What is Laparoscopic Sacralcolpopexy?
Pelvic organ prolapse is the protrusion of the pelvic organs (vagina and uterus) due to weakness in muscles that support these organs. Laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy is a surgical technique performed to correct pelvic organ prolapse.
The prolapse may be treated with specific pelvic floor exercises, vaginal pessaries (a device inserted in the vagina to support the pelvic floor) and lifestyle changes, but when these fail and in severe cases, surgery is considered.
Procedure of Laparoscopic Sacralcolpopexy
Laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy is a minimally invasive surgery that uses a thin tube with a camera and light source, called a laparoscope to perform the surgery. The procedure is performed under general or spinal anesthesia. Your surgeon makes 2 to 3 small incisions and inserts the laparoscope to gain a clear view of the surgical site. Other surgical instruments are inserted through tiny incisions and the prolapse is pushed back into position and secured with a synthetic mesh, one end of which is sutured to the top, back and front of the vagina, and the other end stapled or sutured to the backbone.
As with any major surgery, there are potential risks involved. These may include infection, bleeding, recurrence of prolapse, damage to adjacent organs, pain, reduced sensation during intercourse, and changes in bowel and bladder functions. The decision to proceed with the surgery is made because the advantages of surgery outweigh the potential disadvantages.