Sacrocolpopexy is a surgical procedure used to treat pelvic organ prolapse in women. This condition occurs when pelvic organs, like the vagina, uterus, bladder, or rectum, descend into or out of the vaginal canal due to weakened pelvic support structures. Here's an overview of sacrocolpopexy:


  • Purpose: The main goal of sacrocolpopexy is to restore the normal anatomical position of the prolapsed organs by providing support to the vaginal apex. It's particularly used for repairing apical or vaginal vault prolapse, especially in women who have had a hysterectomy.

  • Procedure:

    • Surgical Approach: Sacrocolpopexy can be performed through an open abdominal approach, laparoscopically, or with robotic assistance (minimally invasive).

    • Technique: Surgeons use a graft or mesh to create a bridge between the upper part of the vagina (or vaginal cuff after hysterectomy) and the sacrum. This mesh, typically made of polypropylene, mimics the support normally provided by ligaments in the pelvic region.

    • Steps: This involves separating the vagina from surrounding organs like the bladder and rectum, then attaching the mesh to the vaginal walls and securing it to the sacral promontory.

  • Benefits:

    • High Success Rate: Studies show that sacrocolpopexy has one of the highest long-term success rates for treating vaginal vault prolapse, with success rates from 85-90%.

    • Minimally Invasive Option: Laparoscopic or robotic techniques reduce recovery time, blood loss, and hospital stay compared to open surgery.

  • Risks and Complications:

    • The procedure has risks like any surgery, including bleeding, infection, or reactions to anesthesia.

    • Specific to sacrocolpopexy, there can be issues related to mesh use, such as mesh erosion or exposure, although these are relatively rare with abdominal or laparoscopic placement compared to transvaginal mesh.

  • Recovery: Recovery time can vary, generally taking about 8 weeks for full recovery. Patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities during this period.

  • Alternative Procedures: While sacrocolpopexy is considered the gold standard for apical prolapse repair, other options like sacrospinous fixation or uterosacral ligament suspension exist, each with different efficacy and complication profiles.

  • Pre-Surgical Considerations: Patients are advised to optimize health conditions, stop smoking, and manage any infections before surgery. The choice of procedure often depends on the patient's health, the severity of prolapse, and surgeon expertise.


For further detailed information or if you're considering this procedure, consulting with a specialist in urogynecology would be beneficial.