Vaginal & Rectal Repairs

Below is a guide to all of the vaginal and rectal repair procedures offered by Gentle Hands OBGYN. Explore the topic areas, read the brief descriptions of the procedures, and click through to learn more specific information about preparing for the procedure, and what you should expect after the procedure.

It’s important to note that this information is not completely comprehensive, and is intended to provide an overview of the procedure and your care. You should always have a thorough discussion with your physician prior to any procedure. Also, it’s important to note that, as with any procedure, there are risks, but these procedures are generally safe. Many of the risks closely associated with these procedures are very rare; once again, you should have a more detailed conversation with your physician about the risks and benefits of each procedure.

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Colpocleisis?

What is a colpocleisis?

Colpocleisis is the surgical closure of the vaginal canal. This procedure is done in an attempt to support the bladder, rectum and vagina and requires incisions in the vagina.

Vaginal Excision

What is vulvar or ?

A vulvar or vaginal excision is when tissue on the vulva or vagina is removed.

Tension Free Vaginal Tape

What is tension free vaginal tape?

Tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) procedure is designed to provide support for a sagging urethra so that when you cough or move vigorously or suddenly the urethra can remain closed with no accidental release of urine.

Trans-Obturator Tape (TOT)

What is Trans-Obturator Tape?

Trans-Obturator Tape (TOT) procedure is designed to provide support for a sagging urethra so that when you cough or move vigorously or suddenly the urethra can remain closed with no accidental release of urine.

Sacrospinous Ligament Fixation

What is sacrospinous ligament fixation?

Sacropinous ligament fixation is a surgical procedure used to correct bulging of the vagina, also known as prolapse of the vagina.

Sacral Colpopexy

What is sacral colpopexy?

Sacral colpopexy is a surgical procedure used to correct a prolapsed vagina.

Resection of the Hymen

What is resection of the Hymen?

A vulvar or vaginal excision is when the hymenal band is removed.

Rectovaginal Fistula Repair

What is rectovaginal fistula repair?

A rectovaginal fistula is when there is an abnormal connection or a hole between the rectum and the vagina. The rectovaginal fistula repair procedure is used to correct this problem.

Posterior Repair

What is posterior repair?

A posterior repair is necessary when the vagina and the back passage – rectum are no longer held up properly. The rectum drops down onto the back of the vagina it makes a weakness or bulge. The bulge is called a prolapse. A prolapsed rectum is called a rectocele. The prolapsed rectum may not empty properly when you want. The prolapse makes you feel uncomfortable in the vagina. The prolapse happens if the supports to the vagina and rectum stretch during pregnancy, and do not get back to normal afterwards. This may not show up until after the menopause. Having a heavy job, having a chronic cough, or being overweight will all bring on a prolapse earlier. This procedure will tighten up the supports to the rectum, and take away the bulge in the vagina.

Paravaginal Repair

What is paravaginal repair?

Paravaginal repair is a surgery used to restore the bladder and the urethra to its normal position by attaching it to the pelvic side-walls.

Marsupialization or Excision of Bartholin’s Gland

What is a Bartholin’s gland cyst?

A Bartholin’s gland cyst is a fluid-filled swelling of a Bartholin’s gland. Bartholin’s glands are two small glands on each side of the opening of the vagina (birth canal). These glands are called Bartholin’s glands. They each have a small duct (tube) that opens to the outside. The glands produce a fluid that helps protect the tissue around the vagina and provides lubrication during sexual intercourse. Normally these glands cannot be felt or seen.

Cystocele and Rectocele Repair

What is a cystocele and rectocele repair?

A cystocele and rectocele repair is an operation that lifts and tightens the tissue around the bladder and rectum so these organs no longer push against the vagina.  This procedure is also known as an Anterior and Posterior Repair.

Culdeplasty

What is culdeplasty?

Culdeplasty is a surgical technique that repairs an enterocele.  The physician will make an incision in the vagina, and will find the tissue that supports the bladder and the rectum.  The physician then sutures it to surrounding tissues to elevate and support the bladder and the vaginal apex.

Burch Procedure

What is a burch procedure?

Burch procedure is performed to treat urinary incontinence, and is a surgical procedure in which the neck of the bladder is suspended from nearby ligaments with sutures.