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Introduction and Hypothesis: Vaginal hysterectomy (VH) was described as far back as 120 CE. However, it was not till the mid-1900s when reconstructive procedures were introduced to mitigate the risk of, or treat, pelvic organ prolapse in relation to VH. Furthermore, routine hysterectomy, particularly VH, has long been advocated in prolapse surgery. However, this indication is now questionable., Methods: Literature review to provide an overview of current evidence and experts' opinion regarding the relationship between VH and pelvic organ prolapse. The review presents a historical perspective on the role of VH in the management of pelvic organ prolapse, the current debate on the usefulness of the procedure in this context, a practical guide on operative techniques used during VH and the impact of recent surgical developments on its use., Results: Vaginal hysterectomy is a well-established technique that is still superior to laparoscopic hysterectomy for benign gynecological disease, although more surgically challenging. However, it is possible that some contemporary techniques, such as vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery, may overcome some of these challenges, and hence increase the number of hysterectomies performed via the vaginal route. Although patients should be counselled about uterine-sparing reconstructive surgery, vaginal hysterectomy continues to be a major surgical procedure in reconstructive pelvic floor surgery., Conclusions: Therefore, it is prudent to continue to train residents in vaginal surgical skills to ensure that they continue to provide safe, cost-effective, and comprehensive patient care., (© 2024. The International Urogynecological Association.)

Introduction and Hypothesis: Evidence suggests that episiotomies reduce the risk for obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIs) in operative vaginal deliveries (OVDs). However, there is limited evidence on the importance of episiotomy technique in this context. The primary objective of this study was to assess if an episiotomy suture angle >45° from the median line would be associated with a lower risk for OASIs at the time of OVD., Methods: This was an ancillary study from the multicentre prospective cohort INSTRUMODA study. Of the 2,620 patients who had an OVD with a concomitant episiotomy between April 2021 and March 2022, a total of 219 fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Post-suturing photographs were used to assess episiotomy characteristics., Results: Based on suture angles of ≤45° and >45° the study cohort was categorized into groups A (n = 155) and B (n = 64) respectively. The groups had comparable demographic and birth-related characteristics. The mean episiotomy length was significantly longer in group A than in group B (3.21 cm vs 2.84 cm; p = 0.009). Senior obstetricians performed more acute angled episiotomies than junior residents (p = 0.016). The total prevalence of OASIS was 2.3%, with no significant difference in rate of OASI between the two study groups. Birthweight was significantly higher in OASI births (p = 0.018) and spatula-assisted births were associated with higher risk for OASIs than ventouse or forceps (p = 0.0039)., Conclusions: This study did not demonstrate a significant reduction in risk for OASI at the time of OVD when the episiotomy suture angle was >45° from the median line. However, these results should be interpreted with caution owing to the low prevalence of OASIs in our cohort., (© 2023. The International Urogynecological Association.)

Aims: The terminology of obstetric pelvic floor disorders should be defined and reported as part of a wider clinically oriented consensus., Methods: This Report combines the input of members of two International Organizations, the International Continence Society (ICS) and the International Urogynecological Association (IUGA). The process was supported by external referees. Appropriate clinical categories and a sub-classification were developed to give coding to definitions. An extensive process of 12 main rounds of internal and 2 rounds of external review was involved to exhaustively examine each definition, with decision-making by consensus., Results: A terminology report for obstetric pelvic floor disorders, encompassing 357 separate definitions, has been developed. It is clinically-based with the most common diagnoses defined. Clarity and user-friendliness have been key aims to make it usable by different specialty groups and disciplines involved in the study and management of pregnancy, childbirth and female pelvic floor disorders. Clinical assessment, investigations, diagnosis, conservative and surgical treatments are major components. Illustrations have been included to supplement and clarify the text. Emerging concepts, in use in the literature and offering further research potential but requiring further validation, have been included as an Appendix. As with similar reports, interval (5-10 year) review is anticipated to maintain relevance of the document and ensure it remains as widely applicable as possible., Conclusion: A consensus-based Terminology Report for obstetric pelvic floor disorders has been produced to support clinical practice and research., (© 2022. The Author(s).)

Introduction and Hypothesis: Anterior bilateral sacrospinous ligament fixation (ABSSLF) was first described in 2000 but only evaluated in a limited number of studies. However, due to the FDA's ban on transvaginal mesh, interest in this technique has re-emerged. The SSLF procedure is known for its inherent high risk for anterior compartment failure; hence, in our center we started performing a preemptive concomitant anterior repair with the intention to reduce such risk. The aim of this study was to review the feasibility and clinical outcomes of this innovative technique., Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study of all the women who had an ABSSLF and a concomitant anterior native tissue repair between May 2019 and July 2020 in a tertiary hospital in France. Our primary endpoint was surgical feasibility, while as secondary endpoints we wanted to explore the perioperative morbidities and clinical outcomes associated with this technique., Results: A total of 50 women were operated on in the studied period. The median follow-up time was 10 [8.5] months. It was feasible to perform the combined ABSSLF and concomitant anterior native tissue repair in all cases. The most frequent perioperative complications reported were urinary tract infection (14%) and difficulty in resuming voiding (16%). Anatomical and functional results were improved. The rate of anterior compartment recurrence was 37%., Conclusions: ABSSLF with a concomitant anterior native tissue repair is feasible and relatively safe for treating anterior and apical pelvic prolapse. However, anterior compartment failure rate is still a limitation. Further larger studies with long-term anatomical and functional results comparing this technique to alternative transvaginal surgical approaches are needed., (© 2022. The International Urogynecological Association.)

Introduction and Hypothesis: The main objective of the study was to evaluate the rates of de novo stress urinary (SUI) and postoperative dyspareunia after both sacrocolpopexy/hysteropexy (SCP) and vaginal mesh surgery., Methods: A prospective, multicenter, randomized, open-label study with two parallel groups treated by either SCP or Uphold Lite vaginal mesh was carried out. Study participants were ≥ 50 and < 80 years old patients with Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POP-Q) stage ≥2 who were considered eligible for reconstructive surgery and who were sexually active with no dyspareunia and free from bothersome SUI at presentation. Women were assessed before surgery and at 4-8 weeks and 11-13 months after using validated measures including POP-Q, Pelvic Floor Disability Index (PFDI-20), Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire (PFIQ-7), Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire, IUGA-Revised (PISQ-IR), and Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I). Data were also collected for health economics evaluation., Results: Of the required sample of 156 women, 42 women (19 SCP and 23 vaginal mesh) were only recruited owing to the discontinuation of vaginal mesh worldwide. The median follow-up was 376 days. The rates of bothersome de novo SUI were similar in the SCP and Uphold vaginal mesh groups (15.79 vs 15.00%, OR 0.95 [95% CI 0.22-4.14]). Among 30 sexually active patients at follow-up, the rates of women reporting de novo dyspareunia "usually or always" were 6.7% after SCP vs 13.3% after vaginal mesh (p = 1). Health economics evaluation showed a cost saving of 280€ in favor of the Uphold vaginal mesh technique, but no significant difference in the total cost (2,934.97€ for SCP vs 3,053.26€ for Uphold vaginal mesh)., Conclusions: Bothersome de novo SUI and de novo dyspareunia occurred in approximately 15% and 23% of our study cohorts, with no significant difference between sacrocolpopexy/hysteropexy and anterior/apical vaginal mesh surgery. However, these results should be interpreted with caution owing to the small sample size., (© 2022. The International Urogynecological Association.)

Introduction and Hypothesis: The aim of this study was to clinically validate the French-translated PISQ-IR in a French-speaking population of women with pelvic floor disorders., Methods: We aimed to recruit 300 women to account for potential attrition secondary to failure to respond or loss to follow-up. Women were enrolled as part of an RCT and from a separate specific study. Both studies included surgically managed patients. Data were collected at recruitment, visit 1 (V1), V2 (9-12 months postoperatively) and V3 (V2 + 5-15 days). Participants also completed a PFDI 20, ICI-Q and FSFI and were assessed by POP-Q., Results: A total of 297 women were recruited between 18 January 2013 and 18 January 2016. Data were available for 291, 148 and 110 participants at V1, V2 and V3, respectively. The non-response rate for the NSA items varied from 5% to 30%, while for SA women, the non-response rate for the items varied from 0% to 15%. The tool was deemed reliable for five domains of the summary score. We also identified that several sections demonstrated acceptable to good temporal stability. A statistically significant score change was identified in different domains in the participants categorized as improved on either PGI-I or POP-Q. We also identified moderate to strong correlations between PISQ-IR and FSFI., Conclusions: The French translated PISQ-IR has several strengths in support of its validity. Our findings confirm the validity of the summary scores in addition to the item-based initial scoring system., (© 2021. The International Urogynecological Association.)

Introduction and Hypothesis: The use of new lightweight meshes in pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery may reduce complications related to mesh retraction (chronic pain, dyspareunia, and mesh exposure). The aim of this study was to investigate changes in the area and position of Uphold Lite™ mesh 6 weeks and 12 months after anterior and/or apical prolapse repair., Methods: This observational prospective multicenter study included patients who had undergone transvaginal surgery for symptomatic POP-Q stage ≥ II anterior and/or apical compartment prolapse with placement of Uphold Lite mesh. The dimensions and position of the mesh were evaluated at 6 weeks and 12 months by ultrasonography. Correlations between ultrasonographic mesh characteristics and POP recurrence were analyzed., Results: Fifty evaluable women with an average age of 66.8 years were included. No statistically significant difference in mesh area was found between week 6 and month 12 postoperatively, either at rest (1746.92 vs. 1574.48 mm 2 ; p = 0.15) or on Valsalva (1568.81 vs. 1542.98 mm 2 ; p = 0.65). The ROC-AUC of the distance between the mesh and the bladder neck (M-BN) at 6 weeks for predicting cystocele recurrence at 12 months was 0.764 (95% CI 0.573-0.955) at rest and 0.724 (95% CI 0.533-0.916) on Valsalva. An M-BN distance > 12.5 mm could predict cystocele recurrence at month 12 with a sensitivity of 80% and a specificity of 69%., Conclusions: Ultrasonographic measurements of the Uphold Lite™ mesh appear to remain stable between 6 weeks and 12 months postoperatively. M-BN distance correlates with cystocele recurrence. These results appear to confirm the value of ultrasound in mesh evaluation.

Introduction and Hypothesis: The aim was to evaluate the reoperation rate and outcomes in women who underwent transvaginal non-absorbable monofilament polypropylene mesh placement for the treatment of cystocele., Methods: The retrospective cohort study included 63 patients who underwent transvaginal surgery using a synthetic polypropylene mesh (Gynemesh™) for cystocele. Patients were evaluated using a clinical examination (POP-Q) and validated questionnaires (PGI-I, PFDI-20, PFIQ-7) at 18 years of follow-up (median 18 years [IQR 16-19]). Cumulative death rate was 13 out of 63 (20%) and rate of total loss to follow-up was 21 out of 50 (42%). Finally, among the 63 women who underwent surgery, 29 completed maximum follow-up and 21 underwent a clinical examination., Results: The cumulative reoperation rate was 35% (22 out of 63). Three patients were reoperated on because of recurrence of pelvic organ prolapse. Among the 63 patients initially operated, vaginal mesh exposure occurred in 16 (25%) during follow-up and 11 women (17%) needed a reintervention for vaginal mesh exposure. One patient was reoperated on for bladder mesh exposure. Among the 29 women who completed follow-up, the overall postoperative improvement rate was 93% after 18 years (PGI-I: 1-3). Mean overall satisfaction rate was 80 out of 100. Functional success rate was 76% (22 out of 29) and anatomical success rate was 62% (13 out of 21). The median score of the POP-DI-6 was 4.1 (IQR: 0-11) and the median score of the PFDI-20 was 30.7 (IQR: 13-60) in the 29 women who completed maximum follow-up., Conclusion: At very long-term follow-up, the recurrence rate of cystocele following polypropylene mesh placement by the vaginal route remained low and the satisfaction rate was high. However, we found high cumulative reoperation and mesh exposure rates.

Introduction and Hypothesis: Debate persists over whether surgery to correct pelvic organ prolapse (POP) should be combined with midurethral sling (MUS) insertion. The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) up to 12 months after transvaginal mesh surgery, with or without MUS, and to identify risk factors for postoperative SUI., Methods: This retrospective single-center study included patients who underwent transvaginal mesh surgery with Uphold™ between October 2010 and December 2017. The primary outcome was the prevalence of SUI at 12 months postoperatively. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression was used to identify risks factors for postoperative SUI., Results: Of the 308 women included, 123 (40%) were continent (no SUI), 108 (35%) had SUI, and 76 (25%) had occult SUI. Forty-nine patients (15.9%) had a concomitant MUS procedure. At 12 months after surgery, 35.9% of patients without concomitant MUS had SUI vs 14.3% with (p = 0.003). Thirty-five patients (29%) developed de novo SUI. Postoperative complications were more common in patients with concomitant MUS (30.6% vs 17%; p = 0.003). The best predictor of postoperative SUI was the presence of preoperative SUI (OR 2.52 (1.25-5.09). Concomitant MUS (p < 0.001), and prior POP surgery (p = 0.034) were protective factors for postoperative SUI., Conclusion: Preoperative SUI is the most important risk factor for postoperative SUI. However, given the higher risk of postoperative complications with concomitant MUS and the acceptable rate of de novo SUI rate without it, two-stage surgery seems preferable for patients with preoperative SUI.

Introduction and Hypothesis: The aim of this study was to report the long-term subjective and objective outcomes after transvaginal mesh (TVM) or native tissue repair., Methods: Prospective, randomized, multicenter study conducted between April 2005 and December 2009 comparing anterior colporrhaphy with trans-obturator vaginal mesh (Pelvitex/Ugytex®, Sofradim, Trevoux, France) for the treatment of anterior vaginal wall prolapse. The primary endpoint was functional recurrence rate 5-8 years after surgery. Secondary endpoints consisted of anatomical results, mesh-related morbidity and patient satisfaction measured through validated questionnaires., Results: Of the 147 women originally included, 75 (51%) were successfully re-contacted a median of 7 years after the initial surgery. The primary outcome, subjective recurrence of prolapse, was similar between the TVM and the anterior colporrhaphy groups (31 vs 34% respectively). Anatomical recurrence was less likely in the TVM group (67 vs 24%, p = 0.004). Mesh exposure occurred in 4 of the 39 patients (13%) during follow-up, 2 of which had a surgical reintervention. Reintervention for prolapse took place in 7 patients (9%)., Conclusion: Seven-year follow-up showed similar functional outcomes for mesh and native tissue repair in anterior vaginal wall prolapse. TVM did not reduce repeat surgery in the long term; it did, however, reduce anatomical recurrence. Mesh exposure rates were relatively high, but no difference in outcome of pain or dyspareunia was noted.

Introduction and Hypothesis: To compare the impact of vaginal delivery (VD) versus cesarean section (CS) on the pelvic floor in twin primiparae at 3 and 12 months postpartum., Methods: This comparative multicenter prospective cohort from a large French national cohort study consisted of primiparas who gave birth to live twins after 34 weeks of gestation. The primary end point was the postnatal urinary incontinence rate 3 months postpartum. The secondary end points were the pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) at 3 and 12 months based on PFDI-20, PFIQ-7, PISQ-12, and SF-12 responses., Results: A total of 2812 patients in 172 French maternity units were recruited between February 2014 and March 2015: 1076 (38%) responded at 3 and 12 months (61% at 3 months); 1155 were analyzed at 3 months (556 VD and 599 CS) and 800 at 12 months (394 VD and 406 CS). VD was associated with more symptoms at 3 months [median PFDI-20 score 25/300 (8-50) vs. 17/300 (4-36) after CS; p < 0.0001]. Vaginal bulge was more frequently reported after VD (9 vs. 4%; p = 0.0015). Abdnormal PFD-related quality-of-life scores (scores > 0) were more frequent after VD at 3 months (58 vs. 42%; p < 0.0001) and 12 months (57 vs. 43%; p = 0.0020), indicating greater discomfort. However, SF-12 scores were higher after VD [56 (53-59) vs. 55 (51-58)] at 12 months, indicating better general quality of life., Conclusions: Mode of delivery is significantly associated with pelvic organ prolapse symptoms 3 months postpartum, which regress by 12 months, probably because of the known spontaneous postnatal improvement of PFDs.

Introduction and Hypothesis: Our purpose was to compare the prevalence of urinary incontinence (UI) 3 and 12 months after vaginal vs cesarean delivery of twins after 34 weeks of gestation., Methods: This was a multicenter prospective cohort study conducted at 172 French maternity units and included 2812 primiparous women with twins with no prior history of UI. Participants were enrolled at the time of delivery and followed up to 12 months postpartum. The primary outcome was the prevalence of UI, both stress and urge, 3 months postpartum, based on the patient reporting any frequency of urine leakage to the first question of the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire - Short Form (ICIQ-SF). The Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory - Short Form 20 (PFDI-20), Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire - Short Form 7 (PFIQ-7), Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire (PISQ-12), and Medical Outcome Study Short Form-12 (SF-12) were also used., Results: The ICIQ-SF was completed by 1155 (39.8%) and 800 (27.5%) women, respectively, at 3 and 12 months postpartum; 556 (48%) had delivered vaginally and 599 (52%) by cesarean section. The prevalence of UI at 3 months was 26% overall and was significantly higher in the vaginal delivery group at both 3 months (35% vs 17% in the cesarean group, p < 0.0001) and 12 months postpartum (38% vs 24%, p < 0.0001). UI was predominantly stress or mixed. The risk factors for UI at 3 months, determined by multivariate modeling, were vaginal delivery [odds ratio (OR) 3.073, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.3-4.105, p < 0.0001) and body mass index >25 in early pregnancy (OR 1.620, 95% CI 1.188-2.209, p = 0.0023)., Conclusions: Vaginal delivery is a risk factor for UI at 3 months after twin birth.

Introduction and Hypothesis: The use of mesh in pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery has become a widespread treatment option, but carries a risk of specific complications. The objective was to report the rate and type of reoperation for mesh-related complications after pelvic organ prolapse surgery in an urogynecological referral center over a period of 8 years., Methods: A retrospective study was carried out including all patients operated for a mesh complication after prolapse surgery between September 2006 and September 2014 in the urogynecology unit in Nîmes hospital., Results: Sixty-nine mesh complications were recorded among the 67 patients included. Surgical treatment of mesh-related complications accounted for 7% of all pelvic surgeries performed in our center. Thirty-two patients (47.8%) were referred from other centers and 35 patients (52.2%) were initially operated in our unit. The global rate of reintervention for mesh-related complications after prolapse repair performed in our unit was 2.8%. Of 69 mesh complications, 48 patients (71.6%) had transvaginal mesh (TVM) and 19 patients (28.4%) sacrocolpopexy (SCP). The indication for surgery was a symptomatic or large vaginal erosion (47.8%), symptomatic mesh contraction (20.3%), and infection (11.6%). The most frequent primary symptom was pelvic/perineal pain or dyspareunia (33.3% of cases). The mean time between initial mesh surgery and the reoperation for a complication was 33.4 months (95% CI, 24.5 to 42.2). Eleven patients (15.9%) required several interventions. In total, 77.9% of patients experienced complete recovery of symptoms after surgical management., Conclusion: In a referral center the global rate of reinterventions for mesh-related complications after POP repair is 2.8%. The surgical treatment of mesh complications appears to be a safe and effective procedure with cure of the symptoms in most cases.

Introduction and Hypothesis: We report retrospective data on the long-term safety and efficacy of the retropubic midurethral sling (MUS) in a large series of women with stress urinary incontinence., Methods: In all, 517 patients were treated during the period January 2005 to June 2012 at a single centre in France. The Urinary Symptoms Profile score was used to identify women who were subjectively cured or improved or in whom treatment had failed. The rates of peroperative, and early (<30 days) and late postoperative complications were recorded., Results: A total of 463 patients were evaluable at a mean (±SD) follow-up of 71 ± 23 months. At the last follow-up, 344 patients (74.3 %) demonstrated subjective cure, 55 (11.9 %) were improved and 64 (13.8 %) had treatment failure. Bladder perforations occurred in 33 patients (7.1 %); however, this had no effect on cure rate. In the early postoperative period, temporary intermittent self-catheterization was required in 10 patients (2.2 %) due to voiding difficulties. The most frequent long-term postoperative complication was de novo urge incontinence that was reported by 59 patients (12.7 %); seven patients (1.5 %) needed tape excision due to voiding difficulties and six (1.3 %) needed tape removal due to erosion or chronic pain., Conclusions: The retropubic MUS was shown to be durable at a mean follow-up of 71 ± 23 months, with a high success/improvement rate and no serious long-term tape-induced adverse effects.

Introduction and Hypothesis: Neovaginal prolapse (NP) is a rare event as few cases have been reported in the literature. Its management is complex and depends on the initial pathology, the vaginoplasty technique and the patient's history. We present a review the literature on this rare event., Methods: We describe the case of a 72-year-old woman who presented with NP 1 year after pelvic exenteration and radiotherapy for recurrent cervical carcinoma associated with vaginal reconstruction by shaped-tube omentoplasty. She had undergone two previous surgical procedures (posterior sacrospinous ligament suspension and partial colpocleisis), but NP recurred each time within a few months. We performed an anterior approach to the sacrospinous ligament and inserted a mesh under the anterior wall of the neovagina, with the two mesh arms driven through the sacrospinous ligament in a tension-free manner (Uphold Lite® system). The MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrials and OpenGrey databases were systematically searched for literature on the management of NP following bowel vaginoplasty, mechanical dilatation, graciloplasty, omentoplasty, rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap and the Davydov procedure., Results: The postoperative course in the patient whose case is described was uneventful and after 1 year of follow-up, the anatomical results and patient satisfaction were good. The systematic search of the databases revealed several studies on the treatment of NP using abdominal and vaginal approaches, and these are reviewed., Conclusions: Overall, sacrocolpopexy would appear to be a good option for the treatment of prolapse after bowel vaginoplasty, but too few cases have been reported to establish this technique as the standard management of NP.

Introduction and Hypothesis: Obstetric trauma during childbirth is considered a major risk factor for postpartum urinary incontinence (UI), particularly stress urinary incontinence. Our aim was to investigate the relation between postpartum UI, mode of delivery, and urethral descent, and to define a group of women who are particularly at risk of postnatal UI., Methods: A total of 186 women were included their first pregnancy. Validated questionnaires about urinary symptoms during pregnancy, 2 and 12 months after delivery, were administered. Urethral descent was assessed clinically and by ultrasound at inclusion. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine the risk factors for UI during pregnancy, at 2 months and 1 year after first delivery., Results: The prevalence of UI was 38.6, 46.5, 35.6, and 34.4 % at inclusion, late pregnancy, 2 months postpartum, and 1 year postpartum respectively. No significant association was found between UI at late pregnancy and urethral descent assessed clinically or by ultrasound. The only risk factor for UI at 2 months postpartum was UI at inclusion (OR 6.27 [95 % CI 2.70-14.6]). The risk factors for UI at 1 year postpartum were UI at inclusion (6.14 [2.22-16.9]), body mass index (BMI), and urethral descent at inclusion, assessed clinically (7.21 [2.20-23.7]) or by ultrasound. The mode of delivery was not associated with urethral descent., Conclusions: Prenatal urethral descent and UI during pregnancy are risk factors for UI at 1 year postpartum. These results indicate that postnatal UI is more strongly influenced by susceptibility factors existing before first delivery than by the mode of delivery.

Introduction and Hypothesis: Pelvic organ prolapse is a major burden for the public health system, affecting up to 30 % of all women. One mesh kit has been introduced for pelvic organ prolapse surgery that can be inserted via a single anterior incision with the mesh arms driven through the sacrospinous ligament in a tension-free manner. The aim of this study was to describe the medium-term results of this vaginal mesh kit procedure for the combined treatment of the anterior vaginal wall and vault prolapse., Methods: This is a longitudinal case series of patients undergoing an anterior mesh operation between 2009 and 2013. All patients presenting with symptomatic stage II prolapse or higher were included when a minimum follow-up of 12 months was achieved. A structured interview and clinical examination were performed pre- and postoperatively., Results: One hundred and eighteen consecutive patients were operated with the Uphold® system during the study period. Three patients did not complete the 12-month follow-up and were excluded from the analysis, leaving 115 patients. Anatomical success at a mean follow-up of 23 months was 93 %, with a patient satisfaction rate of 95 %. Four patients (8 %) experienced de novo dyspareunia related to the mesh. The reoperation rate for mesh-related complications was 3.4 %; no patients were re-operated for POP recurrence., Conclusions: The subjective and objective cure rates were high and the mesh-related re-operation rate was 3 % in the medium term, suggesting that this surgical technique may be an option for women requiring anterior and apical prolapse repair.

Introduction and Hypothesis: The aim of this study was to assess the 36-month safety and efficacy of a lightweight polypropylene mesh used for the transvaginal repair of stage III-IV cystocele., Methods: A multicenter prospective cohort study was performed. Preoperative assessment included an interview and evaluation with the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POP-Q) system. Inclusion criteria were stage III-IV cystocele and no contraindications for mesh use. A lightweight (28 g/m(2)) four-arm transobturator polypropylene mesh was used for the study. Pre- and postoperative symptoms and quality of life were assessed using the Urinary Symptoms Measurement (MHU), Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI-20), Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire (PFIQ-7), and Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire (PISQ-12). The main endpoint was mesh safety. Secondary endpoints were anatomic (Ba point ≤ -1) and functional success., Results: In all, 111 patients with a mean age of 67 ± 9 years (range 47-89) were included in the study, and 94 (84.7%) were included in the analysis. Two intraoperative complications occurred (one bladder and one rectal injury, 2.2%). Medium-term analysis of 79 patients (84%) after 36 months showed a satisfaction rate of 98.7% (78/79), a mesh contraction rate of 5.1% (4/78), only one case of vaginal mesh exposure (1.3%), no cases of chronic pelvic pain, and a postoperative dyspareunia rate of 2.8% (1/36). The anatomic success rate of cystocele repair was 75/79 (94.9%) and a highly significant improvement was noted for symptoms and on quality of life questionnaires. Overall, 7/79 patients (8.9%) were reoperated, including 1 for hemorrhage, 1 for vaginal mesh exposure, 3 for stress urinary incontinence, and 2 for cystocele recurrence (2.5%)., Conclusion: Transvaginal cystocele repair using a lightweight transobturator polypropylene mesh was safe and efficient in the medium term. Long-term data and comparative studies are needed.

We report a case of obturator neuropathy induced by trans-obturator vaginal mesh surgery for symptomatic cystocele. Initial electromyography excluded genito-femoral and pudendal nerve deficiency. Typical clinical arguments for severe obturator neuropathy at physical examination led to vaginal revision surgery with hemi-resection of the mesh to the ischio-pubic branch. This fully relieved obturator-induced pain and reversed adductor muscle motor deficiency.

Introduction and Hypothesis: The aim was to review complications associated with pelvic organ prolapse surgery., 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 and Conclusions: Transvaginal mesh has a higher re-operation rate than native tissue vaginal repairs (grade A). If a synthetic mesh is placed via the vaginal route, it is recommended that a macroporous polypropylene monofilament mesh should be used. At sacral colpopexy mesh should not be introduced or sutured via the vaginal route and silicone-coated polyester, porcine dermis, fascia lata and polytetrafluoroethylene meshes are not recommended as grafts. Hysterectomy should also be avoided (grade B). There is no evidence to recommend routine local or systemic oestrogen therapy before or after prolapse surgery using mesh. The first cases should be undertaken with the guidance of an experienced surgeon in the relevant technique (grade C). Expert opinion suggests that by whatever the surgical route pre-operative urinary tract infections are treated, smoking is ceased and antibiotic prophylaxis is undertaken. It is recommended that a non-absorbable synthetic mesh should not be inserted into the rectovaginal septum when a rectal injury occurs. The placement of a non-absorbable synthetic mesh into the vesicovaginal septum may be considered after a bladder injury has been repaired, if the repair is considered to be satisfactory. It is possible to perform a hysterectomy in association with the introduction of a non-absorbable synthetic mesh inserted vaginally, but this is not recommended routinely.

Introduction and Hypothesis: To compare the efficacy of a collagen-coated polypropylene mesh and anterior colporrhaphy in the treatment of stage 2 or more anterior vaginal wall prolapse., Methods: Prospective, randomized, multicenter study conducted between April 2005 and December 2009. The principal endpoint was the recurrence rate of stage 2 or more anterior vaginal wall prolapse 12 months after surgery. Secondary endpoints consisted of functional results and mesh-related morbidity., Results: One hundred and forty-seven patients were included, randomized and analyzed: 72 in the anterior colporrhaphy group and 75 in the mesh group. The anatomical success rate was significantly higher in the mesh group (89%) than in the colporrhaphy group (64%) (p = 0.0006). Anatomical and functional recurrence was also less frequent in the mesh group (31.3% vs 52.2%, p = 0.007). Two patients (2.8%) were reoperated on in the colporrhaphy group for anterior vaginal wall prolapse recurrence. No significant difference was noted regarding minor complications. An erosion rate of 9.5% was noted. De novo dyspareunia occurred in 1/14 patients in the colporrhaphy group and in 3/13 patients in the mesh group. An analysis of the quality of life questionnaires showed an overall improvement in both groups, with no statistical difference between them. Satisfaction rates were high in both groups (92% in the colporrhaphy group and 96% in the mesh group)., Conclusion: Trans-obturator Ugytex mesh used to treat anterior vaginal wall prolapse gives better 1-year anatomical results than traditional anterior colporrhaphy, but with small a increase in morbidity in the mesh group.

Introduction and Hypothesis: Our purpose was to verify whether extensive dissection toward the sacrospinous ligament (SSL) needed for mesh fixation during anterior compartment repair increases the risk of postoperative voiding difficulties., Methods: A total of 124 patients after anterior compartment mesh repair without simultaneous suburethral sling placement operated on in the period 2005-2012 were enrolled in this retrospective observational study. Patients with previous anti-incontinence surgery with normal urodynamics were not excluded; 30 patients with incomplete data, severe perioperative complications, and urinary retention before and after the surgery were excluded. Urinary retention was defined as post-void residual over 150 ml more than 48 h after permanent catheter removal. The rate of urinary retention after anterior compartment repair by mesh anchored to the SSL from an anterior approach (SSLS group) was compared to that following transobturator mesh repair often combined with SSL fixation from the posterior approach (TOT group)., Results: Of the 94 patients considered for statistical analysis, 62 were from the SLSS group and 32 from the TOT group. The groups were comparable in age (mean 65.5 vs 66.3), body mass index (24.8 vs 25.9), and parity (2.4 vs 2.9). Patients from the SSLS group had higher rates of prior vaginal reconstructive (27 vs 19 %) and anti-incontinence surgery (26 vs 19 %). Postoperative urinary retention was statistically significantly more frequent in the SSLS group compared to the TOT group [(17 (27 %) vs 2 (6.25 %), odds ratio 5.7, 95 % confidence interval 1.2-26.3, p = 0.027]. Hospital discharge with self-catheterization was statistically insignificantly more frequent in the SSLS group [8 % (5) vs 3 % (1)]., Conclusions: Extensive dissection needed for SSL suspension from an anterior approach may lead to more frequent postoperative voiding difficulties. This phenomenon could be explained by more considerable injury to pelvic splanchnic nerves during the dissection. A large prospective study is needed for validation of our results.

Introduction and Hypothesis: Despite good anatomical outcomes of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) repair by the vaginal route using synthetic mesh, complications limit their use. Clinical data are needed to generalize prolapse mesh repair by the vaginal route. The current study aims to evaluate midterm rectoanal function and clinical outcomes after transischioanal rectocele repair using a medium weight polypropylene mesh., Methods: Between March 2003 and June 2004, 230 patients with stage II-IV anterior and/or posterior POP were included in a prospective multicenter study. The current study is based on the analysis of the 116 patients who underwent a rectocele repair via the infracoccygeal route through the sacrospinous ligament. Anatomical cure was defined when rectocele was at stage

Introduction and Hypothesis: The surgical treatment of a cystocele via the vaginal route may require the placement of a synthetic mesh below the bladder. However, the placement of a synthetic mesh via the vaginal route can be associated with specific complications, such as vaginal mesh exposure. There is a lack of data concerning the long-term follow-up of asymptomatic persistent vaginal polypropylene mesh exposure., Methods: This was a retrospective case series of nine patients presenting with persistent vaginal mesh exposure following the placement of a macroporous monofilament polypropylene mesh for cystocele treatment. Expectant management has been proposed since the patients were asymptomatic., Results: The median follow-up duration was 121 months [interquartile range (IQR) 119-132]. The median surface area of vaginal mesh exposure (1 cm(2); IQR 1-1) did not change significantly during the follow-up. No pelvic or perineal abscess occurred during the follow-up. Only one of them was sexually active; she complained of dyspareunia at the last follow-up, but refused renewed surgery since she had sexual intercourse on only a small number of occasions per year. Clinical examination using the International Continence Society Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification system: Ba -3 to -2 (n = 7; 88 %), Ba -1 (n = 1; 12 %), Ba 0 or greater (n = 0)., Conclusions: Persistent asymptomatic vaginal polypropylene mesh exposure is associated with few complications at long-term follow-up.

Introduction and Hypothesis: Different techniques of mesh placement for cystocele repair are known. Our goal was to compare anatomical and functional outcomes of three different techniques of mesh placement over a 3-year follow-up., Methods: Between March 2003 and June 2004, 230 patients (stage 2-4 pelvic organ prolapse (POP)) were included in a prospective study. For cystocele repair, mesh was implanted either with two arms into the retropubic space (RP) or with two to four arms into the obturator foramen (TO), or fixed to the arcus tendineous fascia pelvis (FG)., Results: Patients' distribution is as follows: 142 TO, 32 RP, and 31 FG. Anatomical success (cystocele < stage 2 in the POP staging system) was clearly poorer after the retropubic free technique, with success rates of 69% (RP), 90.1% (TO), and 96.6% (FG) (p = 0.004). POP distress inventory (p < 0.005) and POP impact questionnaire scores were both significantly poorer after RP., Conclusions: RP technique is less effective than TO and FG techniques.

Introduction and Hypothesis: The objective of this paper is to study the reproducibility and anatomical risks of anterior sacrospinous ligament (SSL) fixation associated with paravaginal repair using the Pinnacle device (Boston Scientific)., Methods: Simplified bilateral anterior SSL fixation associated with paravaginal fixation through the arcus tendineus fascia pelvis (ATFP) was performed on five fresh cadavers using the Pinnacle device. Cadaver dissection was then performed by open pelvic surgery., Results: Eight SSL and ten ATFP were available for analysis. SSL fixations were optimal in four cases, too superficial in three cases, and too high in one case. Mean distance between SSL fixation and ischial spine was 18.6 mm (range 10 to 30 mm). Mean distance between SSL fixation and pudendal nerve was 6.5 mm (range 0 to 15 mm). ATFP fixations were optimal in five cases, good in four cases, and too superficial in one case. In one case (10%), the middle arm of the prosthesis was in contact with the ureter and traction on that arm resulted in ureteral kinking., Conclusions: Anterior SSL fixation associated with paravaginal repair using the Pinnacle™ device was not reproducible every time in this cadaver study. These results confirm the need for specific training before starting anterior SSL fixations.

Introduction and Hypothesis: Bacterial colonization following mesh-augmented pelvic floor reconstructive surgery for pelvic organ prolapse is probably an underestimated consideration., Methods: Although clinical infections are rare, subclinical contamination of the polypropylene mesh has been systematically demonstrated by bacteriological analyses during mesh implantation and on explanted meshes., Results: A model of subclinical mesh infection does exist and bacterial colonization and mesh shrinkage have recently been correlated experimentally., Conclusions: New meshes with surface modifications or an antibiotic or antiseptic coating should be explored.

Introduction and Hypothesis: The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of silver coating of polypropylene implants on infection in hernia surgery., Methods: Silver-coated and non-silver-coated large pore monofilament polypropylene mesh implants were compared with and without infection (four groups). The implants were inserted in the abdominal wall of female Wistar rats. An Escherichia coli strain was inoculated intraoperatively in the two infected groups. The implants were removed, and clinical, bacteriological, and histological analyses were performed at 2, 15, and 30 days postoperatively., Results: Eighty-four rats were studied. All inoculated rats (n = 21) in the non-silver-coated polypropylene group presented periprosthetic E. coli infection, compared with only five inoculated rats in the silver-coated polypropylene group (p < 0.0001). Erosion was significantly higher in the infected than in the non-infected silver-coated polypropylene groups (p < 0.01). There was no histological difference between the four groups., Conclusions: Silver-coated implants appear effective against bacterial infection in our rat model, with good histological tolerance but delayed healing.

Introduction and Hypothesis: the aim of this study was to evaluate a link between mesh infection and shrinkage., Methods: twenty-eight Wistar rats were implanted with synthetic meshes that were either non-absorbable (polypropylene (PP), n = 14) or absorbable (poly (D: ,L: -lactic acid) (PLA94), n = 14). A validated animal incisionnal abdominal hernia model of mesh infection was used. Fourteen meshes (n = 7 PLA94 and n = 7 PP meshes) were infected intraoperatively with 10e6 CFU Escherichia coli, and compared with 14 non-infected meshes (n = 7 PLA94 and n = 7 PP meshes) (control groups). Explantations were performed on day 30. Shrinkage was evaluated by a reproducible numerical analysis of mesh area. Infection and histological study were evaluated on day 30., Results: non-infected meshes were less shrunk than infected meshes for both non-absorbable (5.0 ± 1.7% versus 21.6 ± 6.1%, p < 0.05) and absorbable meshes (2.4 ± 0.9% versus 11.0 ± 2.5%, p < 0.05)., Conclusion: this study highlights a link between infection and shrinkage in the model used.

Introduction and Hypothesis: This study aims to assess anatomical and functional results of bilateral anterior sacrospinous ligament suspension associated with paravaginal repair with mesh., Methods: Forty-eight patients were operated between March 2007 and August 2008. Mean age was 67 years old. Nineteen patients (39.6%) had been previously operated for a genital prolapse. All patients had both anterior vaginal wall prolapse and a level 1 defect; stage 2 to 4 (POP-Q)., Results: Median follow-up is 8 months (range 1 to 18). Perioperative complications were: one bladder injury (2.1%), three haematomas (6.3%), two ureteral kinking (4.2%) and two sciatic pain (4.2%). Anatomical success was observed in 47/48 patients (97.9%) for uterine or vaginal vault prolapse and 46/48 patients (95.8%) for anterior vaginal wall prolapse., Conclusions: This procedure is a challenging surgical technique requiring a significant level of skill and training, which yields a very high success rate; however, it is not without potential ureteral and neurologic complications.