Reducing the risk of vaginal vault prolapse after hysterectomy

When a hysterectomy takes place it is important that the vagina is reattached to what is called the uterosacral-cardinal ligament complex. Despite this, some women may experience what is called a vaginal vault prolapse following their hysterectomy. Vaginal vault prolapse following hysterectomy is more common in women who have had children naturally because their pelvic floor muscles are weaker from the birth process, this is also the reason why women who have given birth naturally are more likely to suffer other types of prolapse as well. It is thought that up to 40% of such women could be affected. Before a hysterectomy the bladder, urethra, vagina and uterus are all attached to the pelvic walls by a system of connective tissue that has been called the endopelvic fascia which includes the broad ligaments. When the uterus is removed an element of this supportive structure is also removed. All the abdominal organs are supported by the pelvic floor, a large sling (or hammock) of muscles and other tissues stretching across the floor of the pelvis. In a vaginal vault prolapse, the top of the vagina gradually falls toward the vaginal opening. Eventually, the top of the vagina may protrude out of the vaginal opening, effectively turning the vagina inside out. A vaginal vault prolapse is often accompanied by the weakness and prolapse of walls of the vagina. Surgical techniques for vaginal vault prolapse Surgery for vaginal vault prolapse makes use of the pelvic supporting structure...
Source: The Hysterectomy Association - Category: OBGYN Authors: Tags: Health vaginal prolapse Source Type: news