Laparoscopic sacral colpopexy without the robot: Safe, effective and easier than you think

Objective: The purpose of the study is to evaluate the outcomes of laparoscopic sacral colpopexy operations performed by faculty and resident surgeons using simple laparoscopic suturing and tying techniques, and to compare those results with those reported by other institutions performing laparoscopic and robotic sacral colpopexy. Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study of 206 consecutive laparoscopic sacral colpopexy cases (with or without concomitant procedures) between October 2014 and July 2020. Laparoscopic sacral colpopexies were performed using a carefully selected set of instruments and techniques which are quickly mastered by trainees. Residents performed up to 50% of the work in each operation. Descriptive statistics were used to compare primary outcomes with published literature. Results: The average operative time was 153.3 minutes. The overall complication rate was 16.5%, including 3.4% cystotomy, 0.5% enterotomy, 0.5% small bowel obstruction, 2.4% mesh complications including erosion, detachment and removal. Most recent follow up occurred at a mean of 325.5 days (SD 397.9) and median of 183 days (IQR 48-471) postoperatively. Recurrent prolapse was noted in 6.3% of patients and 3.9% underwent a subsequent prolapse repair. These results compare favorably with those published by other institutions. Conclusion: Using simple suturing and tying techniques, laparoscopic sacral colpopexy can be performed without robotic assistance by a large portion of laparoscopically trained surgeons, including trainee cosurgeons. Significant cost savings accrue from the use of conventional laparoscopy in place of robotic technology. Residents can participate in laparoscopic sacral colpopexy cases with comparable operative times and favorable surgical outcomes.