Minimally invasive ventral mesh rectopexy for complex rectocoele: impact on anorectal and sexual function

Aim Minimally invasive surgery for pelvic floor prolapse has recently been shown to be feasible and safe. This study presents the results of robotic-assisted and laparoscopic rectopexy for complex rectocoele, focusing on less frequently reported outcomes of bowel and sexual function. Method We prospectively assessed 41 consecutive patients who underwent ventral mesh rectopexy (robotic-assisted or laparoscopic) for a symptomatic complex rectocoele from January 2009 to January 2010. Complex rectocoele was defined as having one or more of the following features: larger than 3 cm, an enterocoele or internal rectal prolapse. Patients with cystocoele underwent bladder suspension concurrently. Both groups were assessed for anatomical recurrence and function, comparing preoperative and postoperative faecal incontinence, obstructive defaecation syndrome and Gastrointestinal Quality-of-life Index scores, as well as vaginal discomfort and sexual function. Results Forty-one women underwent the procedure (16 robotic-assisted), with four (10.5%) having minor complications and two developing anatomical recurrence. There was significant relief of the commonest predominant symptoms of vaginal bulge/fullness (P < 0.0001) and sexual dysfunction (P = 0.02). There were three conversions to laparotomy (one robotic-assisted) and five patients declined postoperative functional assessment. In the remaining 33 patients [ follow-up median 12 (8-21) months], analysis revealed no significant difference in overall functional score (P > 0.740) or between patients with one or two meshes inserted (P > 0.486). Only patients with a preoperative obstructive defaecation syndrome score > 6 had a significant improvement postoperatively (P = 0.030). Conclusion Minimally invasive ventral mesh rectopexy for complex rectocoele offers satisfactory anatomical correction and functional results, with the potential for alleviating symptoms of outlet obstruction and improving vaginal comfort and sexual dysfunction.