Type of publication:
Conference abstract

Author(s):
*Yassin N.A.; *Orfanos G.; *Farquharson A.L.; *Lacy-Colson J.C.H.

Citation:
Surgical Endoscopy; Dec 2018; vol. 32; Supplement 2, p. S553

Abstract:
Introduction: Laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy (VMR) is a popular treatment for symptoms of obstructive defecation in patients suffering with rectal prolapse and rectorectal intussusception. The procedure is technically challenging and may result in serious complications, such as mesh erosions. This study examines the clinical and functional outcomes of patients undergoing VMR in a district general hospital.
Method(s): A retrospective analysis was made of a prospectively maintained database of all laparoscopic VMR procedures. All cases performed by 2 surgeons between February 2012 and June 2016 were included. Length of stay, post-operative complications and functional outcomes were assessed.
Result(s): One hundred patients underwent a laparoscopic VMR procedure during the study period. The mean age was 59.7 years. Nineteen of the patients had external prolapse and 81 had functional bowel symptoms with internal prolapse (rectocele and/or intussusception) as demonstrated on proctography. Pre-operative investigations and pelvic floor multi-disciplinary team (MDT) discussions were performed in all cases. Forty percent of patients had previous pelvic surgery. In the external prolapse group there were 2/19 recurrences (10%). Functional improvement was reported in 96% of the patients. There was only 1 mesh complication (1%).
Conclusion(s): Laparoscopic VMR is an effective and safe procedure for the treatment of symptoms of obstructive defecation. This procedure can be safely performed in the district general hospital setting with excellent clinical and functional outcomes. Thorough preoperative investigations, MDT discussions and standardisation of the surgical technique lead to excellent outcomes.