Maintaining the apex: a novel technique for vault suspension during vaginal hysterectomy.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: Post-hysterectomy vault prolapse poses significant challenges to patients and surgeons alike. Despite numerous surgical interventions during initial vaginal hysterectomy to counteract this, a comparative analysis of their efficacy is limited. This study introduces a pioneering technique intended to avert vault prolapse during vaginal hysterectomy by harmoniously merging level 1 and level 2 support. METHODS: After obtaining informed consent, we recorded a variation of the McCall technique performed during vaginal hysterectomy and anterior repair. Patient follow-ups were conducted up to 6 months post-operation to evaluate anatomical outcomes and quality of life. RESULTS: A total of 46 women underwent the surgery. Anatomical evaluations at the 6-month mark were commendable, with no recurrence instances. Quality-of-life assessments, using the Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire-12 (PISQ-12), showcased substantial improvement. CONCLUSION: Our novel approach to vault suspension provides an uncomplicated, easily impartible, surgical procedure utilizing standard sutures. We believe that this approach is both enduring and safe.

Precision in Practice: The Critical Role of Mesh and Procedure Type Specification in Urogynecological Surgeries and Research.

Recently, the debate surrounding the use of mesh in urogynecological procedures has intensified, leading to FDA warnings and heightened safety concerns. This clinical opinion emphasizes the vital need to specify mesh types in these procedures, drawing attention to the risk profiles and clinical outcomes associated with various meshes and the procedures that utilize them. A significant issue identified in contemporary literature is the tendency to group diverse mesh types under the same umbrella, disregarding their unique characteristics and applications. We describe the range of mesh types, their application routes, and associated complications, highlighting the risks of this nonspecific approach to patient safety and informed decision making. We critically examine the generalization of mesh terminology in clinical and research dialogues. Concluding with specific recommendations for health care providers and researchers, the paper advocates for a more nuanced understanding and communication in the field, ultimately aiming to improve patient care and safety in urogynecological practice.

Urodynamic insights: exploring the relationship between detrusor overactivity and pelvic organ prolapse in women with urge incontinence.

PURPOSE: Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and overactive bladder (OAB) commonly affect the aging female population. We aimed to investigate the possible relationship between the two, as reflected by urodynamic studies. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on women who underwent urodynamic studies at a university-affiliated tertiary medical center from January 2018 to January 2021. Women presenting with urge incontinence and diagnosed with detrusor overactivity (DO) were included in the study. Based on the presence or absence of a modified POP-Q ≥ grade 2, these women were categorized into two groups. Data on general demographics, clinical symptoms, and urodynamic findings were extracted and compared using SPSS. RESULTS: During the study period, 949 urodynamic evaluations were performed. Of these, 303 (31.92%) reported urge incontinence. Out of this subset, 151 (49.83%) were diagnosed with DO. Within this group, 18 (11.9%) had POP, while 134 (88.1%) did not. The POP group had a notably higher incidence of prior vaginal hysterectomy and anterior colporrhaphy (p = 0.02 and p = 0.01, respectively). While most urodynamic parameters were similar between groups, there was a significant increase in hesitancy in the POP group (13 s vs 8 s, p = 0.03). There was a trend indicating a reduced median Q max (12 ml/s vs. 18 ml/s, p = 0.06) and an increased flow time (55 s vs 40 s, p = 0.08) in the POP group. CONCLUSION: The urodynamic profile of the POP group suggests an obstructive voiding pattern. Further longitudinal research is essential to fully understand the relationship between POP and OAB.

Robot-assisted pelvic floor reconstructive surgery: an international Delphi study of expert users.

BACKGROUND: Robotic surgery has gained popularity for the reconstruction of pelvic floor defects. Nonetheless, there is no evidence that robot-assisted reconstructive surgery is either appropriate or superior to standard laparoscopy for the performance of pelvic floor reconstructive procedures or that it is sustainable. The aim of this project was to address the proper role of robotic pelvic floor reconstructive procedures using expert opinion. METHODS: We set up an international, multidisciplinary group of 26 experts to participate in a Delphi process on robotics as applied to pelvic floor reconstructive surgery. The group comprised urogynecologists, urologists, and colorectal surgeons with long-term experience in the performance of pelvic floor reconstructive procedures and with the use of the robot, who were identified primarily based on peer-reviewed publications. Two rounds of the Delphi process were conducted. The first included 63 statements pertaining to surgeons' characteristics, general questions, indications, surgical technique, and future-oriented questions. A second round including 20 statements was used to reassess those statements where borderline agreement was obtained during the first round. The final step consisted of a face-to-face meeting with all participants to present and discuss the results of the analysis. RESULTS: The 26 experts agreed that robotics is a suitable indication for pelvic floor reconstructive surgery because of the significant technical advantages that it confers relative to standard laparoscopy. Experts considered these advantages particularly important for the execution of complex reconstructive procedures, although the benefits can be found also during less challenging cases. The experts considered the robot safe and effective for pelvic floor reconstruction and generally thought that the additional costs are offset by the increased surgical efficacy. CONCLUSION: Robotics is a suitable choice for pelvic reconstruction, but this Delphi initiative calls for more research to objectively assess the specific settings where robotic surgery would provide the most benefit.

The role of artificial intelligence in the future of urogynecology.

Artificial intelligence (AI) in medicine is a rapidly growing field aimed at using machine learning models to improve health outcomes and patient experiences. Many new platforms have become accessible and therefore it seems inevitable that we consider how to implement them in our day-to-day practice. Currently, the specialty of urogynecology faces new challenges as the population grows, life expectancy increases, and quality of life expectation is much improved. As AI has a lot of potential to promote the discipline of urogynecology, we aim to explore its abilities and possible use in the future. Challenges and risks are associated with using AI, and a responsible use of such resources is required.

A cost-effective model for training in Robot-Assisted Sacrocolpopexy.

BACKGROUND: The number of robotically assisted sacrocolpopexy procedures are increasing; therefore, experienced clinicians are needed. Simulation-based cadaver models are challenging in aspects of cost and availability. Therefore, we need to look at alternative and more cost-effective models. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this video was to design a new surgical model for the training of robotic-assisted sacrocolpopexy, which is affordable and accessible. METHODS: We used a whole chicken model to simulate the female pelvic floor. We used Medtronic's Hugo™ RAS system as the robotic console in that procedure. A vaginal cuff was prepared from the proventriculus (stomach), and a Y shaped mesh was secured to the ischium to simulate the sacrocolpopexy procedure. CONCLUSION: This model is easily constructed and in our view is cost-effective. We have demonstrated a new valuable education tool that can serve as a practical simulation model to teach the sacrocolpopexy procedure and to improve trainees' skills. A larger cohort study size is essential to demonstrate the learning curve among young trainees using this simulation model.

Genome-Wide Association Study Identifies Two Novel Loci Associated with Female Stress and Urgency Urinary Incontinence.

PURPOSE: Genome-wide association studies have not identified replicable genetic risk loci for stress or urgency urinary incontinence. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We carried out a discovery stage, case control, genome-wide association study in 3 independent discovery cohorts of European women (8,979) for stress incontinence, urgency incontinence, and any incontinence phenotypes. We conducted replication in 6 additional studies of European ancestry (4,069). We collected bladder biopsies from women with incontinence (50) to further investigate bladder expression of implicated genes and pathways and used symptom questionnaires for phenotyping. We conducted meta-analyses using inverse variance fixed effects models and whole transcriptome analyses using Affymetrix® arrays with replication with TaqMan® polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS: In the discovery stage, we identified 16 single nucleotide polymorphisms genotyped or imputed at 5 loci that reached genome-wide significance (p <5×10-8). In replication, rs138724718 on chromosome 2 near the macrophage receptor with collagenous structure (MARCO) gene (replication p=0.003) was associated with stress incontinence. In addition, rs34998271 on chromosome 6 near the endothelin 1 (EDN1) gene (replication p=0.0008) was associated with urgency incontinence. In combined meta-analyses of discovery and replication cohorts, associations with genome-wide significance for these 2 single nucleotide polymorphisms were confirmed. Transcriptomics analyses showed differential expression of 7 of 19 genes in the endothelin pathway between stress and urgency incontinence (p <0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: We uncovered 2 new risk loci near the genes endothelin 1 (EDN1), associated with urgency incontinence, and macrophage receptor with collagenous structure (MARCO), associated with stress incontinence. These loci are biologically plausible given their roles in smooth muscle contraction and innate host defense, respectively.

Prospective comparative study of the effects of lidocaine on urodynamic and sensory parameters in bladder pain syndrome.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: Intravesically administered lidocaine is used in patients with bladder pain syndrome (BPS) to test the hypothesis that symptoms have a peripheral versus central mechanism. METHODS: A cross-sectional study of 24 female patients with BPS was performed. The Central Sensitisation Inventory (CSI) and Kings Health Questionnaire (KHQ) were completed. Urodynamic assessment was undertaken. Women were asked to report their pain using a numeric rating scale at cystometric capacity and post void. Participants then received an intravesical instillation of either 20 ml of 2% alkalinised lidocaine (n = 16) or 20 ml of normal saline (n = 8). These solutions were allowed to remain in situ for 20 min and pain score repeated. Urodynamics was repeated. RESULTS: There was a statistically significant volume increase following lidocaine treatment: maximal cystometric capacity (MCC) 192-261 ml post lidocaine (p = 0.005.) In contrast, there was no significant difference in the saline controls: MCC 190-183 ml (p = 0.879.) Individual analysis revealed five of 16 lidocaine participants did not respond to lidocaine. These five reported a significantly worse quality of life (QoL) than lidocaine responders and had a tendency towards central sensitivity syndromes. CONCLUSION: Lidocaine significantly improved MCC in 11/16 participants in this study. These patients appear to have peripherally mediated disease. However, the failure of response to treatment in five participants, as well as their tendency towards central sensitivity syndromes, implies that in this subgroup, a peripheral drive from the bladder is not critical to their pain, suggesting central nervous system (CNS) pathology. This simple and safe test could be used to stratify patients for research or therapeutic trials.

Urogynaecology providers' attitudes towards postnatal pelvic floor dysfunction.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: Postnatal pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) has a high prevalence and morbidity amongst parturient women. Women should be counselled regarding postnatal PFD. Our aim was to determine urogynaecology providers' knowledge of risk and protective factors for postnatal PFD, and to assess their practice patterns in postnatal PFD counselling. METHODS: An electronic survey was distributed to members of the European Urogynaecology Association (EUGA) and International Urogynaecology Association (IUGA). Data were collected on urogynaecology providers' demographics, awareness of pregnancy-related PFD risk and protective factors, beliefs surrounding PFD risk-estimate tools, practice patterns in PFD counselling, and personal or spousal preferences for using caesarean section (CS) as a means of postnatal PFD prevention. RESULTS: Overall, 372 healthcare providers responded to the survey, 84 from the EUGA and 288 from the IUGA. Most reported practicing as a urogynaecologist (67%) and or obstetrician (44%). An overwhelming majority of respondents were aware of the major risk and protective factors for PFD, and almost 60% believed that risk-estimate tools for PFD could be clinically useful. Many denied enquiring about symptoms of PFD prenatally and postnatally (33% and 25% respectively), and reported not routinely counselling on prevention of postnatal PFD (39%). Nearly 25% reported that they would prefer CS for themselves or their spouse for prevention of postnatal PFD. CONCLUSION: Urogynaecology providers are aware of risk and protective factors for postnatal PFD, but many fail to educate patients on the topic. The development of an easy-use risk-estimate tool for postnatal PFD could improve counselling rates in the future.

How do patients and surgeons decide on uterine preservation or hysterectomy in apical prolapse?

Increasingly, uterine preservation surgeries are being performed for treating apical prolapse. Several types of procedures and surgical approaches to correct apical prolapse have been described in the literature. Despite this, there remains inadequate information to provide evidence-based recommendations regarding the optimal treatment approach and materials to use, and trials are ongoing to identify the optimal techniques. In the future, our patients may be the strongest determining influence when it comes to choice of apical prolapse surgery, with factors such as autonomy, reproduction, intimacy and fear influencing their decision. It is our opinion that the two most powerful forces behind the choice of apical POP surgical technique are the woman's personal desire for uterine preservation or not and the surgeon's personal choice of procedure based on training received. Present management of apical prolapse involves understanding patient goals and acknowledging their treatment preferences and values.

Managing novel orally administered anticoagulants in patients undergoing urogynaecological surgery.

The use of novel orally administered anticoagulant agents (NOACs) provides new challenges to clinicians in the perioperative care of patients undergoing urogynaecological surgery. We aimed to assess evidence for managing patients taking NOACs before and after urogynaecological surgery. We conducted a literature search in CINAHL, MEDLINE, CENTRAL, Cochrane Library and PubMed for original research articles in the English language on this topic. However, despite initially identifying 556 articles, no articles pertained to the use of NOACs in urogynaecological surgery. We subsequently reviewed national and international guidance on managing patients prescribed NOACs and created a concise guideline to aid urogynaecologists in the perioperative care of these patients. Consensus is needed on perioperative optimisation of anticoagulation in urogynaecological patients using NOACs.

Sacrocolpopexy: is there a consistent surgical technique?

INTRODUCTION: Sacrocolpopexy is the gold standard treatment for vault prolapse. Current reported standards regarding surgical approach and technique vary. Our aim was to evaluate the surgical techniques used and identify any consistency. METHODS: Electronic surveys were sent to 148 candidates enrolled in a sacrocolpopexy workshop at the 2012 American Urogynecologic Society (AUGS) annual meeting and as a link in the International Urogynecology Association (IUGA) e-magazine. The survey assessed demographics, specific surgical steps including dissection techniques, number and type of sutures, graft materials, and the approach to intraoperative complications. RESULTS: Within the AUGS group, 61 candidates responded (41 %). From the IUGA membership, 128 responded for a total of 189. Overall, 59 % identified their primary practice as urogynaecology, 43 % having completed a fellowship. Only 33 % reported performing sacrocolpopexy as the primary surgery for vault prolapse. Technical aspects: 99.4 % used polypropylene mesh, with 57 % attaching it to the vagina using non-absorbable monofilament sutures. An average of 3-4 sutures were used on the anterior and posterior walls respectively. Suture location: 22.5 % reported not placing apical sutures and 55.7 % place their anterior wall sutures midway down the vagina. Posteriorly, 47 (30 %) placed sutures through the uterosacral ligaments, 19 (12.4 %) through the levator ani and 15 % extend the mesh to the perineal body. The mesh was attached to the sacrum using permanent sutures by 75 %. Dissection of the sacrum was deemed the most technically difficult aspect. CONCLUSION: Surgical technique varies widely despite the level of expertise and training. This study highlights the need for an evaluation of the effect of surgical technique on outcomes.

Assessing quality of life questionnaires in urogynaecology--tick or type?

It is recognised that urogynaecological symptoms can have a significant impact on patient quality of life (QoL). Many of the QoL questionnaires are long and provide a burden to patients. The aim of this study was to compare patients' responses to utilising equivalent QoL questionnaires in different formats. The electronic personal assessment questionnaire, ePAQ-PF, was compared to the paper-based Queensland questionnaire. ePAQ-PF appeared to be of greater value but not more burdensome. However, women were more likely to complete the sexual function section using the Queensland questionnaire.

The future of patient education: A study on AI-driven responses to urinary incontinence inquiries.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of ChatGPT in providing insights into common urinary incontinence concerns within urogynecology. By analyzing the model's responses against established benchmarks of accuracy, completeness, and safety, the study aimed to quantify its usefulness for informing patients and aiding healthcare providers. METHODS: An expert-driven questionnaire was developed, inviting urogynecologists worldwide to assess ChatGPT's answers to 10 carefully selected questions on urinary incontinence (UI). These assessments focused on the accuracy of the responses, their comprehensiveness, and whether they raised any safety issues. Subsequent statistical analyses determined the average consensus among experts and identified the proportion of responses receiving favorable evaluations (a score of 4 or higher). RESULTS: Of 50 urogynecologists that were approached worldwide, 37 responded, offering insights into ChatGPT's responses on UI. The overall feedback averaged a score of 4.0, indicating a positive acceptance. Accuracy scores averaged 3.9 with 71% rated favorably, whereas comprehensiveness scored slightly higher at 4 with 74% favorable ratings. Safety assessments also averaged 4 with 74% favorable responses. CONCLUSION: This investigation underlines ChatGPT's favorable performance across the evaluated domains of accuracy, comprehensiveness, and safety within the context of UI queries. However, despite this broadly positive reception, the study also signals a clear avenue for improvement, particularly in the precision of the provided information. Refining ChatGPT's accuracy and ensuring the delivery of more pinpointed responses are essential steps forward, aiming to bolster its utility as a comprehensive educational resource for patients and a supportive tool for healthcare practitioners.

A national survey on the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on gynecologic surgical training.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to assess the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on gynecology surgical training. METHODS: A national cross-sectional online survey was distributed to all trainees and trainers in the higher specialist training program for obstetrics and gynecology in Ireland. The survey consisted of questions on topics which included: the volume of surgical procedures performed before and since the pandemic, confidence in performing various gynecologic procedures before and since the pandemic and questions regarding the impact of the pandemic on wellbeing and work practices. RESULTS: Trainers and trainees experienced a significant reduction in operative volumes for most procedure types. Analysis showed a significant reduction in the number of minor procedures performed by trainees (z = -2.7, P = 0.007) and a significant reduction in the number of all procedure types performed by trainers (minor procedures z = -3.78, P = <0.001; intermediate procedures z = -4.48, P = < 0.001; major procedures z = -3.69, P = < 0.001). Respondents reported they had less time for research and audit, were less able to attend courses or conferences and worried about the impact of their work on their families. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, this study has highlighted the current difficulties facing surgical trainees in gynecology because of the COVID-19 pandemic. These challenges have compounded an already challenging training environment for gynecology trainees. Efforts must be made to continue to provide high-quality tailored training to ensure the development of the next generation of gynecologic surgeons.

Revolutionizing urogynecology: Machine learning application with patient-centric technology: Promise, challenges, and future directions.

In an epoch where digital innovation is redefining the medical landscape, electronic health records (EHRs) stand out as a pivotal transformative force. Urogynecology, a discipline anchored in intricate patient histories and meticulous follow-ups, is on the brink of profound transformation due to these digital strides. While EHRs have unified patient data, challenges related to data privacy, interoperability, and access persist. In response, we present Pelvic Health Place (PHPlace) - a multilingual, patient-centric application. Purposefully designed to bolster patient engagement, PHPlace provides clinicians with essential pre-consultation insights, streamlines the consent process, vividly delineates surgical pathways, and assures comprehensive long-term monitoring. This platform also establishes a foundation for global data amalgamation, promising to invigorate research and potentially harness artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities. With AI integration, we anticipate a more tailored treatment approach and enriched patient education, signaling a pivotal shift in urogynecology and emphasizing the imperative for ongoing academic inquiry.

Vaginal erbium laser treatment for stress urinary incontinence: A multicenter randomized sham-controlled clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of non-ablative vaginal Er:YAG laser device in stress urinary incontinence (SUI) treatment. METHODS: We conducted a multicenter blinded randomized sham-controlled trial in which women with urodynamic SUI were randomization to active arm using Er:YAG laser therapy, and sham arm using sham handpiece. Patients received two treatments 1 month apart. The primary outcomes measure was 1 h pad weight test measured at 6 months. Secondary outcomes were durability of treatment success at 12 months, and questionnaires for assessment of SUI severity (ICIQ-UI SF), sexual function (PISQ-12) and HRQoL (KHQ), and incidence and severity of device related adverse events and pain (VAS). RESULTS: A total of 110 participants with SUI were recruited; 73 in the active arm and 37 in the sham arm. Two participants were excluded; one was assigned the wrong treatment and one withdrew their consent. Treatment success was observed in 36% of the sham arm and 59% of the active arm; in the latter, odds of achieving treatment success were more than three-fold higher (OR 3.63, 95% CI: 1.3-11.2, P = 0.02). HRQoL by KHQ showed significant improvement in the active versus the sham arm (OR 0.36, 95% CI: 0.15-0.87, P = 0.003). Similarly, subjective patient assessment of general and sexual function improvement with PISQ-12 and PGI-I showed superior effect over sham (OR 2.8, 95% CI: 1.2-7.0, P = 0.02 and OR 0.13, 95% CI: 0.05-0.36, P < 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSION: Non-ablative vaginal Er:YAG laser therapy significantly improves SUI symptoms versus sham treatment. Er:YAG laser therapy should be considered as a non-surgical treatment option for SUI patients.

Robot-assisted hysterectomy compared to open and laparoscopic approaches: systematic review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: To review the safety and effectiveness of robot-assisted hysterectomy compared to traditional open and conventional laparoscopic surgery, differentiating radical, simple total with node staging, and simple total hysterectomy. METHODS: Medline, Embase, the Cochrane library, and the Journal of Robotic Surgery were searched for controlled trials and observational studies with historic or concurrent controls. Data were pooled using random effects meta-analysis. RESULTS: Compared to open surgery, robot-assisted radical hysterectomy is associated with reduced hospital stay and blood transfusions. For simple total hysterectomy with node staging, robot-assisted surgery is associated with reduced hospital stay, complications, and blood transfusions compared to open surgery. Compared to conventional laparoscopic surgery, robot-assisted simple total hysterectomy with node staging is associated with complications and conversions. CONCLUSIONS: Compared to open surgery, robot-assisted hysterectomy offers benefits for reduced length of hospital stay and blood transfusions. The best evidence of improved outcomes is for simple total hysterectomy with node staging. Study quality was poor.

Robot-assisted laparoscopic pelvic floor surgery: Review.

Minimally invasive surgical techniques have become more common in pelvic floor reconstructive urogynaecological surgery, specifically, robotic-assisted pelvic floor surgery. Female pelvic floor anatomy is complex, and some repairs require highly experienced surgical skills that can be gained more easily using robotic-assisted surgery. A common application of the robotic platform in urogynaecological surgeries includes sacrocolpopexy, which has become the gold standard approach in the last decade for the correction of apical prolapse. Additional procedures include sacrohysteropexy, sacrocervicopexy, fistula repair, and complex procedures involving the bladder and other pelvic organs. Despite its increasing use and clear benefit in our field, data in the literature and, in particular, randomised controlled trials are sparse. This review provides an update, incorporating recently published literature and our personal experience in that field.