Norfolk, Virginia - January 30, 2006 - Otherwise healthy women have been limiting their active lives because of extreme discomfort caused by pelvic prolapsewhen the body no longer holds in place internal organs such as the uterus, bladder, or small intestines.
Longer Lasting Solution
Now, a synthetic material is giving Peninsula doctors a longer-lasting solution when previous surgical options failed up to 40% of the time. The new mesh cradles organs, supporting them as the body once did and becomes part of the pelvic tissues.
Affects Half of Women Who Have Had Children
About 50 percent of women who have had children will suffer from this condition, and for many, a hysterectomy has been among the only surgical option.
A lot of women find the pain and intense pressure caused by pelvic prolapse very limiting to their active lifestyles, said Dr. Naved Jafri , an OB-GYN who performs pelvic floor repairs at Sentara CarePlex Hospital using this new technique. The treatment is also offered at Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital and Sentara Leigh Hospital.
Sentara patients who have had the surgery are now able to walk, jog and enjoy other activities that may have been too uncomfortable. The minimally invasive procedure involves up to three small incisions and takes just over an hour to complete. Most patients are mobile the next day.
Patient Story
Extreme discomfort limited activity for 54-year-old Beverly Boon before her surgery about a month ago using this new technique. Her work as a Newport News chiropractor requires that she exert tremendous force, which has been harmful to her body over time. This procedure not only offered faster recoverysomething important to this small business owner, but it also offered her an option of keeping healthy organs in tact.
"Why take out parts that are perfectly functional and healthy," Boon said. "This procedure makes perfect sense, and I'm thrilled with the results," she continued.
Another Option to Hysterectomy with Shorter Recovery Time
Pelvic floor repairs using this new technique are changing care for women with prolapse: The longer-lasting solution involves little hospitalization with improved recovery time and eliminates the need for hysterectomies in many women who previously opted for the surgery. Besides uncomfortable pressure in the abdomen and vagina, other symptoms of pelvic prolapse include painful intercourse; frequent urination; back pain; and problems with bowel movements.
Gynecare, a division of Johnson & Johnson, specializes in minimally invasive treatment options for a variety of gynecologic conditions.
Sentara Healthcare is a premier not-for-profit health care provider in southeastern Virginia and northeastern North Carolina.
6/2006