Recurrence of prolapse after transvaginal mesh excision

Recurrence of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a potential complication after mesh removal. We evaluated anatomical and functional outcomes preoperatively and postoperatively in patients undergoing mesh excision.

We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of consecutive patients who underwent mesh excision from years 2005 to 2009. Anatomical outcomes were evaluated using the POP quantification (POP-Q) system. Recurrence of prolapse was defined as stage II or higher-stage prolapse on the POP-Q system, reoperation for prolapse, or postoperative use of a pessary for prolapse reduction. Functional outcomes were assessed using the pelvic floor distress inventory and pelvic floor impact questionnaire scores.

Data were analyzed from 71 patients who underwent either partial or complete mesh excision. Most (44/70 [63%]) of the patients underwent partial mesh excision, and 26 patients (37%) underwent total mesh removal. Nineteen patients (26.7%) had preoperative prolapse and 27 (38.0%) of the 71 patients underwent concomitant native tissue prolapse repair. Overall change in POP-Q stage in women who underwent partial removal (median, 0 [-1 to 2]) was less advanced than in women with total excision. (median, -1 [-3 to 0]; P = 0.006) at 1 year postoperatively. Four patients prolapsed to the hymen, with all patients having defects in the anterior compartment. No patients required a second surgery, and one patient was treated with a pessary.Total pelvic floor distress inventory and pelvic floor impact questionnaire scores before mesh excision were significantly improved 6 months after mesh removal (P < 0.05). Dyspareunia improved significantly after mesh excision (P = 0.034).

In our patient population, total and partial mesh excision is associated with re-treatment of POP in 1.4% of the patients. Patient functional outcomes significantly improved after mesh removal.