Pelvic organ prolapse surgery is a reconstructive surgical procedure performed to correct the prolapse of pelvic organs such as the bladder, uterus (womb) or bowel into the vagina. This condition arises from weakening of the pelvic floor muscles and connective tissues and can over time significantly reduce quality of life.
The main aim of the surgery is to bring the prolapsed organs into their anatomically correct position, thereby restoring urinary, bowel and sexual functions.
Main Purpose
- Bringing the pelvic organs into their normal anatomical position
- Correcting urinary and bowel functions
- Strengthening the vaginal structural support
- Increasing quality of life
Areas of Use
1. Cystocele (bladder prolapse)
- Prolapse of the bladder toward the front wall of the vagina
- Difficulty urinating and a feeling of frequent urination
2. Rectocele (bowel prolapse)
- Prolapse of the large bowel toward the back wall of the vagina
- Difficulty with defecation and constipation
3. Uterine prolapse
- Prolapse of the womb into or out of the vagina
- Pelvic pressure and a feeling of fullness
4. Combined pelvic floor disorders
- Situations where more than one organ prolapses together
- Advanced stage pelvic floor failure
Surgical Approaches
Pelvic organ prolapse surgery can be performed with different techniques:
1. Vaginal repair surgeries
- Correction of the prolapsed tissues through the vaginal route
- Supportive suturing and tissue repairs
2. Laparoscopic or robotic repairs
- Strengthening the supportive structures with minimally invasive methods
- The possibility of faster recovery
3. Reinforcement with mesh
- Support of the weak connective tissues
- The aim is to reduce the risk of recurrence
4. Uterus-sparing or uterus-removal surgeries
- Preservation or removal of the womb according to the patient’s condition
Advantages
1. Anatomical correction
- The organs are brought into their natural position
2. Improvement in urinary and bowel function
- Urgency and emptying problems are reduced
3. Increase in quality of life
- Daily life comfort significantly improves
4. Reduction of physical discomfort
- Vaginal fullness and the feeling of pressure decrease
Possible Risks
- Recurrence (prolapse again)
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Tissue reaction if mesh is used
- Changes in urinary or bowel function
- Pain or tenderness
The Post-Operative Process
- Heavy lifting should be avoided for a while
- Exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor muscles may be recommended
- Regular check-ups are important
- A recovery period is required before sexual activity
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it recur?
Yes, there is a risk of recurrence in some patients. However, this risk can be significantly reduced with the correct surgical technique, appropriate patient selection and lifestyle adjustments.
Does the surgery provide a permanent solution?
Long-term and successful results are achieved in many patients, but if the weakness of the pelvic floor structure continues, there may be a risk of recurrence.
Is the surgery painful?
There is usually a controllable level of pain, which is comfortably managed with appropriate treatment.
When is the return to daily life?
Most patients can return to their daily activities within a few weeks, but full recovery may take longer.
Is sexual life affected?
The aim is mostly to correct function. After appropriate surgery, sexual comfort can increase in many patients.
Is non-surgical treatment possible?
In mild cases, methods such as pelvic floor exercises and a pessary can be used, but in advanced cases surgery is required.
Clinical Summary
Pelvic organ prolapse surgery comprises modern reconstructive surgical approaches that aim to anatomically correct conditions such as cystocele, rectocele and uterine prolapse, which seriously affect quality of life in women, while also targeting functional results.
