic vaginal mesh exposure of less than 1 cm2 occurs in a woman with no sexual intercourse, the patient should be offered observation (no treatment) or local estrogen therapy (EO). However, if the patient wishes, partial excision of the mesh can be offered.When asymptomatic vaginal mesh exposure of more than 1 cm2 occurs or if the woman has sexual intercourse, or if it is a polyester prosthesis, partial mesh excision, either immediately or after local estrogen therapy, should be offered (EO).When symptomatic vaginal mesh exposure occurs, but without infectious complications, surgical removal of the exposed part of the mesh by the vaginal route is recommended (EO), and not systematic complete excision of the mesh.Following sacral colpopexy, complete removal of the mesh (by laparoscopy or laparotomy) is only required in the presence of an abscess or spondylodiscitis (EO).When vaginal mesh exposure recurs after a first reoperation, the patient should be treated by an experienced team specialized in this type of complication (EO). Suture thread vaginal exposureFor women presenting with vaginal exposure to non-absorbable suture thread following POP surgery with mesh reinforcement, the suture thread should be removed by the vaginal route (EO). Removal of the surrounding mesh is only recommended when vaginal mesh exposure or associated abscess is diagnosed. Bladder and ureteral mesh exposureWhen bladder mesh exposure occurs, removal of the exposed part of the mesh is recommended (grade B).Both alternatives (total or partial mesh removal) should be discussed with the patient and should be debated during a multidisciplinary discussion group meeting (EO).

Longitudinal Reoperation Risk After Apical Prolapse Procedures in Women Aged 65 Years and Older.

To describe longitudinal reoperation risk among older women undergoing surgery for apical pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and to compare risk of reoperation for prolapse and complications among different surgical approaches. This nationwide, retrospective cohort study evaluated older adult women (aged 65 years and older) within the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services' (CMS) 5% LDS (Limited Data Set) who underwent sacrocolpopexy, uterosacral ligament suspension (USLS), sacrospinous ligament fixation (SSLF), or colpocleisis, or their uterine-preserving equivalents, from January 1, 2011, to December 31, 2018, with follow-up through 2019. The primary outcome was overall reoperation, and secondary outcomes included reoperation for POP and for complications. Rates were compared using χ 2 tests for categorical variables, Wilcoxon rank-sum for continuous variables and Kaplan Meier estimates of cumulative incidence. Death and exit from CMS insurance were considered as censoring events. We used cumulative incidence to calculate reoperation risk as a function of time at 1 year or more, 3 years or more, and 7 years or more. This cohort included 4,089 women who underwent surgery to treat apical POP from 2011 to 2018: 1,034 underwent sacrocolpopexy, 717 underwent USLS, 1,529 underwent SSLF, and 809 underwent colpocleisis. Demographics varied among patients for each POP surgery. Patients who underwent the different surgeries had differences in age ( P <.01), Charlson Comorbidity Index score ( P <.01), diabetes ( P <.01), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( P <.01), hypertension ( P <.01), chronic pain ( P =.01), congestive heart failure ( P <.01), and concomitant hysterectomy ( P <.01). Reoperation rates were low and increased over time. The overall reoperation risk through 7 years was 7.3% for colpocleisis, 10.4% for USLS, 12.5% for sacrocolpopexy, and 15.0% for SSLF ( P <.01). Reoperation for recurrent POP through 7 years was 2.9% for colpocleisis, 7.3% for sacrocolpopexy, 7.7% for USLS, and 9.9% for SSLF ( P <.01). Reoperation for complications through 7 years was 5.3% for colpocleisis, 8.2% for sacrocolpopexy, 6.4% for USLS, and 8.2% for SSLF ( P <.01). The type of surgical repair is significantly associated with long-term risk of reoperation. Colpocleisis offers the least likelihood of reoperation for prolapse, followed by sacrocolpopexy; colpocleisis followed by USLS has the least risk of long-term reoperation for complication.

Subjective Long-Term Outcomes After Vaginal Native Tissue Hysteropexy: Cohort Study.

There are still doubts about long-term satisfaction rates of native tissue uterine preserving surgical techniques for pelvic organ prolapse. The objective of this study was to compare long-term subjective success rates and satisfaction rates between vaginal sacrospinous hysteropexy (SSHP) and vaginal hysterectomy with uterosacral ligament suspension (VH-USLS). This was a retrospective single-center, observational matched cohort study in women receiving either SSHP or VH-USLS between 2004 and 2021. Primary outcome was overall subjective success (combined outcome of absence of bulge nor retreatment, and satisfaction with operation) at least 12 months after surgery. Satisfaction with the operation was defined as a combined Patient Global Impression of Improvement rating ≤ 2 and a patient satisfaction score ≥7. Of 583 patients, 192 patients could be matched (SSHP, 96; VH-USLS, 96), with 55% (SSHP, 60; VH-USLS, 45) participating at the telephone interview. Mean follow-up time was 77 months for VH-USLS, and 36 months for SSHP, respectively. No difference in overall subjective success rates was found between the groups (45% VH-USLS and 51% SSHP; P = 0.54). Overall satisfaction was similar between both groups (70% vs 71%, P = 0.90). Logistic regression found no influence of duration of follow-up and the overall subjective success rate. Both procedures would be recommended to a relative or friend by a large majority of patients (88% vs 85%, P = 0.761). Operative time and hospitalization time were significantly shorter in the SSHP group. No serious complications were reported. Overall success rates did not differ between both procedures after at least 1 year of follow-up with relatively high satisfaction rates. Sacrospinous hysteropexy had shorter operative time and shorter duration of hospitalization.

Characteristics Associated With Surgical Failure After Native Tissue Apical Prolapse Repair.

To identify clinical and demographic characteristics associated with prolapse recurrence by 12 months after native tissue transvaginal repair. This was a planned secondary analysis of a randomized trial including postmenopausal participants with stage 2 or greater apical or anterior vaginal prolapse scheduled for surgical repair at three U.S. sites. Participants underwent vaginal hysterectomy (if uterus was present) and standardized uterosacral or sacrospinous ligament suspension at the surgeon's discretion. The intervention was perioperative (5 weeks or more preoperatively and 12 months postoperatively) vaginal estrogen compared with placebo cream. The primary outcome was time to failure by 12 months after surgery, defined by objective prolapse of the anterior or posterior walls beyond the hymen or the apex descending more than one-third of the vaginal length, symptomatic vaginal bulge, or retreatment. For this analysis, participants were grouped according to failure compared with success, and multiple factors were compared, including age, time since menopause, race and ethnicity, parity, body mass index (BMI), baseline genital hiatus measurement, prolapse stage and point of maximal prolapse, surgery type (uterosacral or sacrospinous ligament suspension), and concomitant procedures. Factors were assessed for association with the hazard of surgical failure using Cox proportional hazards models, adjusted for site and treatment group. Factors with P <.50 from this analysis were considered for inclusion in the final multivariable model; site and treatment group were kept in this model. One hundred eighty-six participants underwent surgery; 183 provided complete data. There were 30 failures (16.4%) and 153 successes (83.4%) at 12 months. On bivariate analysis, failure was associated with decreasing age, shorter duration since menopause, Latina ethnicity, and greater baseline genital hiatus. In the final multivariable model, which included age, BMI, and point of maximal prolapse, only age remained significantly associated with surgical failure (adjusted hazard ratio [per year] 0.92, 95% CI, 0.86-0.98, P =.016). Among postmenopausal women, younger age was associated with increased frequency of prolapse recurrence by 12 months after native tissue repair. ClinicalTrials.gov , NCT02431897.

Comparison of efficacy between laparoscopic pectopexy and laparoscopic high uterosacral ligament suspension in the treatment of apical prolapse-short term results

To compare the clinical efficacy of laparoscopic pectopexy and laparoscopic high uterosacral ligament suspension in women suffering from apical prolapse. The clinical data of 170 patients with apical prolapse (POP-Q score ≥ II) treated in the Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from January 2018 to July 2020 were retrospectively analyzed to assess the clinical efficacy of three surgical methods [laparoscopic pectopexy with uterine preservation, laparoscopic pectopexy with hysterectomy, laparoscopic high uterosacral ligament suspension (LHUSLS) with hysterectomy]. Patients were divided into three groups depending on Surgical methods: laparoscopic uterine pectopexy group (n = 23), laparoscopic pectopexy with hysterectomy group (n = 78) and LHUSLS with hysterectomy group (n = 69). The POP-Q points before and after operation were analyzed. The operation-related indices, perioperative periods and post-operative complications were compared. 1. The operation time of laparoscopic uterine pectopexy group was the shortest (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the incidence of apical prolapse and new stress urinary incontinence among the three groups during the follow-up period (p > 0.05). 2. The POP-Q points (Aa, Ba, C) in the three groups were better than those before operation (p < 0.05). Laparoscopic pectopexy with hysterectomy group had better Ap, Bp and C points and a longer TVL than LHUSLS with hysterectomy group (p < 0.05). 3. The postoperative PFDI-20, PFIQ-7 and PISQ-12 scores of the three groups were significantly improved than those before operation (p < 0.05). The PISQ-12 scores in laparoscopic uterine pectopexy group were significantly higher than that in the other two groups one year after operation (p < 0.05). The study concludes that laparoscopic pectopexy and LHUSLS can significantly improve the quality of life and sexual function for patients with apical prolapse. One year after operation, laparoscopic pectopexy has a more satisfactory anatomical reduction than LHUSLS with hysterectomy. The laparoscopic uterine pectopexy group had lower postoperative complications and better sexual function than that with hysterectomy group. Laparoscopic pectopexy should be used for the treatment of apical prolapse (POP-Q score ≥ II) patients who aim to better clinical efficacy and sexual function improvement.

At the Scrub Sink: Uterosacral Ligament Suspension.

Uterosacral ligament suspension for repair of prolapse has some challenges, such as visualization in the vagina, choice of suture, and avoidance of dangers such as ureteral kinking. This editorial offers some tips for performing a uterosacral suspension that are commonly discussed "at the scrub sink" before a case.

Efficacy of Sacrospinous Fixation or Uterosacral Ligament Suspension for Pelvic Organ Prolapse in Stages III and IV: Randomized Clinical Trial.

To evaluate the efficacy and outcomes of the surgical treatment for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) in stages III and IV by sacrospinous ligament fixation (SSLF) or uterosacral ligament suspension (USLS) by comparing anatomical and subjective cure rates and quality-of-life parameters (through the version validated for the Portuguese language of the Prolapse Quality of Life [P-QoL] questionnaire) under two definitions: genital prolapse Ba, Bp, and C < -1 (stage I) and Ba, Bp, and C ≤ 0 (stage II). After we obtained approval from the Ethics Committee (under CAAE 0833/06) and registered the study in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01347021), 51 patients were randomized into two groups: the USLS group (N = 26) and the SSLF group (N = 25), with follow-up 6 and 12 months after the procedures. There was a significant improvement in the P-QoL score and anatomical measurements of all compartments in both groups after 12 months (p < 0.001). The anatomical cure rates in the USLS and SSLF groups, considering stage 1, were of 34.6% and 40% (anterior) respectively; of 100% both for groups (apical); and of 73.1% and 92% (posterior) respectively. The rates of adverse outcomes were of 42% (N = 11) and 36% (N = 11) for the USLS and SSLF groups respectively (p = 0.654), and those outcomes were excessive bleeding, bladder perforation (intraoperative) or gluteal pain, and urinary infection (postoperative), among others, without differences between the groups. High cure rates in all compartments were observed according to the anatomical criterion (stage I), without differences in P-QoL scores and complications either with USLS or SSLF for the surgical treatment of accentuated POP.

Vaginal hysteropexy compared with vaginal hysterectomy with apical suspension for the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse: A 5-year cost-effectiveness Markov model.

Our objective was to perform a 5-year cost-effectiveness analysis of transvaginal hysteropexy (HP) via sacrospinous ligament fixation (SS) or uterosacral ligament suspension (US) versus vaginal hysterectomy (VH) with apical suspension via sacrospinous ligament fixation (SS) or uterosacral ligament suspension (US) for the treatment of uterine prolapse. A decision analytic model assessed the cost-effectiveness of the surgical intervention over a 5-year horizon. This model was constructed using TreeAge® software. Healthy women undergoing surgery for uterine prolapse were modeled. A Markov model was constructed to simulate the possible recurrence of prolapse. Recurrence rates, repeat surgery for surgical failures and complication rates were modeled. Base case, sensitivity analyses and probabilistic modeling were performed. The primary outcome was the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of <$100 000 per quality-adjusted life year (QALY). Using the available prolapse recurrence rates and repeat surgery rates in the literature, both HP-SS and HP-US are cost-effective at a willingness-to-pay (WTP) threshold of <$100 000 per QALY. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) for HP-US compared to HP-SS is $90 738.14, while VH-US and VH-SS are both dominated strategies. HP-US is the optimal cost-effective strategy but decays exponentially with increasing probability of prolapse recurrence and need for repeat surgery after failed hysteropexy. The cost-effectiveness acceptability curve (CEAC) favors sacrospinous hysteropexy until reaching a WTP threshold between $90 000 and $100 000. Hysteropexy surgical strategies are cost-effective transvaginal surgical approaches for uterine prolapse. Vaginal hysterectomy with apical suspension becomes more cost-effective with increasing probability of prolapse recurrence and need for repeat surgery after failed hysteropexy. Given the variability of prolapse recurrence rates in the literature, more comparative studies are needed to understand the cost-effectiveness relationship between these different surgical approaches.

[Comparison of long-term clinical outcomes between transvaginal mesh and pelvic floor reconstruction with native tissue repair in the treatment of advanced pelvic organ prolapse].

Objective: To study the long-term clinical effect of transvaginal mesh (TVM) and pelvic floor reconstruction with native tissue repair (NTR) in the treatment of advanced pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Methods: Totally 207 patients with advanced POP who were treated in Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital from Jan. 2016 to Sep. 2019 were enrolled. The patient's pelvic organ prolapse quantification were all at degree Ⅲ or above, and they all complained for different degree of symptoms. They were divided into two groups according to the different surgical methods, TVM group and NTR group. In TVM group, the mesh was implanted through the vagina for pelvic floor reconstruction, while in NTR group, the traditional transvaginal hysterectomy combined with uterosacral ligament suspension and anterior and posterior wall repair, as well as perineal body repair were performed. The median follow-up time was 60 months, during the follow up time, 164 cases (79.2%, 164/207) had completed follow-up, including 76 cases in TVM group and 88 cases in NTR group. The perioperative data and complication rates of the two groups were compared, and the subjective and objective outcomes of the two groups at 1, 3 and 5 years were observed, respectively. The objective efficacy was evaluated by three composite criteria, namely: (1) the distance from the farthest end of the prolapse of the anterior and posterior wall of the vagina to the hymen is ≤0 cm, and the descending distance of the top is ≤1/2 of the total length of the vagina; (2) determine the disappearance of relevant POP symptoms according to "Do you often see or feel vaginal mass prolapse？"; (3) no further operation or pessary treatment was performed due to prolapse. If the above three criteria were met at the same time, the operation is successful; otherwise, it was recurrence. The subjective efficacy was evaluated by the pelvic floor distress inventory-short form 20 (PFDI-20) and pelvic floor impact questionnaire-short form 7 (PFIQ-7). Results: The median follow-up time of the two groups was 60 months (range: 41-82 months). Five years after the operation, the subjective and objective cure rates of TVM group were 89.5% (68/76) and 94.7% (72/76), respectively. The subjective and objective cure rates in NTR group were 80.7% (71/88) and 85.2% (75/88), respectively. There were significant differences in the subjective and objective cure rates between the two groups (χ2=9.869, P=0.002; χ2=3.969, P=0.046). The recurrence rate of TVM group was 5.3% (4/76), and that of NTR group was 14.8% (13/88). There was a significant difference between the two groups (P=0.046). The postoperative PFDI-20 and PFIQ-7 scores of the two groups were significantly lower than those before surgery, and there were significant differences of the two groups before and after surgery (all P<0.05). Postoperative mesh exposure in TVM group was 1.3% (1/76). Conclusions: The long-term outcomes between the two groups show that the subjective and objective outcomes of pelvic floor reconstruction in TVM group are significantly higher than those in NTR group, and the recurrence rate is significantly lower than that in NTR group. TVM has certain advantages in the treatment of advanced POP.

Association Between Enlarged Genital Hiatus and Composite Surgical Failure After Vaginal Hysterectomy With Uterosacral Ligament Suspension

ABSTRACT Commonly performed at the time of total vaginal hysterectomy to combat uterovaginal prolapse, uterosacral ligament suspension and sacrospinous ligament fixation are native tissue apical suspensions. Because recurrent pelvic organ prolapse increases over time after apical suspensions, nonmodifiable and modifiable risk factors have been explored. It is suggested by numerous studies that 1 risk factor for recurrent prolapse is an enlarged preoperative and postoperative genital hiatus (GH). An enlarged GH may be indicative of a caudal shift in pelvic viscera, increasing stress on vaginal supports. However, short-term follow-up, retrospective design, and lack of patient perspectives on prolapse outcomes limited the overall impact of those findings. The SUPeR trial (Study of Uterine Prolapse Procedures-Randomized) compared vaginal mesh hysteropexy with vaginal hysterectomy with uterosacral ligament suspension in a randomized trial design with long-term follow-up postoperatively. Postoperative assessments included the patient’s assessment of prolapse symptoms. The primary objective of this manuscript was to evaluate the efficacy of the vaginal hysterectomy with uterosacral ligament suspension amidst groups defined by surgical changes in GH size. The hypothesis predicted higher prolapse recurrence proportions for those with persistently enlarged GH size at 4–6 weeks postoperatively, compared with those with smaller preoperative and postoperative GH sizes. SUPeR participants included in this ancillary analysis underwent vaginal hysterectomy with uterosacral ligament suspension and then completed a 2-year follow-up. Based on preoperative to postoperative GH measurement changes, participants were divided into 3 groups. These groups were (1) persistently enlarged GH (“persistently enlarged”), (2) improved GH (“improved”), and (3) stable or normal GH preoperatively and postoperatively (“stably normal”). Prolapse was defined as any compartment with prolapse 1 cm or more beyond the hymen. The primary aim was comparison of composite surgical failure across the GH groups at 24 months, defined by any of the following conditions: anatomic failure, retreatment for prolapse, or symptoms of bothersome vaginal bulge. Secondary outcomes included the composite surgical failure components, postoperative complications, POP-Q measurements, and pain during intercourse. A total of 81 women were included in this secondary analysis. Predominant characteristics included a median age of 65.6 years, with 50 patients in the “improved group,” 14 patients in the “persistently enlarged” group, and 17 patients in the “stably normal” group. Notably, the prevalence of advanced anterior prolapse at baseline was greatest in the persistently enlarged group compared with that of both the improved and stably normal groups. Also, the prevalence of posterior colporrhaphy during the index procedure varied across groups and was more common in the improved group than the stably normal group. The surgery performed for almost all patients was a vaginal hysterectomy with uterosacral ligament suspension. The study found that following vaginal hysterectomy, after adjustment for the prevalence of advanced anterior prolapse, a woman with persistently enlarged GH at 4–6 weeks would not be at higher of composite surgical failure 2 years postsurgery when compared with other groups. The adjusted odds ratio for composite surgical failure in the persistently enlarged group compared with the stably normal group was 6.0 (95% confidence interval, 1.0–37.5; P = 0.06). Ultimately, baseline GH size is not a modifiable risk factor; however, there does appear to be an association between postvaginal hysterectomy and anterior vaginal wall prolapse when performing a presurgical and postsurgical comparison of normal GH measurements. Nonetheless, this study was not able to confirm a significant relationship between risk of recurrent prolapse and patients grouped by GH size in this manner.

Vaginal morphology and position associated with prolapse recurrence after vaginal surgery: A secondary analysis of the DEMAND study.

To identify vaginal morphology and position factors associated with prolapse recurrence following vaginal surgery. Secondary analysis of magnetic resonance images (MRI) of the Defining Mechanisms of Anterior Vaginal Wall Descent cross-sectional study. Eight clinical sites in the US Pelvic Floor Disorders Network. Women who underwent vaginal mesh hysteropexy (hysteropexy) with sacrospinous fixation or vaginal hysterectomy with uterosacral ligament suspension (hysterectomy) for uterovaginal prolapse between April 2013 and February 2015. The MRI (rest, strain) obtained 30-42 months after surgery, or earlier for participants with recurrence who desired reoperation before 30 months, were analysed. MRI-based prolapse recurrence was defined as prolapse beyond the hymen at strain on MRI. Vaginal segmentations (at rest) were used to create three-dimensional models placed in a morphometry algorithm to quantify and compare vaginal morphology (angulation, dimensions) and position. Vaginal angulation (upper, lower and upper-lower vaginal angles in the sagittal and coronal plane), dimensions (length, maximum transverse width, surface area, volume) and position (apex, mid-vagina) at rest. Of the 82 women analysed, 12/41 (29%) in the hysteropexy group and 22/41 (54%) in the hysterectomy group had prolapse recurrence. After hysteropexy, women with recurrence had a more laterally deviated upper vagina (p = 0.02) at rest than women with successful surgery. After hysterectomy, women with recurrence had a more inferiorly (lower) positioned vaginal apex (p = 0.01) and mid-vagina (p = 0.01) at rest than women with successful surgery. Vaginal angulation and position were associated with prolapse recurrence and suggestive of vaginal support mechanisms related to surgical technique and potential unaddressed anatomical defects. Future prospective studies in women before and after prolapse surgery may distinguish these two factors.

Meta-analysis of the efficacy of laparoscopic uterosacral ligament suspension in patients with pelvic organ prolapse

ObjectiveThis study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of laparoscopic uterosacral ligament suspension (LUSLS) for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) using a meta-analysis method. MethodsAll articles about LUSLS published in English from Jan. 2010 to Jan. 2020 were retrieved using a computer from search engines, including PubMed, EMbase, Cochrane Library, CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, and Chinese Medical Journals. Meta-analysis was performed by two evaluators using RevMan 5.3 software according to the inclusion criteria. ResultsA total of five studies were finally included, with 361 LUSLS cases and 361 control cases. LUSLS group showed a shorter operation duration (SMD-1.96; 95% CI = −3.90- −0.03; P = 0.05), more POP-quantification system (Q) (I) (SMD1.64; 95% CI = 1.05–2.56; P = 0.03), than the control group, with significant differences. There was no difference in the complication incidence, hospital stay, POP-Q>=II between the 2 groups (P > 0.05). ConclusionLUSLS was a safe and effective treatment for POP. Patients had higher postoperative satisfaction, shorter operation duration and satisfactory outcome. More high-quality randomized controlled trials are required in the future to make the results of the meta-analysis more accurate.