Dynamic magnetic resonance imaging following native tissue vaginal reconstructive surgery; a prospective study.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

To describe the impact of native tissue vaginal reconstruction on pelvic anatomy using dynamic magnetic resonance imaging.

METHODS

This prospective single-cohort observational study involved women undergoing native tissue reconstruction with intraperitoneal vaginal vault suspension for pelvic organ prolapse. Concomitant procedures such as hysterectomy, midurethral sling, and anterior or posterior colporrhaphy were allowed. Enrolled participants underwent dynamic pelvic imaging pre- and postoperatively. Radiographic and anatomic measurements were compared. Secondary outcomes included validated patient questionnaires.

RESULTS

Fourteen participants were included in the analysis. The mean age was 62 years; all participants were Caucasian. Most participants had stage III pelvic organ prolapse. Significant improvements were noted in several radiographic measurements. The average H-line (representing levator hiatus width) with straining maneuvers improved following surgery (7.2 cm preoperatively vs. 6.6 cm postoperatively, p = 0.015). The average M-line (representing levator muscular descent) improved significantly with both straining (4.0 cm preoperatively vs. 3.0 cm postoperatively, p < 0.001) and defecatory maneuvers (6.2 cm preoperatively vs. 5.2 cm postoperatively, p = 0.001). The average size of cystocele improved from 5.6 cm (moderate) preoperatively to 0.7 cm (absent descent) postoperatively (p < 0.001). The average descent of the vaginal apex with defecation preoperatively was 3.0 cm (moderate) and 0 cm (absent descent) postoperatively (p = 0.003). Posterior compartment descent with defecation did not change following surgical intervention (5.8 cm preoperatively vs. 5.2 cm postoperatively, p = 0.056). Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification measurements improved in all compartments, and Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory-20 scores improved significantly following surgery (102 preoperatively vs. 30 postoperatively, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Native tissue reconstruction with intraperitoneal vaginal vault suspension resulted in significant anatomic improvements, as defined by physical examination and dynamic magnetic resonance imaging.