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Keywords = apical pelvic organ prolapse

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12 pages, 233 KiB  
Article
Impact of Gynecological Interventions on Pelvic Floor Disorders: A Descriptive Analysis of a Case Series in a Hospital-Based Surgical Cohort of 832 Patients
by Günter Noé, Nele Ziems, Anna Pitsillidi, Ibrahim Alkatout and Dusan Djokovic
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5244; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155244 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 1294
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Pelvic floor disorders (PFDs) have multifactorial etiology. This makes treatment challenging and often unsatisfactory. This project introduces robust data on risk factors for PFDs and explores opportunities for their prevention, focusing on previous gynecological surgical interventions. Methods: We conducted a [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Pelvic floor disorders (PFDs) have multifactorial etiology. This makes treatment challenging and often unsatisfactory. This project introduces robust data on risk factors for PFDs and explores opportunities for their prevention, focusing on previous gynecological surgical interventions. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analytical cohort study analyzing demographic and clinical data from 832 consecutive patients who underwent pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery at a teaching hospital affiliated with the University of Cologne between 2010 and 2019. Patient characteristics—including age, body mass index (BMI), parity, mode of delivery, and symptoms—were collected from medical records. Associations between patient factors and surgical history were assessed using Kendall’s Tau (KT) for correlations and relative risks (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to evaluate the impact of previous hysterectomies and pelvic surgeries on PFD. Results: First vaginal delivery and age were the strongest factors associated with PFD. BMI had a smaller impact, and multiple vaginal deliveries did not significantly influence apical (KT 0.037), posterior (KT 0.007), anterior midline (KT 0.015), or lateral defects (KT 0.015). Cesarean section was protective. Subtotal hysterectomy showed no significant association with PFD. Total hysterectomy was strongly associated with posterior defects (RR 4.750, 95% CI: 1.871–12.059) and anterior midline defects (RR 1.645, 95% CI: 0.654–4.139). Recurrent urinary infections were associated with abdominal colposuspension (RR 4.485, 95% CI: 1.12–18.03). Dyspareunia occurred more frequently after vaginal (RR 3.971, 95% CI: 0.78–20.14) and abdominal hysterectomy (RR 1.620, 95% CI: 0.32–8.15). Vaginal hysterectomy was linked to fecal incontinence (RR 5.559, 95% CI: 1.17–26.30), MUI (RR 2.156, 95% CI: 1.09–4.23), and UUI (RR 4.226, 95% CI: 1.82–6.85). Conclusions: The factors identified as influencing (PFD) offer a solid foundation for evidence-based patient counseling within our population. Our large dataset confirmed key risk factors, notably childbirth and advancing age. However, the influence of BMI on symptoms and anatomical defects appears to be less significant than previously assumed. Subtotal hysterectomy was not associated with new PFD in our cohort and may represent a viable option when hysterectomy is indicated, though further studies are needed to confirm this potential advantage. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Current Progress and Clinical Challenges)
12 pages, 227 KiB  
Article
Is Transvaginal Minimally Invasive Sacrospinous Ligament Fixation a Safe and Effective Surgical Approach for Treating Recurrent Apical Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
by Jonatan Neuman, Asnat Groutz, Menahem Neuman and Ronen S. Gold
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5235; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155235 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 351
Abstract
Background: Recurrent apical pelvic organ prolapse (POP) presents significant management challenges, with limited evidence on optimal surgical approaches. This study evaluated the safety and long-term effectiveness of minimally invasive sacrospinous ligament (SSL) fixation using the EnPlace® device for treating recurrent apical POP. [...] Read more.
Background: Recurrent apical pelvic organ prolapse (POP) presents significant management challenges, with limited evidence on optimal surgical approaches. This study evaluated the safety and long-term effectiveness of minimally invasive sacrospinous ligament (SSL) fixation using the EnPlace® device for treating recurrent apical POP. Methods: A cohort analysis was performed on 82 consecutive patients (mean age 65.9 ± 8.6 years) with stage III or IV recurrent symptomatic apical POP. All patients underwent transvaginal SSL fixation using the EnPlace® device between January 2021 and July 2023. Primary outcomes included anatomical cure rates, patient satisfaction, and complications. Long-term follow-up was conducted via a structured telephone survey in December 2024. Results: The mean interval between primary and recurrent repair was 3.2 ± 2.6 years. Most patients (64.6%) underwent surgery under regional anesthesia with a mean operative time of 24.1 ± 7.1 min and minimal blood loss (23.8 ± 6.5 mL). No intraoperative complications occurred, and 98.8% of patients were discharged the same day. Two early postoperative complications occurred, neither requiring surgical intervention. At six-month follow-up, significant improvements were observed in POP-Q measurements for apical prolapse, cystocele, and rectocele. Long-term follow-up (mean 31.6 ± 8.3 months) revealed that only 11 patients (13.4%) reported mild POP symptoms. Patient satisfaction scores averaged 90.8 ± 17.1, with only 8.5% reporting low satisfaction. Only two patients (2.4%) required additional intervention for recurrent apical POP. Conclusions: Minimally invasive SSL fixation using the EnPlace® device demonstrates favorable safety and efficacy for recurrent apical POP, offering a viable alternative to more invasive procedures with high patient satisfaction and low recurrence rates. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Challenges of Pelvic Floor Disorders Management)
10 pages, 206 KiB  
Article
AI-Enhanced 3D Transperineal Ultrasound: Advancing Biometric Measurements for Precise Prolapse Severity Assessment
by Desirèe De Vicari, Marta Barba, Alice Cola, Clarissa Costa, Mariachiara Palucci and Matteo Frigerio
Bioengineering 2025, 12(7), 754; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering12070754 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 471
Abstract
Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a common pelvic floor disorder with substantial impact on women’s quality of life, necessitating accurate and reproducible diagnostic methods. This study investigates the use of three-dimensional (3D) transperineal ultrasound, integrated with artificial intelligence (AI), to evaluate pelvic floor [...] Read more.
Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a common pelvic floor disorder with substantial impact on women’s quality of life, necessitating accurate and reproducible diagnostic methods. This study investigates the use of three-dimensional (3D) transperineal ultrasound, integrated with artificial intelligence (AI), to evaluate pelvic floor biomechanics and identify correlations between biometric parameters and prolapse severity. Thirty-seven female patients diagnosed with genital prolapse (mean age: 65.3 ± 10.6 years; mean BMI: 29.5 ± 3.8) were enrolled. All participants underwent standardized 3D transperineal ultrasound using the Mindray Smart Pelvic system, an AI-assisted imaging platform. Key biometric parameters—anteroposterior diameter, laterolateral diameter, and genital hiatus area—were measured under three functional states: rest, maximal Valsalva maneuver, and voluntary pelvic floor contraction. Additionally, two functional indices were derived: the distensibility index (ratio of Valsalva to rest) and the contractility index (ratio of contraction to rest), reflecting pelvic floor elasticity and muscular function, respectively. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and univariate correlation analysis using Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POP-Q) system scores. Results revealed a significant correlation between laterolateral diameter and prolapse severity across multiple compartments and functional states. In apical prolapse, the laterolateral diameter measured at rest and during both Valsalva and contraction showed positive correlations with POP-Q point C, indicating increasing transverse pelvic dimensions with more advanced prolapse (e.g., r = 0.42 to 0.58; p < 0.05). In anterior compartment prolapse, the same parameter measured during Valsalva and contraction correlated significantly with POP-Q point AA (e.g., r = 0.45 to 0.61; p < 0.05). Anteroposterior diameters and genital hiatus area were also analyzed but showed weaker or inconsistent correlations. AI integration facilitated real-time image segmentation and automated measurement, reducing operator dependency and increasing reproducibility. These findings highlight the laterolateral diameter as a strong, reproducible anatomical marker for POP severity, particularly when assessed dynamically. The combined use of AI-enhanced imaging and functional indices provides a novel, standardized, and objective approach for assessing pelvic floor dysfunction. This methodology supports more accurate diagnosis, individualized management planning, and long-term monitoring of pelvic floor disorders. Full article
9 pages, 545 KiB  
Systematic Review
Laparoscopic Lateral Suspension (LLS) for Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP): Update and Systematic Review of Prospective and Randomised Trials
by Francesco Plotti, Arianna Martinelli, Corrado Terranova, Carlo De Cicco Nardone, Roberto Montera, Daniela Luvero, Federica Guzzo, Violante Di Donato, Gianna Barbara Cundari, Serena Manco and Roberto Angioli
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(9), 3056; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14093056 - 29 Apr 2025
Viewed by 763
Abstract
Background: Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) significantly impacts women’s quality of life, especially in postmenopausal patients. Although laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy (LSC) is the gold standard for advanced apical prolapse, its complexity and risk of complications have led to alternative approaches like laparoscopic lateral suspension [...] Read more.
Background: Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) significantly impacts women’s quality of life, especially in postmenopausal patients. Although laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy (LSC) is the gold standard for advanced apical prolapse, its complexity and risk of complications have led to alternative approaches like laparoscopic lateral suspension (LLS), a minimally invasive technique with promising results. Methods: A comprehensive search using PubMed databases was performed. The search was conducted from June 2024 to September 2024. The search string used was as follows: (pelvic organ prolapse) AND (lateral suspension) OR (laparoscopic lateral suspension). We included randomized controlled trials, prospective cohort studies, prospective observational studies, and case studies. We excluded retrospective studies, small case series, case reports, and articles not published in English. All selected articles were screened based on the titles and abstracts. Relevant data were extracted and tabulated. Results: An overall number of 12 studies were included in our analysis. LLS demonstrated high anatomical success rates: 91.15% for the anterior, 94.95% for the central, and 86.55% for the posterior compartments. The randomized controlled studies exhibit comparable effectiveness between both methods (LLS vs. LSC) and LLS appears to be the best option for anterior repair or anterior–apical repair. Patient satisfaction rates exceeded 90%, with reduced operative times (123 ± 33 min and 193 ± 55.6 min for ALS and ASC, respectively). According to the Claiven–Dindo scale, 0.17% of postoperative complications were graded more than III. The rate of mesh erosion was 0% to 10%. The technique showed particular benefit for uterine preservation and in obese patients but was less effective for severe posterior prolapse. Conclusions: Laparoscopic lateral suspension offers a safe, effective alternative for POP management, with significant anatomical and functional benefits. Its minimally invasive nature, shorter surgery time, and high satisfaction rates make it suitable for tailored patient care. Further studies should standardize evaluation metrics and assess long-term outcomes. The review was not registered. No funding was received. The authors declare no competing interests. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Obstetrics & Gynecology)
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11 pages, 623 KiB  
Systematic Review
Pregnancy After Laparoscopic Hysteropexy: A Systematic Review
by Anna Pitsillidi, Laura Vona, Stefano Bettocchi, Sven Schiermeier and Günter Karl Noé
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(8), 2777; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14082777 - 17 Apr 2025
Viewed by 724
Abstract
Background: Nowadays, there is an increasing desire among women suffering from pelvic organ prolapse (POP) to choose a uterus-sparing surgical treatment in order to preserve their fertility. The objective of this study was to conduct a systematic review of the literature to assess [...] Read more.
Background: Nowadays, there is an increasing desire among women suffering from pelvic organ prolapse (POP) to choose a uterus-sparing surgical treatment in order to preserve their fertility. The objective of this study was to conduct a systematic review of the literature to assess how pregnancy and delivery affect the recurrence of POP in women who had previously undergone laparoscopic hysteropexy as well as to improve and individualise the future counselling of patients of reproductive age desiring uterine-preserving treatment for POP. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using the MEDLINE (PubMed), Web of Science, and Scopus databases for articles published until January 2025, without previous historical limits. The research strategy adopted included different combinations of the following terms: hysteropexy, pregnancy, laparoscopy, and prolapse. Results: A total of ten case reports and three case series met the inclusion criteria for the review, comprising 26 patients. All authors used laparoscopic sacral hysteropexy (LSHP) for the treatment of POP. All patients underwent caesarean delivery at a mean gestational age of 38 weeks. Over a mean follow-up period of 9 months, only 4% of patients developed a recurrent uterine prolapse. A total of 8% of the patients developed de novo anterior compartment prolapse, 8% developed a recurrence of anterior compartment prolapse, and 4% developed posterior compartment prolapse. Conclusions: LSHP seems to be a safe option for women of reproductive age with incomplete family planning, as it does not seem to negatively impact foetal growth. Pregnancy does not appear to affect the long-term efficacy of hysteropexy in maintaining apical support. Given the limited data on the safety and efficacy of uterine-sparing surgery for POP followed by a subsequent pregnancy, further evidence is of great importance towards evaluating safety, efficacy, and providing better counselling for women. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Current Progress and Clinical Challenges)
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10 pages, 415 KiB  
Article
Preliminary Results of a Multicenter Randomized Clinical Trial for Laparoscopic Repair of Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Sacropexy vs. Laparoscopic Lateral Suspension
by Isabel Ñíguez-Sevilla, María Luisa Sánchez-Ferrer, Vicente Luis Ruiz-Cotorruelo, Maciej Wilczak, Karolina Chmaj-Wierzchowska, Juan Antonio Solano-Calvo, María Elena Pérez-Muñuzuri, Juan Raúl Salinas-Peña and Julián Jesús Arense-Gonzalo
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(6), 2069; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14062069 - 18 Mar 2025
Viewed by 754
Abstract
Background: Laparoscopic sacropexy (SCL) is the gold standard technique for the correction of apical pelvic organ prolapse (POP). However, other easier laparoscopic techniques, such as laparoscopic lateral suspension (LLS), have become popular. Methods: We conducted a multicenter randomized study of patients undergoing laparoscopic [...] Read more.
Background: Laparoscopic sacropexy (SCL) is the gold standard technique for the correction of apical pelvic organ prolapse (POP). However, other easier laparoscopic techniques, such as laparoscopic lateral suspension (LLS), have become popular. Methods: We conducted a multicenter randomized study of patients undergoing laparoscopic repair of apical and anterior prolapse. Patients were randomized into two groups: LLS vs. SCL. A non-inferiority study was proposed, in which the null hypothesis was that the difference in the proportion of therapeutic failures among women who undergo LLS compared to SCL is ≥15%. It was necessary to include 182 participants to detect a risk difference of 15% after one year with a statistical power of 0.80. Results: We recruited 176 women, of whom 106 patients underwent surgery with a follow-up between 1 and 12 months. There were no differences in basal characteristics. Regarding physical examination, there were no differences at stages III-IV in the POP-Q or the symptom scales in both groups. Concerning the post-surgical results, there were no failures detected in the physical examination in any group. There were no differences in the points of the POP-Q, the symptom scales, or the body image scale. We only found significant differences in the operative time, which was shorter for the LLS. Conclusions: Although these are preliminary results, since the sample includes 106 patients and the follow-up time is a limited period at the moment, we did not find any post-surgical differences between the two techniques. However, it will be necessary to complete the trial to draw relevant conclusions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Management of Pelvic Organ Prolapse)
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18 pages, 4851 KiB  
Article
Comparison of Open Abdominal and Laparoscopic Bilateral Uterosacral Ligament Replacement: A One-Year Follow-Up Study
by Sebastian Ludwig, Mathieu Pfleiderer, Jodok Püchel, Constanze Amir-Kabirian, Janice Jeschke, Dominik Ratiu, Christian Eichler, Bernd Morgenstern, Peter Mallmann, Julia Radosa and Fabinshy Thangarajah
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(6), 1880; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14061880 - 11 Mar 2025
Viewed by 729
Abstract
Background: Pelvic organ prolapse significantly affects women’s health, often requiring surgery. Unilateral sacrocolpopexy (SCP) is the gold standard for apical prolapse repair. However, varied SCP techniques can lead to inconsistencies in clinical outcomes, with differences in synthetic materials, mesh dimensions, placement, and apical [...] Read more.
Background: Pelvic organ prolapse significantly affects women’s health, often requiring surgery. Unilateral sacrocolpopexy (SCP) is the gold standard for apical prolapse repair. However, varied SCP techniques can lead to inconsistencies in clinical outcomes, with differences in synthetic materials, mesh dimensions, placement, and apical tensioning. This variability may impact the comparability of clinical outcomes. Bilateral apical fixation has gained attention for its potential to provide effective apical support and restore anatomical integrity. Objective: To date there are not many studies on bilateral apical cervicosacropexy between the vaginal apex and the sacrum at the level of S1/promontory with one-year follow-up. Methods: This study presents a one-year follow-up comparing the clinical outcomes of open abdominal (CESA) and laparoscopic cervicosacropexy (laCESA) for bilateral apical suspension in women with pelvic floor disorders. A total of 145 women underwent either CESA (n = 75) or laCESA (n = 70) using a surgical technique with a designed polyvinylidene-fluoride (PVDF) mesh of defined shape replacing both uterosacral ligaments. Outcomes were efficacy, safety, and success rates of both surgical approaches in restoring apical vaginal support and pelvic floor functioning. Results: Both techniques demonstrated high efficacy of apical prolapse repair and a high level of safety. While comparable rates of urinary continence restoration were achieved, laCESA showed significant advantages in terms of operative time, hospital stay, and recovery time. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate the reproducibility of a surgical technique including clinical outcomes in the treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction. The standardization of mesh design and surgical methodology enhances reproducibility and may mitigate some of the variability associated with clinical outcomes in apical mesh fixation techniques. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Challenges of Pelvic Floor Disorders Management)
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16 pages, 1797 KiB  
Article
Does Colpocleisis Still Hold Value? The Evolution of Apical Prolapse Surgery: A Comparative National Database Study
by Yaman Degirmenci, Ina Shehaj, Matthias Alexa, Gilbert Georg Klamminger, Mona Wanda Schmidt, Konstantin Hofmann, Annette Hasenburg and Roxana Schwab
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(5), 1414; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14051414 - 20 Feb 2025
Viewed by 705
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a common condition that significantly affects quality of life. Obliterative surgery, such as colpocleisis, represents an alternative to reconstructive surgery with a historically established background. The trends in apical prolapse surgery have undergone substantial changes following FDA [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a common condition that significantly affects quality of life. Obliterative surgery, such as colpocleisis, represents an alternative to reconstructive surgery with a historically established background. The trends in apical prolapse surgery have undergone substantial changes following FDA warnings. This study aims to analyze the trend of obliterative surgery within the context of apical POP surgery in the German healthcare system, considering global shifts, particularly following FDA warnings. Methods: A comprehensive analysis of in-patient data from the German Federal Statistical Office was carried out for the period between 2005 and 2021. The study included a total of 530,107 procedures, each classified by specific codes. Linear regression analysis was applied to identify and characterize trends in surgical patterns. Results: The trends in obliterative surgery showed a significant decline over the years (p < 0.001), particularly notable in older women. In contrast, a significant increasing trend was observed in the proportion of abdominal surgeries relative to the total number of procedures over time (p < 0.001), especially in the younger age group. Conclusions: Surgical trends over the specified timeframe highlight the notable evolution of POP management. Despite observed global fluctuations, obliterative surgery in Germany appeared to follow a declining trend in the changing mesh era, shaped by varying perspectives on the matter. The shifting global trend should be closely monitored and considered in urogynecological training. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Management of Pelvic Organ Prolapse)
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11 pages, 3578 KiB  
Review
Review on the Management of Female Urinary Incontinence and Anterior Vaginal Prolapse
by Ronscardy F. Mondesir, Angelica Gousse, Daniel A. Boaretto, Daniel Ajabshir and Angelo Gousse
Soc. Int. Urol. J. 2025, 6(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/siuj6010012 - 12 Feb 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1575
Abstract
Objectives: We aimed to evaluate management strategies for female urinary incontinence, specifically stress urinary incontinence (SUI), and anterior vaginal prolapse (pelvic organ prolapse, POP), emphasizing diagnostic methods, treatment options, and factors influencing surgical outcomes. Methods: We conducted a thorough literature review examining diagnostic [...] Read more.
Objectives: We aimed to evaluate management strategies for female urinary incontinence, specifically stress urinary incontinence (SUI), and anterior vaginal prolapse (pelvic organ prolapse, POP), emphasizing diagnostic methods, treatment options, and factors influencing surgical outcomes. Methods: We conducted a thorough literature review examining diagnostic tools, including physical examinations, urodynamic testing, and pessary evaluations, alongside treatment options for SUI and POP. Both surgical interventions, such as mid-urethral sling placement and anterior colporrhaphy, and non-surgical methods, including pelvic floor exercises, were analyzed. This review assesses these approaches’ efficacy, complications, and outcomes, incorporating current clinical guidelines and evidence-based practices. Results: Evidence indicates that SUI frequently coexists with POP, with a notable proportion of cases being occult until a prolapse is reduced. Diagnostic methods such as pessary testing and urodynamic evaluations are essential in identifying masked SUI, though their predictive accuracy varies. Surgical techniques such as using mid-urethral slings are highly effective but pose risks, including voiding dysfunction and lower urinary tract injury. Long-term data emphasize the need for personalized treatment strategies, with combined procedures showing superior outcomes for the concurrent management of POP and SUI in select cases. Conclusions: Effective management of SUI and POP requires a personalized approach, factoring in the severity of a prolapse and the likelihood of postoperative incontinence. While conservative treatments are practical initial options, surgical solutions, such as mid-urethral slings and apical suspension procedures, offer robust, lasting results for advanced cases. Preoperative diagnostics, collaborative decision-making, and tailored treatment plans are essential to optimize success and minimize complications. Future research should prioritize enhancing diagnostic precision and refining surgical methods to further advance patient care. Full article
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10 pages, 1455 KiB  
Article
Enhanced Biomechanical Properties of the Pectineal Ligament Support Its Reliability for Apical Pelvic Organ Prolapse Repair
by Micaela Motzko, Makayla M. Swancutt, Edwin Glueck, Brandalynn Holland, Anna Stock, Zubeen Azari, Elif Diricanli, Jennifer F. Dennis and Melissa Zolnierz
Anatomia 2024, 3(4), 234-243; https://doi.org/10.3390/anatomia3040020 - 15 Oct 2024
Viewed by 1421
Abstract
Pelvic organ prolapse impacts an increasing number of women in the United States. The standard approach to correcting apical pelvic organ prolapse uses the sacral anterior longitudinal ligament (SALL) to lift the vaginal apex; however, this approach may result in recurrent prolapse. A [...] Read more.
Pelvic organ prolapse impacts an increasing number of women in the United States. The standard approach to correcting apical pelvic organ prolapse uses the sacral anterior longitudinal ligament (SALL) to lift the vaginal apex; however, this approach may result in recurrent prolapse. A newer procedure utilizes the pectineal ligament (PL), which may be a more reliable anchor point. This study compares the biomechanical properties of these two ligaments to elucidate which can withstand more stress to provide long-term stability following prolapse. Seventeen formalin-embalmed donors were used (PL: 17 right, 16 left; SALL, 15). The PL was evaluated to better characterize the ligament’s properties within the pelvis using digital calipers and descriptive statistics. Mean values were statistically evaluated using an independent t test (p = 0.05) but no differences in laterality were appreciable. The PL and SALL samples were harvested and evaluated using a mechanical tester to determine their force at failure (N), toughness (Jm−2), and elastic modulus (MPa). The PL had increased values in the mean force at failure and toughness than the SALL when evaluated by each side as well as a combined mean value. These differences were statistically significant (p = 0.05) for toughness as evaluated using an independent t-test (right, p = 0.004; left, p = 0.005; combined, p = 0.002) and force at failure [right, p = 0.001 (independent t-test); left, p = 0.004 and combined, p = 0.005 (Mann–Whitney U test)], indicating that the PL may permit more deformation, but greater resistance to catastrophic failure as compared to the SALL. When evaluating any statistical differences in modulus, the individual and combined values were increased for the PL as compared to the SALL but were not significant (right, p = 0.290; left, p = 0.143; combined, p = 0.110) suggesting a stiffer material that may be more prone to catastrophic failure once a tear has begun. Collectively, these inherent biomechanical properties of the pectineal ligament indicate the ligament may be a more reliable anchor point for pelvic organ prolapse repair than the SALL. Full article
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10 pages, 727 KiB  
Article
Safety and Efficacy of Minimally Invasive Sacrospinous Ligament Fixation for Apical Pelvic Organ Prolapse in Older Women
by Ronen S. Gold, Jonatan Neuman, Yoav Baruch, Menahem Neuman and Asnat Groutz
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(18), 5520; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13185520 - 18 Sep 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1789
Abstract
Background: This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of minimally invasive sacrospinous ligament (SSL) fixation of apical pelvic organ prolapse (POP) in older patients compared to younger patients. Methods: A cohort of 271 older (≥65 years) patients (mean age 71.8 ± [...] Read more.
Background: This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of minimally invasive sacrospinous ligament (SSL) fixation of apical pelvic organ prolapse (POP) in older patients compared to younger patients. Methods: A cohort of 271 older (≥65 years) patients (mean age 71.8 ± 5.2 years) and 60 younger patients (mean age 47.6 ± 7.1 years) with stage III or IV apical POP who underwent SSL fixation by the EnPlace® device was retrospectively analyzed. The age range of older patients was further divided into early old (65–74 y, N = 209), old (75–84 y, N = 58), and late old (>85 y, N = 4). Patient characteristics, surgical safety, and 6-month postoperative outcomes were compared between the four age groups. Results: Duration of surgery and blood loss were similar among all age groups. Most patients (99.4%) were discharged on the day of surgery or the day after. Subjective patient satisfaction rates were high among all patients. Point C measurements at six months postoperatively were less favorable among the younger patients. Furthermore, four (6.7%) younger patients versus six (2.2%) older patients required surgical repair of recurrent apical POP within the follow-up period. Conclusions: The short-term outcomes of minimally invasive SSL fixation suggest that it is a safe and effective procedure for significant apical POP repair among older patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Obstetrics & Gynecology)
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10 pages, 216 KiB  
Article
Analysis of the Clinical Value of Laparoscopic Sacrocolpopexy to Support the Posterior Compartment in Women with Multicompartment Prolapse Including Rectocele
by Simone Aichner, Andreas Studer, Janine Frey, Christine Brambs, Jörg Krebs and Corina Christmann-Schmid
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(17), 5051; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13175051 - 26 Aug 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 987
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy is regarded as the gold standard treatment for apical or multicompartment prolapse, predominantly with anterior compartment descent. However, the optimal surgical approach for concurrent rectocele is still debated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy is regarded as the gold standard treatment for apical or multicompartment prolapse, predominantly with anterior compartment descent. However, the optimal surgical approach for concurrent rectocele is still debated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of nerve-sparing laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy in managing multicompartment prolapse with concurrent rectocele (≥stage II), analyzing the anatomical outcomes, the necessity for concomitant or subsequent posterior repair, and the impact on bowel function in women undergoing surgery. Methods: Data from all women who underwent laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy with or without posterior repair between 01/2017 and 07/2022 for symptomatic multicompartment prolapse, including apical and posterior compartment descent ≥ stage II, were retrospectively evaluated. All women underwent a standardized urogynecological examination, including assessment of genital prolapse using the POP-Q quantification system, and completed the German-validated Australian Pelvic Floor Questionnaire before and after surgery (6–12 weeks). Preoperative anatomic support and bowel symptoms were compared with postoperative values. Results: In total, 112 women met the criteria for surgical correction. The majority (87%) had stage II posterior descent, with only 10% undergoing concurrent posterior repair during laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy. Significant (p < 0.001) objective improvement was seen for all compartments post- compared with preoperatively (Ba: 0 (−1/2) vs. −3 (−3/−2), C: −1 (−2/0) vs. −8 (−12/−7), Bp: 0 (−1/0) vs. −3 (−2/−2); (median (25%/75% quartiles)). Subsequent surgery for persistent rectocele and/or stool outlet symptoms was required in 4% of cases. Most bowel-specific questions in the German-validated Australian Pelvic Floor Questionnaire showed significant improvement (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Nerve-sparing sacrocolpopexy alone appears to be a suitable surgical approach to correct multicompartment prolapse, including a rectocele ≥ stage II, and results in a reduction of objective signs and symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Obstetrics & Gynecology)
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9 pages, 224 KiB  
Article
Robotic versus Mini-Laparoscopic Colposacropexy to Treat Pelvic Organ Prolapse: A Retrospective Observational Cohort Study and a Medicolegal Perspective
by Valentina Billone, Giuseppe Gullo, Girolamo Perino, Erika Catania, Gaspare Cucinella, Silvia Ganduscio, Alessandra Vassiliadis and Simona Zaami
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(16), 4802; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13164802 - 15 Aug 2024
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1700
Abstract
Background: POP (pelvic organ prolapse) involves the descent of one or more pelvic organs downwards with or without protrusion from the vaginal opening, caused by the relaxation and weakening of ligaments, connective tissue, and pelvic muscles. Such an outcome negatively impacts the [...] Read more.
Background: POP (pelvic organ prolapse) involves the descent of one or more pelvic organs downwards with or without protrusion from the vaginal opening, caused by the relaxation and weakening of ligaments, connective tissue, and pelvic muscles. Such an outcome negatively impacts the quality of life. The gold standard procedure for repairing apical compartment prolapse is colposacropexy (CS) to secure the anterior and posterior walls of the vagina to the anterior longitudinal sacral ligament, located anteriorly to the sacral promontory, using a mesh. Several surgical approaches are feasible. Laparotomic or minimally invasive methods, including laparoscopic or robotic ones, can restore the horizontal axis of the vagina and typically involve concomitant hysterectomy. Methods: This study is based on 80 patients who underwent CS at Palermo’s Ospedali Riuniti Villa Sofia-Cervello from 2019 to 2023. Women aged 35–85 at the time of surgery were divided into two groups: 40 patients underwent mini-laparoscopic surgery, and 40 patients underwent robotic surgery. The following parameters were accounted for: demographic data (initials of name and surname, age), preoperative clinical diagnosis, date of surgery, surgical procedure performed, estimated intraoperative blood loss, duration of surgical intervention, length of hospital stay, postoperative pain assessed at 24 h using the VAS scale, and any complications occurring in the postoperative period. Mini-laparoscopic CS (Minilap) and robotic CS (Rob) were then compared in terms of outcomes. Results: In the Minilap group, 11 patients out of 40 had a preoperative diagnosis of vaginal vault prolapse. The average age in this group was 61.6. Five of these patients had isolated cystocele, while the rest presented vaginal stump prolapse linked to cystocele, rectocele, or both. The remaining 29 patients in the Minilap group had a preoperative diagnosis of uterovaginal prolapse, also associated with cystocele, rectocele, or both, or isolated in nine cases. In the Rob group (average age: 60.1), 13 patients were diagnosed with vaginal prolapse (isolated or associated with cystocele), while the remaining 27 had a diagnosis of uterovaginal prolapse. In the Minilap group, the average procedure duration was 123.3 min, shorter than the Rob group (160.1 min). Conclusions: The data collected throughout this prospective study point to the mini-laparoscopic approach as being preferable over the robotic one in terms of surgical procedure length, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative pain, and aesthetic outcome. Hospital stay duration and post operative complication rates were similar for both groups. The innovative and ever-progressing nature of such procedures calls for novel standards prioritizing patient care as well as medicolegal viability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gynecological Cancers: Surgical Treatment and Novel Radiotherapy)
10 pages, 492 KiB  
Article
Long-Term Outcomes (10 Years) of Sacrospinous Ligament Fixation for Pelvic Organ Prolapse Repair
by Annalisa Vigna, Marta Barba and Matteo Frigerio
Healthcare 2024, 12(16), 1611; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12161611 - 13 Aug 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2197
Abstract
Vaginal vault prolapse is one of the main reasons for reoperation in patients with pelvic organ prolapse. Effective correction of the vaginal apex is essential for lasting repair for these women. Apical suspension of the sacrospinous ligament is probably one of the main [...] Read more.
Vaginal vault prolapse is one of the main reasons for reoperation in patients with pelvic organ prolapse. Effective correction of the vaginal apex is essential for lasting repair for these women. Apical suspension of the sacrospinous ligament is probably one of the main vaginal treatments still offered to patients today. We proposed an evaluation of the functional and anatomical results of long-term sacrospinous ligament fixation. Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the 10-year results of sacrospinous ligament suspension as primary repair for apical prolapse and to evaluate long-term side effects. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study analyzed 10-year follow-up after prolapse repair using sacrospinous ligament suspension. A subjective recurrence was identified as the postoperative occurrence of swelling symptoms based on a particular item on the Italian Prolapse Quality of Life (P-QoL) questionnaire. An objective recurrence was defined as a postoperative decline to stage II or below in any compartment based on the POP-Q system or the requirement for additional surgery. The assessment of postoperative subjective satisfaction was conducted using the Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I) score. Results: In total, 40 patients underwent sacrospinous ligament fixation. Objective recurrence was remarkably high, as it was observed in 17 (56.7%) patients. Subjective recurrence was reported by ten (33.3%) women, and reintervention occurred in two (6.7%) of patients. From the point of view of quality of life, according to the PGI-I, twenty-three (76.7%) patients described some degree of improvement after surgery, four (13.3%) described their status as unmodified, and three (10%) reported some form of worsening after primary treatment. Conclusions: Transvaginal repair with sacrospinous fixation is a long-lasting option for prolapse repair, with improvement in every POP-q parameter. Some degree of anterior recurrence, recurrence of symptoms with swelling, or an overall worsening of quality of life after surgery is possible. Full article
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11 pages, 575 KiB  
Article
How Old Is Too Old? Outcomes of Prolapse Native-Tissue Repair through Uterosacral Suspension in Octogenarians
by Marta Barba, Alice Cola, Desirèe De Vicari, Clarissa Costa, Silvia Volontè and Matteo Frigerio
Life 2024, 14(4), 433; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14040433 - 24 Mar 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3888
Abstract
Introduction: Medical advancements are expected to lead to a substantial increase in the population of women aged 80 and older by 2050. Consequently, a significant number of individuals undergoing corrective prolapse surgery will fall into the elderly-patient category. The research indicates a notable [...] Read more.
Introduction: Medical advancements are expected to lead to a substantial increase in the population of women aged 80 and older by 2050. Consequently, a significant number of individuals undergoing corrective prolapse surgery will fall into the elderly-patient category. The research indicates a notable rise in complications associated with prolapse surgery in patients older than 80, irrespective of frailty and other risk factors. Despite these challenges, the vaginal approach has been identified as the safest surgical method for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) repair in the elderly population. For this reason, we aimed to investigate the efficacy, complication rate, and functional outcomes associated with vaginal hysterectomy and an apical suspension/high uterosacral ligaments suspension as a primary technique for prolapse repair, both within a cohort of elderly patients. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed patients who underwent transvaginal hysterectomy plus an apical suspension procedure for stage ≥ II and symptomatic genital prolapse between January 2006 and December 2013. Anatomical and functional outcomes were evaluated. The Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I) score was used to evaluate subjective satisfaction after surgery. Results: Sixty-five patients were included in the analysis. The median age was 81.3 years. All individuals exhibited an anterior compartment prolapse stage II or higher, and the majority also a central prolapse stage II or higher. Notably, all participants reported symptoms of vaginal bulging. Over half of the population (58.6%) complained of incomplete bladder emptying. The intervention for all participants involved a vaginal hysterectomy with an apical suspension. Sixty-three patients (96.9%) and forty-four patients (67.6%) underwent a simultaneous anterior or posterior repair, respectively. Long-term complications (>30 days from surgery) were observed during follow-up, with a median duration of 23 ± 20 months. Seven (10.7%) anatomical recurrences were recorded, five (7.69%) concerning the anterior compartment, one (1.5%) the central, and three (4.6%) the posterior. Nevertheless, none of them necessitated further surgical intervention due to symptoms. Significant anatomical improvements for the anterior, central, and posterior compartments were noticed, compared to preoperative assessment (p < 0.001 for Aa and Ba, p < 0.001 for Ap and Bp, and p < 0.001 for C). PGI-I values established that 100% of patients were satisfied (PGI-I ≥ 2), with a median score of 1.12. Consequently, objective and subjective cure rates were 89.5% and 100%, respectively. Conclusion: Vaginal hysterectomy combined with apical suspension, particularly high uterosacral ligaments suspension, is a safe and effective primary surgical approach, even in elderly patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pathological Diagnosis of Gynecological and Fetal Diseases)
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