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Urosepsis associated with vaginal pessary use
R J Roberge1, M M McCandlish, M L Dorfsman
1Department of Emergency Medicine of the Western Pennsylvania Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA.
Annals of Emergency Medicine
|April 27, 1999
Summary
Vaginal pessaries for genital prolapse can cause serious infections if not maintained. This study highlights two cases of genitourinary sepsis linked to unsuspected pessary use, emphasizing the need for awareness and proper care.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Gynecology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Conservative management of pelvic organ prolapse often involves vaginal pessaries.
- Routine maintenance is crucial for preventing complications associated with these devices.
Observation:
- Two cases of genitourinary sepsis were identified in older women.
- The sepsis was associated with the unsuspected presence of vaginal pessaries.
Findings:
- Infectious complications, including sepsis, can arise from vaginal pessary use.
- Poor device maintenance is a contributing factor to these infections.
Implications:
- Healthcare providers should consider pessary use in older women presenting with genitourinary sepsis.
- Enhanced patient education on pessary maintenance is essential to prevent serious infectious complications.