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Colpocleisis for Advanced Pelvic Organ Prolapse

  • Stress Incontinence and Prolapse (WS Reynolds, Section Editor)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

The purpose of this review is to consolidate and present the most recent literature on colpocleisis in the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse.

Recent Findings

Since its origin in the 1800s, the techniques for colpocleisis have remain largely unchanged. We will review the peri-operative considerations for a patient undergoing an obliterative procedure, specifically focusing on the potential concern for uterine pathology. There are no universally accepted guidelines for endometrial evaluation in the asymptomatic post-menopausal patient, yet the majority of providers prefer to perform some type of pre-operative endometrial evaluation. Colpocleisis can be performed with hysterectomy as a part of the procedure, as a uterine-sparing procedure, or in a patient who has already had a hysterectomy. Performing a hysterectomy at the time of colpocleisis is associated with longer operating times and higher estimated blood loss, but removal of the uterus negates the concern for future uterine pathology. Anti-incontinence procedures are commonly performed concomitantly. Complications following colpocleisis are not common. As the life expectancy in the USA and medical comorbidities increase, future studies are needed to evaluate long-term outcomes.

Summary

Colpocleisis is a minimally invasive and safe procedure which demonstrates consistently high rates of patient satisfaction. Female pelvic reconstructive surgeons should be comfortable with offering obliterative procedures as an option for patients desiring definitive treatment.

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Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1161 21st Avenue South, B-1100 Medical Center North, Nashville, TN, USA

    Parisa Samimi & Carl Zimmerman

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  1. Parisa Samimi
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  2. Carl Zimmerman
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Correspondence to Parisa Samimi.

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This article is part of the Topical Collection on Stress Incontinence and Prolapse

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Samimi, P., Zimmerman, C. Colpocleisis for Advanced Pelvic Organ Prolapse. Curr Bladder Dysfunct Rep 15, 25–29 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11884-019-00568-x

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