The laparoscopic approach to pelvic floor surgery

Abstract

Laparoscopy offers great exposure and surgical detail, and reduces blood loss and the need for excessive abdominal packing and bowel manipulation, making it an excellent modality for performing pelvic floor surgery. Though laparoscopic colposuspension has been shown to be equally effective as an open procedure at two years' follow-up, it is less practiced since the introduction of transvaginal tape procedures. Laparoscopic repair of level I or apical vaginal defects may be challenging, due to the need for extensive dissection and advanced suturing skills. However, it offers the advantages of abdominal sacrocolpopexy, such as lower recurrence rates and less dyspareunia. © 2010 Springer-Verlag Milan.