E-Posters-Mesh Reduces Elasticity in an Animal Model of Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Mesh Reduces Elasticity in an Animal Model of Pelvic Organ Prolapse - C Emi Bretschneider, MD

Pdf Summary

This study aimed to explore the in vivo behavior of mesh implants in an animal model of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and investigate the potential mechanism underlying mesh complications. The researchers used Lysyl Oxidase Like-1 knockout (LOXL-1 KO) mice, which serve as a genetic animal model of prolapse.<br /><br />Histologic assessments of prolapsed LOXL-1 KO mice tissue showed changes in the extracellular matrix (ECM), such as increased elastin clusters and disorganized elastin structure, suggesting dysfunction that contributes to prolapse development. The primary objective was to examine ECM aberrations in LOXL-1 KO mice following mesh implantation to better understand mesh complications.<br /><br />Forty-two LOXL-1 KO mice and 18 wild-type mice were used for the study. Baseline measurements and pain scores were collected, and all mice underwent either sham surgery or mesh implantation. Histologic testing was performed to evaluate elastin, collagen, and inflammation.<br /><br />The results showed that the LOXL-1 KO mice implanted with mesh had a significantly decreased amount of elastin and more collagen in the rectovaginal tissues compared to the sham group. This suggests that mesh reduces the elasticity of tissues, potentially contributing to mesh-related complications. However, no mice experienced mesh-related complications during the study, limiting the ability to fully understand the pathophysiologic changes underlying these complications.<br /><br />In conclusion, this study provides evidence that mesh implantation in LOXL-1 KO mice decreases tissue elasticity by reducing elastin and increasing collagen. Further research is needed to better understand the interplay between the implant and host tissue in mesh-related complications.

Keywords

mesh implants

animal model

pelvic organ prolapse

LOXL-1 KO mice

prolapse development

extracellular matrix

elastin clusters

mesh complications

histologic testing

tissue elasticity