Laparoscopic Uterosacral Suture Sacrohysteropexy: LUSSH Procedure.

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To demonstrate a mesh-free laparoscopic uterosacral suture sacrohysteropexy (LUSSH).

DESIGN

Technical video demonstrating LUSSH for uterine prolapse (Canadian Task Force classification III).

SETTING

University hospital.

PATIENT

A 37-year-old woman with grade 3 uterine descent requested uterine-sparing surgery for symptomatic prolapse. The patient declined all mesh procedures.

INTERVENTION

Mesh-free laparoscopic uterosacral suture sacrohysteropexy (LUSSH).

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Laparoscopic sacrohysteropexy is a uterine-preserving technique for uterine prolapse with high cure rates (92%) but with a mesh erosion risk of up to 2.5% [1,2]. Complications have resulted in reclassification of transvaginal meshes as restricted-use high-risk medical devices [3,4]. Sacrospinous hysteropexy and uterosacral ligament suspension are mesh-free alternatives, but they have increased rates of anterior-compartment failures and a 20% recurrence rate in the latter [5,6]. Laparoscopic suture sacrohysteropexy has been described with reported success rates of 95% [7]. This video demonstrates a modified-technique offering a simple, robust, and reproducible mesh-free approach to uterine-preserving prolapse surgery. We used 2 horizontal loop mattress sutures acting as a pulley to distribute the force evenly throughout the suture strand, leading to a significantly stronger and more secure hold and reducing risk of avulsion [8]. The technique starts with a careful dissection of the peritoneum from the sacral promontory to the cervix. Two permanent sutures are used, taking bites at the anterior longitudinal ligament, the uterosacral, a loop mattress in the midline at the cervix, the uterosacral on the way back, and finally at the sacral promontory. Damage to the uterine vessels is minimized by maintaining a central uterine position. The stitch is tied with caudal pressure on the uterus, applied via the uterine manipulator, approximating the cervix to the sacral promontory. The peritoneum is closed with dissolvable sutures, burying the Ethibond to prevent exposure and bowel obstruction.

CONCLUSION

Post-procedure, the uterus was well supported with a vaginal length of 15 cm.