Pelvic Floor Reconstructive Surgery
If you’ve been struggling with symptoms of pelvic floor disorders or pelvic floor dysfunction, and more conservative treatment options like physical therapy and medications haven’t helped, it could be time to consider pelvic floor reconstruction surgery.
At UK HealthCare Women’s Health, we offer multiple reconstructive surgery options for pelvic floor disorders and dysfunction. We specialize in minimally invasive procedures, when possible, but open surgeries are available when a more involved procedure is necessary. Surgeries are performed through the vagina or abdomen, depending on your condition.
Types of Pelvic Floor Repair
There are three main types of pelvic floor reconstruction surgery we perform.
- Laparoscopic or robot-assisted sacrocolpopexy. This minimally invasive surgery repairs pelvic organ prolapse with mesh designed to keep the organs from falling again.
- Native tissue reconstruction surgery. This surgery uses your own tissues and muscles to repair the pelvic floor. Organs are then put back in their original place. Depending on your condition, this may also be able to be done in a minimally invasive manner.
- Colpocleisis. This surgery closes the vaginal opening, making it impossible for women to have vaginal intercourse.
Before Pelvic Floor Reconstruction
Our providers will perform a complete medical exam to ensure surgery is the best option. Exercise and weight loss, combined with a pessary, may eliminate the need for surgery. Surgery can carry risks for women with other chronic medical conditions, and women who wish to have children will need to postpone surgery until after they are entirely done with childbirth.
During Pelvic Floor Reconstructive Surgery
The type of surgery will vary depending on whether you have uterine prolapse, vaginal vault prolapse or a prolapse involving your bladder or bowel. Some surgeries will include removing the uterus (a hysterectomy). In non-native tissue reconstructive surgeries, surgical mesh is attached to the wall of your vagina to hold your organs in place.
After Pelvic Floor Reconstruction
Depending on the type of surgery you have, your hospital stay is likely to be brief. You should plan to take a couple of weeks off work — possibly longer if your job is physically demanding. For several weeks, you will not be allowed to lift heavy objects, exercise or engage in vaginal intercourse.