Management of Sacrocolpopexy Mesh Complications—A Narrative Review and Clinical Experience from a Large-Volume Center

Despite the reputation of sacrocolpopexy as a highly durable reconstructive surgery for pelvic organ prolapse, mesh-related complications remain a significant deterrent for patients. This review discusses the incidence, presentation, diagnosis, management and prevention of sacrocolpopexy mesh complications.

We reviewed the literature on sacrocolpopexy focusing on long-term mesh complications and their management. As the literature is not specifically robust, we also give our recommendations based on experience from a large-volume center. Intraoperative videos and images are provided to illustrate findings and management techniques.

Sacrocolpopexy mesh complications include vaginal mesh exposure; bladder or bowel erosions; inflammatory and infectious conditions including spondylodiscitis; and mesh-related pain. Presentation ranges from overt symptoms such as mesh palpated in the vagina to insidious-like spondylodiscitis manifesting as back pain and malaise. Diagnosis relies on methodical history taking, review of operative reports, and a physical examination, with office-based endoscopy studies and imaging as indicated. Various management options have been described in the literature. We recommend an expectant approach for asymptomatic patients; For symptomatic vaginal exposure, we encourage removal of entire mesh arm(s) via an abdominal approach; however, many prefer to utilize a transvaginal or partial excisional approach first. Spondylodiscitis is managed with long-term antibiotics and often requires mesh removal. Prevention strategies include using a lightweight polypropylene mesh attached to well- vascularized vaginal walls, avoiding direct placement on any sutured vaginotomy or cystotomy. Delayed absorbable monofilament suture is non-inferior to permanent suture.

Sacrocolpopexy mesh complications can be challenging to diagnose and manage. Symptomatic cases often require a proactive approach; listening to patients when they describe persistent symptoms with postoperative onset; a low threshold for further evaluation; and upfront discussion of management options.