Laparoscopic inguinal ligament suspension combined with hysterectomy for the treatment of uterovaginal prolapse

Aim To demonstrate the efficacy and safety of a modified technique of laparoscopic inguinal ligament suspension (LILS) with hysterectomy for the treatment of uterovaginal prolapse. Methods A total of 57 patients were treated by LILS combined with hysterectomy between Jan 2014 and Feb 2016. The perioperative parameters, such as operative time, estimated blood loss, length of stay and intra- and postoperative complications were recorded. The Pelvic Organ Prolapse questionnaire classification was applied to evaluate the Pelvic Organ Prolapse stage, and Patient Global Impression of Improvement scale was used to determine the patients' satisfaction. Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory-20 and Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire were used to evaluate the functional improvement. All data were collected preoperatively and then at 12 months postoperatively. Results The mean surgical time was 130.4 (82-190) min, the average blood loss was 50.4 (10-300) mL and the mean hospitalization was 5.3 (4-8) days. The rates of intra- and postoperative complications were low. After a minimal of 12 months follow-up, the anatomical success rate was 85.5%, and the subjective satisfaction rate was 92.7%. The functional measures also presented a significant improvement with no recurrence of prolapse. Conclusion LILS combined with hysterectomy was a safe and effective technique and might be considered as an alternative treatment for patients with uterovaginal prolapse.