What are the risks of prolapse surgery?
All surgeries carry risks. For prolapse surgery, these include infection, bleeding, pain, blood clots, bladder or bowel injury, recurrence, and mesh-related complications if used. Most risks are rare but should be discussed with your consultant.
Detailed Medical Explanation
Specific risks depend on the type of surgery (vaginal, laparoscopic, or abdominal). Potential complications include urinary incontinence, difficulty emptying the bladder, fistula formation, wound infection, pain during intercourse, and—if mesh is used—mesh erosion or infection. Most problems are rare, and thorough preoperative assessment reduces risk. Detailed consent processes, following NHS and NICE standards, ensure patients are fully informed. (NHS: Prolapse treatment | NICE NG123)
Clinical Context
Your consultant will tailor preoperative discussions to your risks and circumstances. Complication rates are generally low, but all major surgery should be weighed against the benefits and alternatives.
Evidence-Based Approaches
NICE and RCOG guidelines provide strict frameworks for risk assessment, consent, and follow-up after prolapse surgery. (RCOG: Surgical risks)