Facteurs de risque des expositions prothétiques après cure de prolapsus génital par voie vaginale

Update in Transvaginal Grafts: The Role of Lightweight Meshes, Biologics, and Hybrid Grafts in Pelvic Organ Prolapse Surgery

Transvaginal mesh/grafts have been popularized over the past 20 years in an attempt to improve the longevity of traditional vaginal pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery. Several national bodies have concluded that the proposed benefits of mesh/graft implantation are outweighed by the significant increase in surgery complications related to these products. As a consequence mesh products for vaginal POP surgery have been withdrawn from use in many countries. This article is a narrative review of newer mesh and graft products including lightweight polypropylene mesh products, biological grafts, hybrid grafts, and tissue engineered grafts.

Evaluation of single-incision apical vaginal suspension for treatment of pelvic organ prolapse

OBJECTIVE

To present a comprehensive evaluation of anterior/apical and/or posterior prolapse repair systems with a focus on safety and surgical efficacy.

METHODS

Two hundred and twenty women with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) stage II-IV were referred for single-incision transvaginal mesh procedures in a single institution. Pre- and postoperative assessments included pelvic examination, urodynamic studies, and personal interviews about patients' quality of life and urinary symptoms.

RESULTS

The anatomical success rate was 92.3 % (203/220), regardless of primary or de-novo POP, at 12-38 month follow-up. The POP quantification parameters, except total vaginal length, improved significantly after surgery (p < 0.05). Complications included bladder injury (one case), mesh exposure (six cases) and urinary retention that required intermittent catheterization (five cases). There were no cases of bowel injury during surgery. The results indicated that 29 % of patients had de-novo stress urinary incontinence and 7.7 % of patients had de-novo POP after surgery.

CONCLUSION

The apical vaginal suspension system is a safe and effective procedure, creating good anatomical restoration and significant improvement in quality of life. However, the rate of de-novo POP in the anterior compartment of the vagina (31.8 %) seems high after treatment with apical and posterior prolapse repair systems.

[Uterine preservation or not during prolapse surgery: Review of the literature]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the impact of hysterectomy in case of genital prolapse on the anatomical and functional results, and on per and post operative complications compared with uterine preservation.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We conducted a review of the Pubmed, Medline, Embase and Cochrane literature using the following terms and MeSH (Medical Subject Headings of the National Library of Medicine): uterine prolapse; genital prolapse; prolapse surgery; vaginal prolapse surgery; abdominal prolapse surgery; hysterectomy; hysteropexy; sacrocolpopexy; surgical meshes; complications; sexuality; neoplasia; urinary; incontinence; cancer.

RESULTS

Among the 168 abstracts studied, 63 publications were retained. Whatever performance of hysterectomy or not, anatomical and functional results were similar in abdominal surgery (sacrocolpopexy) (OR=2.21 [95% CI: 0.33-14.67]) or vaginal surgery (OR=1.07 [95% CI: 0.38-2.99]). There was no difference in terms of urinary symptoms or sexuality after surgery. Hysterectomy was associated to a higher morbidity (bleeding, prolonged operating time, longer hospital stay), to an increased risk of mesh exposure particularly in case of total hysterectomy (8.6%; 95% CI: 6.3-11).

CONCLUSION

In the absence of evidence of superiority in terms of anatomical and functional outcomes, with an increased rate of complications, concomitant hysterectomy with prolapse surgery should probably not be performed routinely.

Transvaginal treatment of anterior and apical genital prolapses using an Ultra lightweight mesh: Restorelle® Direct Fix™. A retrospective study on feasibility and morbidity

BACKGROUND

Vaginal mesh safety information is limited, especially concerning single incision techniques using ultra lightweight meshes for the treatment of anterior pelvic organ prolapse (POP).

OBJECTIVE

To determine the intraoperative and postoperative complication rates after anterior POP repair involving an ultralight mesh (19g/m²): Restorelle^® Direct Fix™.

METHODS

A case series of 218 consecutive patients, operated on between January 2013 and December 2016 in ten tertiary and secondary care centres, was retrospectively analyzed. Eligible patients had POP vaginal repair (recurrent or not) planned with anterior Restorelle^® Direct Fix™ mesh (with or without posterior mesh). Surgical complications were graded using the Clavien-Dindo classification.

RESULTS

Intraoperative complications were bladder wound (0.5%), rectal wound (0.5%), ureteral injuries (0.9%). 98.2% of the patient did not have per operative complications. We observed one fail of procedure. Early complications mainly included urinary retention (8.7%) urinary tract infections (5.5%) and haematoma (2.7%). One haematoma required surgical treatment and another, embolization. 80.7% of the patient did not have complications during hospitalization and 80.3% did not have complication at the follow up visit. None of the analyzed factors (age, body mass index, surgical history, grade of prolapse or concomitant procedure) was significantly associated with the risk of perioperative complications. A total of 2.8% patients had grade III complications according Clavien Dindo. None had grade IV or V.

CONCLUSIONS

This multicentre case-series on the early experience of the use of anterior Restorelle^® Direct Fix™ mesh showed a satisfactory technical feasibility and a low rate of grade III complications according Clavien Dindo. Long term studies are necessary to assess anterior Restorelle^® Direct Fix™ mesh performances and to appraise patient satisfaction feedback.

[Results, safety and patient satisfaction at 6 months of vaginal anterior wall prolapse surgery by transvaginal repair with mesh use]

OBJECTIVE

To assess at 6 months the efficiency, the safety and the satisfaction of a lightweight polypropylene mesh used for the transvaginal repair of cystocele by bilateral anterior sacrospinous ligament fixation (NUVIA™ SI).

MATERIEL AND METHODS

A prospective cohort study was performed from January 2014 to June 2015. Preoperative assessment included an evaluation using the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification system (POP-Q) and 3 questionnaires about symptoms, quality of life and quality of sex life (PFDI-20, PFIQ7, PISQ-12). Results were evaluated by a composite criteria: Ba≤0, absence of bulge sensation and absence of reoperation for cystocele recurrence. Secondary objectives were to assess the complications rates and patient's satisfaction.

RESULTS

In 10 months, 16 patients, with a mean age of 61.9±8.8years, were included and evaluated by an independent observator at 6months. Four patients were sexually active before surgery and 5 at 6 months. Results were optimal in 93.75% cases (15/16) with one intraoperative injury (bladder injury) and one postoperative complication (increase of preoperative dyspareunia). Satisfaction rate was 93.75% (15/16) and questionnaires PFDI-20 and PFIQ-7 were statistically improved (P<0.0001 and P=0.0013). Three patients had a reintervention but not about anterior wall prolapse (section of a suburethral sling for urinary retention, suburethral sling exposure and cure of stress urinary incontinence).

CONCLUSION

At short term, transvaginal mesh repair by anterior sacrospinous ligament fixation with NUVIA™ presents 93.75% optimal result with one case of increased dyspareunia and 3 reoperations which don't concern anterior wall (urinary outcomes).

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4.

[Vaginal mesh exposure after prolapse surgery. A descriptive study of 43 cases: Epidemiology and therapeutic management]

OBJECTIVE

To describe the prevalence and time of occurrence of vaginal mesh exposure based on the initial surgical approach of prolaps. To describe their therapeutic management.

MATERIAL

Descriptive retrospective study of 43 women followed for vaginal mesh exposure diagnosed during a follow-up visit or motivated by symptoms. The initial surgery was performed abdominally (promontofixation) or vaginally. The therapeutic management was carried out by medical and/or surgical (prosthetic resection partial or complete).

RESULTS

The prevalence of vaginal exposure was 7.3% in case of vaginal initial surgery and 2.8% in case of promontofixation initial (P=0.02). Mesh exposure have appeared earlier in case of vaginal initial surgery compared to promontofixation (14.9 months vs. 45.2 months). After vaginal initial surgery, vaginal mesh exposure appeared to third within 6 months postoperatively (9/29). The success rate of medical treatment was 21.4%. In total, 31% of women initially made vaginally and 64.9% of women initially made abdominally required at least two surgeries to get a cure.

CONCLUSION

Vaginal mesh exposure may be away from the initial surgery, especially when the first initial surgery was abdominal. The medical treatment of vaginal mesh exposure led to poor results. The overall rate of healing in our experience was good but at the cost of considerable morbidity as a significant proportion of patients required two or more surgical interventions.

Risk factors for vaginal mesh exposure after mesh-augmented anterior repair: a retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study is to identify risk factors for vaginal mesh exposure after mesh-augmented repair of anterior prolapse.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study of all patients who had mesh-augmented anterior repair by 1 surgeon between January 2007 and February 2012. Data were extracted from medical records. The primary outcome was the rate of anterior or apical vaginal mesh exposure. Both univariate and multivariate analyses were performed.

RESULTS

A total of 201 subjects were included. The mean (SD) follow-up was 14.3 (12.4) months. All cases were done using a type 1 macroporous monofilament polypropylene mesh. The overall mesh exposure rate was 8.5% (17/201). Univariate analysis showed a statistically significant positive association between exposure rates and the following risk factors: lower body mass index (BMI) (P = 0.016), menopause in combination with the use of hormone replacement therapy (P = 0.023), midline sagittal vaginal incision (compared with distal transverse incision) (P = 0.026), concurrent total hysterectomy (P < 0.001), surgery time (P = 0.002), and worse apical prolapse at baseline (P = 0.007). After multivariate analysis using logistic regression, only BMI (P < 0.001) and concomitant total hysterectomy (odds ratio, 48; P < 0.001) remained relevant. The exposure rate was 23.5% (16/68) when concomitant hysterectomy was performed compared with 0.8% (1/133) when no hysterectomy was done. Exposure rates stratified by BMI class were 12.9% (8/62) for BMI less than 25 kg/m, 9.5% (8/84) for BMI of 25 to 29.9 kg/m, 3.1% (1/32) for BMI of 30 to 34.9 kg/m, and 0% (0/23) for BMI greater than or equal to 35 kg/m.

CONCLUSIONS

Concomitant total hysterectomy is an independent risk factor for mesh exposure after mesh-augmented anterior repair, whereas BMI may negatively correlate with exposure rates.

Apical prolapse

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The aim was to review the safety and efficacy of pelvic organ prolapse surgery for vaginal apical prolapse.

METHODS

Every 4 years and as part of the Fifth International Collaboration on Incontinence we reviewed the English-language scientific literature after searching PubMed, Medline, Cochrane library and Cochrane database of systematic reviews, published up to January 2012. Publications were classified as level 1 evidence (randomised controlled trials (RCT) or systematic reviews), level 2 (poor quality RCT, prospective cohort studies), level 3 (case series or retrospective studies) and level 4 case reports. The highest level of evidence was utilised by the committee to make evidence-based recommendations based upon the Oxford grading system. Grade A recommendation usually depends on consistent level 1 evidence. Grade B recommendation usually depends on consistent level 2 and or 3 studies, or "majority evidence" from RCTs. Grade C recommendation usually depends on level 4 studies or "majority evidence from level 2/3 studies or Delphi processed expert opinion. Grade D "no recommendation possible" would be used where the evidence is inadequate or conflicting and when expert opinion is delivered without a formal analytical process, such as by Delphi.

RESULTS

Abdominal sacral colpopexy (ASC) has a higher success rate than sacrospinous colpopexy with less SUI and postoperative dyspareunia for vault prolapse. ASC had greater morbidity including operating time, inpatient stay, slower return to activities of daily living and higher cost (grade A). ASC has the lowest inpatient costs compared with laparoscopic sacral colpopexy (LSC) and robotic sacral colpopexy (RSC). LSC has lower inpatient costs than RSC (grade B).In single RCTs the RSC had longer operating time than both ASC and LSC (grade B). In small trials objective outcomes appear similar although postoperative pain was greater in RSC. LSC is as effective as ASC with reduced blood loss and admission time (grade C). The data relating to operating time are conflicting. ASC performed with polypropylene mesh has superior outcomes to fascia lata (level I), porcine dermis and small intestine submucosa (level 3; grade B). In a single RCT, LSC had a superior objective and subjective success rate and lower reoperation rate compared with polypropylene transvaginal mesh for vault prolapse (grade B).Level 3 evidence suggests that vaginal uterosacral ligament suspension, McCall culdoplasty, iliococcygeus fixation and colpocleisis are relatively safe and effective interventions (grade C).

CONCLUSION

Sacral colpopexy is an effective procedure for vault prolapse and further data are required on the route of performance and efficacy of this surgery for uterine prolapse. Polypropylene mesh is the preferred graft at ASC. Vaginal procedures for vault prolapse are well described and are suitable alternatives for those not suitable for sacral colpopexy.

Prevention of complications related to the use of prosthetic meshes in prolapse surgery: guidelines for clinical practice

The objective of the study was to provide guidelines for clinical practice from the French College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (CNGOF), based on the best evidence available, concerning adverse events related to surgical procedures involving the use of prosthetic meshes. French and English-language articles from Medline, PubMed, and the Cochrane Database were searched, using key words (mesh; pelvic organ prolapse; cystocele; rectocele; uterine prolapse; complications; adverse event; sacral colpopexy; extrusion; infection). As with any surgery, recommendations include perioperative smoking cessation (Expert opinion) and compliance with the prevention of nosocomial infections (regulatory recommendation). There is no evidence to recommend routine local or systemic estrogen therapy before or after prolapse surgery using mesh, regardless of the surgical approach (Grade C). Antibiotic prophylaxis is recommended, regardless of the approach (Expert opinion). It is recommended to check for pre-operative urinary tract infection and treat it (Expert opinion). The first procedure should be undertaken under the guidance of a surgeon experienced in the relevant technique (Grade C). It is recommended not to place a non-absorbable synthetic mesh into the rectovaginal septum when a rectal injury occurs (Expert opinion). Placement of a non-absorbable synthetic mesh into the vesicovaginal septum may be considered after suturing of a bladder injury if the suture is considered to be satisfactory (Expert opinion). If a synthetic mesh is placed by vaginal route, it is recommended to use a macroporous polypropylene monofilament mesh (Grade B). It is recommended not to use polyester mesh for vaginal surgery (Grade B). It is permissible to perform hysterectomy associated with the placement of a non-absorbable synthetic mesh placed by the vaginal route but this is not routinely recommended (Expert opinion). It is recommended to minimize the extent of the colpectomy (Expert opinion). The laparoscopic approach is recommended for sacral colpopexy (Expert opinion). It is recommended not to place and suture meshes by the vaginal route when a sacral colpopexy is performed (Grade B). It is recommended not to use silicone-coated polyester, porcine dermis, fascia lata, and polytetrafluoroethylene meshes (Grade B). It is recommended to use polyester (without silicone coating) or polypropylene meshes (Grade C). Suture of the meshes to the promontory can be performed using thread/needle or tacks (Grade C). Peritonization is recommended to cover the meshes (Grade C). If hysterectomy is required, it is recommended to perform a subtotal hysterectomy (Expert opinion). Implementation of this guideline should decrease the prevalence of complications related to surgical procedures involving the use of prosthetic meshes.

Polypropylene mesh as an alternative option for uterine preservation in pelvic reconstruction in patients with uterine prolapse

AIM

  The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of polypropylene mesh for uterine preservation during pelvic reconstruction in patients with severe uterine prolapse.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study included 67 women with severe uterine prolapse (pelvic organ prolapse quantification stage III/IV) who received transvaginal mesh reconstruction with uterine preservation. Surgery combined with a transobturator membrane sling procedure (tension-free vaginal tape-transobturator route) was performed in 54 patients. Among them, 18 had urodynamic stress incontinence, 30 had occult stress urinary incontinence, and six had mixed urinary incontinence. Objective assessments were carried out with the pelvic organ prolapse quantification staging system, urodynamic examination, and 1-h pad test. Evaluation of urinary and prolapse symptoms comprised the subjective assessment.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up interval was 19.6 months (12-40 months). The objective cure rate for the treatment of uterine prolapse was 89.5%, and the objective cure rate for the treatment of urinary incontinence was more than 90%.

CONCLUSIONS

Uterine preservation in pelvic reconstruction is technically feasible and the subjective and objective assessments imply that uterine preservation in pelvic reconstruction is an alternative option for indicated patients.

[Risk factors of mesh exposure after transvaginal repair of genital prolapse]

OBJECTIVES

We analysed the risk factors of vaginal surgery of pelvic organ prolapse with non resobable prothesis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This is a continuous, retrospective study of the 208 patients who had surgery between 2003 and 2007. Depending on the localisation of the prolapse, they had a prothesis under the bladder and/or a posterior tape through the sacrospinous ligament. An hysterectomy and a levator myorraphy were done if necessary.

RESULTS

After a 3 years follow-up, we found 16.8% mesh exposure (23% were treated by a conservative way). The highest rate of incidence was at 4 and 10 months. The independent risk factors of exposure were the kind of prothesis, age under 60 and concomitant hysterectomy. Women treated by vaginal estrogens and those operated by the most experienced surgeon had less exposure. We had 5% of complications during the surgery.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Hysterectomy, kind of prothesis and inverted T colpotomy of Crossen are well known risk factors. Age, stage of prolapse, size of prothesis and surgeon experience are discussed. Vaginal surgery of pelvic organ prolapse with non resobable prothesis must be used only when prolapse stage is higher than 3, hysterectomy has to be avoid and vaginal estrogens must be prescribed.

Efficacy and safety of transvaginal mesh kits in the treatment of prolapse of the vaginal apex: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Vaginal mesh kits are being used to surgically treat apical vaginal prolapse; however, their safety and efficacy are currently unknown.

OBJECTIVES

To summarise success and complication rates for commonly used vaginal mesh kits in the treatment of apical prolapse.

SEARCH STRATEGY

MEDLINE and other scientific databases were queried for primary research addressing the use of vaginal mesh kits for apical prolapse published between 1950 and 2007, including abstracts presented in major scientific meetings.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Studies describing the use of mesh to support either the anterior or posterior compartment alone, for incontinence or fistula repair or not addressing the vaginal apex were excluded.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Identified studies were grouped by the mesh kit and complications categorised using the Dindo classification system. Weighted averages and confidence intervals were calculated on objective success, follow-up length and complications.

MAIN RESULTS

Thirty studies totalling 2653 women met inclusion criteria. Objective success rates (95% CI) were Apogee (American Medical Systems Inc., Minnetonka, MN, USA) 95% (95-96), Prolift (Ethicon Women's Health and Urology, Somerville, NJ, USA) 87% (86-87) and posterior intravaginal slingplasty 88% (87-89). Reoperations not requiring anaesthesia (Dindo IIIa) occurred in 0.4-2.3% and requiring anaesthesia (Dindo IIIb) in 1.5-6.0%, with a follow up between 26 and 78 weeks. Mesh erosion was the most commonly reported complication occurring in 4.6-10.7%.

AUTHOR'S CONCLUSIONS

Overall objective success using transvaginal mesh kits in restoring apical vaginal prolapse is high. However, an increasing number of women require surgical intervention for mesh-related complications based on limited data quality and short follow up. Further research addressing functional outcomes and the impact of these procedures on women's symptoms and quality of life is mandatory.

[Mid-term results of the grade 3-4 genital prolapse cure by vaginal route using a total hammock of porcine skin implant associated with bilateral sacro-spinofixation]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the feasibility, morbidity and mid-term results of genital prolapse cure by vaginal route using a total hammock of porcine skin implant (Pelvicol) and bilateral sacro-spinofixation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From May 2001 to June 2006, 101 patients with grade 3-4 genital prolapse, using the POPQ classification, were treated by vaginal route. One patient refused the use of porcine skin implant for religious reasons. Anterior fixation of the total hammock was performed by transobturator route and the posterior fixation was done on sacrospinous ligaments associated with a bilateral Richter operation. Intra- and postoperative complications, anatomical results, as well as global satisfaction, have been evaluated.

RESULTS

The technique was always feasible. With a mean follow-up of 29 months, anatomical results were optimal in 73.3% while 16.8% of recurrences were observed. Mean operating time was 112+/-39 min (range: 40-310). Intraoperative complication rate was 4.9% (three bladder injuries, one rectal injury, one unfundibulo pelvic ligament injury during hysterectomy). Postoperative complication rate was 11.9% (four cases of urinary retention, one urethral plication and five pararectal haematomas including two cases requiring a second surgery complicated by an urethrovaginal fistula in one case and one urinary infection). With a mean follow-up of 29+/-12 months (74-12), optimal anatomical results and recurrence rate were 73.3 and 16.8%, respectively. Global satisfaction rate was 87.7%. This rate decreased to 60% for patients with a 4- to 6-year follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Our results confirmed the feasibility of genital prolapse cure using a total hammock of porcine skin and bilateral sacro-spinofixation with a similar rate of complications to vaginal surgery without implant. However, anatomical results at mid-term raise the issue on the permanence of biological meshes.

[Transobturator subvesical mesh: Tolerance and mild-term results. A prospective study]

AIM

To evaluate midterm results, tolerance and efficiency of interposition of a transobturator subvesical mesh for the repair of cystoceles.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We report the results of a total of 45 consecutive transobturator mesh fixation between March 1, 2005 and March 1, 2007. We used a transvaginal polypropylen tension-free mesh (Prolène, Ethicon, Johnson & Johnson, France) fixed through the obturator foramen.

RESULTS

Before surgery, all patients had cystocele of more or equal than grade II, according to Baden and Walker classification. Five had grade II cystocele (11%), 36 had grade III (80%) and four grade IV (9%). Thirty-nine women had associated median and/or posterior prolapse (86%). Eleven women had urinary incontinence (24%). The procedure was performed in all cases. Duration of a cystocele cure procedure was 25minutes+/-3.2 (12-32). Mean follow-up was 18 months+/-4.2 (13-29). Vaginal erosion ratio was 6%. There was no mesh infection. The objective success rate was 93%. The satisfaction index was 70%.

CONCLUSION

Transobturator mesh is a safe and efficient method for anterior segment prolapse repair. This procedure is simple, mini-invasive, reproducible and efficient with low morbidity and good tolerance.

Vaginal reconstructive surgery for severe pelvic organ prolapses: a 'uterine-sparing' technique using polypropylene prostheses

OBJECTIVE

The Ulmsten's "Integral Theory" for pelvic floor dysfunctions is based on the need to reinforce fascias and ligaments with prostheses to obtain a reconstitution of the pelvic floor's anatomy. In September 2004 we developed a "uterine-sparing" surgical technique to correct such pathologies and in this paper we present results obtained. Primary outcome was to evaluate the technique's efficacy, secondary outcomes the resolution of stress urinary incontinence, postoperative pain (VAS scale), safety and complications.

STUDY DESIGN

This prospective study included patients affected by stage 3 and 4 uterine-vaginal prolapse who wished to conserve their uterus. Those with (1) minor degrees of severity, (2) unfit for surgery, (3) with a clear indication to hysterectomy (i.e. endometrial cancer), (4) with an elevated operative risk (American Society of Anaesthesiologists-ASA score III and IV), (5) previous vaginal surgeries and (6) with moderate/severe defecation problems were excluded. The technique consisted in a sacrospinous colposuspension with polypropylene mesh. The pelvic status was classified according to the international Pelvic Organ Prolapse staging system (POP-Q). Postoperative pain was scored with the VAS Scale. All patients were given the King's Health questionnaire, the Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire (PISQ-12) and the Wexner questionnaire.

RESULTS

From September 2004 to November 2006 we treated 80 patients. Polypropylene prostheses (Gynemesh-Soft PS, 10cmx15cm - GyneMesh, Gynecare Ethicon - Somerville, NJ, USA) were used to reconstruct the pubo-cervix or the recto-vaginal fascia. We performed an anterior-central vaginal reconstruction in 35 (43.8%) patients, central-posterior in 25 (31%) and total reconstruction in 20 (25%). The median follow-up was 21 months (range 18-26). The severe pelvic prolapse, evaluated with the POP-Q System, was completely treated in all the patients and no recurrences were observed. The urodynamic examination showed a complete resolution of the stress urinary incontinence in 10 patients (83%). Sexual activities improved in all patients. We recorded three vaginal erosions and one patient complained of a postoperative dyspareunia.

CONCLUSIONS

This pilot study suggests that our technique is safe and effective and can efficiently repair the pelvic organs prolapse, without undergoing hysterectomy and with a low rate of vaginal erosions.

Correction prothétique des prolapsus génito-urinaires selon la technique du hamac transobturateur infracoccygien: résultats à moyen terme

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate the anatomical and functional medium-term efficacy and possible complications of vaginal prosthetic surgery with transobturator and infracoccygeal support to treat genital urinary prolapse.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

A prospective and monocentre study was conducted, from February 2002 till February 2005. All the patients with or without stress urinary incontinence (SUI), who presented either a recurrent prolapse, either a voluminous genital prolapse of stage 3 or 4 notably a dominant cystocele, either a post-hysterectomy vaginal vault prolapse or even a prolapse of lesser importance but in a context of obesity, were operated according to the transobturator infracoccygeal sling technique.

RESULTS

One hundred and three patients with a mean age of 65+/-11 years (41-84) were enrolled, with once on two SUI. Thirty percent of the patients had recurrent prolapse and 44% post-hysterectomy vaginal vault prolapse. With a mean follow-up of 32+/-13 months (12-53), the success rate of the technique was estimated to be 97% anatomically (three failures) and 89% in terms of urinary symptoms (69% of patients were cured, 20% were improved and 11% failed). Quality of life of the patients was sharply improved and their degree of satisfaction was high. Sexuality of the population which was limited here (44% of active patients) did not seem very modified by surgery. Complications were represented by a case of urinary retention observed with a secondarily pelvic haematoma, a low rectal injury without consequence, three blood transfusions. Three patients developed de novo overactive bladder. The prostheses exposure rate was 16%, once requiring on two one re-intervention. Prostheses were perceived during the postoperative evaluation by the examiner for 43% of the patients. But examination was painful only in 9,7% of the cases.

CONCLUSION

Combined treatment of vaginal prolapse and associated urinary incontinence is possible by the use of a single transvaginal prosthesis. The medium-term anatomical and functional results are very good. The results on continence are good and a subsequent specific procedure is always possible in the case of failure or insufficient improvement. The prostheses exposure rate is similar to that observed with synthetic transvaginal prostheses. The exact tolerance of vaginal prosthetic repair of the prolapse of young women being this day an unknown, we remain careful on the extension of the indications of this technique in this category of population.

Mesh augmentation during pelvic-floor reconstructive surgery: risks and benefits

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Synthetic meshes are increasingly used in the surgical management of stress urinary incontinence and pelvic-organ prolapse in an attempt to improve success rates and increase the longevity of repairs. This review describes and analyses complications following pelvic-floor procedures employing synthetic meshes.

RECENT FINDINGS

Type I monofilament polypropylene mesh with a large pore size is currently the mesh of choice. Chronic inflammation is a typical host response, whereas acute inflammation and predominant CD20+ lymphocyte infiltration represent an adverse host reaction and may result in defective healing. Mesh properties influence the performance and complication rate. Mesh-related complications after midurethral slings and mesh sacrocolpopexies with monofilament polypropylene are rare. An up to 26% mesh erosion rate and up to 38% dyspareunia rate with vaginally introduced mesh for pelvic-organ prolapse repair has been reported. Concurrent hysterectomy seems to increase mesh erosion rates.

SUMMARY

Surgeons should be aware of the potential complications of synthetic meshes. Until data on the safety and efficacy of synthetic mesh in vaginal reconstructive surgery emerge, its routine use outside of clinical trials cannot be recommended.

[Vaginal mesh extrusion after transvaginal repair of cystocele using a prosthetic mesh: Treatment and functional outcomes]

OBJECTIVE

To describe management of vaginal mesh erosion following transvaginal repair of acystocele by placement of a polypropylene mesh.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

Retrospective analysis of 34 consecutive cases of vaginal mesh erosion following transvaginal repair of cystocele using synthetic mesh (Gynemesh or Gynemesh-Soft). We have analyzed the results of both medical and surgical management of this complication. Furthermore, we also assessed sexual and urinary morbidity in women with mesh erosion (n = 34) and in women who had undergone the same procedure but without mesh erosion (n = 111).

RESULTS

Among the 34 patients with vaginal mesh erosion, 23 (68%) have undergone local therapy using Colposeptine (Chlorquinaldol + Promestriène). In 12 (52%) cases no modification of the surface of the erosion was observed. In 6 (26%) cases, a decrease of the surface of the mesh erosion was observed. In 5 (22%) cases the mesh erosion had completely disappeared, with a follow-up of 2 to 9 months. Nineteen symptomatic patients (19/32, 59%) required partial (n = 18) or complete (n = 1) excision of the mesh, associated with vaginal mucosal closure, under general anaesthesia. Duration of operation ranged from 15 to 40 minutes for partial excision of the mesh. This procedure was successful in 14 cases (77%). Four women required repeated resection of the mesh because of recurrence. The incidence of de novo dyspareunia was 12% in patients with vaginal mesh erosion, and 11% in patients without mesh erosion (p = 0.81). The incidence of urge urinary symptoms and voiding dysfunction symptoms was respectively 8% versus 9% (p = 0.95), and 8% versus 10% (p = 0.81) in the 2 groups.

CONCLUSION

Management of vaginal mesh erosion is simple and is associated with a low rate of morbidity. However, patients should be informed that vaginal erosion of the mesh can occur.

Mesh-related infections after pelvic organ prolapse repair surgery

The use of vaginal meshes has been an advance in the surgical management of women with pelvic organ prolapse. We reviewed the literature to synthesize the evidence regarding the infectious complications related to this new type of foreign body. We searched PubMed, current contents, and references of initially identified relevant articles and extracted data regarding the incidence, clinical manifestation, and management of vaginal mesh-related infections. The incidence of mesh-related infections and erosion ranged from 0 to 8%, and 0 to 33%, respectively, in the published studies. Various factors influence the development of vaginal mesh-related infectious complications such as the kind of biomedical material (e.g. filament structure, pore size) of the mesh, the type of procedure, the preventive measures taken, and the age and underlying comorbidity of the treated women. Non-specific pelvic pain, persistent vaginal discharge or bleeding, dyspareunia, and urinary or faecal incontinence are the most common manifestation of vaginal mesh-related infection. Clinical examination may reveal induration of the vaginal incision, vaginal granulation tissue, draining sinus tracts, and prosthesis erosion or rejection. Various pathogens have been implicated, including Gram-positive and Gram-negative aerobic and anaerobic bacteria. The management of mesh-related infections in women who underwent pelvic organ reconstruction is combined surgical and medical treatment. Although the use of vaginal meshes has become a new effective method of pelvic organ prolapse surgery clinicians should be aware of the various post-operative complications, including mesh-related infections.

Follow-up after polypropylene mesh repair of anterior and posterior compartments in patients with recurrent prolapse

To retrospectively analyze the outcome of surgery in women followed up for 1 year after vaginal repair with the Apogee (support of posterior vaginal wall) or Perigee (support of anterior vaginal wall) system. A total of 120 patients with recurrent cystocele and/or rectocele or with combined vaginal vault prolapse were treated by either posterior or anterior mesh interposition depending on the defect. Follow-up after 1 year (+/-31 days) comprised a vaginal examination with prolapse grading using the POP-Q system, measurement of vaginal length, evaluation of the vaginal mucosa, and exploration for mesh erosions. Postoperatively, 112 (93%) women were free of vaginal prolapse, whereas 8 (7%) had level 2 defects. Erosions occurred significantly more often (p = 0.042) in patients treated with the Perigee system. Our results suggest that the Apogee and Perigee repair systems (monofilament polypropylene mesh) yield excellent short-term results after 1 year.

Prolapsus isolé de l'étage postérieur posthystérectomie : résultats préliminaires d'une technique utilisant les voies vaginales et transobturatrice basses

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is the description and anatomical and functional outcome assessment of a novel surgical procedure, based on rectovaginal fascia defect repair with polypropylene mesh using the tension-free transobturator and infracoccygeal route based on the integral theory developed by Petros.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

Prospective, consecutive and single centre study performed between February 2003 and April 2005. Inclusion criteria were symptomatic posthysterectomy stage three to four regarding posterior compartment prolapse according to the Baden and Walker classification, with no anterior and/or apical prolapse. Principles and description of this new surgical procedure are described.

RESULTS

Fourteen patients, with a mean age of 63.5 years and a mean body mass index of 29.2, were included in the study. All the patients had previous hysterectomy, 64.3% reported at least one previous surgery for pelvic organ prolapse, 44.5% reported at least one reoperation. All patients complained of rectocele and/or enterocele stage three. No perioperative or postoperative complication occurred. With a median follow-up of 13 months (range 3-32.9), no recurrence and no anterior or apical compartment prolapse occurred. No vaginal erosion an infection of the mesh was observed. The mean level of subjective satisfaction was 9.23 on a visual analogical scale (0-very disappointed, 10-very satisfied).

CONCLUSION

This new surgical procedure is effective and safe for the repair of posthysterectomy large posterior compartment prolapse. A long-term follow-up is required to confirm these promising results.

[Use of prosthetic materials in reconstructive pelvic floor surgery. An evidence-based analysis]

Many surgical procedures for the repair of pelvic organ prolapse are used nowadays. Reconstructive pelvic surgery continues to evolve while surgeons continue to search the definitive surgical cure and have to choose the most appropriate procedures for their patients. Concerning the vaginal approach procedures, there is an increasing interest in the use of synthetic meshes which are at present widely used for surgical repair of pelvic organ prolapse. Prosthetic repair seems to be more reliable, especially when native tissues are of poor quality. The use of synthetic meshes may also simplify surgical procedures and reduce operative duration and morbidity. Material must be inert, permanent and resistant to infection. Based on authors' and other researchers' published experimental and clinical experience, polypropylene is assumed to be the most appropriate material for the vaginal repair of pelvic organ prolapse. However, since no standardized outcome measure is available, it is difficult to compare the results of surgical procedures. Only in recent studies, the subjective cure rates (patient satisfaction and outcome) have been assessed as well as the objective cure rates determined by the investigators. The subjective cure rate is probably more influenced by the functional outcome and sexual activity than by the anatomical result. Continuous evaluation is necessary to study replacement synthetic materials which should improve the rate of prolapse recurrence and reduce the risk of complications. Randomized controlled trials are required to determine which surgical procedures and type of prosthesis are most suitable. This review evaluates the properties of prosthetic materials, their complications and the most common procedures involved in the use of meshes for pelvic reconstructive surgery.