Pessaries in the geriatric patient.

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Gynecology
• Pelvic Floor Disorders

Background:

• Pessaries are devices used for centuries to manage uterine prolapse.
• While surgical repair is common for younger women, pessaries offer a palliative option for those with pelvic relaxation who are poor surgical candidates or refuse surgery.
• Despite widespread use, there is limited geriatric literature on pessary management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the indications and management of pessaries in elderly women.
• To highlight strategies for preventing complications associated with pessary use in this population.
• To encourage further clinical investigation into the application of pessaries for geriatric patients.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on geriatric populations and pessary use.
• Analysis of current practices and evidence regarding pessary management in elderly women.
• Identification of potential complications and preventive measures.

Main Results:

• Pessaries remain a crucial, non-surgical option for uterine prolapse in elderly women.
• Effective management requires careful patient selection, proper fitting, and regular follow-up.
• Common complications include vaginal erosion, infection, and discomfort, which can be mitigated with appropriate care.

Conclusions:

• Pessaries are an effective and important management tool for uterine prolapse in elderly women.
• Optimizing pessary use involves understanding indications, proper management techniques, and complication prevention.
• Further research is warranted to fully elucidate the clinical benefits and optimal application of pessaries in geriatric gynecology.