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Bayraktar E, Erel CT, Akturk H, Ozcivit Erkan IB, Hamid R, Alper E, Adaletli I, Urfalioglu M. A novel objective evaluation method, shear wave elastography, in the treatment of atrophic vaginitis by nonablative intravaginal Er:YAG laser, a randomized-sham controlled pilot study. Menopause 2024:00042192-990000000-00337. [PMID: 38860935 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000002380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to investigate the effectiveness of intravaginal Er:YAG laser for treating atrophic vaginitis in postmenopausal women utilizing shear wave elastography. METHODS In this prospective randomized sham-controlled double-blind pilot study, 20 participants were included (laser group [n = 12] / sham-control group [n = 8]). A nonablative (Smooth mode) Er:YAG laser with a wavelength of 2,940 nm was used. Objective evaluation of laser treatment efficacy was conducted using a special ultrasonic technique: shear wave elastography. Ultrasonic velocity measurements were taken from the anterior and posterior vaginal walls. Mean elasticity (E mean ) was expressed in kilopascals (kPa). Additional outcome parameters were vaginal pH, Vaginal Health Index (VHI), Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), and visual analog scale (VAS) scores for dyspareunia. RESULTS Baseline clinical characteristics, vaginal pH, VHI, VAS and FSFI scores, and E mean values were comparable between the laser and sham-control groups. Statistically significant differences were observed in the final E mean values of the anterior vaginal wall (13.1 ± 6.3 vs 20.0 ± 3.3 kPA, P = 0.01) and posterior vaginal wall (12.7 ± 10.3 vs 19.4 ± 6.9 kPA, P = 0.04) between the laser and sham-control group. Despite comparable baseline E mean values, significant differences in vaginal wall stiffness posttreatment indicated a notable increase in tissue elasticity following laser treatment. Statistically significant differences were also observed in final vaginal pH values, VHI, VAS scores, and FSFI score improvement in favor of laser treatment. CONCLUSIONS Shear wave elastography may be considered as a reliable and objective technique for evaluating the efficacy of Er:YAG laser treatment in women with atrophic vaginitis. However, additional studies with larger sample sizes are necessary to establish conclusive evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elif Bayraktar
- From the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - C Tamer Erel
- From the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Hayedeh Akturk
- Department of Radiology, American Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ipek Betul Ozcivit Erkan
- From the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Rauf Hamid
- Department of Radiology, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ebru Alper
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, American Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ibrahim Adaletli
- Department of Radiology, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mert Urfalioglu
- From the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
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Gunter J. Fractional CO2 laser for genitourinary syndrome of menopause: evaluating the evidence. Menopause 2024; 31:231-233. [PMID: 38385733 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000002307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
The fractionated CO2 laser has been marketed to women for a variety of gynecologic symptoms and conditions, including the genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). The evidence has been limited, precluding conclusions regarding the efficacy and safety of the therapy. However, data from randomized, controlled trials evaluating this technology for GSM are now available. This Practice Pearl addresses the latest data concerning the use of the fractionated CO2 laser for the treatment of GSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jen Gunter
- From the San Francisco Medical Center, San Francisco, California
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Li FG, Abbott JA. 'Vaginal Laser Therapy for GSM/VVA: Where We Stand Now - A Review by the EUGA Working Group on Laser'. Climacteric 2023; 26:638. [PMID: 37782251 DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2023.2259791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- F G Li
- School of Clinical Medicine (Women's Health), UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Gynaecological Research and Clinical Evaluation (GRACE) Unit, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - J A Abbott
- School of Clinical Medicine (Women's Health), UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Gynaecological Research and Clinical Evaluation (GRACE) Unit, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Buchanan LM, Domingo MJ, White SE, Vanoven TN, Karbasion N, Bersi MR, Pence IJ, Florian-Rodriguez M, Miller KS. Advances in vaginal bioengineering: Applications, techniques, and needs. Curr Res Physiol 2023; 6:100111. [PMID: 38107786 PMCID: PMC10724214 DOI: 10.1016/j.crphys.2023.100111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lily M. Buchanan
- University of Texas at Dallas, Department of Bioengineering, 800 W. Campbell Rd, Richardson, TX, 75080, USA
| | - Mari J.E. Domingo
- Tulane University, Department of Biomedical Engineering, 6823 St. Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA, 70118, USA
| | - Shelby E. White
- Tulane University, Department of Biomedical Engineering, 6823 St. Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA, 70118, USA
| | - Triniti N. Vanoven
- University of Texas at Dallas, Department of Bioengineering, 800 W. Campbell Rd, Richardson, TX, 75080, USA
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Department of Biomedical Engineering, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Niyousha Karbasion
- Washington University at St. Louis, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, 1 Brookings Dr, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Matthew R. Bersi
- Washington University at St. Louis, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, 1 Brookings Dr, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Isaac J. Pence
- University of Texas at Dallas, Department of Bioengineering, 800 W. Campbell Rd, Richardson, TX, 75080, USA
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Department of Biomedical Engineering, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Charles and Jane Pak Center for Mineral Metabolism and Clinical Research, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Department of Internal Medicine, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Maria Florian-Rodriguez
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Cecil H. and Ida Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Kristin S. Miller
- University of Texas at Dallas, Department of Bioengineering, 800 W. Campbell Rd, Richardson, TX, 75080, USA
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Department of Biomedical Engineering, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
- University of Texas at Dallas, Department of Mechanical Engineering, 800 W. Campbell Rd, Richardson, TX, 75080, USA
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Vodegel EV, Guler Z, Ras L, Mackova K, Groeneveld ACHM, Bezuidenhout D, Deprest J, Jeffery ST, Roovers JPWR. Vaginal changes after ovariectomy in ewes: A large animal model for genitourinary syndrome of menopause. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2023; 162:1042-1049. [PMID: 37151087 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.14816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effect of iatrogenic menopause on the physiology of the vagina of the ewe and to evaluate if vaginal changes in ewes can be translated to women with genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). METHODS Preclinical research with Dohne Merino ewes. Iatrogenic menopause was induced by bilateral ovariectomy (OVX). Animals were randomized for surgery, blinded for allocation and outcome assessment. Differences between groups were determined by linear regression analyses at 5 months after OVX. Outcome measures were vaginal epithelial thickness, pH, vaginal maturation value, vaginal maturation index, epithelial glycogen accumulation, content of elastin fibers, collagen, and vascularity. RESULTS OVX ewes (n = 20) showed epithelial thinning of the vaginal wall from 146 μm to 47 μm (mean, P < 0.001). Furthermore, epithelial glycogen accumulation and vascularity of the vaginal wall significantly decreased (43% and 23%, respectively) as compared with the control group (no intervention; n = 5). No significant differences were found for other outcome measures. CONCLUSION This study established the ewe as a suitable large animal model for GSM. Furthermore, the similar relevant outcomes in humans and ewes hold great value for future translational research for the evaluation and optimization of different treatment modalities for GSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva V Vodegel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Zeliha Guler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Lamees Ras
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Groote Schuur Hospital, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Katerina Mackova
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Institute for the Care of Mother and Child, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Anne C H M Groeneveld
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Deon Bezuidenhout
- Cardiovascular Research Unit, Cape Hearth Center, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jan Deprest
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Pelvic Floor Unit, University Hospitals KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Stephen T Jeffery
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Groote Schuur Hospital, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jan-Paul W R Roovers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Li FG, Fuchs T, Deans R, McCormack L, Nesbitt-Hawes E, Abbott J, Farnsworth A. Vaginal epithelial histology before and after fractional CO 2 laser in postmenopausal women: a double-blind, sham-controlled randomized trial. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2023; 229:278.e1-278.e9. [PMID: 37192705 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2023.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Postmenopausal vaginal symptoms affect over 60% of women and may substantially impact a woman's quality of life. Since 2012, fractional CO2 laser has been suggested as a treatment for this indication. Structural assessment of vaginal epithelium using microscopic biopsy examination has been used as a primary outcome measure and surrogate determinant of success of vaginal laser in previous clinical studies. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to report the effects of laser compared with sham treatment on human vaginal epithelium from postmenopausal women using microscopic examination of tissue biopsies. STUDY DESIGN This single-center double-blind, sham-controlled randomized controlled trial was performed in a tertiary hospital in Sydney, Australia. A total of 49 postmenopausal women who were symptomatic of at least 1 vaginal symptom (vaginal dryness, burning, itching; dyspareunia; or dryness) were randomized to either laser or sham treatment. For this nested histologic study, participants had a pre- and post-treatment vaginal wall biopsy collected. Biopsy samples were analyzed by 3 independent specialist gynecologic pathologists and categorized as Type 1 (well-estrogenized), 2 (poorly estrogenized), or 3 (combination) mucosae. Other outcomes assessed included symptom severity (visual analog scale for symptoms including most bothersome symptom, and Vulvovaginal Symptom Questionnaire) and Vaginal Health Index. Prespecified secondary analyses of data were performed. Categorical data were analyzed using the Pearson chi-square test (or Fisher exact test if <5 in any category) or related-samples McNemar test for paired nonparametric data. Nonparametric, continuous variables were assessed using Wilcoxon signed-rank test or Mann-Whitney U test, and parametric variables with t test or 1-way analysis of variance as appropriate. All analyses were performed using SPSS software version 26.0 (IBM Corp, Armonk, NY). RESULTS There was no significant difference in microscopic features of vaginal epithelium following laser or sham treatment (P=.20). Further subgroup analyses of age, menopause type, duration of reproductive life, time since menopause and BMI, still demonstrated no significant difference between laser and sham groups in histological category of vaginal epithelium. Microscopic features at pre-treatment vaginal biopsy were Type 1 in 27% (13/49). There was no significant difference in VAS score for overall vaginal symptom between those classified as Type 1 vs. Type 2/3 (VAS score overall: Type 1 vs. Type 2/3, (48.1 [95% CI 27.0, 69.2] vs. 61.5 [95% CI 49.8, 73.3]; P=.166). CONCLUSION Data from this double-blind, sham-controlled randomized controlled trial demonstrate that fractional CO2 laser and sham treatment have a comparable histologic effect on vaginal tissue that is not significantly different. Fractional CO2 laser is not significantly different from sham treatment and should not be recommended for clinical use for postmenopausal vaginal symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona G Li
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Gynaecological Research and Clinical Evaluation Group, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Talia Fuchs
- Douglas Hanly Moir Pathology, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rebecca Deans
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Gynaecological Research and Clinical Evaluation Group, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Lalla McCormack
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Gynaecological Research and Clinical Evaluation Group, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Erin Nesbitt-Hawes
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Gynaecological Research and Clinical Evaluation Group, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jason Abbott
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Gynaecological Research and Clinical Evaluation Group, New South Wales, Australia
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Cucinella L, Tiranini L, Cassani C, Martella S, Nappi RE. Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause in Breast Cancer Survivors: Current Perspectives on the Role of Laser Therapy. Int J Womens Health 2023; 15:1261-1282. [PMID: 37576184 PMCID: PMC10422970 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s414509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is a frequent consequence of iatrogenic menopause or anti-estrogenic adjuvant therapies in breast cancer survivors (BCSs). GSM may profoundly affect sexual health and quality of life, and a multidimensional unique model of care is needed to address the burden of this chronic heterogeneous condition. Severe symptoms may be insufficiently managed with non-hormonal traditional treatments, such as moisturizers and lubricants, recommended as the first-line approach by current guidelines, because concerns exist around the use of vaginal estrogens, particularly in women on aromatase inhibitors (AIs). Vaginal laser therapy has emerged as a promising alternative in women with GSM who are not suitable or do not respond to hormonal management, or are not willing to use pharmacological strategies. We aim to systematically review current evidence about vaginal laser efficacy and safety in BCSs and to highlight gaps in the literature. We analyzed results from 20 studies, including over 700 BCSs treated with either CO2 or erbium laser, with quite heterogeneous primary outcomes and duration of follow up (4 weeks-24 months). Although evidence for laser efficacy in BCSs comes mostly from single-arm prospective studies, with only one randomized double-blind sham-controlled trial for CO2 laser and one randomized comparative trial of erbium laser and hyaluronic acid, available data are reassuring in the short term and indicate effectiveness of both CO2 and erbium lasers on the most common GSM symptoms. However, further studies are mandatory to establish long-term efficacy and safety in menopausal women, including BCSs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Cucinella
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Research Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Gynecological Endocrinology and Menopause, IRCCS San Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Lara Tiranini
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Research Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Gynecological Endocrinology and Menopause, IRCCS San Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Chiara Cassani
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS San Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Silvia Martella
- Unit of Preventive Gynecology, IRCCS European Institute of Oncology, Milan, Italy
| | - Rossella E Nappi
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Research Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Gynecological Endocrinology and Menopause, IRCCS San Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy
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Effect of vaginal energy-based treatment on female stress urinary incontinence: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. World J Urol 2023; 41:405-411. [PMID: 36536169 DOI: 10.1007/s00345-022-04247-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the efficacy and safety of vaginal energy-based therapies in treating female SUI. METHODS The PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched up to September 2022 to identify RCTs comparing energy-based therapies with placebo intervention in treating female SUI. The primary outcome was International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-SF) score. Secondary outcomes included the 1-h pad test and cure rate. RESULTS A total of 577 patients from 6 studies were included in the meta-analysis. Energy-based therapies did not significantly improve the ICIQ-SF score at all visits (≤ 1 month: SMD, -0.39; 95% CI - 0.80 to 0.03; P = 0.07; 3 months: SMD, - 1.32; 95% CI - 4.07 to 1.43; P = 0.35; 6 months: SMD, - 0.39; 95% CI - 0.91 to 0.12; P = 0.14). The subgroup analysis showed that there was no significant improvement in ICIQ-SF score in the CO2 laser group compared to the placebo group at all visits (≤ 1 month: SMD, - 0.13; 95% CI - 0.59 to 0.34; P = 0.59; 3 months: SMD, - 1.50; 95% CI - 3.91 to 0.92; P = 0.22; 6 months: SMD, 0.13; 95% CI - 0.47 to 0.72; P = 0.67). Meta-analysis was not performed in Er: YAG laser and radiofrequency therapy due to insufficient trials. CONCLUSION Based on the limited clinical evidence, our meta-analysis showed no prior efficacy of energy-based therapy over placebo intervention. However, the results of this meta-analysis should be taken with caution due to the limited amount of available evidence and the heterogeneity among the included studies. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42022360471.
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Page AS, Verbakel JY, Verhaeghe J, Latul YP, Housmans S, Deprest J. Laser versus sham for genitourinary syndrome of menopause: A randomised controlled trial. BJOG 2023; 130:312-319. [PMID: 36349391 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.17335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess whether CO2 laser treatment is more effective than sham application in relieving the most bothersome symptom (MBS) in women with genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). DESIGN Single-centre, sham-controlled, double-blind, randomised trial. SETTING A tertiary centre in Belgium. POPULATION Sixty women with moderate to severe GSM symptoms. METHODS All participants eventually received three consecutive laser and three consecutive sham applications, either first laser followed by sham, or conversely. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome was the participant-reported change in severity of the MBS at 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes included subjective (patient satisfaction, sexual function, urinary function) and objective (pH, Vaginal Health Index Score, in vivo microscopy) measurements assessing the short-term effect and the longevity of treatment effects at 18 months after start of the therapy. Adverse events were reported at every visit. RESULTS The MBS severity score decreased from 2.86 ± 0.35 to 2.17 ± 0.93 (-23.60%; 95% CI -36.10% to -11.10%) in women treated with laser compared with 2.90 ± 0.31 to 2.52 ± 0.78 (-13.20%; 95% CI -22.70% to -3.73%) in those receiving sham applications (p = 0.13). There were no serious adverse events reported up to 18 months. CONCLUSIONS In women with GSM, the treatment response 12 weeks after laser application was comparable to that of sham applications. There were no obvious differences for secondary outcomes and no serious adverse events were reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann-Sophie Page
- Department Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Pelvic Floor Unit, University Hospitals KU Leuven, and Academic Department Development and Regeneration, Cluster Urogenital Surgery, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jan Y Verbakel
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Johan Verhaeghe
- Department Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, and Academic Department Development and Regeneration, Cluster Urogenital Surgery, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Yani P Latul
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Susanne Housmans
- Department Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Pelvic Floor Unit, University Hospitals KU Leuven, and Academic Department Development and Regeneration, Cluster Urogenital Surgery, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jan Deprest
- Department Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Pelvic Floor Unit, University Hospitals KU Leuven, and Academic Department Development and Regeneration, Cluster Urogenital Surgery, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Menopause, wellbeing and health: A care pathway from the European Menopause and Andropause Society. Maturitas 2022; 163:1-14. [DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2022.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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11
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Alexander JW, Karjalainen P, Ow LL, Kulkarni M, Lee JK, Karjalainen T, Leitch A, Ryan G, Rosamilia A. CO 2 surgical laser for treatment of stress urinary incontinence in women: a randomized controlled trial. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2022; 227:473.e1-473.e12. [PMID: 35662546 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2022.05.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stress urinary incontinence is a common condition that can be treated conservatively and/or surgically. Given the risks of surgery, developing effective nonsurgical treatment options would be beneficial. Some studies have suggested that laser therapy may improve or cure stress urinary incontinence. However, there is a lack of sham-controlled randomized controlled trials to judge treatment efficacy. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to compare the effects of CO2 vaginal laser vs sham therapy for treating stress urinary incontinence. STUDY DESIGN This was a multicenter, participant-blinded, sham-controlled, parallel group (1:1) superiority randomized controlled trial performed in outpatient clinics in 2 hospitals. We included women aged 18 to 80 years with objective and subjective stress urinary incontinence. Participants had undertaken or declined supervised pelvic floor muscle training. Intervention was performed using a CO2 fractionated vaginal laser. Participants underwent 3 treatments, 4 weeks apart, with increasing energy and density settings. Sham treatment was performed using an identical technique with a deactivated pedal. The primary outcome was the subjective stress urinary incontinence rate (proportion with leak with cough, sneeze, or laughter) at 3 months after completion of treatment. Secondary outcomes included objective stress urinary incontinence, change in the disease-specific patient-reported outcomes, health-related quality of life, and adverse effects. Categorical outcomes were compared using the chi square test and continuous outcomes using analysis of covariance, adjusting for the baseline score. RESULTS There were 52 participants who received laser and 49 who received sham treatment. One participant in each group withdrew from the study before the endpoint, and 2 participants in the laser group did not participate in the follow-up visits. Participant mean age was 53 (34-79) years. Mean body mass index was 26.1 (18.1-49.6); 90% were vaginally parous. At 3 months, there was no difference between the sham and active treatment arm in subjective stress urinary incontinence (46 [96%] vs 48 [98%]; relative risk, 0.98 [95% confidence interval, 0.91-1.05]; P=.55) or in objective stress urinary incontinence (37 [80%] vs 33 [80%]; relative risk, 0.99 [95% confidence interval, 0.81-1.23]; P=.995). Patient-reported outcomes and health-related quality of life were also comparable between the groups. Vaginal bleeding occurred in 3 participants after laser and 1 participant after sham treatment. Pain during treatment did not differ between laser and sham treatment. CONCLUSION We were unable to show an improvement in stress urinary incontinence after CO2 vaginal laser therapy compared with sham treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- James W Alexander
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paivi Karjalainen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital Nova, Central Finland Healthcare District, Jyväskylä, Finland; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland; Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland; Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Lin Li Ow
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mugdha Kulkarni
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joseph K Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Teemu Karjalainen
- Department of Surgery, Hospital Nova, Central Finland Healthcare District, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Alison Leitch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Anna Rosamilia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Cabrini Hospital, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
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Mortensen OE, Christensen SE, Løkkegaard E. The evidence behind the use of LASER for genitourinary syndrome of menopause, vulvovaginal atrophy, urinary incontinence and lichen sclerosus: A state-of-the-art review. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2022; 101:657-692. [PMID: 35484706 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.14353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, LASER has been introduced as a minimally invasive treatment for a broad range of vaginal and vulvar symptoms and diseases. However, the efficacy and safety of vaginal and vulvar LASER has continuously been questioned. The aim of this study is to create an overview of the current literature and discuss the controversies within the use of LASER for genitourinary syndrome of menopause, vulvovaginal atrophy, urinary incontinence and lichen sclerosus. A search string was built in PubMed. The search was commenced on August 25, 2021 and closed on October 27, 2021. Two authors screened the studies in Covidence for inclusion according to the eligibility criteria in the protocol. The data were extracted from the studies and are reported in both text and tables. This review included 114 papers, of which 15 were randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The effect of LASER as a vaginal treatment was investigated for genitourinary syndrome of menopause in 36 studies (six RCTs), vulvovaginal atrophy in 34 studies (four RCTs) and urinary incontinence in 30 studies (two RCTs). Ten studies (three RCTs) investigated the effect of vulvar treatment for lichen sclerosus. Half of the included RCTs, irrespective of indication, did not find a significant difference in improvement in women treated with vaginal CO2 or Er:YAG LASER compared with their respective controls. However, most non-comparative studies reported significant improvement after exposure to vaginal or vulvar LASER across all indications. Included studies generally had a short follow-up period and only a single RCT followed their participants for more than 6 months post treatment. Adverse events were reported as mild and transient and 99 studies including 51 094 patients provided information of no serious adverse events. In conclusion, this review found that the effect of vaginal and vulvar LASER decreases with higher study quality where potential biases have been eliminated. We therefore stress that all patients who are treated with vaginal or vulvar LASER should be carefully monitored and that LASER for those indications as a treatment should be kept on a research level until further high-quality evidence is available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Engholt Mortensen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nordsjaellands Hospital, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Hillerød, Denmark
| | - Sarah Emilie Christensen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nordsjaellands Hospital, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Hillerød, Denmark
| | - Ellen Løkkegaard
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nordsjaellands Hospital, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Hillerød, Denmark
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Alvisi S, Lami A, Baldassarre M, Lenzi J, Mancini I, Seracchioli R, Meriggiola MC. Short-Term Efficacy and Safety of Non-Ablative Laser Treatment Alone or with Estriol or Moisturizers in Postmenopausal Women with Vulvovaginal Atrophy. J Sex Med 2022; 19:761-770. [PMID: 35370104 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2022.02.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among treatments for vulvo-vaginal atrophy (VVA), there is a new kind of energy-based device, the non-ablative CO2 laser. AIM This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of the non-ablative CO2 laser in menopausal women with VVA as a monotherapy or in association with vaginal estriol or moisturizer. METHODS Seventy-five women with VVA received laser treatment (Laser group), laser plus estriol gel (Laser+E) or laser plus moisturizers (Laser+M). The study protocol consisted of 3 monthly laser sessions (t0, t1, t2) and a gynecological examination at baseline and 1 month after last laser treatment (t3). Objective measures included VHI (Vaginal Health Index) and VuHI (Vulvar Health Index); subjective symptoms of VVA (Dryness, Burning, Itching, Dysuria) evaluated via visual analog scales, sexual function evaluated by FSFI (Female Sexual Function Index), FSDS (Female Sexual Distress Score) and MENQOL (Mopause-specific Quality Of Life). Adverse events and discomfort encountered during the procedure were also assessed. OUTCOMES Primary outcomes were the evaluation of VHI and VuHI and secondary outcomes were changes in VVA symptoms (VAS), sexual function (MENQOL, FSFI, FSDS) and discomfort during the procedure. RESULTS Seventy-five women (25 in Laser, 25 in Laser+E and 25 in Laser+M group) completed the study. At t3, mean VHI, VuHI, dryness, burning and itching VAS scores improved significantly with no differences between the groups. The lubrication domain of FSFI improved significantly only in the Laser+M group, while the pain domain improved significantly in all women with no differences between the groups. FSFI and FSDS overall scores and MENQOL sexual domain improved in all women with no significant difference between the groups. The mean score of the pain during the procedure was low at t0 and did not change throughout the study. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS This study extends knowledge concerning the effectiveness of a new non-ablative CO2 laser in post-menopausal women with VVA. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS This is one of the first studies on this kind of laser and is the first to compare the effectiveness of laser treatment alone or in combination with vaginal estriol or moisturizers. Parameters of VVA and sexual function were evaluated using validated tools. Study limitations include short follow-up time, the limited number of participants and the absence of a sham-controlled group. CONCLUSION Non-ablative CO2 laser seems to be an effective treatment for VVA in menopausal women. Our preliminary data shows that it can be effective as monotherapy or with adjuvant treatments. Alvisi S, Lami A, Baldassarre M, et al. Short-Term Efficacy and Safety of Non-Ablative Laser Treatment Alone or with Estriol or Moisturizers in Postmenopausal Women with Vulvovaginal Atrophy. J Sex Med 2022;19:761-770.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Alvisi
- Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alessandra Lami
- Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maurizio Baldassarre
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Center for Applied Biomedical Research, Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences, S. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Jacopo Lenzi
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Ilaria Mancini
- Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Renato Seracchioli
- Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Meriggiola
- Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Center for Applied Biomedical Research, Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences, S. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
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14
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Hsu CY, Wu CH, Long CY. Re: Vaginal Er:YAG laser application in the menopausal ewe model: a randomised estrogen and sham-controlled trial'. BJOG 2021; 129:1010. [PMID: 34846799 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.16999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Yang Hsu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Hu Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Yu Long
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Kaohsiung Municipal Siaogang Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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15
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Mackova K, Deprest J. Authors' reply re: 'Vaginal Er:YAG laser application in the menopausal ewe model: a randomised estrogen and sham-controlled trial'. BJOG 2021; 129:1010-1011. [PMID: 34800353 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.16998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Mackova
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Urogenital, Abdominal and Plastic Surgery, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Institute for the Care of Mother and Child, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Deprest
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Urogenital, Abdominal and Plastic Surgery, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Pelvic Floor Unit, University Hospitals KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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16
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Li FG, Maheux-Lacroix S, Deans R, Nesbitt-Hawes E, Budden A, Nguyen K, Lim CY, Song S, McCormack L, Lyons SD, Segelov E, Abbott JA. Effect of Fractional Carbon Dioxide Laser vs Sham Treatment on Symptom Severity in Women With Postmenopausal Vaginal Symptoms: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA 2021; 326:1381-1389. [PMID: 34636862 PMCID: PMC8511979 DOI: 10.1001/jama.2021.14892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Postmenopausal vaginal symptoms are common and frequently detrimental to a woman's quality of life. Fractional carbon dioxide vaginal laser is increasingly offered as a treatment, but the efficacy remains unproven. OBJECTIVE To determine the efficacy of fractional carbon dioxide laser for treatment of vaginal symptoms associated with menopause. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS A double-blind, randomized, sham-controlled trial with 12-month follow-up was undertaken at a single tertiary referral hospital in Sydney, Australia. Enrollment commenced on September 19, 2016, with final follow-up on June 30, 2020. Participants were postmenopausal women with vaginal symptoms substantive enough to seek medical treatment. Of 232 participants approached, 85 were randomized. INTERVENTIONS Three treatments using a fractional microablative carbon dioxide laser system performed 4 to 8 weeks apart, with 43 women randomized to the laser group and 42 to the sham group. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The co-primary outcomes were symptom severity assessed using a visual analog scale (VAS; range, 0-100; 0 indicates no symptoms and 100 indicates the most severe symptoms) and the Vulvovaginal Symptom Questionnaire (VSQ; range, 0-20; 0 indicates no symptoms and 20 indicates the most severe symptoms) at 12 months. The minimal clinically important difference was specified as a 50% decrease in both VAS and VSQ severity scores. There were 5 prespecified secondary outcomes, including quality of life (range, 0-100; higher scores indicate better quality of life), the Vaginal Health Index Score (range, 5-25; higher scores indicate better health), and vaginal histology (premenopausal or postmenopausal status). RESULTS Of 85 randomized participants (mean [SD] age, 57 [8] years), 78 (91.7%) completed the 12-month follow-up. From baseline to 12 months, there was no significant difference between the carbon dioxide laser group and the sham group in change in symptom severity (VAS score for overall vaginal symptoms: -17.2 vs -26.6; difference, 9.4 [95% CI, -28.6 to 47.5]; VAS score for the most severe symptom: -24.5 vs -20.4; difference -4.1 [95% CI, -32.5 to 24.3]; VSQ score: -3.1 vs -1.6; difference, -1.5 [95% CI, -5.9 to 3.0]). There were no significant differences between the laser and sham group in the mean quality of life score (6.3 vs 1.4; difference, 4.8 [95% CI, -3.9 to 13.5]) and Vaginal Health Index Score (0.9 vs 1.3; difference, -0.4 [95% CI, -4.3 to 3.6]) or in histological comparisons between laser and sham treatment groups. There were 16 adverse events in the laser group and 17 in the sham group, including vaginal pain/discomfort (44% vs 68%), spotting, discharge, and lower urinary tract symptoms. No severe adverse events were reported in either group. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Among women with postmenopausal vaginal symptoms, treatment with fractional carbon dioxide laser vs sham treatment did not significantly improve vaginal symptoms after 12 months. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: ACTRN12616001403426.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona G. Li
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, UNSW Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sarah Maheux-Lacroix
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, UNSW Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rebecca Deans
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, UNSW Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Erin Nesbitt-Hawes
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, UNSW Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Aaron Budden
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, UNSW Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kimberly Nguyen
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, UNSW Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Claire Y. Lim
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, UNSW Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sophia Song
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, UNSW Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Lalla McCormack
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, UNSW Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Stephen D. Lyons
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, UNSW Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Eva Segelov
- School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jason A. Abbott
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, UNSW Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Mension E, Alonso I, Tortajada M, Matas I, Gómez S, Ribera L, Ros C, Anglès-Acedo S, Castelo-Branco C. Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause Assessment Tools. J Midlife Health 2021; 12:99-102. [PMID: 34526742 PMCID: PMC8409719 DOI: 10.4103/jmh.jmh_93_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
New therapeutic options are being considered to treat genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), such as vaginal laser, ospemifene, or prasterone, but there is no explicit agreement in the scientific community for its use. Some concerns have arisen on how to evaluate the improvement of GSM symptoms. In 2003, the FDA suggested possible end points for this purpose: change in severity of symptoms, change in vaginal pH, and change in vaginal maturation index (VMI). Contrarily, the most common assessment tools used to quantify severity and improvement of GSM nowadays are the visual analog scale of GSM symptoms, the vaginal health index, and the female sexual function index. In our opinion, subjective and objective variables to evaluate GSM can be differentiated, and not many of the considered objective outcomes are used in the recent literature assessing GSM. There is the possibility that some therapies present only subjective improvement, giving place to a possible placebo effect that is not being evaluated. To conclude, there is a demand to evaluate whether vaginal pH and VMI are enough to assess objectively GSM changes or new objective approaches should be audited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduard Mension
- Clinic Institute/Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, Hospital Clinic, Villarroel, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Alonso
- Clinic Institute/Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, Hospital Clinic, Villarroel, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Tortajada
- Clinic Institute/Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, Hospital Clinic, Villarroel, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Isabel Matas
- Clinic Institute/Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, Hospital Clinic, Villarroel, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sílvia Gómez
- Clinic Institute/Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, Hospital Clinic, Villarroel, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Ribera
- Clinic Institute/Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, Hospital Clinic, Villarroel, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Ros
- Clinic Institute/Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, Hospital Clinic, Villarroel, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sònia Anglès-Acedo
- Clinic Institute/Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, Hospital Clinic, Villarroel, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Camil Castelo-Branco
- Clinic Institute/Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, Hospital Clinic, Villarroel, Barcelona, Spain
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18
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Bretas TLB, Issa MCA, Fialho SCAV, Villar EAG, Velarde LGC, Pérez-López FR. Vaginal collagen I and III changes after carbon dioxide laser application in postmenopausal women with the genitourinary syndrome: a pilot study. Climacteric 2021; 25:186-194. [PMID: 34291703 DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2021.1941850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to evaluate the clinical response and collagen remodeling in the vaginal wall after three sessions of carbon dioxide (CO2) laser application. METHODS Fourteen postmenopausal women with vulvovaginal atrophy, aged 45-65 years and sexually active, were evaluated with clinical questionnaires, gynecological examinations and histological techniques before and after 20 weeks of treatment (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03939078). Treatment consisted of 3-monthly sessions of the CO2 laser. Clinical questionnaires included the Vaginal Health Index, the Female Sexual Function Index and the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaires Short Form. Biopsies were taken from the lateral vaginal wall at week 0 (left wall) and week 20 (right wall). Tissue samples were stained with hematoxylin and eosin, Periodic Acid-Schiff, Picrosirius Red Stain and Orcein dyes. Immunohistochemical study was used to quantify collagens I and III in the samples. RESULTS The mean age was 54.4 ± 4.5 years, and the average time of amenorrhea was 7.6 ± 5.1 years. The Female Sexual Function Index and the Vaginal Health Index Score values increased while the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Short Form score decreased after the programmed treatment. There was no significant change in vaginal pH. Histological studies showed increases in the total and superficial epithelial cell layers, and type III collagen fibers (from 10.86 ± 7.66 to 16.87 ± 3.96, p < 0.05), and immunohistochemical studies confirmed the significant increase in collagen III. CONCLUSION Histological findings revealed epithelial atrophy reversal and collagen remodeling of the vaginal wall. Immunohistochemical analysis showed an increase in collagen type III fibers.
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Affiliation(s)
- T L B Bretas
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Federal Fluminense University Faculty of Medicine, Niteroi, Brazil
| | - M C A Issa
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Federal Fluminense University Faculty of Medicine, Niteroi, Brazil
| | - S C A V Fialho
- Maternal and Child Department, Federal Fluminense University Faculty of Medicine, Niteroi, Brazil
| | - E A G Villar
- Department of Pathology, Federal Fluminense University Faculty of Medicine, Niteroi, Brazil
| | - L G C Velarde
- Department of Statistics, Federal Fluminense University, Niteroi, Brazil
| | - F R Pérez-López
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Zaragoza Faculty of Medicine, Zaragoza, Spain
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Affiliation(s)
- C Castelo-Branco
- Clinic Institute of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Hospital Clinic-Institut d´Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain
| | - E Mension
- Clinic Institute of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Hospital Clinic-Institut d´Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain
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Mackova K, Deprest J. Authors' reply re: Vaginal Er:YAG laser application in the menopausal ewe model: a randomised estrogen and sham-controlled trial. BJOG 2021; 128:1100-1101. [PMID: 33629524 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.16653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- K Mackova
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Urogenital, Abdominal and Plastic Surgery, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Institute for the Care of Mother and Child, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - J Deprest
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Urogenital, Abdominal and Plastic Surgery, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Pelvic Floor Unit, University Hospitals KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Mackova K, Deprest J. Authors' reply re: Vaginal Er:YAG laser application in the menopausal ewe model: a randomised estrogen and sham-controlled trial. BJOG 2021; 128:1099. [PMID: 33629489 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.16652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- K Mackova
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Urogenital, Abdominal and Plastic Surgery, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Institute for the Care of Mother and Child, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - J Deprest
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Urogenital, Abdominal and Plastic Surgery, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Pelvic Floor Unit, University Hospitals KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Gaspar A, Gambacciani M. Re: Vaginal Er:YAG laser application in the menopausal ewe model: a randomised estrogen and sham-controlled trial. BJOG 2021; 128:1099-1100. [PMID: 33822466 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.16655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Erel CT, Ozcivit IB. Re: Vaginal Er:YAG LASER application in the menopausal ewe model: a randomised estrogen and sham-controlled trial. BJOG 2021; 128:1098. [PMID: 33656233 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.16651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C T Erel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - I B Ozcivit
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Istanbul, Turkey
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