Introduction and hypothesis: The aim of this study was to report long-term subjective and objective outcomes after the transvaginal mesh (TVM) procedure in long-term. Possible late-onset complications were of particular interest.
Methods: This was a retrospective analysis of TVM performed using Prolift™ transvaginal mesh measuring subjective outcome using validated questionnaires. Objective outcome was assessed using the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POP-Q) system using two definitions: POP-Q stage ≤ 1, and vaginal wall prolapse at or above the hymen or vaginal apex not descending below the upper third of the vagina. Complications were reported with the Prosthesis/Graft Complication Classification Code designed by the International Continence Society/International Urogynecological Association (ICS/IUGA).
Results: Of 195 patients, 161 (82.6 %) participated this study after a median of 7 years. The scores in questionnaires evaluating urinary (UI) or anal incontinence and constipation or pelvic floor symptoms were low, indicating favorable surgical outcomes. Altogether, 80.1 % of patients were satisfied with the procedure. Anatomical cure was 56.4 % and 69.3 % depending on the definition used. Reoperation due to POP in any compartment was performed in 16.2 % of patients. Mesh exposure rate was 23 %, most of these being asymptomatic and of late onset.
Conclusions: Outcome of the TVM procedure was satisfactory. Anatomical cure was inferior to subjective cure. Mesh exposure rate was high; most exposures observed in the long-term were of late onset and were asymptomatic.
Keywords: Complications; Long-term follow-up; Mesh exposure; Pelvic organ prolapse; Subjective outcome; Transvaginal mesh.