Women affected by pelvic organ prolapse experience the benefits of vault suspension in Lake Forest, IL

Pelvic organ prolapse is a condition in which a woman’s vagina and / or uterus are no longer sufficiently supported. Without proper support, these organs “fall” from their optimal position in the pelvis. There are several reasons a woman may experience pelvic organ prolapse, each of which results in injury to supportive tissues. Some of the common occurrences include childbirth, regularly lifting very heavy objects, chronic coughing, and also age.

The prolapse of the vagina and / or uterus may affect the bladder and may also cause the rectum to bulge into the vagina. It is also possible that bulging will occur in the intestine, sending it towards the vagina. Due to the intricacies of the female pelvic anatomy, a thorough consultation and examination with a qualified, board-certified physician is in order. Dr. Sanjay Gandhi is more than a family physician and more than an OBGYN. He is a urogynecologist who has completed three years of additional training in this field and has achieved specific board-certification from the The American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Essentially, pelvic prolapse occurs when the fascia, a canvas-like supportive tissue that supports the bladder, rectum, and other organs, tears. As support falters, organs move downward. Depending on the degree of prolapse, a woman may experience:

• A “heavy” sensation in the vagina
• Pain in the low back or pelvic region
• Persistent urinary tract infections
• Difficulty with urination
• Difficulty with bowel movements
• Pain during intercourse
• A sensation that the vagina is releasing something

Vault suspension for pelvic organ prolapse

The vault suspension procedure may be ideal in some cases of pelvic organ prolapse. This surgical procedure, performed under general anesthesia, is performed by Dr. Gandhi using the latest robotic laparoscopic technology. Laparoscopic surgery offers significant benefits over traditional surgical techniques.

To complete the laparoscopic vault suspension, the doctor need only make three incisions about a half inch in size. In the area of the vaginal vault, tiny instruments are used to attach the poorly supported vagina to the appropriate ligaments in the uterosacral area.

Using the laparoscopic technique, results are achieved in a less invasive manner. Additional benefits of this surgery include:

• Shorter hospital stay
• More comfortable recovery
• Shortened recovery period, approximately 4-6 weeks
• Small incisions mean less risk of permanent scarring

Pelvic organ prolapse can lead to a number of very uncomfortable symptoms. Discuss your options for treatment in our Park City, Woodstock, or Lake Forest, IL office.