Cystocele
A cystocele is the medical term for a prolapsed bladder.
A cystocele is somewhat similar to a hernia but occurs between the bladder and vagina. When the wall between the bladder and vagina weakens, the bladder can drop into the vagina. In a more severe prolapse, the bladder can even drop further so that it is protruding out of the vagina.
- In the past, a cystocele was normally fixed by insertion of surgical mesh. Since the year 2008, however, the FDA has issued warnings about the long-term effects of using mesh for any pelvic organ prolapse.
- Instead, doctors are devising new and safer ways to fix these problems.
What Causes a Cystocele?
There are many muscles and tissues supporting the bladder, uterus, and vagina. Over time, these muscles and tissues can weaken. Women who have birthed children, especially if they have had several, are more likely to have a weakening of those tissues. Age and genetics can also contribute to the problem, as well as heavy lifting and chronic constipation.
How Can a Cystocele be Treated?
In the past, a piece of surgical mesh was often inserted in between the bladder and the vagina. This worked well in some patients to prevent the bladder from falling into or out of the vagina. However, future problems with the mesh were not foreseen at the time and the mesh has been proven to cause complications.
Why are Sutures a Better Choice than Mesh?
Many doctors have had success using sutures to repair the prolapse. These sutures have held up well and often eliminate the need for additional surgery. For patients who already have surgical mesh implanted, surgeons will often remove the mesh first and then repair the prolapse with interlocking sutures.
