Natural orifice vaginal sacrocolpopexy (NOVaS): a cadaver feasibility study.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: The primary objective was to determine the feasibility of a vaginal approach to sacrocolpopexy using a cadaver model. Secondary objectives were to measure the distance from the vaginal introitus to the sacrum and distances of the sacral fixation elements to other vital structures.

METHODS

Fourteen fresh-frozen cadavers were used. Specialized instruments were developed to optimize visualization and facilitate performance of the procedure.

RESULTS

Five cadavers had a transperineal approach (an approach found unfeasible), and eight of the remaining nine had complete or partial completion of the transvaginal approach. The mean distance from the introitus to the promontory was 14.6 cm (12-16.5 cm). The mean distance from the sacral fixation elements to the aorta was 5.2 cm; common iliac artery, 3.5 cm; internal iliac artery, 3.25 cm; middle sacral artery, 1.75 cm, and ureters, 3.5 cm. The position of the sacral fixation elements was consistently at the level of S1-2.

CONCLUSION

Vaginal sacrocolpopexy is feasible in a cadaver model.