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International Urogynecology Journal
Published in: International Urogynecology Journal 7/2015

01-07-2015 | Review Article

Bowel and bladder dysfunction following surgery within the presacral space: an overview of neuroanatomy, function, and dysfunction

Authors: Sarah A. Huber, Gina M. Northington, Deborah R. Karp

Published in: International Urogynecology Journal | Issue 7/2015

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Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

The presacral space contains a dense and complex network of nerves that have significant effects on the innervation of the pelvic viscera and support structures. The proximity of this space to the bony promontory of the sacrum has lead to its involvement in an array of corrective surgical procedures for pelvic floor disorders including sacrocolpopexy and rectopexy. Other procedures involving the same space include presacral neurectomy which involves intentional transection of the contained neural plexus to relieve refractory pelvic pain and resection of retrorectal or presacral tumors. Potential complications of these procedures are postoperative constipation and voiding dysfunction.

Methods

Our aim was to review the current published literature on outcomes following a variety of procedures involving the presacral space and review postoperative bowel and urinary function. We also include an overview of the functional and structural anatomy of the presacral space and its corresponding neural plexi.

Results/Conclusions

We conclude that quality data are lacking on the short-term and long-term rates for bowel and bladder dysfunction following surgical procedures involving the presacral space.
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Metadata
Title
Bowel and bladder dysfunction following surgery within the presacral space: an overview of neuroanatomy, function, and dysfunction
Authors
Sarah A. Huber
Gina M. Northington
Deborah R. Karp
Publication date
01-07-2015
Publisher
Springer London
Published in
International Urogynecology Journal / Issue 7/2015
Print ISSN: 0937-3462
Electronic ISSN: 1433-3023
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-014-2572-x

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