The role of maximal urethral closure pressure in predicting the outcomes of trans-obturator tape operation.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the role of preoperative maximal urethral closure pressure (MUCP) in predicting postoperative outcomes of trans-obturator tape (TOT) operation. STUDY DESIGN: 82 patients who underwent TOT surgery due to urodynamically proven stress urinary incontinence were retrospectively analyzed. Preoperative and 6th month postoperative results of cough stress tests (CST), Turkish validated Incontinence Impact Questionnaire-7 (IIQ-7) and Urogenital Distress Inventory-6 (UDI-6) quality of life (QOL) questionnaires were recorded. Patients who had negative CST and more than 50% improvement in the QOL questionnaires in the postoperative evaluation were classified as cured. RESULTS: 14 (17.1 %) patients had MUCP ≤ 20 cmH2O, 68 (83 %) patients had MUCP > 20 cmH2O. The postoperative IIQ-7 and UDI-6 QOL scores were significantly improved compared to preoperative values in both MUCP ≤ 20 cmH2O and MUCP > 20 cmH2O groups. However, cure rate was lower in the MUCP ≤ 20 cmH2O group than in MUCP > 20 cmH2O group (35.7 % vs 83.8 %, respectively). Preoperative MUCP measurement and urethral mobility assessment were found to be independent factors associated with surgical outcome. A preoperative MUCP ≥ 28.5 cmH2O could predict surgical success after TOT with 92.6 % sensitivity and 85.7 % specificity. CONCLUSIONS: TOT is a reliable method that has a high efficacy in the surgical treatment of stress urinary incontinence in short-term. Patients with low MUCP can also benefit from TOT. However, the success rate of TOT surgery decreases in the presence of low MUCP and absence of hypermobile urethra.

A blind spot: Manchester Fothergill operation for cervical elongation without uterine descensus.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the anatomical results of Manchester Fothergill operation performed due to cervical elongation cases without uterine descensus and its effects on quality of life and sexual function. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-six women who underwent Manchester Fothergill operation for cervical elongation without uterine descensus were analyzed retrospectively. Pre- and postoperative Pelvic Organ Prolapse-Quantification (POP-Q) measurements, Prolapse Quality of Life (P-QoL) Questionnaire and Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire-12 (PISQ-12) scores were collected. RESULTS: There were significant improvements in POP-Q measurements, P-QoL Questionnaire and PISQ-12 scores postoperatively. There was no relationship between the change in POP-Q measurements and the changes in questionnaires scores. Reoperation was performed in only one patient due to anterior compartment prolapse. No serious complications were detected. CONCLUSION: Manchester Fothergill operation is an effective and safe surgical option in the surgical treatment of cervical elongation cases without uterine descensus. It provides anatomical improvement, increases the quality of life and improves sexual function in women.

Intermediate-term outcomes of laparoscopic pectopexy and vaginal sacrospinous fixation: a comparative study

ABSTRACT Objective To compare the intermediate-term follow-up results of laparoscopic pectopexy and vaginal sacrospinous fixation procedures. Materials and Methods Forty-three women who had vaginal sacrospinous fixations(SSF) using Dr. Aksakal's Desta suture carrier and 36 women who had laparoscopic pectopexies were re-examined 7 to 43 months after surgery. The PISQ-12 and P-QOL questionnaires were answered by all of the women. Results The apical descensus relapse rates did not differ between the groups (14% in the SSF vs. 11.1% in the pectopexy group). The de novo cystocele rates were higher in the SSF group (25.6% in the SSF vs. 8.3% in the pectopexy group). There were no significant differences in the de novo rectocele numbers between the groups. The treatment satisfaction rates were high in both groups (93% in the SSF vs. 91.7% in the pectopexy group), which was not statistically significant. Moreover, the postoperative de novo urge and stress urinary incontinence rates did not differ; however, the postoperative sexual function scores (PISQ-12) (36.86±3.15 in the SSF group vs. 38.21±5.69 in the pectopexy group) were better in the pectopexy group. The general P-QOL scores were not significantly different between the surgery groups. Conclusion The vaginal sacrospinous fixation maintains its value in prolapse surgery with the increasing importance of native tissue repair. The new laparoscopic pectopexy technique has comparable positive follow-up results with the conventional sacrospinous fixation procedure.

Intermediate-term outcomes of laparoscopic pectopexy and vaginal sacrospinous fi xation: a comparative study.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the intermediate-term follow-up results of laparoscopic pectopexy and vaginal sacrospinous fi xation procedures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-three women who had vaginal sacrospinous fixations (SSF) using Dr. Aksakal's Desta suture carrier and 36 women who had laparoscopic pectopexies were re-examined 7 to 43 months after surgery. The PISQ-12 and P-QOL questionnaires were answered by all of the women. RESULTS: The apical descensus relapse rates did not differ between the groups (14% in the SSF vs. 11.1% in the pectopexy group). The de novo cystocele rates were higher in the SSF group (25.6% in the SSF vs. 8.3% in the pectopexy group). There were no significant differences in the de novo rectocele numbers between the groups. The treatment satisfaction rates were high in both groups (93% in the SSF vs. 91.7% in the pectopexy group), which was not statistically significant. Moreover, the postoperative de novo urge and stress urinary incontinence rates did not differ; however, the postoperative sexual function scores (PISQ-12) (36.86±3.15 in the SSF group vs. 38.21±5.69 in the pectopexy group) were better in the pectopexy group. The general P-QOL scores were not signifi cantly different between the surgery groups. CONCLUSION: The vaginal sacrospinous fixation maintains its value in prolapse surgery with the increasing importance of native tissue repair. The new laparoscopic pectopexy technique has comparable positive follow-up results with the conventional sacrospinous fixation procedure.

Comparison of female sexual function in women who underwent abdominal or vaginal hysterectomy with or without bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the effect of abdominal and vaginal hysterectomy with or without bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy on female sexuality. METHODS: Perimenopausal, sexually active, aged 45-50 years women who underwent abdominal or vaginal hysterectomy with or without bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy due to benign indications were included in this retrospective study. For the assessment of preoperative and postoperative female sexual function, Turkish validated Female Sexual Function Index form was used. RESULTS: Of the study population, 82 women (Group A) underwent hysterectomy + bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy and 78 women (Group B) underwent hysterectomy-only operations. The groups were statistically similar in terms of mean age, number of gravida and parity, body mass index, duration of postoperative evaluation, type of hysterectomy and presence of preoperative female sexual dysfunction. Both in Group A and B, postoperative total Female Sexual Function Index scores increased significantly compared to preoperative total scores. And there were no differences between the groups regarding the total preoperative and postoperative Female Sexual Function Index scores. However, postoperative arousal and orgasm scores were higher while pain score was lower in Group B than in Group A. CONCLUSION: Abdominal and vaginal hysterectomy with or without bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy for benign causes positively affect female sexuality in general. But, premenopausal bilateral oophorectomy may cause more pain during intercourse, decreased libido and orgasm than ovary conservation.

The impact of concurrent pelvic organ prolapse reconstructive surgery on midurethral sling procedure outcome.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effect of concurrent pelvic organ prolapse (POP) reconstructive surgery on midurethral sling (MUS) procedure outcome. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The present retrospective study included 300 women with urodynamically diagnosed stress urinary incontinence that underwent MUS procedures with or without concurrent POP reconstructive surgery. Patients were divided into four groups according to the performed surgery; 1) transobturator tape (TOT), 2) TOT with POP surgery (anterior colporrhaphy, posterior colporrhaphy and vaginal hysterectomy), 3) tension free vaginal tape (TVT), 4) TVT with POP surgery. Outcomes of surgeries for each group were evaluated postoperatively at the end of the first and sixth month by performing a cough stress test and also using the Incontinence Impact Questionnaire-7 (IIQ-7) and Urogenital Distress Inventory (UDI-6) questionnaires. Presence of a negative cough stress test was defined as "Cure". Multivariate regression was used to identify the parameters for surgical failure. RESULTS: Forty-two, 70, 49 and 139 women underwent isolated TOT, concurrent TOT and POP, isolated TVT and concurrent TVT and POP surgery, respectively. Postoperative UDI-6 score and postoperative cure rate were significantly higher in the only TOT group as compared to the TOT + POP group. However, in multiple regression analysis, women's age, parity, body mass index, menopausal status, preoperative urodynamic parameters, MUS types and presence of any concomitant POP reconstructive surgery were found to have no significant effect on surgical outcome. CONCLUSIONS: Concurrent POP reconstructive surgery including anterior colporrhaphy, posterior colporrhaphy and vaginal hysterectomy have no affect MUS procedure outcomes.

Pregnancy outcomes after transvaginal sacrospinous hysteropexy.

AIM: To evaluate the pregnancy outcomes in women who underwent transvaginal sacrospinous hysteropexy with the review of the literature STUDY DESIGN: 54 women who underwent transvaginal sacrospinous hysteropexy due to ≥grade 2 uterine prolapse during six-year period were identified from a computer based database. 8 of these who had pregnancy resulted in live birth subsequent to transvaginal sacrospinous hysteropexy were enrolled in this study. They were examined in case of pelvic organ prolapse recurrence and were questioned about their current self satisfaction status and PISQ-12 questionnaire. RESULTS: The median age of women was 36 years (range 29-43 years). All of the women were multiparous and there were no women with a previous cesarean section. All of the subsequent conceptions following operation occured spontaneously. The median time between hysteropexy and conception was 16 months (range 10-30 months). The pregnancies continued at least 37 weeks with only one preterm delivery (due to twin pregnancy). All 8 pregnancies were delivered by cesarean section. The median follow-up period after cesarean section was 45 months (range 7-60 months). Majority of women (7/8, 87.5%) were satisfied with current outcomes of sacrospinous hysteropexy and PISQ12 questionnaire scores revealed improvement in 87.5% (7/8) of women. CONCLUSION: Transvaginal sacrospinous hysteropexy is an appropriate surgical treatment method for symptomatic uterovaginal descensus in women who wish to preserve their uterine and future childbearing. And cesarean section is a reliable and satisfactory delivery route for women who underwent transvaginal sacrospinous hysteropexy.

Risk factors for postoperative urinary tract infection following midurethral sling procedures.

OBJECTIVE: To identify the potential risk factors for urinary tract infections following midurethral sling procedures. STUDY DESIGN: 556 women who underwent midurethral sling procedure due to stress urinary incontinence over a four-year period were reviewed in this retrospective study. Of the study population, 280 women underwent TVT procedures and 276 women underwent TOT procedures. Patients were evaluated at 4-8 weeks postoperatively and were investigated for the occurrence of a urinary tract infection. Patients who experienced urinary tract infection were defined as cases, and patients who didn't were defined as controls. All data were collected from medical records. Multivariate logistic regression model was used to identify the risk factors for urinary tract infection. RESULTS: Of 556 women, 58 (10.4%) were defined as cases while 498 (89.6%) were controls. The mean age of women in cases (57.8±12.9years) was significantly greater than in controls (51.8±11.2years) (p<0.001). The presence of menopausal status, previous abdominal surgery, preoperative antibiotic treatment due to urinary tract infection, concomitant vaginal hysterectomy and cystocele repair, TVT procedure and postoperative postvoiding residual bladder volume ≥100ml were more common in cases than in controls. However, in multivariate regression analysis model presence of preoperative urinary tract infection [OR (95% CI)=0.1 (0.1-0.7); p=0.013], TVT procedure [OR (95% CI)=8.4 (3.1-22.3); p=0.000] and postoperative postvoiding residual bladder volume ≥100ml [OR (95% CI)=4.6 (1.1-19.2); p=0.036] were significant independent risk factors for urinary tract infection following midurethral slings CONCLUSION: Urinary tract infection after midurethral sling procedures is a relatively common complication. The presence of preoperative urinary tract infection, TVT procedure and postoperative postvoiding residual bladder volume ≥100ml may increase the risk of this complication. Identification of these factors could help surgeons to minimize this complicationby developing effective strategies.

A comperative study for short-term surgical outcomes of midurethral sling procedures in obese and non-obese women with stress urinary incontinence.

There is little data comparing the surgical outcomes of tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) and transobturator tape (TOT) procedures in obese women. Therefore, we aimed to compare the surgical outcomes of TOT and TVT procedures among obese women with a diagnosis of stress urinary incontinence (SUI). One hundred and eighty-nine women who underwent TVT or TOT procedures due to pure SUI were included. Women in whom the body mass index (BMI) was ≥30 kg/m2 were considered as obese, while <30 kg/m2 were non-obese. And women with BMI ≥35 kg/m2 was defined as morbidly obese. At sixth month postoperative follow-up, neither the comparison of TVT and TOT results in obese women nor the comparison of TVT or TOT results between obese and non-obese women showed any significant differences in terms of objective and subjective cure rates, quality of life improvements, or intra/postoperative complications. TVT and TOT procedures also have similar effectiveness among morbidly obese women. We have concluded that TVT and TOT operations seem to be equally effective and safe surgical treatment procedures for female SUI regardless of BMI.

McCall Culdoplasty vs. Sacrospinous Ligament Fixation after vaginal hysterectomy: comparison of postoperative vaginal length and sexual function in postmenopausal women.

OBJECTIVES: To compare preoperative and postoperative vaginal length in sexually active postmenopausal women who underwent vaginal hysterectomy with McCall Culdoplasty or Sacrospinous Ligament Fixation and investigate whether these findings are correlated with sexual function. STUDY DESIGN: Fifty-eight sexually active postmenopausal women planned to undergo vaginal hysterectomy during the reconstructive surgical treatment of stage 2 or 3 uterine prolapse were included. They were classified into two groups according to their self-selections. Twenty-nine women underwent McCall Culdoplasty adjunct to hysterectomy while 29 women had Sacrospinous Ligament Fixation with hysterectomy. Vaginal length was measured before and after vaginal surgery at 6-week and 6-month follow-up. Sexual function were assessed by Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Function Questionnaire-12 form, preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively. RESULTS: It was found that McCall Culdoplasty and Sacrospinous Ligament Fixation adjunct to vaginal hysterectomy shortened vaginal length significantly. And, the decrease in vaginal length was greater in McCall Culdoplasty group compared to Sacrospinous Ligament Fixation group. However, preoperative and postoperative sexual function questionnaire scores were not correlated with vaginal lengths. CONCLUSION: McCall Culdoplasty or Sacrospinous Ligament Fixation adjunct to vaginal hysterectomy shortens vaginal length postoperatively. However these changes do not affect sexual function in postmenopausal women.

Preliminary Outcomes of a New, Safe, Tension-free Vaginal Tape Trocar.

The aim of this study is to introduce a new, safe, tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) trocar. Twenty-eight women with stress urinary incontinence who underwent a TVT procedure with a new trocar during a 6-month period were prospectively enrolled in this study. All the operations were performed by the same surgeon who developed the trocar. The trocar has two buttons, which make the tip of the device sharp or blunt. Median age of the study population was 52 years (range, 30-76 years), median number of vaginal deliveries was 3 (range, 1-10). And 57.1% of women were at menopause. Median body mass index was 30.0 kg/m² (range, 23.8-35.2 kg/m²). Preoperative median Valsalva leak point pressure was 78 cmH2O (range, 50-94 cmH2O), while the median maximum urethral closure pressure was 50 cmH2O (range, 14-74 cmH2O). Concomitant prolapse surgery was present in 23 women (82.1%). At the 6-month postoperative visit, objective and subjective cure rates were 89.3% for each. No serious intraopeartive or postoperative complication such as bladder, intestine, or major vessel injury occured. Only 3 women (10.7%) needed blood transfusion, and 2 women (7.1%) had postoperative voiding difficulty. Due to the modifiable tip, this new sling trocar seems safer than the conventional trocars. But large studies are necessary to prove this assumption. Due to the modifiable tip, this new sling trocar seems safer than the conventional trocars. But large studies are necessary to prove this assumption.

Comparison of TVT and TOT on urethral mobility and surgical outcomes in stress urinary incontinence with hypermobile urethra.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the change of urethral mobility after midurethral sling procedures in stress urinary incontinence with hypermobile urethra and assess these findings with surgical outcomes. STUDY DESIGN: 141 women who agreed to undergo midurethral sling operations due to stress urinary incontinence with hypermobile urethra were enrolled in this non-randomized prospective observational study. Preoperatively, urethral mobility was measured by Q tip test. All women were asked to complete Urogenital Distress Inventory Short Form (UDI-6) and Incontinence Impact Questionnaire Short Form (IIQ-7) to assess the quality of life. Six months postoperatively, Q tip test and quality of life assessment were repeated. The primary surgical outcomes were classified as cure, improvement and failure. Transient urinary obstruction, de novo urgency, voiding dysfunction were secondary surgical outcomes. RESULTS: Of 141 women, 50 (35. 5%) women underwent TOT, 91 (64.5%) underwent TVT. In both TOT and TVT groups, postoperative Q tip test values, IIQ-7 and UDI-6 scores were statistically reduced when compared with preoperative values. Postoperative Q tip test value in TVT group was significantly smaller than in TOT group [25°(15-45°) and 20° (15-45°), respectively]. When we compared the Q-tip test value, IIQ-7 and UDI-6 scores changes, there were no statistically significant changes between the groups. Postoperative urethral mobility was more frequent in TOT group than in TVT group (40% vs 23.1%, respectively). Postoperative primary and secondary outcomes were similar in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: Although midurethral slings decrease the urethtal hypermobility, postoperative mobility status of urethra does not effect surgical outcomes of midurethral slings in women with preoperative urethral hypermobility.

Urinary Incontinence Due to Urethral Coitus in a Multiparous Woman.

Urethral coitus in women with a normal vagina and introitus has very rarely been reported. We report the case of a 48-year-old gravida 5, para 5 woman with a history of urethral coitus complaining of urinary incontinence. To the best of our knowledge, our patient is the fifth reported case of urethral coitus with normal genitalia, and it might be accepted as the first reported case of urethral coitus in a multiparous woman.

Effect of pregnancy and delivery on urinary incontinence after the midurethral sling procedure.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: To evaluate the continence status and to reveal the optimal delivery mode of women who had an infant after application of a midurethral sling to treat stress urinary incontinence. METHODS: Between January 2007 and January 2013, 12 women who delivered an infant after application of a midurethral sling were detected and demographic data, type of MUS, interval between MUS and delivery, mode of delivery, birth weight of the newborn, complications during pregnancy, and continence status after delivery were collected. Between 2000 and 2014, in 14 articles listed in Pubmed, the data of 54 patients who had delivered after successful midurethral sling application were included. Postpartum recurrence of urinary incontinence was evaluated according to delivery type in 54 patients. RESULTS: Mean age of 12 patients at the time of MUS was 33.1 ± 4.3 years old and the interval between MUS procedure and pregnancy was 30.2 ± 14.2 months. Four patients had a transvaginal tape (TVT; 33.3%) and 8 had transobturator tape (TOT) procedure (66.7%) and mean follow-up after MUS surgery was 52 ± 12.3 months. Seven women had cesarean section (CS; 58.3%) and 5 women delivered vaginally (41.7%). Nine women were continent during pregnancy (75%) and 10 were continent after delivery (83.3%). Among 54 women who were included in the review, 28 underwent CS (51.9%), 26 women delivered vaginally (48.1%), and 11 women had postpartum incontinence (20.3%). In the case of postpartum urinary incontinence, there was no statistically significant difference between the CS and vaginal delivery groups (14.3 vs 26.9% respectively, p = 0.32). In logistic regression, incontinence during pregnancy was a risk factor for postpartum incontinence (OR:5.5; 95% CI: 1.1-27.6, p = 0.036). CONCLUSION: Risk of postpartum SUI recurrence in women who underwent application of midurethral slings seems to be similar independent of delivery mode and incontinence during pregnancy may be a risk factor for postpartum incontinence.

Melatonin causes regression of endometriotic implants in rats by modulating angiogenesis, tissue levels of antioxidants and matrix metalloproteinases.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to test if melatonin causes regression of endometriotic implants and whether it influences implant levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-2 and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 in rats. METHODS: Endometriotic implants were introduced surgically to 20 female Wistar albino rats, which were either treated with melatonin via intraperitoneal injection for four weeks (melatonin group, n = 10) or with saline (control group, n = 10) after a second-look laparotomies. The main outcome measures included volume (mm(3)) and weight (mg) of explants and tissue levels of SOD, MDA, VEGF, TIMP-2 and MMP-9. RESULTS: Before and after treatment implant volumes of the melatonin group were decreased significantly (P < 0.01) while there was no significant difference between the pretreatment and posttreatment implant volumes of the control group. Moreover, weight (P < 0.05) and histologic score (P < 0.05) of implants of the melatonin-treated rats were significantly lower than controls. Activity of SOD and TIMP-2 staining in melatonin group was significantly higher (both P < 0.01) while there were significant reductions in implant levels of VEGF and MMP-9 in melatonin group (both P < 0.01) than controls. CONCLUSIONS: Melatonin induces the regression of endometriotic implants in rats by modulating implant levels of SOD, MDA, VEGF, MMP-9 and TIMP-2.

A new approach for the management of bladder injury in retropubic slings: one side transobturator/ one side retropubic sling.

The aim of this study was to establish a new management modality for bladder perforation during retropubic slings. In 2013, among 102 retropubic slings, there were five bladder injuries. All procedures were performed by one of the fourth year residents under direct supervision of experienced surgeons. Bladder perforation was detected in cystoscopic examination. In the bladder perforated side, tape was retracted and placed by transobturator approach and the Foley catheter remained in place for seven days. Demographic features, preoperative urodynamic examination, and preoperative and postoperative life quality questionnaires (IIQ-7 and UDI-6) were recorded. The mean age of the patients was 44 ± 2.5 years and body mass index was 29.4 ± 1.7 kg/ m2. Mean parity was 2.8 ± 1.8 and all the patients delivered with vaginal route. None of the patients were in menopause. Of the five bladder perforations, 40%(2) occurred on the right side, 60%(3) on the left side. All the surgeons were right handed. All patients underwent other vaginal reconstructive procedures like anterior colporraphy and posterior colporraphy. None of the patients had previous anti-incontinence surgery. Mean follow-up was 10.2 ± 2.4 months. All patients had negative stress tests and improvement in IIQ-7 and UDI-6 at postoperative sixth month. There was no postoperative voiding dysfunction in any of the patients. If bladder perforation occurs in patients who undergo retropubic sling, the tape can be placed by transobturator approach in the bladder perforated side.

Impact of preprocedural anxiety levels on pain perception in patients undergoing office hysteroscopy.

BACKGROUND: We aimed to determine if preprocedural anxiety levels had a significant association with procedure-related pain in women undergoing office hysteroscopy (OH) and also to assess the effect of various clinical factors on pain perception in these women. METHODS: There were 148 women undergoing OH enrolled in this observational study. Before examination, patients were asked to complete two forms, the STAI-T (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Trait) and STAI-S (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, State) anxiety scales, to evaluate their usual anxiety state and state of anxiety during the examination. Patients were asked to quantify on a visual analog scale the pain felt during and 60 minutes after the procedure. Associations between STAI and visual analog scale scores were assessed using correlation analysis. The effects of various contributing factors on pain perception were investigated with linear regression analysis. A p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The preprocedural mean trait and state anxiety scores were 38.4 ± 9.2 and 44.8 ± 10.0, respectively, and the mean patient age was 43.6 ± 3.3 years. During OH, there were significant positive correlations between in-hospital waiting time, procedure time, preprocedural trait or state anxiety scores, and pain. Sixty minutes after OH, significant positive correlations between in-hospital waiting time, procedure time, preprocedural state or trait anxiety scores, and pain were observed. There was also a significant negative correlation between parity and procedure-related pain 60 minutes after procedure. OH-related pain scores during the procedure were significantly affected by in-hospital waiting time (p < 0.001), state anxiety level (p = 0.001), and trait anxiety level (p = 0.01). However, 60 minutes after the procedure, pain was affected by patient parity (p = 0.02), procedure time (p = 0.002), and preprocedural state anxiety level (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The pain that study participants felt during and soon after OH was negatively affected by preprocedural anxiety levels. Some factors, such as reducing the waiting time before the procedure, might be useful in reducing anxiety levels.

HOXA11 and MMP2 gene expression in uterosacral ligaments of women with pelvic organ prolapse.

OBJECTIVE: Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a common disorder that negatively impacts the quality of life in many women. Uterosacral ligaments (USLs) are supportive structures of the pelvic organs that are often attenuated in women with POP. The HOXA genes regulate the development of the uterosacral ligaments. We compared expression of HOXA11 and MMP2 in USLs of women with and without POP. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A prospective sequential cross sectional study was conducted in ZTB Women's Health Research and Education Hospital. We compared expression of HOXA11 and MMP2 in USLs of women with (n:18) and without (n: 15) POP. Total RNA was isolated from patient (n:18) and control (n:15) uterosacral ligament tissues with TriPure isolation reagent according to the manufacturer's instructions. Expression levels of HOXA11 and MMP2 were determined using semiquantitative RT-PCR in a Light Cycler 480 system. Real-time ready catalog assays, which are short FAM-labeled hydrolysis probes containing locked nucleic acid, were used for RT-PCR reactions. RESULTS: There was no difference in patients' mean age, parity, body mass indexes, and menopausal status between two groups. Means of RNA expression of MMP2 were 1.27±0.6 and 0.75±0.4 in the POP group vs control group, respectively (p:0.007). Means of RNA expression of HOXA 11 were 2.57±2.4 and 1.94±1.4 in the POP group vs control group, respectively (p:0.376). The POP group was divided as mild and severe POP; there was no difference in HOXA11 and MMP2 RNA expression between groups (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: Although there was no difference HOXA11 RNA expression in USLs with the POP group vs control, there was a significant difference MMP2 RNA expression in USLs with the POP group vs control. There are limited studies on this subject, and study results are contradictory. Further investigations with larger numbers of cases are needed to clarify this subject.

Effects of horizontal vs vertical vaginal cuff closure techniques on vagina length after vaginal hysterectomy: a prospective randomized study.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To compare the effects of horizontal and vertical vaginal cuff closure techniques on vagina length after vaginal hysterectomy. DESIGN: Prospective randomized study (Canadian Task Force classification I). SETTING: Teaching and research hospital, a tertiary center. PATIENTS: Fifty-two women with POP-Q stage 0 or 1 uterine prolapse were randomized into 2 groups using vertical (n = 26) or horizontal (n = 26) vaginal cuff closure. INTERVENTIONS: All patients underwent vaginal hysterectomy. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Vagina length in the 2 groups was compared preoperatively, immediately after surgery, and at 6 weeks postoperatively. Mean (SD) preoperative vagina length in the horizontal and vertical groups was similar (7.87 [0.92] cm vs 7.99 [0.78] cm; p = .41). Immediately postoperatively, the vagina was significantly shorter in the horizontal group than in the vertical group (6.61 [0.89] cm vs 7.51 [0.74] cm; p < .001). At 6 weeks postoperatively, the vagina was still significantly shorter in the horizontal group (6.55 [0.89] cm vs 7.42 (0.73) cm; p < .001). The mean difference in vagina length before and after surgery was also significantly higher in the horizontal group than in the vertical group (-1.26 [0.12] cm vs 0.49 [0.11] cm; p < .001). CONCLUSION: Vertical cuff closure during vaginal hysterectomy seems to preserve vagina length better than does horizontal cuff closure.