Laparoscopic inguinal ligament suspension: a novel procedure to repair uterine prolapse

Introduction and hypothesis: Traditionally, surgical treatment for uterine prolapse has included hysterectomy. However, more patients now prefer a uterine-preserving operation because of concerns about fertility or sexual dysfunction. In this video, we describe a novel approach to correcting uterine prolapse in an attempt to demonstrate an alternative option for patients. Methods: A 42-year-old woman with symptomatic stage I-IV uterine prolapse (POP-Q: Aa +2, Ba +2, C + 3, gh 6.5, pb 3, TVL 8.5, Ap 0, Bp 0, D 0) underwent inguinal ligament suspension. The principle steps and techniques to complete the operation are outlined in the video. Results: Prolapse repair was successfully completed without any intraoperative complications. The uterus was restored to its anatomic position. During the 12-month follow-up, neither recurrence nor postoperative complications, such as mesh exposure, de novo incontinence or bowel obstruction, etc., occurred. Conclusions: Laparoscopic inguinal ligament suspension is a safe and feasible alternative for correcting the uterine prolapse. This surgery could be an attractive choice for patients who prefer a uterine-sparing surgery.