Predictive factors for overactive bladder symptoms after pelvic organ prolapse surgery

This study focussed on the factors which predict the presence of symptoms of overactive bladder (OAB) after surgery for pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Consecutive women who underwent POP surgery with or without the use of vaginal mesh materials in the years 2004-2007 were included. Assessments were made preoperatively and at follow-up, including physical examination (POP-Q) and standardised questionnaires (IIQ, UDI and DDI). Five hundred and five patients were included with a median follow-up of 12.7 (6-35) months. Bothersome OAB symptoms decreased after POP surgery. De novo bothersome OAB symptoms appeared in 5-6% of the women. Frequency and urgency were more likely to improve as compared with urge incontinence and nocturia. The best predictor for the absence of postoperative symptoms was the absence of preoperative bothersome OAB symptoms. The absence of bothersome OAB symptoms preoperatively was the best predictor for the absence of postoperative symptoms.