Intermediate-term follow-up of laparoscopic pectopexy cases and their effects on sexual function and quality of life: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

INTRODUCTIONApical prolapse refers to downward displacement of the vaginal apex, uterus or cervix. Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) affects 50% of parous women, and this rate increases with age, menopause and parity. However, POP can be asymptomatic and may only be noticed when patients are examined for another reason. 1 POP can significantly affect women's daily activities and sexuality. Many studies have reported that sacropexy is the most appropriate approach for providing a physiological axis for the vagina in terms of size, depth and inclination. 2-4 However, defecation disorders and urinary problems are common after sacropexy.The pectopexy procedure, defined as a new endoscopic prolapse surgery method, was developed especially for obese patients by Banerjee and Noe in 2007. In this, mesh fixation is performed on both sides of the descending lateral parts of the iliopectineal ligament, for suspension of the cervix or vagina. This segment of the ligament is located at the level of the second sacral vertebra (S2), which is the most suitable level for the physiological axis of the vagina. In this method, because the mesh does not cross the ureter or intestine and passes through the broad ligament, it does not cause problems with the ureter and intestine. In addition, the hypogastric vessels are at a safe distance from any danger. This new method is a simpler and safer procedure, especially in patients for whom surgery is difficult. 5 OBJECTIVEIn this study, our aim was to investigate, at the mid-term follow-up after laparoscopic pectopexy surgery, whether this procedure improved the patients' quality of life and sexual function; and to determine the reliability, applicability and effectiveness of the surgery by using the