Mesh–related and intraoperative complications of pelvic organ prolapse repair

INTRODUCTION To evaluate the rates of complications of pelvic organ prolapse repair and to determine their risk factors. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study included 677 patients operated for pelvic organ prolapse with trocar guided Prolift mesh. Patients were followed up within 1 and 3 months. A phone interview was conducted and patients with complaints were invited and evaluated in office settings. RESULTS Mean age was 60 years. For the phone interview, 86.5% of patients were available. Overall complication rates were 22.5% (152/677). Fifteen patients (2.2%) developed bleeding over 500 cc; pelvic hematomas - 5.5%; perineal hematomas - 2.5%; urethral injuries - 0.3%; bladder injury in 1.6%; rectal damage in 0.7% and ureteral trauma in 0.2%. MESH RELATED COMPLICATIONS INCLUDED: erosions in 4.8%; vaginal synechiae - 0.3%; protrusion of mesh into the bladder - 0.15%; vesicovaginal fistula with mesh protrusion - 0.3%; mesh shrinkage - 1%; dyspareunia and pain in 2.4% cases. Pelvic abscess was found in 0.6% including one case of lethal necrotizing fasciitis. The risk factors of complications were assessed via logistic regression analysis. CONCLUSIONS Younger age, less prominent prolapse, hematomas and concomitant hysterectomies are associated with higher risk of complications.