%0 Journal Article
%T Trends in Urogynecology-Transvaginal Mesh Surgery in Germany.
%A Degirmenci Y
%A Stewen K
%A Dionysopoulou A
%A Schiestl LJ
%A Hofmann K
%A Skala C
%A Hasenburg A
%A Schwab R
%J J Clin Med
%V 13
%N 4
%D 2024 Feb 8
%M 38398300
%F 4.964
%R 10.3390/jcm13040987
%X BACKGROUND: Pelvic organ prolapse constitutes a prevalent condition associated with a considerable impact on the quality of life. The utilization of transvaginal mesh surgery for managing POP has been a subject of extensive debate. Globally, trends in TVM surgery experienced significant shifts subsequent to warnings issued by the FDA.
METHODS: This study aims to explore temporal patterns in transvaginal mesh surgery in the German healthcare system. A comprehensive analysis was conducted on in-patient data from the German Federal Statistical Office spanning 2006 to 2021. A total of 1,150,811 operations, each associated with specific codes, were incorporated into the study. Linear regression analysis was employed to delineate discernible trends.
RESULTS: The trends in transvaginal mesh surgery within the anterior compartment exhibited relative stability (p = 0.147); however, a significant decline was noted in all other compartments (posterior: p < 0.001, enterocele surgery: p < 0.001). A subtle increasing trend was observed for uterine-preserving transvaginal mesh surgery (p = 0.045).
CONCLUSIONS: Surgical trends over the specified timeframe demonstrate how POP management has evolved globally. Notably, despite observed fluctuations, transvaginal mesh surgery remains a viable option, particularly for specific cases with a high risk of relapse and contraindications to alternative surgical approaches.