Predictive factors for overactive bladder symptoms after pelvic organ prolapse surgery

Area of Science:

• Urogynecology
• Pelvic Floor Surgery
• Overactive Bladder Research

Background:

• Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery is a common procedure for women.
• Overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms can persist or arise after POP surgery.
• Predicting postoperative OAB is crucial for patient counseling and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify factors predicting the presence of overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms post-surgery for pelvic organ prolapse (POP).
• To evaluate the impact of POP surgery on pre-existing OAB symptoms.
• To assess the incidence of de novo OAB symptoms following POP surgery.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 505 women undergoing POP surgery (2004-2007) were analyzed.
• Preoperative and follow-up assessments included physical examination (POP-Q) and validated questionnaires (IIQ, UDI, DDI).
• Median follow-up duration was 12.7 months.

Main Results:

• Bothersome OAB symptoms decreased in the overall cohort post-POP surgery.
• De novo OAB symptoms developed in 5-6% of women.
• Preoperative absence of bothersome OAB symptoms was the strongest predictor for absence of OAB symptoms after surgery.

Conclusions:

• The preoperative status of bothersome overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms is the most significant predictor for postoperative OAB symptom presence after pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery.
• While POP surgery can improve OAB symptoms for some, a small percentage may develop new-onset symptoms.