In vitro comparison of two methods of anchoring the vagina during the Burch procedure

Abstract

To compare the quality of the vaginal attachment of classical Burch anterior colposuspension with laparoscopic colposuspension with polyester mesh fixed with tackers.

The study was performed on three fresh cadavers. The extension and the strength of polyester braided fibre (Ticron) sutures on one side were compared with those of polyester mesh (Mersilene) tacked into the Burch site on the other side, by means of progressive traction measured by a linear transducer.

When progressive traction was applied in the two systems studied, both displayed moderate elongation. The Mersilene mesh appeared to be significantly more elongated than Ticron suture, with a partial return to the original length. In no case (Ticron suture or tacked Mersilene mesh) was a rupture of the vaginal fixation seen, when traction of up to 2 kg was applied.

Mersilene mesh appears to elongate more than the classical suture when placed under traction. This casts doubt on the quality of the suspension obtained, even though no rupture was observed.