What Is Pelvic Reconstruction Surgery?
The purpose of pelvic reconstruction surgery is to put organs back into the original position. There are several types of reconstruction surgery designed to address issues with specific organs. Native tissue repair is a common reconstruction technique. In this procedure, doctors use the patient’s tissue to keep organs in the original place. This surgery is for vaginal and uterine prolapse.
Types of reconstruction procedures
Sacrocolpopexy is a reconstruction procedure that requires doctors to make an incision in the abdomen. Then, doctors insert surgical mesh to the walls of the vagina and the tailbone to keep organs in place. Surgical mesh is used when the woman does not have healthy body tissue.
The pelvic organs
The pelvic organs are a group of organs that reside in the pelvic area of the body. The pelvic region is part of the lower abdomen. These organs include:
- Vagina: a collection of muscles that creates a canal
- Rectum: as part of the anus, waste travels through this opening and exits the body
- Uterus: an organ that holds a fetus
- Bladder: a muscular organ that stores urine
- Urethra: a small tube that carries urine out of the body
Pelvic organ prolapse
When any of these organs fall out of place, prolapse occurs. The top of the vagina can collapse, the bladder may collapse into the vaginal cavity, or the small intestine or rectum may fall into the vagina. People may not be aware of pelvic organ prolapse until specific symptoms appear. Look out for urinary incontinence, lower back pain, bowel issues, pelvic pressure, and bulges in the vagina.
Vaginal rejuvenation explained
Vaginal rejuvenation may be part of pelvic reconstruction surgery. During vaginal rejuvenation, doctors tighten the vaginal muscles which reduce the size of the vaginal opening. This surgery is common for women after childbirth. The force and pressure of pushing the fetus can cause pelvic prolapse. Therefore, doctors have to repair the front and back of the vaginal walls and the rectal opening.
What is labiaplasty?
These surgeries are different from a labiaplasty which corrects the appearance of the vaginal lips. In a labiaplasty, surgeons work on the external parts of the vagina. There is no tightening of the interior muscles. This procedure is purely cosmetic and isn’t performed for health reasons.
Considering procedures
An OB/GYN who specializes in these types of procedures would be able to provide more specific answers. Women will benefit most from discussing treatment options with a physician who specializes in women’s health and reproductive organs rather than a general surgeon.