This chapter discusses the evaluation, prevention, and management of many complications commonly associated with pelvic reconstructive surgery. Of note, it does not include a discussion of the evaluation and management…

Introduction Although anterior vaginal prolapse is most common, loss of apical support is usually present in women with prolapse that extends beyond the hymen. There is growing recognition that adequate…

Anatomy of the perineal body, distal vagina, rectum, and anus Perineal body defects and rectovaginal fistulas (RVFs) are part of a spectrum of conditions that impact the posterior pelvic floor….

Introduction Lower urinary tract injury is one of the most serious complications of gynecologic surgery and, in addition to causing significant patient morbidity, is a common cause of litigation. Between…

Introduction Lower urinary tract dysfunction describes various problems related to the bladder’s ability to store or empty urine. Voiding dysfunction refers specifically to bladder emptying problems. Urinary retention is the…

Epidemiology Fecal incontinence, the involuntary leakage of liquid or solid stool, and anal incontinence, including the involuntary leakage of gas, are devastating problems. Many people find these conditions socially incapacitating…

Introduction The primary functions of the urinary bladder are storage and emptying, which are mediated by a combination of parasympathetic, sympathetic, and autonomic signaling (see Chapter 3 ). Bladder compliance…

Introduction Pelvic reconstructive surgery for genital prolapse and urinary stress incontinence usually results in improved quality of life ( ). However, numerous complications from mesh-augmented prolapse repairs, as well as…

Definition and etiology Constipation is a broad term that is defined as difficult evacuation of feces, infrequent defecation, or inadequate defecation. Our understanding of the etiology of constipation has improved,…