Confirm the prolapse
Examination identifies which compartments are affected and whether bladder, bowel, or sexual symptoms are related to the prolapse.
Conditions & treatments
Prolapse surgery
Laparoscopic Sacrocolpopexy
A minimally invasive abdominal operation used to restore support to the top of the vagina or uterus in selected patients with pelvic organ prolapse.
Medical information: This is general information and does not replace professional medical advice.
Understanding the treatment
Clinical overview
Sacrocolpopexy restores apical vaginal support by attaching the upper vagina or cervix to a strong ligament over the sacrum. A graft, usually synthetic mesh, is placed through the abdomen and covered with the lining of the abdominal cavity.
The operation may be considered for vaginal vault prolapse after hysterectomy or for uterine and apical prolapse in selected patients. It is one of several established prolapse operations. Vaginal native-tissue repairs and non-surgical options remain appropriate alternatives for many patients.
Interactive diagram
How sacrocolpopexy restores support
Step through a simplified side view of the pelvis to see where support is lost and how the graft is positioned.
Hover over or select a label to read a short description.
Normal pelvic support
The top of the vagina (the apex) is normally held up by ligaments and connective tissue, sitting above the bladder and rectum.
This is general information and does not replace professional medical advice.
[CONFIRM: photo] · Shot 04 · 3/2
Laparoscopic theatre set-up
Laparoscopic tower and instruments in an empty theatre, with Prof Jeffery at the console or adjusting the monitor. Cool, clean lighting.
Before treatment
Assessment and shared decision-making
Treatment is planned only after the diagnosis, alternatives, expected benefits, limitations, and relevant risks have been discussed.
Review alternatives
Observation, pelvic-floor physiotherapy, a vaginal pessary, and vaginal native-tissue surgery are discussed where relevant.
Assess associated symptoms
Bladder emptying, urinary leakage, bowel function, prior operations, and general health can influence the operation and recovery plan.
Discuss mesh specifically
The location of abdominally placed mesh, its purpose, potential complications, and the distinction from transvaginal prolapse mesh are explained.
Treatment pathway
How the operation is performed
Sacrocolpopexy is usually completed through small abdominal incisions under general anaesthesia. The exact operation varies with the anatomy and whether the uterus is retained.
01
Access and examination
The pelvis is assessed laparoscopically and scar tissue from previous surgery is managed where necessary.
02
Restore apical support
The upper vagina or cervix is supported with a graft secured to the sacral promontory.
03
Cover the graft
The graft is positioned away from the abdominal contents and covered with peritoneum where possible.
04
Check pelvic function
Bladder function and recovery are assessed after surgery, with follow-up arranged to review healing and support.
Informed consent
Risks and limitations
All procedures carry risks. Individual risk varies with health, anatomy, previous surgery, and the planned treatment.
- Bleeding, infection, blood clots, anaesthetic complications, and conversion to open surgery
- Injury to the bladder, ureters, bowel, blood vessels, or nerves
- Mesh exposure, erosion, infection, contraction, or pain requiring further treatment
- New or persistent urinary, bowel, pelvic pain, or sexual symptoms
- Recurrence in the same or another vaginal compartment
- Rare sacral-disc infection or complications involving the sacral promontory
Practical guidance
Recovery and follow-up
Hospital stay
Determined by the operation and early bladder, bowel, pain, and mobility recovery.
Work and driving
Timing depends on recovery, work demands, medication use, and the ability to perform an emergency stop.
Lifting and exercise
A graduated return is advised; heavy lifting and high-impact activity are restricted initially.
Pelvic healing
Intercourse and internal examinations are deferred until healing has been reviewed.
Related information
Take the next step
Ready to discuss your options?
Prof Jeffery sees patients at three Cape Town locations. Booking is managed through the Urogynaecology Clinic (ULC).
Booking link takes you to urogynaecology.co.za — managed by the Urogynaecology Clinic team.