Long-term experience of vaginal vault prolapse prevention at hysterectomy time by modified McCall culdoplasty or Shull suspension: Clinical, sexual and quality of life assessment after surgical intervention.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of modified McCall culdoplasty or Shull suspension in preventing vaginal vault prolapse after vaginal hysterectomy and the long-term impact on quality of life and sexual function.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective analysis in 414 patients underwent vaginal hysterectomy for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and vaginal suspension through modified McCall culdoplasty (group A) or Shull suspension (group B) was evaluated. Clinical features and concomitant surgical procedures were assessed. Surgical data and perioperative and postoperative complications have also been analyzed. Clinical characteristics, urinary symptoms, POP-Q score classification, Quality of Life and Sexual Function were evaluated at baseline and at median follow up with P-QoL, ICIQ-UI-SF, PISQ-12, FSFI, FSDS questionnaires.

RESULTS

The median follow up was 8.9 year (5.1-14.2 years). 200 women in group A and 214 in group B were evaluated. Vaginal vault prolapse occurred in 2 patients in group A and in 2 patients in group B. POP-Q score for all compartments showed a significant (p < 0.001) decrease for both groups without significant differences between the 2 groups. The total vaginal length (TVL) was reduced in greater proportion in McCall group (p < 0.001). P-QoL and ICIQ-UI-SF questionnaires documented an improvement for both groups (p < 0.001). The number of patients who regularly practice sexual activity increased in both groups, but patients in group B experienced a better quality of sexual life evaluated with PISQ-12 and FSFI.

CONCLUSIONS

Both surgical techniques showed effectiveness and safety in preventing vaginal vault prolapse in women who underwent vaginal hysterectomy, with a significant improvement in quality of life and sexuality. Shull technique demonstrated greater improvement in sexual function.