Sacrospinous Suspension
Sacrospinous suspension is a minimally invasive procedure to treat vaginal prolapse, a common female disorder. The reparative technique is estimated to be needed by at least 10 percent of all women. During this surgical treatment, the top of the vagina is surgically lifted and fixed in place, using the sacrospinous ligament, a thin ligament attached to the spine, for vaginal support.
Vaginal prolapse often occurs after childbirth or hysterectomy. The condition can cause a sensation of heaviness or pressure in the vagina or lower back and lead to difficulties with urination, defecation and sexual activity. Fortunately, prolapse can be corrected through the sacrospinous suspension procedure, which restores any affected organs back to their normal position, relieving the uncomfortable symptoms of vaginal prolapse.
The Sacrospinous Suspension Procedure
During the sacrospinous suspension procedure, the sacrospinous ligament is stitched in the pelvis and then to the cervix or vaginal vault, normally with stitches that will later dissolve and be absorbed into the body. Eventually, scar tissue will form to replace the stitches as a support. In many cases, this procedure is combined with a hysterectomy or surgery to treat the prolapse of other organs, such as the bladder or intestine. At times, a graft may also be used to further support the suspension and ensure that it remains in place.
Recovery from a Sacrospinous Suspension
When patients awaken after a sacrospinous suspension procedure, they typically have a urinary catheter in place and may also have vaginal packing. These will both be removed after 24 to 48 hours. A creamy white discharge is normal after surgery, due the presence of the stitches in the vagina. There may also be a discharge of old brownish blood. As the stitches are reabsorbed, the discharges should gradually diminish and disappear.
The success rate of sacrospinous suspension is high, approximately 89 to 90 percent, although there is some chance of another prolapse, perhaps in another part of the vagina, in the future.
After a sacrospinous suspension, patients may be given medication for pain and in some cases stool softeners, to avoid constipation and associated bowel straining. Heavy lifting and strenuous activities are not advised for at least 4 weeks. Most patients fully recover form a sacrospinous suspension procedure within 4 to 6 weeks, after which time they can resume normal activities. Some women may experience pain during sexual intercourse after the procedure, though many will find intercourse more comfortable than they did before the surgery. Most women are advised to wait about 6 weeks before resuming sexual activity and then to use additional lubrication.
Risks of Sacrospinous Suspension
This procedure is considered safe and effective for most patients. Nonetheless, there are risks associated with any surgical procedure. In this case, the risks include the following:
- Vaginal or urinary tract infection
- Adverse reaction to anesthesia
- Excessive bleeding
- Damage to adjacent organs.
Complications of sacrospinous suspension are rare. In most cases, the surgical procedure improves the patient's quality of life.