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Published in: International Urogynecology Journal 2/2008

01-02-2008 | Original Article

Bilateral extraperitoneal uterosacral suspension: a new approach to correct posthysterectomy vaginal vault prolapse

Authors: Peter L. Dwyer, Brigitte Fatton

Published in: International Urogynecology Journal | Issue 2/2008

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Abstract

Restoration of apical vaginal support remains a challenging problem for the pelvic reconstructive surgeon. The transvaginal use of the uterosacral-cardinal ligament complex is gaining increasing popularity in the surgical treatment of uterovaginal and posthysterectomy vault prolapse. We describe an extraperitoneal surgical approach using this ligamentous complex to reattach the vaginal apex in women with posthysterectomy vault prolapse and report our surgical experience with this procedure in 123 women over 5 years. The relevant anatomy related to the procedure and risk of ureteric injury with uterosacral suspension is also reviewed. Extraperitoneal vault suspension can be combined with the use of polypropylene mesh if required. The extraperitoneal approach is an alternative procedure in women with vault prolapse with or without concomitant enterocele or where access to the Pouch of Douglas is difficult particularly after previous pelvic surgery. We believe this procedure to have less risk of ureteral injury than the intraperitoneal approach.
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Metadata
Title
Bilateral extraperitoneal uterosacral suspension: a new approach to correct posthysterectomy vaginal vault prolapse
Authors
Peter L. Dwyer
Brigitte Fatton
Publication date
01-02-2008
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
International Urogynecology Journal / Issue 2/2008
Print ISSN: 0937-3462
Electronic ISSN: 1433-3023
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-007-0435-4

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