Apogee™
How it Works
Vaginal vault prolapse occurs when the upper portion of the vagina, called the apex, sags or bulges down into the vaginal canal or outside the vagina. The ApogeeTM System is designed to restore a more normal anatomy with a mesh that is placed at the apex to hold the vagina in place.
The use of surgical mesh for reinforcement is not new. It has been used extensively in surgery, especially in hernia repairs. The mesh is designed to conform to your anatomy. It has many holes designed to allow your body tissue to grow into it to provide a framework of support.The Procedure
The Procedure
The Apogee™ procedure is an in-patient procedure and usually is performed under general anesthesia.
Dr. Grover will perform the surgery vaginally, meaning an incision will be made through your vagina rather than abdominally. Small incisions also are made in each buttock to pass a needle from the buttock to the vaginal canal.
In general, the Apogee procedure involves the following steps. (Dr. Grover's method may vary slightly from this one.)
- An incision is made in the vaginal wall.
- A needle is inserted in each buttock and passed to the opening in the vaginal wall.
- The mesh is attached to the needles via the opening in the vaginal wall.
- The needles are retracted and exit through the same entry points in the buttock.
- Your surgeon may attach the mesh to the vault with minimal suture stitches.
- The vaginal incision is closed.
What To Expect After the Procedure
Dr. Grover will require you to stay in the hospital overnight. Also, he may insert a catheter through your urethra to drain urine from your bladder. You may be prescribed antibiotics to prevent infection and analgesics (pain medicine) for any post-operative discomfort.
During the healing period, for approximately four weeks, you should avoid sexual intercourse, heavy lifting and rigorous exercise. Dr. Grover will provide you with additional information on how to care for yourself after surgery, including any other limitations to activities.
Is It Right For You?
Apogee™ is a solution for women with vaginal vault prolapse.
The procedure is not for recommended for:
- Pregnant patients
- Individuals who have areas of active or latent infection or who show signs of tissue necrosis (tissue that is dead due to injury or disease)
- Individuals who have any disorder that would create an unacceptable risk of post-operative complication
The best way to determine if Apogee is right for you is to talk to Dr. Grover.
