What Is a Cystocele (Anterior Vaginal Prolapse)?
Cystocele, or anterior vaginal prolapse, occurs when the bladder drops from its normal position and bulges into the vaginal wall. This can lead to vaginal tissue protrusion, difficulty in urinating, and painful intercourse. It typically results from weakened pelvic floor muscles due to factors such as vaginal childbirth or chronic conditions like constipation or heavy lifting.
Cystocele Severity and Symptoms
Cystoceles are classified as:
- Mild: May cause discomfort or light urine leakage.
- Moderate: More noticeable bulge with increased urinary symptoms.
- Severe: Can cause serious urinary problems and even lead to kidney damage if untreated.
Who Is at Risk of Cystocele?
A cystocele can affect women of all ages, but certain factors increase the risk, including:
- Weakened pelvic muscles from aging
- Vaginal childbirth
- History of pelvic surgery
- Obesity
- Family history of pelvic organ prolapse
Surgical Treatments for Cystocele
In severe cases, surgery may be required to restore proper positioning of the pelvic organs. Surgical options include:
-
Anterior Vaginal Repair: To correct cystocele (bladder prolapse)
-
Posterior Vaginal Repair: To correct rectocele (rectal wall prolapse)
-
Vaginal Suspension Surgery: To support the vaginal vault
-
Abdominal Cystocele Repair Surgery: Involves suspension of the bladder and uterus for more advanced or complex prolapse cases
| Procedure Name | Cystocele Repair |
|---|---|
| Type of Surgery | Open or Minimally invasive (laparoscopic or hysteroscopic) |
| Type of Anesthesia | General Anesthesia |
| General or spinal anesthesia | 30 minutes - 2 hours |
| Recovery Duration | Few weeks to few months |
Cystocele Repair: Pre-Op & Post-Op Care
Preparation for Cystocele Repair
Before surgery, gynecologists discuss risks, benefits, and treatment options for repairing cystoceles. They may conduct blood or urine tests, review medical history, symptoms, and perform a physical examination. Urodynamic testing to assess bladder function and cystoscopy to detect urinary tract issues may be done pre-surgery.
During the Cystocele Surgery:
Post-anesthesia, a midline vertical vaginal incision frees the prolapsed bladder, with sutures placed for support. A cystoscopy checks for bladder or urethra damage. A pubovaginal fascial sling may treat urinary incontinence or reduce recurrence. Excess vaginal skin may be removed before closing the wound.
After the Surgery:
Most patients stay in the hospital for 1 to 2 days, with the vaginal pack removed on day 1 and the catheter removed on either day 1 or 2, depending on pain and mobility, and if the patient is satisfied, they can return home.
Cystocele repair recovery
After surgery for severe cystocele, recovery may take a few weeks, but most people experience a complete recovery within a few months. However, the cystocele repair recovery time might vary from person to person based on the severity of the condition, the type of surgery undergone, and the patient’s overall health condition.
Post-procedure care:
Post-Operative Care Guidelines include:
- Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for 6 weeks.
- Perform light home duties like walking, short walks, and shopping as suggested.
- Take pain medication as directed.
- Avoid driving for 3 to 5 days to prevent post-op pain.
- Avoid sexual intercourse for 6 weeks to allow vaginal wound healing.
- Consult with a doctor about work return, typically within 3 to 4 weeks for non-demanding work.
- Attend post-op appointments to prevent further complications.
Benefits of Cystocele Repair at Yashoda Hospitals
- Enhanced Urinary Control & Sexual Function
- Quality Of Life
- Minimal Hospitalizations
- Minimally Invasive
- No Blood Loss
- Quick Recovery
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