Robotic Surgery for Pelvic Prolapse
Correct Pelvic Prolapse with Advanced Robotic Surgery
Why Choose Southern Urogynecology for Robotic Prolapse Surgery?
Pelvic organ prolapse is a condition caused by the weakening of the muscles or ligaments that support various pelvic organs. When this happens, organs like the uterus, vaginal vault, or rectum can shift and bulge into the vagina. This can lead to uncomfortable symptoms like pelvic pressure, urinary issues, and pain during intercourse. Robotic prolapse surgery uses the latest surgical techniques to reposition and secure the prolapsed organs back into their proper place.
At Southern Urogynecology of Columbia, our team has extensive experience performing robotic-assisted pelvic prolapse repairs. We prioritize compassionate care, taking the time to explain your condition and walk you through every step of the treatment process.
Robotic Prolapse Surgery at a Glance
- Minimally invasive surgery requiring only small incisions
- Performed with the advanced da Vinci robotic system
- Quicker recovery than open surgery
- Repairs prolapse with a low incidence of recurrence
Understanding Pelvic Prolapse
What is pelvic prolapse?
Up to 50 percent of women will experience pelvic prolapse at some point during their lifetime. Pelvic prolapse occurs when a pelvic organ like the uterus, vaginal vault, or another organ shifts down into the vaginal canal. Factors like childbirth, weight changes, or straining during bowel movements or other activities can weaken the muscles and ligaments that hold the pelvic organs in place.
Here are some of the common symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse:
- The feeling of pelvic pressure, heaviness, or a bulge coming through the vagina. This is often described as a feeling of "something falling out" or a bulge that worsens with standing or bearing down.
- Urinary problems. Difficulty emptying the bladder, frequent urination, urine leakage, or needing to push on the vaginal area to fully empty the bladder.
- Bowel problems. Constipation, feeling of incomplete evacuation, accidental passing of stool, or needing to insert a finger into the vagina to aid bowel movements.
- Pelvic or lower back pain. Caused by the added pressure of the prolapsed organs.
- Pain or discomfort during intercourse. Due to the tissue protruding into the vagina.
- Vaginal bleeding or increased discharge. Caused by increased friction and exposure of the prolapsed organs.
The specific symptoms can vary depending on which pelvic organs have prolapsed and the severity of the prolapse. Mild cases may not cause any noticeable symptoms. More advanced prolapse typically leads to a feeling of increased pressure, protrusion, and related urinary or bowel dysfunction.
The compassionate team at Southern Urogynecology has extensive experience evaluating and treating all stages of pelvic organ prolapse. We will carefully examine your symptoms to recommend the most appropriate treatment approach.
Feel Like Yourself Again
What is the pelvic prolapse procedure like?
The surgical correction of pelvic prolapse is called sacrocolpopexy. In most cases, we perform pelvic prolapse surgery using da Vinci®, a sophisticated robotic device Dr. Pezzella abd Dr, Rueb use to correct the prolapse through tiny incisions. In a few cases, traditional surgery with a larger incision may be necessary. At your consultation, we will perform an exam and any testing needed to diagnose your prolapse and create a personalized surgical plan so that you know exactly what to expect from your procedure.
Robotic Surgery With the da Vinci® System
The surgery is performed while the patient is asleep under general anesthesia. Small incisions are made in the abdomen, which are used to access the surgical area with da Vinci’s sophisticated surgical instruments. Throughout surgery, a 3D high-definition camera provides enhanced visualization inside the abdomen. Your surgeon will first free the vagina from the rectum and the bladder. They then shift the prolapsed organ into its proper position and place a permanent synthetic mesh to keep it in place. The vagina is reattached and anchored securely to prevent future prolapse.
Once the incisions are closed, the patient is monitored in a recovery room before being released to return home for recovery. Because general anesthesia is administered, patients will need a friend or family member to drive them home.
Whole and Strong
What types of prolapse can be treated with robotic surgery?
Common types of pelvic organ prolapse corrected with robotic surgery include:
- Cystocele (bladder prolapse)
- Rectocele (rectum prolapse)
- Enterocele (small intestine prolapse)
- Uterine prolapse
- Vaginal vault prolapse
The surgery can address single or multi-compartment prolapses while preserving the function of all the organs.
Technology on Your Side
Benefits of Robotic Prolapse Surgery
Compared to open prolapse repairs, the robotic approach offers:
- Smaller incisions
- Reduced blood loss
- Shorter hospital stay
- Quicker return to normal activities
- Excellent visualization for the surgeon
- Potential for improved outcomes
Supportive Care Every Step of the Way
The Robotic Prolapse Surgery Recovery Process
After your robotic prolapse procedure, you can expect a relatively brief recovery compared to open surgery. You may experience some discomfort, swelling, and spotting for 1-2 weeks after surgery. Your surgeon will advise you on when it is safe to resume normal activities based on your individual healing progress. Our team is always available to offer extra support and answer any questions that arise throughout the recovery process.
While post-operative healing continues for a few months, many patients experience relief of their prolapse symptoms very soon after surgery. It's important to follow all post-op instructions for the best long-term outcomes.
Robotic Prolapse Surgery
Frequently Asked Questions
Most women can return to normal activities within 2-4 weeks compared to 6-8 weeks for open surgery.
Your provider will determine if additional mesh support is needed based on your specific anatomy and prolapse severity.
Robotic prolapse repairs can take 1-4 hours, depending on the complexity of your case.
Robotic surgery has a low risk of complications like bleeding, infection, or organ injury, similar to open repairs.
You'll need to avoid intercourse for around six weeks to allow for complete healing.
