Pelvic floor reconstruction is a surgical procedure that is used to treat severe pelvic organ prolapse in women. The pelvic floor includes the muscles, ligaments, connective tissue and nerves that support and hold pelvic organs in place. Examples of pelvic organs include the bladder, uterus (womb), vagina and rectum (bowel).
When the pelvic floor weakens and can no longer support the weight of pelvic organs, one or more of the pelvic organs may drop or ‘prolapse’ below their normal position to press against the walls of the vagina.
The sagging or falling pelvic organs can cause pain, discomfort and pressure in the vagina. It can also cause urinary and bowel problems. Common symptoms of pelvic floor prolapse include:
Depending on the type of pelvic organ prolapse you have, your doctor may recommend different surgical options.
If you had a hysterectomy (a surgery that removes the womb) your doctor may recommend sacrocolpopexy. This procedure sews a synthetic mesh onto the prolapsed pelvic organs. The other end of the mesh will then be stitched to the lower part of the spinal column to keep the pelvic organs in place.
If you have a rectal prolapse, your doctor may recommend rectal prolapse surgery. This procedure tightens the tissue between the vagina and rectum and is typically performed as traditional open surgery.
If you have a bladder prolapse, your doctor may recommend reconstructive surgery for bladder prolapse. As part of this procedure, your surgeon will push the bladder back up into your pelvic region. Reconstructive surgery for bladder prolapse aims to secure the tissue between your vagina and bladder to keep your bladder in place.
If you have a uterine prolapse, your doctor may recommend surgery to repair a prolapsed uterus to repair the weakened pelvic floor tissues. As part of this procedure, your surgeon may graft your own tissue, tissue from a donor or a synthetic material into the weakened pelvic floor structures. Another treatment option for a prolapsed uterus is a hysterectomy or removal of the uterus.
When non-surgical treatments (such as self-care measures like pelvic floor exercises) are deemed ineffective for more severe cases of pelvic organ prolapse, your doctor may recommend pelvic floor reconstruction as the option to restore the normal structure and function of your pelvic organs.
Surgery to correct pelvic organ prolapse can be performed through the vagina or through the abdomen, depending on the problem and the chosen treatment. The objectives of the surgery are to:
While pelvic floor reconstruction surgeries are safe, these medical procedures still carry some risks and side effects, including:
Located on the eastern coast of Singapore, Parkway East Hospital is the private hospital of choice among residents. Our dedicated team of obstetrics and gynaecology specialists is skilled in treating conditions such as pelvic organ prolapse – from common issues to more complex cases.
Our comprehensive range of services provides you with truly customised care in a comfortable environment close to home.
Our gynaecologists and urologists have successfully carried out numerous pelvic floor reconstruction and incontinence surgery over the years. Our dedicated team is familiar with your needs and committed to your utmost care.
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