[Changing attitudes on the surgical treatment of urogenital prolapse: birth of the tension-free vaginal mesh]

Abstract

Objectives: To describe, in view of the new standardization, the technique for urogenital prolapse repair using a one-piece synthetic mesh.

Materials and methods: The history and development steps through which the Tension free Vaginal Mesh (TVM) technique emerged are described. The use of a mesh was prompted by the 20-30% recurrence rate associated with conventional repair techniques. Selection of the type of mesh is discussed. Non-absorbable synthetic meshes have shown their usefulness in visceral surgery. A list of materials along with their respective advantages and inconveniences is reviewed and particular emphasis is put on both the tolerance and erosion issues, the latter being specific to the vaginal route. The TVM Group selected a one-thread polypropylene mesh, Prolene Soft, which seemed the most appropriate for the transvaginal approach of prolapse surgical repair. The prosthesis and its design rationale are described. Full details are given on the consecutive intervention steps and underlying concepts.

Results: The relevant literature is scarce and there is a lack of methodologically sound studies validating the materials and techniques used. After completion of a first step of technique refinement and feasibility assessment involving about 300 surgical interventions, the authors initiated a prospective multicenter study. Clinical outcome assessments using feasibility, complications, and efficacy endpoints will be published after twelve months, three years, and five years of follow-up.

Conclusion: Fruitful reasoning led to the development of the TVM technique of complete surgical repair of genital prolapse, which uses a synthetic materiel carefully selected after several tests. All surgeons can apply this technique after a short training period.