Mesh Implantation for Pelvic Organ Prolapse Improves Quality of Life

Purpose: The use of alloplastic meshes for repair of female pelvic organ prolapse (POP) has recently been discussed for its indications and safety. Mesh exposure and chronic pelvic pain are among the risks that need to be addressed to the patients. The purpose of this prospective observational study is to investigate the effect of vaginal mesh implantation on pelvic floor-related quality of life (QoL).

Methods: 55 patients were included in this prospective multicenter study. A validated QoL questionnaire comprising items on prolapse symptoms and bladder, bowel and sexual function was used. QoL data were acquired before and 1 year after POP surgery. Patients underwent POP surgery with implantation of either Prolift® or Seratom® mesh.

Results: Quality of life scores improved significantly after surgery. Prolapse complaints were reduced from 4.43 to 0.26 (p < 0.001), and bladder and bowel complaints improved from 3.03 to 1.46 (p < 0.001) and from 1.93 to 1.60 (p < 0.01) at follow-up. Furthermore, the sexual function score improved from 2.31 to 1.12 postoperatively (p < 0.01).

Conclusion: Despite the risks discussed for vaginal mesh repair, we observed a statistically significant improvement of pelvic floor-related quality of life of POP patients.