A new study published in the “Journal of Clinical Medicine” demonstrates positive outcomes for treating pelvic organ prolapse (POP) using EnPlace, a minimally invasive device for sacrospinous ligament fixation. The research, which included 331 patients, specifically highlights the treatment’s effectiveness in women aged 65 and older.
The study divided patients into two age groups: older patients with a mean age of 71.8 years and younger patients with a mean age of 47.6 years. Both groups showed strong outcomes, with 99.4% of patients discharged either the same day or the day after surgery. The procedure took approximately 25 minutes, with minimal blood loss reported across both age groups.
“This study provides valuable data showing that the EnPlace device offers women of all ages a minimally invasive repair approach with quicker recovery times and fewer complications compared to traditional prolapse procedures,” said Renee Selman, Co-CEO of FEMSelect, the developer of EnPlace. “These findings emphasize that women, especially older patients, do not have to suffer in silence. There is a treatment that is minimally invasive and can improve their quality of life without associated surgical risks.”
The research revealed notably low recurrence rates: 2.2% in older patients and 6.7% in younger patients. These figures stand out when compared to traditional POP surgeries, which typically see recurrence rates between 20% and 30%. The study noted that higher recurrence in younger patients likely resulted from resuming vigorous activities too soon after surgery.
Complications were minimal, though seven older patients (2.6%) experienced early postoperative obstructed defecation, which was resolved with stool softeners. Patient satisfaction exceeded 90%, based on anatomical cure rates and procedure satisfaction.
Dr. Ronen S. Gold, one of the study’s authors, commented: “With the aging population expected to triple by 2050, it is critical that we have safe, effective options for older women experiencing pelvic organ prolapse. EnPlace is a minimally invasive technique that offers an approach that may significantly improve quality of life while minimizing surgical risks, making it a valuable option for women in their later years.”
The study’s implications are particularly relevant given that one in four women over the age of 18 experiences symptoms of prolapse. Historically, women have faced limited treatment options due to concerns about recovery time and potential complications.
