Uterine prolapse, vaginal vault prolapse, cystocele, rectocele, and enterocele are all words used to describe the varieties of prolapse the can occur. Cystocele, rectocele, and enterocele are generally repaired through the vagina. However, uterine prolapse and complete vaginal vault prolapse need to repaired abdominally. Until recently, the only option was a large incision for this prolapse repair. Dr. Wilson has been trained to perform a laparoscopic colpopexy. This means that the vagina or the cervix can be suspended to strong fascial bands found deep in the pelvis through the laparoscope, thus saving a patient who need this procedure a large incision and an extended recovery time. Through four small incisions, permanent suture is used to affix the vagina or the cervix to these fascial bands, thus elevating the cervix or vagina in placing this back in its original anatomic location. Since the suture is permanent, we expect that this repair should last forever. This has been an extremely successful procedure, and women who have undergone the procedure are noticing how much better they feel and how quick their recovery is. Often, a laparoscopic colpopexy is combined with a cystocele and/or rectocele repair. In the case of stress urinary incontinence, a vaginal sling procedure may be performed by a urologist in conjunction with the laparoscopic colpopexy.

The laparoscopic approach to pelvic prolapse is a breakthrough and a wonderful opportunity for women with this disabling condition to correct the problem with a short and relatively pain-free recovery time.