Simplified colposuspension: a 15-year follow-up.

AIM

Retrospective analysis of long-term results of a simplified 'Burch type' colposuspension.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review, with follow-up through postal questionnaires sent in September 2000, of all 374 patients who had a simplified colposuspension between 1985 and 1998, with additional total abdominal hysterectomy in 103 patients. Outcome measures were patient satisfaction, complications and recovery.

RESULTS

The mean period of follow-up was 9.2 years. Response rate to the questionnaire was 85% with 51.5% of patients very satisfied with the surgery, 17.4% moderately satisfied and 12.6% having some symptomatic relief. Complications developed in 31.3% but few were serious. Average hospitalisation was 5.8 days. The mean time to establishment of normal voiding was 58.5 h. The average length of catheterisation was 49.9 h, with only seven patients requiring prolonged catheterisation. Seventy-four patients required additional surgery for de novo, persistent or recurring symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study provides evidence that a simplified Burch type colposuspension provides a satisfactory cure rate on long-term follow-up and is associated with earlier resumption of normal voiding. Transurethral drainage remains a simple and effective method of bladder management after colposuspension. The present study also confirms that many patients do need further pelvic floor surgery for later development of deficiencies in the pelvic floor.