title: Laparoscopic techniques for the repair of vaginal vault prolapse: determining if less is more.
abstract: Repair of vaginal vault prolapse remains a surgical challenge. Abdominal, vaginal, and combined procedures have been described. The ideal operation remains elusive with regard to outcomes, morbidity, and economics. As an extension of the abdominal approach, laparoscopy continues to gain favor as an access method and as a surgical advancement. Recent studies highlight a number of laparoscopic techniques for restoration of apical support that demonstrate feasibility and encouraging results. Further study is necessary to determine if the minimally invasive nature of laparoscopy can duplicate or surpass standard abdominal and vaginal approaches to the repair of pelvic organ prolapse.
authors.affiliation: The Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Department of Urology, A3E, 4940 Eastern Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA. Jwright1@jhmi.edu
authors.forename: E James
authors.initials: EJ
authors.lastname: Wright
authors.forename: Li-Ming
authors.initials: LM
authors.lastname: Su
mesh_terms: D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy; D013520:Urologic Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D014596:Uterine Prolapse / Q000601:surgery*