Anterior Enterocele After Radical Cystectomy

Abstract

Abstract

Background:

After radical cystectomy (RC), small and large bowel may herniate through the anterior vaginal wall with formation of an anterior enterocele. Anatomical shortcomings that predispose women to pelvic organ prolapse (POP) also predispose repairs to fail.

Case:

A 73-year-old woman developed an anterior enterocele after RC. She was treated successfully with colpectomy and colpocleisis. Levator plication played a role in the repair. There is a lack of standardization in transvaginal obliterative procedures.

Results:

The patient has been followed for 18 months without recurrence of POP and remains free of metastatic disease.

Conclusions:

The occurrence of an anterior enterocele after RC represents a unique anatomical challenge for the surgeon, and measures to support the vaginal apex prophylactically should be considered at the time of RC.