E-Posters-10031

10031_Lee

Pdf Summary

This study examined the changes in the vaginal axis after hysterectomy and their potential impact on the development of post-hysterectomy prolapse. Hysterectomy is a common surgical procedure, and a small percentage of women who undergo this procedure may experience post-hysterectomy apical prolapse. The mechanisms behind this condition are not well understood.<br /><br />The researchers hypothesized that the vaginal axis is altered in women who have had a hysterectomy compared to those with an intact uterus. They conducted a case-control study comparing MRI findings in women who had undergone hysterectomy to those with an intact uterus. The primary outcome was the change in the upper, middle, and lower vaginal axes. Secondary outcomes included angles between different sections of the vagina, depth of the posterior cul-de-sac, and total vaginal length.<br /><br />The results showed that in the hysterectomy group, the middle vaginal axis was significantly deviated anteriorly compared to the intact uterus group. The upper-middle and middle-lower vaginal angles were also more obtuse in the hysterectomy group. Additionally, the posterior cul-de-sac depth and total vaginal length were significantly shorter in the hysterectomy group.<br /><br />Based on these findings, the researchers concluded that women who have undergone hysterectomy have a straighter vaginal axis and a shorter cul-de-sac than women with an intact uterus. This anterior deviation of the vagina may expose the cul-de-sac to increased intra-abdominal forces, potentially leading to post-hysterectomy prolapse.<br /><br />Overall, this study provides insight into the changes that occur in the vaginal axis after hysterectomy and their potential implications for post-hysterectomy prolapse. Further research is needed to better understand the underlying mechanisms and to develop strategies for preventing and managing this condition.

Keywords

vaginal axis

hysterectomy

post-hysterectomy prolapse

surgical procedure

MRI findings

case-control study

anterior deviation

cul-de-sac depth

total vaginal length

intra-abdominal forces