Suture erosion rates and long-term surgical outcomes in patients undergoing sacrospinous ligament suspension with braided polyester suture

Objective

The objective of the study was to describe suture erosion rates and long-term surgical outcomes in patients undergoing sacrospinous ligament suspension (SSLS) using braided polyester suture.

Study Design

This was a retrospective cohort study of patients undergoing SSLS for vaginal prolapse between 1999 and 2005. Outcomes included rate and timing of suture erosion and related symptoms, additional treatment, and long-term success rates.

Results

Sixty-four of 92 subjects had SSLS with braided polyester suture and had an average follow-up of 26.5 months. Suture-related complications occurred in 36% of patients. Mean time to presentation was 18.9 months. Vaginal bleeding occurred in 74%, and suture removal was required in 70% of patients with symptoms. Recurrent prolapse developed in 27% of patients, but additional therapy was required in only 6%.

Conclusion

Permanent braided polyester sutures are associated with a high rate of suture-related complications over the long term and frequently require additional intervention to resolve associated symptoms.

Key words: permanent suture, sacrospinous ligament suspension, vaginal erosion, vaginal surgery, vaginal vault prolapse