Outcomes of Abdominal Apical Suspension Using Mesh in a Tertiary Training Hospital: A Seven-year Retrospective Review.

Background: Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is an inconvenience that can affect a woman's well-being. Reconstructive pelvic floor surgery involves repairing defects in the endopelvic fascia and pelvic floor musculature as close to the physiologic and anatomic norm. The cornerstone of successful prolapse repair is a strong apical support. Objective: The aim of the study is to determine the outcomes of abdominal sacrocolpopexy (ASC) and abdominal sacrohysteropexy (ASH) in the Philippines. Methods: The study utilized a descriptive study design to compare the pre-operative and post-operative Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification Score (POP-Q Score), presence of mesh complications, and urinary/bowel symptoms in patients operated within 2010-2016 in a Philippine tertiary training hospital. Based on recovered charts and inclusion/exclusion criteria, this study sampled 34 of 50 patient records. Statistical measures of median and range were used to describe pre-operative and post-operative POP-Q scores in any two follow-ups within 6-, 12-, 18-, and 24-month interval. The objective success rate and incidence of urinary/bowel symptoms were described using frequencies and percentages. Presence of any mesh erosion was noted for each follow-up. McNemar's test was applied to assess the comparative occurrence of each symptom comparing between the pre-operative and first follow-up periods. Results: ASC had a success rate of 73.7% at six months and 56.3% at 12 months post-surgery. ASH showed an 84.6% success rate at six months and 71.4% at 12 months. Apical support has a 97% success rate without affecting the anterior or posterior compartments. Out of 20 ASC patients, 5 (25%) exhibited anterior compartment descent, whereas two out of 14 ASH patients (14.2%) had the same condition. It is observed that the anterior vaginal wall has the higher tendency to descend after reconstructive surgery, independent of route or technique. In addition, not all patients with surgical prolapse beyond -1 experienced symptomatic vaginal bulges. Overall, a notable decrease in the occurrence of urine symptoms was seen after the surgery. No mesh erosion was seen within the initial two years of follow-up but there was a single reported instance of abdominal hernia, an uncommon consequence. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated that ASC and ASH have good success rate in apical support; however, descent of the anterior or posterior compartment diminishes the overall success rate in terms of over-all objective POP-Q score. Both resulted to improvement in symptoms with minimal complications.

Intraoperative Complications and Perioperative and Surgical Outcomes of Single-Port Robotics-Assisted Sacrocolpopexy.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: The objective was to assess intraoperative and postoperative complication rates, along with perioperative and surgical outcomes, following single-port robotics-assisted sacrocolpopexy. METHODS: This retrospective case series included 200 patients who underwent single-port robotics-assisted sacrocolpopexy to treat Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POPQ) stage 2-4 symptomatic prolapse between April 2020 and August 2023 by a single surgeon. Intraoperative and postoperative complications and perioperative outcomes were evaluated for all the patients, whereas surgical outcomes for 74 patients were assessed at 1-year follow-up. Surgical failure was defined as the presence of any of the following: the presence of vaginal bulging symptoms, any prolapse beyond the hymen, or retreatment for prolapse. RESULTS: During the study period, 200 single-port robotics-assisted sacrocolpopexies were performed. The median age and body mass index were 65.0 years and 24.6 kg/m2 respectively. Most patients had POPQ stage 3 or 4 prolapse and underwent concomitant total hysterectomy. The median total operation time was 212.0 min, and none of the patients required conversion to laparoscopy or laparotomy. The intraoperative cystotomy rate was 2.5%, and one patient had a blood transfusion owing to presacral vessel injury. Postoperative complications of mesh exposure and wound hernia were 0.5% and 2.0% respectively. At 1 year postoperatively, the rate of composite surgical failure was 9.5%, with a 5.4% anatomical recurrence rate. None of the patients experienced apical prolapse recurrence, and one received anterior colporrhaphy for anterior compartment prolapse recurrence. CONCLUSIONS: Single-port robotics-assisted sacrocolpopexy is safe and effective, with low complication rates and favorable perioperative and surgical outcomes.

Short-term outcomes of single port robotic hysterectomy with concomitant sacrocolpopexy.

The Da Vinci single port® (SP) robotic platform heralds a new era of minimally invasive surgery (MIS). The primary objective of this study was to assess short-term outcomes in patients undergoing SP robotic hysterectomy with concomitant sacrocolpopexy for pelvic organ prolapse (POP). We performed a retrospective case series at two tertiary care centers between January 2021 and August 2023. Patients with POP electing to undergo SP robotic hysterectomy with concomitant sacrocolpopexy were included. Chart abstraction was used to collect patient demographics and clinical outcomes. Recurrent POP was defined as new bothersome vaginal bulge symptoms and evidence of POP beyond the hymen on postoperative examination. 69 patients were included. Median operative time was 209 min (135-312) and estimated blood loss was 100 mL (20-2000). 1 (1.4%) patient sustained a major vascular injury resulting in laparotomy. Median pain score and morphine equivalents administered in PACU were low at 3 (0-7) and 3.2 (0-27) respectively. At 3 months, 60 (86.9%) patients were seen either in person or via telemedicine for their follow up appointment. 59/60 (98.3%) reported no vaginal bulge symptoms and 50/51 (98.0%) had stage 0 or 1 prolapse on exam. One (1.4%) patient had recurrent prolapse and underwent an additional repair. Postoperative complications included 2 (2.9%) cases of ileus/small bowel obstruction, 1 (1.4%) pelvic hematoma requiring a blood transfusion, and 1 (1.4%) umbilical hernia. The SP robotic platform is a safe and feasible platform for MIS hysterectomy and sacrocolpopexy with good short term anatomic and symptomatic outcomes.

Role of lateral suspension for the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse: a Delphi survey of expert panel.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: Lateral suspension is an abdominal prosthetic surgical procedure used to correct apical prolapse. The procedure involves the placement of a T-shaped mesh on the anterior vaginal wall and on the isthmus or uterine cervix that is suspended laterally and posteriorly to the abdominal wall. Since its description in the late 90s, modifications of the technique have been described. So far, no consensus on the correct indications, safety, advantages, and disadvantages of this emerging procedure has been reached. METHODS: A modified Delphi process was used to build consensus within a group of 21 international surgeons who are experts in the performance of laparoscopic lateral suspension (LLS). The process was held with a first online round, where the experts expressed their level of agreement on 64 statements on indications, technical features, and other aspects of LLS. A subsequent re-discussion of statements where a threshold of agreement was not reached was held in presence. RESULTS: The Delphi process allowed the identification of several aspects of LLS that represented areas of agreement by the experts. The experts agreed that LLS is a safe and effective technique to correct apical and anterior prolapse. The experts highlighted several key technical aspects of the procedure, including clinical indications and surgical steps. CONCLUSIONS: This Delphi consensus provides valuable guidance and criteria for the use of LLS in the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse, based on expert opinion by large volume surgeons' experts in the performance of this innovative procedure.

Early safety and efficiency outcomes of a novel interdisciplinary laparoscopic resection rectopexy combined with sacrocolpopexy for women with obstructive defecation syndrome and pelvic organ prolapse: a single center study.

BACKGROUND: Obstructive defecation syndrome (ODS) defines a disturbed defecation process frequently associated with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) in women that substantially compromises quality of life. Conservative management offers limited relief and a surgical intervention may be required. This is characterized by individual approaches. AIM OF THE STUDY: This retrospective single center study evaluated the surgical and clinical short-term outcome of a novel interdisciplinary laparoscopic resection rectopexy (L-RRP) with mesh- sacrocolpopexy (L-SCP) for women suffering from ODS and POP. METHODS: The study participants underwent surgery in an interdisciplinary laparoscopic approach. Safety was the primary endpoint, assessed via postoperative morbidity classified by Clavien-Dindo scale. Secondary outcomes included evaluation of bowel function, fecal and urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse status at 12 months follow-up. Additionally, a biological mesh (BM) was offered to women, who asked for an alternative to synthetic mesh material (SM). RESULTS: Of the 44 consecutive patients requiring surgery for ODS and POP, 36 patients underwent the interdisciplinary surgical approach; 28 patients with SM and 8 patients with BM. In total 5 complications occurred, four of them were classified as minor. One minor complication was observed in the BM group. One anastomotic leakage occurred in the SM group. The two ODS scores, the bowel dysfunction score, and the incontinence score improved significantly (p = 0.006, p = 0.003, p < 0.001, and p = 0.0035, respectively). Pelvic floor anatomy was fully restored (POP-Q 0) for 29 (80%) patients after surgery. 17 patients (47%) suffered from urinary incontinence before surgery, which was restored in 13 patients (76.5%). CONCLUSIONS: The interdisciplinary approach with L-RRP and L-SCP and the use of a BM in a small subgroup were technically feasible, safe, and effective in this single center setting. The study's retrospective design, the small sample size and the lack of comparators limit the generalizability of the findings requiring future randomized trials. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Retrospectively registered at clinicaltrials.gov, trial number NCT05910021, date of registration 06/10/2023.

Transvaginally Adjustable Apical Suspension and Compartment-Specific Tensioning in Vaginal Natural-Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery Sacrocolpopexy: Cadaveric and Live Patient Experience.

Objective: This article provides a systematic approach to performing a vaginal natural-orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (vNOTES) sacrocolpopexy (SCP) to create an anatomically aligned vaginal axis, an intraoperatively adjustable apical suspension, and variable compartment tensioning. Methods: The technique presented for vNOTES SCP focuses on: (1) retroperitoneal tunneling; (2) direct sacrum access below the S-1 level, using uterosacral-ligament guidance; (3) transvaginal tensioning of the mesh to ensure both adequate vaginal length and cuff elevation using the DZOH apical-suspension technique; (4) circumvention of intrapelvic laparoscopic suturing; and (5) near-total peritoneal coverage of the mesh arms. Results: This detailed description of a successful novel technique to perform vNOTES SCP was based on cadaveric experience as well as in live patients that is reproducible on living patients. Conclusions: This apical suspension technique for vNOTES SCP may be a viable, reproducible, safe, and efficient transvaginal alternative to the commonly practiced minimally invasive approaches that involve abdominal-port placements. (J GYNECOL SURG 40:116).

Robotic sacrocolpopexy for the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse in elderly women: comparative analysis of safety and efficacy versus younger women.

INTRODUCTION: Pelvic organ prolapse is a condition with high prevalence in elderly women. With increasing life expectancy and a desire for improved quality of life, a rise in the frequency of surgical treatments for these women is anticipated. The aim is to compare complication, success, and satisfaction rates among elderly patients (aged >70 years) in comparison to younger women undergoing robotic sacrocolpopexy, thereby assessing the safety and efficacy of this surgery in this group of patients. METHOD: A prospective observational comparative study of 123 robotic sacrocolpopexies conducted between December 2016 and June 2022. Patients were stratified by age (cutoff point: 70 years). Baseline characteristics, type, and grade of prolapse, intra and postoperative data, complications, functional and anatomical outcomes, and satisfaction levels were collected. RESULTS: Among the 123 patients, 62.6% were under 70 years old, while 37.4% were 70 years or older, exhibiting similar baseline characteristics, prolapse grade, and type. The percentages of intraoperative (6.5%) and postoperative complications (4.4-9%) were comparable in both age groups. Furthermore, success and satisfaction rates exceeded 90%, with no significant differences between women under and over 70 years during a two-year follow-up. CONCLUSION: Robotic sacrocolpopexy is at least as effective and safe in women aged 70 years or older as in younger individuals, with no higher rates of intra and postoperative complications and similar rates of anatomical and subjective success.

Long-Term Costs of Minimally Invasive Sacral Colpopexy Compared to Native Tissue Vaginal Repair With Concomitant Hysterectomy.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To determine the long-term costs of hysterectomy with minimally invasive sacrocolpopexy (MISCP) versus uterosacral ligament suspension (USLS) for primary uterovaginal prolapse repair. DESIGN: 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 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. SETTING: 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 $4478. 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. CONCLUSION: 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.

Anatomical outcomes and complications of sacrocolpopexy using Surelift Uplift mesh: A multicentric observational study.

OBJECTIVE: The study evaluated the anatomical and functional outcomes, as well as the safety data of laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy (LSC) for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) using a lightweight macroporous mesh. METHODS: A multicentric observational study was developed including five expert centers between March 2011 and December 2019. Inclusion criteria were female patients with symptomatic ≥stage II POP (POP-Q classification), who underwent a LSC. A lightweight and macroporous mesh device (Surelift Uplift) was used. Baseline anatomical positions were evaluated using POP-Q stage. The anatomical outcomes and procedural complications were assessed during the postoperative period. Primary outcomes were anatomical success, defined as POP-Q stage ≤I, and subjective success, defined as no bothersome bulge symptoms, and no repeat surgery or pessary use for recurrent prolapse. RESULTS: A total of 325 LSCs were analyzed with a median patient age of 66 (interquartile range [IQR] 61-73). After a median follow-up of 68 months (IQR 46.5-89), anatomical success was found in 88.9%, whereas subjective success was seen in 98.5% of the patients. Recurrent prolapse presented as cystocele (1.5%). Reported complications were bladder (4.6%) or rectum lesions (0.6%), de novo urinary incontinence (12.9%), and mesh extrusion (1.2%). CONCLUSIONS: LSC provides significant clinical improvement and excellent anatomical results, with a low risk of serious complications for women with ≥2 grade POP in a real clinical practice setting.

Midurethral Sling With Concomitant Sacrocolpopexy: Does the Sequence Matter? A Retrospective Cohort Study.

The objective is to determine if the timing of midurethral sling (MUS) placement has an impact on the recurrence rate of stress urinary incontinence. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent robot sacrocolpopexy (RSC) with MUS placement at a large community hospital. Our data demonstrated that there was no significant difference in stress urinary incontinence recurrence when the MUS was placed before or after the RSC (15% vs. 11%, P = 0.41, respectively). We concluded that physician preference may dictate surgical approach to sequence of retropubic MUS placement at the time of RSC.

To mesh or not mesh "apical prolapse," that is the question!

Surgical approaches for pelvic organ prolapse have evolved over the last 30 years and is a popular topic for debate, particularly when discussing apical prolapse. Transvaginal native tissue repairs remain the mainstay of POP surgeries, however, transabdominal approaches continue to evolve. Use of interposition material, such as synthetic polypropylene mesh, is the standard when performing an abdominal sacrocolpopexy, however, use of autologous fascia can be considered. This debate article provides an overview of this subject and highlights the value of different approaches to apical prolapse. The authors were asked to support their approach in various scenarios including:extremes of age, prior hysterectomy and intact uterus, desire to avoid mesh, sexual activity, and presence of comorbidities. In discussing common patient scenarios, ultimate decision making on specific POP surgeries is determined by patient preference and goals.

Study of the feasibility of outpatient sacrocolpopexy by laparoscopy.

INTRODUCTION: Laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy (LSCP) is currently the gold standard surgical technique for treating pelvic prolapse. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy in ambulatory care. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This prospective study was conducted to evaluate the feasibility of LSCP in women who visited the outpatient department of obstetrics and gynecology at the University Hospital of Strasbourg between July 2018 and December 2021. All women with indications for laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy for prolapse treatment who were willing to be treated as outpatients were included. The main criterion of the study was to evaluate the rate of re-hospitalization between discharge from the outpatient department after LSCP and postoperative follow-up consultations. RESULTS: Among the whole population (57/200, 28.5 %) included, 4 (7 %) were hospitalized. The quality of life was not altered with a preserved EuroQol (EQ-5D) quality of life score with a mean score of 73±18.4 standard deviation (SD) 95 % confidence interval (CI) (67.9; 78.1) on postoperative day 3 (D3) and 91.2 ± 16.3 SD 95 % CI (86.2-96) on D30. On D1, D2, D3, and D7, the anxiety rate evaluated by State-Trait Anxiety Inventory score (STAI Y-A) remained low, with mean scores of 24.8 ± 9.6 SD 95 % [23.4-26.5] on D30. All patients were satisfied or very satisfied with the procedure and outpatient management, with an average score of 9.6/10 (range: 8-10). CONCLUSION: This prospective, monocentric study evaluating the feasibility of outpatient LSCP reported demonstrated low rates of complications and re-hospitalization after outpatient management. Furthermore, the patients' quality of life was not altered, and they patients were satisfied with this type of management.

Preoperative prolapse phenotype is predictive of surgical outcome with minimally invasive sacrocolpopexy.

BACKGROUND: The gold-standard treatment for advanced pelvic organ prolapse is sacrocolpopexy. However, the preoperative features of prolapse that predict optimal outcomes are unknown. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to develop a clinical prediction model that uses preoperative scores on the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification examination to predict outcomes after minimally invasive sacrocolpopexy for stages 2, 3, and 4 uterovaginal prolapse and vaginal vault prolapse. STUDY DESIGN: A 2-institution database of pre- and postoperative variables from 881 cases of minimally invasive sacrocolpopexy was analyzed. Data from patients were analyzed in the following 4 groups: stage 2 uterovaginal prolapse, stage 3 to 4 uterovaginal prolapse, stage 2 vaginal vault prolapse, and stage 3 to 4 vaginal vault prolapse. Unsupervised machine learning was used to identify clusters and investigate associations between clusters and outcome. The k-means clustering analysis was performed with preoperative Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification points and stratified by previous hysterectomy status. The "optimal" surgical outcome was defined as postoperative Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification stage <2. Demographic variables were compared by cluster with Student t and chi-square tests. Odds ratios were calculated to determine whether clusters could predict the outcome. Age at surgery, body mass index, and previous prolapse surgery were used for adjusted odds ratios. RESULTS: Five statistically distinct prolapse clusters (phenotypes C, A, A>P, P, and P>A) were found. These phenotypes reflected the predominant region of prolapse (apical, anterior, or posterior) and whether support was preserved in the nonpredominant region. Phenotype A (anterior compartment prolapse predominant, posterior support preserved) was found in all 4 groups of patients and was considered the reference in the analysis. In 111 patients with stage 2 uterovaginal prolapse, phenotypes A and A>P (greater anterior prolapse than posterior prolapse) were found, and patients with phenotype A were more likely than those with phenotype A>P to have an optimal surgical outcome. In 401 patients with stage 3 to 4 uterovaginal prolapse, phenotypes C (apical compartment predominant, prolapse in all compartments), A, and A>P were found, and patients with phenotype A>P were more likely than those with phenotype A to have ideal surgical outcome. In 72 patients with stage 2 vaginal vault prolapse, phenotypes A, A>P, and P (posterior compartment predominant, anterior support preserved) were found, and those with phenotype A>P were less likely to have an ideal outcome than patients with phenotype A. In 297 patients with stage 3 to 4 vaginal vault prolapse, phenotypes C, A, and P>A (prolapse greater in posterior than in anterior compartment) were found, but there were no significant differences in rate of ideal outcome between phenotypes. CONCLUSION: Five anatomic phenotypes based on preoperative Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification scores were present in patients with stages 2 and 3 to 4 uterovaginal prolapse and vaginal vault prolapse. These phenotypes are predictive of surgical outcome after minimally invasive sacrocolpopexy. Further work needs to confirm the presence and predictive nature of these phenotypes. In addition, whether the phenotypes represent a progression of prolapse or discrete prolapse presentations resulting from different anatomic and life course risk profiles is unknown. These phenotypes may be useful in surgical counseling and planning.

A Randomized Clinical Trial Comparing Dubuisson Laparoscopic Lateral Suspension with Laparoscopic Sacropexy for Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Short-Term Results.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy (LSC) is the gold standard for the treatment of apical prolapse, although dissection of the promontory may be challenging. Laparoscopic lateral suspension (LLS) with mesh is an alternative technique for apical repair with similar anatomical and functional outcomes, according to recent studies. The purpose of this study was to compare these operative techniques. METHODS: Women with uterine Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POP-Q) stage 2 were enrolled in this prospective study and were randomly allocated to the LLS or LSC group. At the 12-month follow-up, primary measures included both anatomical and functional outcomes. Perioperative parameters and complications were recorded. RESULTS: A total of 93 women were randomized, 48 in the LLS group and 45 in the LSC group, with 2 women lost to follow-up in both groups. LSC anatomic success rates were 81.82% for the apical compartment and 95.22% for the anterior compartment. LLS anatomic success rates for the apical and anterior compartments were 90% and 92.30%, respectively. The mean operative time for LLS was 160.3 min, while for LSC it was 168.3 min. The mean blood loss was 100 mL in both procedures. Conversion to laparotomy was necessary in three women. Mesh erosion was not observed in any of the cases. In terms of the complication, Clavien-Dindo grade 1 was observed in two patients in the LLS group and a complication rated grade 3b was observed in one patient in LSC group. CONCLUSIONS: LLS is a good alternative to LSC, with promising anatomical and quality-of-life results.

Postoperative complications and unanticipated healthcare encounters following mini-laparotomy vs. laparoscopic/robotic-assisted sacrocolpopexy: a comparative retrospective study.

BACKGROUND: Pelvic organ prolapse is a debilitating condition impacting lives of millions of women worldwide. Sacrocolpopexy (SCP) is considered an effective and durable surgical technique for treatment of apical prolapse. The aim of this study was to compare short-term outcomes including postoperative complications and unanticipated healthcare encounters between patients who underwent SCP with a mini-laparotomy approach compared to patients treated with laparoscopic and robotic-assisted laparoscopic SCP. METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study including patients treated for apical prolapse at a university affiliated urogynecology practice. Patients over the age of 18 who underwent abdominal SCP between 2019 and 2023 were included. The cohort was formed into two groups: (1) Patients who underwent SCP through a mini-laparotomy incision (Mini-lap group); (2) Patients who underwent laparoscopic or robotic-assisted laparoscopic SCP (Lap/Robot group). RESULTS: A total of 116 patients were included in the final analysis. Ninety patients underwent either laparoscopic or robotic-assisted SCP, whereas 26 patients underwent SCP with a mini-laparotomy approach. Study participants exhibited a mean age of 63.1 ± 10.3 years, mean body mass index (BMI) of 25.8 ± 4.9 Kg/m2, and 77.6% of them identified as Caucasian. Upon comparison of demographic and past medical history between groups there were no statistically significant differences in age, BMI, menopausal status, race, parity or comorbid conditions. Patients in the Mini-lap group were less likely to have undergone previous abdominal surgery (11.5% vs. 50.6%, p < 0.001) and had more severe apical prolapse (stage 4 prolapse, 40% vs. 21.2%, p < 0.001) than their counterparts in the Lap/robot group. Regarding intraoperative parameters, length of surgery was significantly shorter in the Mini-lap group compared to the Lap/robot group (97.3 ± 35.0 min vs. 242.0 ± 52.6 min, p < 0.001). When focusing on the primary outcome, postoperative complications within the first 30 days after surgery, there were no differences noted between groups. Additionally, the number of unanticipated healthcare encounters, such as phone calls, clinic visits, emergency department visits, urgent care visits, readmissions and reoperations were similar between groups. CONCLUSIONS: Mini-laparotomy approach for SCP is safe with comparable intra- and postoperative complications, and unanticipated healthcare encounters compared to conventional minimally invasive methods.

Pathological Insights on Polypropylene Mesh Complications From Laparoscopic Sacrocolpopexy: A Case Series.

Background The use of polypropylene mesh in laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy (LSC) is a common treatment for pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Despite its widespread application, postoperative complications such as mesh pain and infection sometimes necessitate the removal of the mesh. However, it remains unclear in which cases mesh removal is warranted. Our research focused on the pathological changes at the sacral fixation point of the mesh. We sought to evaluate the pathological alterations of the sacral mesh removed through an innovative approach of transvaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (vNOTES). Methods This retrospective study included nine patients who underwent mesh removal surgery at the Yokosuka Urogynecology and Urology Clinic in 2023. Extraction surgery was performed using vNOTES with the GelPoint Access Platform (Applied Medical JAPAN HEADQUARTERS, Tokyo, Japan). Non-ablative Erbium YAG and Neodymium YAG lasers (RenovaLase, SP Dynamis; Fotona d.o.o., Ljubljana, Slovenia) were utilized for persistent stress urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, vaginal erosion, and bleeding after surgery. Patients were categorized based on mesh fixation conditions, including unintended mesh overlap (Group I), excessive traction (Group II), and signs of mesh aging (Group III). This categorization helped to understand the distinct pathological outcomes associated with each condition. Results Pathological findings from the mesh removed via vNOTES varied significantly across the groups. In Group I, characteristic large vacuole formation and accumulation of atypical giant cells were observed, attributed to mesh overlap. Group II presented with vacuole formation, fiber degradation, and tissue destruction as a result of excessive mesh traction. In Group III, the aging of the mesh was marked by cracks in the surrounding tissues and granuloma formation. These detailed observations provide crucial insights into the underlying causes of mesh-related pain and other complications, highlighting the complexity of bodily responses to mesh implants. Conclusion This study demonstrated the effectiveness of vNOTES for polypropylene mesh removal in patients with post-LSC complications, resulting in significant pain reduction. Pathological analysis revealed that mesh-related issues stem from the surgical techniques, mesh properties, and long-term bodily reactions. These findings provide valuable insights for improving mesh design and POP treatment strategies. Despite the technical challenges, vNOTES is recommended for mesh removal in patients with pain. Additionally, the combination of UEL, VEL, targeted laser irradiation, AEL, and Nd:YAG laser treatments showed promising results in managing post-mesh removal complications such as stress urinary incontinence, vaginal erosion, bleeding, and fecal incontinence, offering hope for improved patient outcomes.

Effect of two different surgical modalities for pelvic organ prolapse on postoperative wound infection in patients: A meta-analysis.

Sacrospinous ligament fixation (SSLF) is widely applied to the treatment of female pelvis organ prolapsed. Contradictory findings have already been reported in the comparison of sacrocolpopexy (SC) with SSLF. The objective of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of SC versus SSLF in treating pelvis organ prolapsed after operation. We conducted a meta-analysis of both operative approaches, including PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library. In this research, 822 articles were chosen from three databases, 201 were copied, and 10 were included. Among them, 7248 cases were operated on the prolapsed pelvis. It was found that SSLF surgery could significantly decrease the rate of postoperative wound infection after operation (odds ratio [OR], 0.59; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.42-0.82; p = 0.001). No statistical significance was found among the SSLF and the SC surgery for the post-operation haemorrhage of the patient (OR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.23-2.83; p = 0.75). No statistical significance was found among the SSLF and the SC surgery for the postoperative period of the patient's operation (mean difference, -15.46; 95% CI, -52.87 to 21.94; p = 0.42). Applying SSLF surgery to treat pelvic prolapse in women may benefit from a reduction in the number of post-operative wound infections. However, SSLF had no statistical significance with respect to the amount of haemorrhage after operation or operation time.

A Comprehensive Evaluation of Sexual Life in Women After Laparoscopic Sacrocolpopexy using PISQ-IR.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: Although laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy is a recommended procedure for sexually active women, its full impact on sexual life remains underexplored. This study is aimed at comprehensively assessing changes in the quality of sexual life and the prevalence of dyspareunia in women 1 year after laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy. METHODS: This prospective observational study enrolled women undergoing laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy for pelvic organ prolapse stage≥ 2. Included were women with a completed Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire, IUGA Revised (PISQ-IR) questionnaire before and at 1 year after surgery. Individual domains of the PISQ-IR were compared separately. Dyspareunia, single summary PISQ-IR and PISQ-12 scores were additionally compared in sexually active women. Statistical analyses included paired signed rank, Wilcoxon, Median, Chi-squared, and Fisher tests (p < 0.05). RESULTS: Between February 2015 and December 2019, a total of 333 women were included. Mean age was 61.0 ± 11.2 and 141 (42%) reported being sexually active at baseline. At 12 months postoperatively, sexual activity was preserved in 110 (78%) of these women and an additional 26 women (14%) became sexually active. Both single-summary PISQ-IR (3.4 vs 3.6, p < 0.01) and PISQ-12 (36.0 vs 38.1, p < 0.01) scores increased significantly. The only variable that was associated with deteriorated scores postoperatively was a higher BMI. Individual domain analyses revealed significant improvement in condition-specific and condition-impact domains, except for the desire domain, which deteriorated. Prevalence of dyspareunia decreased post-surgery from 21.8% to 16.4%, p < 0.05. Newly sexually active women were older, had shorter vaginal length preoperatively, but lower PISQ-IR scores postoperatively than sexually inactive women pre- and postoperatively. Women ceasing sexual activity were older and had lower preoperative PISQ-IR scores than sexually active women pre- and postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS: Although the overall rate of sexually active women and sexual desire declined 12 months after sacrocolpopexy, overall sexual function scores improved and the prevalence of dyspareunia decreased.

Recurrent Pelvic Organ Prolapse after Sacrocolpopexy-A Surgical Challenge.

Background: Repeat sacrocolpopexy (reSCP) for recurrent pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a rare and complex condition with little understanding of how to manage. Most authors recommend complete reSCP regardless of the underlying cause of the failure. This retrospective cohort study presents our management workflow and how to systematically approach this challenging situation. Methods: From 2017 to 2021, we analyzed all women undergoing surgery for recurrent POP after sacrocolpopexy at our tertiary referral hospital at the department of urogynecology. Preoperatively, all women underwent a structured work-up consisting of answering the validated German female pelvic floor questionnaires, a clinical examination utilizing the POP-Q staging system according to the International Continence Society (ICS), and a pelvic floor ultrasound. The surgical management was based on the preoperative findings and was adapted individually during surgery if indicated according to the estimated underlying problem for recurrence. Results: In total, 377 women underwent a primary laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy. However, ten women presented with a symptomatic recurrent prolapse requiring further surgical intervention. A reSCP was performed in eight women, including two with additional laparoscopic paravaginal repair to correct the displaced mesh placement at initial surgery. A vaginal correction was indicated in two women with an isolated posterior compartment prolapse. The analysis demonstrates that reSCP has a low intraoperative complication rate and high subjective and objective success rates. Conclusions: We could demonstrate that individualized reSCP after initial SCP is a challenging yet feasible and safe treatment option, but there may be suitable alternatives. If women undergo pre- and intraoperative standardized problem-oriented examinations, we can often identify the cause of the recurrent prolapse. Tailored surgery must be subsequently performed.

Postoperative small intestinal obstruction caused by barbed suture after robot-assisted laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy.

Introduction: We present a case of small intestinal obstruction due to a barbed suture used for peritoneal closure during robot-assisted laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy. Case presentation: A female patient with pelvic organ prolapse underwent robot-assisted laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy uneventfully. Intestinal obstruction developed on postoperative Day 4. Conservative treatment with the ileus tube failed to improve abdominal symptoms. The laparoscopic examination on postoperative Day 14 revealed the barbed suture entangled with the small intestinal mesentery. The tail of the barbed suture was laparoscopically detached from the mesentery without damaging the small intestine. The tail of the barbed suture was trimmed; an antiadhesive material was applied to the peritoneal closure line and the trimmed tail of the barbed suture. Conclusion: We recommend the use of conventional absorbable sutures in the peritoneal cavity because of the potential risk of intestinal obstruction caused by the barbed suture.