Women with symptoms of one type of Vaginal Prolapse are more likely to have or develop other types as well. Dr. Wilkie is specialized in Urogynecology and Reconstructive Gynaecologic Surgery and uses both vaginal and abdominal procedures to correct Vaginal Prolapse. Dr. Wilkie will often correct all prolapse related problems at once. In most cases, the surgery is performed through the vagina.
Dr. Wilkie is dedicated to giving his patients the most advanced and up to date treatment options available. All patients receive a full gynaecological exam prior to any treatment. Dr. Wilkie will first evaluate your condition and then discuss which treatment is most appropriate. Included in this discussion are the risks and benefits of each procedure. If surgery seems the best option, he will inform you on how to prepare for your surgery and what the expected postoperative (after surgery) course will be. (Read more in our FAQs or visit to our Patient Care area).
Cystocele and Bladder Prolapse Repair
A Cystocele occurs when the tissues and muscles that hold the bladder in place are stretched or weakened. This causes the bladder to move from its natural position and press against the front wall of the vagina, forming a bulge. In this procedure the front vaginal bulge that contains the bladder is supported by tightening the tissue that has stretched. Sometimes special materials (such as surgical mesh) may be used to give the bladder extra support.
A Rectocele occurs when the tissues and muscles that hold the end of the large intestine (rectum) in place are stretched or weakened. The rectum moves from its normal position, pressing against the back wall of the vagina forming a bulge into the vaginal space. In this procedure the bulge at the back wall of the vagina is repositioned and supported usually using the existing tissue that has been stretched. Muscle power in the pelvis usually improves and helps to provide support to the other tissues of the bladder and uterus. In some cases, special materials may be used to achieve this support.
Sometimes the inner-most part of the vagina loses support and may sag or drop down the vaginal canal. Often women who have had a hysterectomy experience Enterocele because the top of the vagina has lost support causing it to bulge down like an inside-out stocking. For this surgery, one of several procedures is used to re-suspend and support the inner vagina to strengthen ligaments.
Estrogen Replacement Therapy (ERT) — For women suffering with Vaginal Prolpase, Estrogen Replacement Therapy may help to limit further weakness of the muscles and other connective tissues that support the uterus. However, there are some drawbacks to taking estrogen, such as an increased risk of blood clots, gallbladder disease and breast cancer. The decision to use ERT must be made with your doctor after carefully weighing all of the risks and benefits.
Surgical options
Uterine prolapse may be treated by removing the uterus in a surgical procedure called hysterectomy. This may be done through an incision made in the vagina (vaginal hysterectomy) or through the abdomen (abdominal hysterectomy). Hysterectomy is major surgery, and removing the uterus means pregnancy is no longer possible. For further information please visit Surgical Services.
Uterine Suspension involves surgically reconnecting the uterus into its normal position. This procedure may be performed by reattaching the pelvic ligaments to the lower part of the uterus. Another technique uses a special material that acts like a sling to support the uterus in its proper position.
By performing these procedures laparoscopically with minimally invasive techniques, Dr. Wilkie and his team are able to decrease the experience of post operative pain and help speed recovery. For further information please visit Surgical Services.
Dr. Wilkie- you have no idea how you have changed my life! I cannot thank you and your staff enough for making me feel so at ease, answering all my questions (no matter how embarrassing they were!) and for the time and care you gave to me. I am so grateful for my new found freedom. I was so scared to look into my incontinent problem- and your staff was so wonderful. Please pass on my thanks to them for me.