Laparoscopic urogynaecology

Abstract

Urogynaecology is a subspecialty that manages urinary incontinence and pelvic floor disorders in women. Management options vary, and are often dependent on the patient's choice of treatment and the outcome desired. Minimal access surgery is becoming increasingly popular in the field of urogynaecology for patients opting for surgical treatment. Laparoscopic surgery offers the benefit of shorter hospital stays, reduction in post-operative pain, and similar results to those achieved through the open approach. Despite this, laparoscopic surgery presents its own challenges and complications specific to this surgical approach. This review article contains a summary of the relevant surgical anatomy for laparoscopic urogynaecology, theatre set-up and patient selection, the surgical treatment options for common pelvic floor disorders, and challenges in training and service provision.