[Abdominal approach of rectocele and colpocele]

The authors report a series of 62 female patients operated for rectocele and/or elytrocele via an abdominal approach. The technique was based on insertion of a retrovaginal prosthesis attached to the sacrum. Other surgical procedures can be performed at the same operation: hysterectomy, insertion of a prevaginal prosthesis, retropubic colpopexy. The anatomical and functional results were excellent in these patients previously operated for urinary incontinence or prolapse (99%). The indication for total hysterectomy during the same operation must be limited as this procedure increases the morbidity and impairs the functional results. Dyschexia is improved, but may be followed by postoperative constipation. Abdominal treatment of rectoceles and/or elytroceles by interposition of an interrectovaginal prosthesis attached to the sacrum is particularly indicated after hysterectomy in the case of associated or recurrent genitourinary prolapse.