Mid- and long-term impact of laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy on voiding dysfunction in women with pelvic organ prolapse

Objective In this prospective cohort study, we evaluated the mid- and long-term outcome of laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy (SCP) in patients with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) regarding the improvement of preoperatively existing voiding difficulties.

Methods All women, undergoing SCP between 01/2019 and 12/2020 for symptomatic POP with objective and/or subjective voiding difficulties were included and evaluated preoperatively, 6–9 weeks and 1–2 years postoperatively (mid- and long-term follow-up). Outcome measurements were assessed using uroflowmetry, the POP-Q quantification system and the validated German Female Pelvic Floor Questionnaire.

Results In total 73 women met the inclusion criteria and were seen at a mid-term postoperative visit. 42/73 presented for a long-term follow-up likewise. Significant objective improvement in POP correction was seen (p < 0.001 for Ba, C and Bp) during the mid- as well as long-term evaluation. A significant overall decrease in postvoid residual volume (PVR) was achieved in the vast majority of patients (p < 0.001), from 33/73 women with PVR ≥ 100 ml preoperatively toonly 4/73 respectively 3/42. Similarly, an overall significant increase in maximal flow rate (Qmax, p = 0.003) and a decrease in voiding time (tvoid, p = 0,048) was seen, with no significant difference found between mid- and long-term assessments. Additionally, also subjective parameters improved significantly, concerning prolonged urine stream, sensation of incomplete bladder emptying and straining to void (all p-values < 0.001).

Conlcusion Laparoscopic SCP to treat POP leads to a significant mid- and long-term objective and subjective improvement of voiding difficulties.

Publication History

Article published online:
11 October 2022