Tension-free vaginal mesh for patients with pelvic organ prolapse: mid-term functional outcomes

Objective: We aimed to evaluate the mid-term efficacy of tension-free vaginal mesh (TVM) for pelvic organ prolapse (POP), and observe the time course of lower urinary tract symptoms and sexual function.

Methods: In this retrospective study, we included 112 female patients who underwent TVM at a single center for stage 2 or higher POP, and replied to questionnaires before, and 2 and 4 years after TVM. We evaluated the anatomical cure rate, prolapse quality of life questionnaire scores, international prostate symptom scores, International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form scores, and Female Sexual Function Index scores.

Results: The anatomical cure rate at 4 years was 89%. Voiding and storage symptoms improved in patients after TVM. We found that 25/112 patients had sexual intercourse before TVM, and among them, 15/25 (60%) continued sexual intercourse after TVM. Additionally, of the 87 patients who had no sexual intercourse before TVM, 13 resumed sexual intercourse after TVM.

Conclusion: Cases of TVM have decreased because of the Food and Drug Administration statements concerning mesh problems. However, this study showed relatively favorable mid-term results for lower urinary tract symptoms. Furthermore, sexual activity was restored in some patients, indicating the efficacy of TVM for sexual function.