Information for the public
What has NICE said?
What has NICE said?
There is not much good evidence about how well sacrocolpopexy with hysterectomy using mesh to repair uterine prolapse works or how safe it is. It should only be used if extra care is taken to explain the risks and extra steps are put in place to record and review what happens.
More research on sacrocolpopexy with hysterectomy using mesh to repair uterine prolapse is needed and NICE may look at it again if more evidence is published.
What does this mean for me?
Your health professional should fully explain what is involved in having this procedure and discuss the possible benefits and risks with you. In particular, they should explain the uncertainty about the evidence on how likely it is to improve your symptoms, including a risk of uterine prolapse happening again. Also, they should make sure that you understand the uncertainty about the procedure's safety, including the risk of mesh erosion. This is when the mesh breaks into small pieces that can damage the vagina or other organs nearby. This can cause pain, bleeding and infection. You should also be told how to find more information about the procedure. You should only be asked if you want this procedure after having this discussion. Your health professional should ask you if details of your procedure can be collected.
Other comments from NICE
NICE said that because of the risk of mesh erosion, this procedure is usually done in 2 stages (hysterectomy then sacrocolpopexy at a later date).
Your healthcare team
Clinicians experienced in managing pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence in women should decide who should be offered this procedure and carry out treatment. They should have specific up-to-date training in the procedure.