Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: The uterosacral ligaments (USLs) are bilateral deep pelvic support structures used in pelvic floor reconstructive surgery for treatment of apical pelvic organ prolapse (POP). We assessed the feasibility of a new surgical technique using the distal USLs. METHODS: Fresh frozen un-embalmed female cadavers were studied over a 2-year period (2021 to 2023) to evaluate USL characteristics. The surgical technique involved harvesting the distal USL and applying it to the anterior and posterior cervix. Selected specimens underwent suture pull-out strength testing of the harvested USL, performed using a handheld digital tensiometer device. RESULTS: Twenty-one specimens underwent laparotomy. Seven had inadequate pelvic access secondary to extensive adhesions or significant pathology. Eleven of the 14 final specimens had a uterus present. Five had evidence of pelvic surgery or disease. The average age was 85 years. USL tissue mass and quality varied; however, it was feasible to perform distal transection of at least one USL in all specimens. Mean harvested USL length was 5.1 cm. Mean distance between the harvested USL to the ipsilateral ureter was 3.5 cm. Applying the harvested USL to the anterior and posterior cervix was possible in all specimens intended for the novel procedure. Specimen supply precluded testing the novel procedure on a vaginal vault. Vaginal suture pull-out mean strength was 12.1 N. Mean abdominal suture pull-out strength was 9.9 N. CONCLUSIONS: The USL is a strong and accessible pelvic support structure. This anatomy-based study demonstrates technical feasibility of our novel apical suspension procedure. Further study of the post-hysterectomy cohort is required.