Vaginal cuff dehiscence: risk factors and management

Cronin, Beth MD
Sung, Vivian W. MD, MPH
Matteson, Kristen A. MD, MPH

^aDivision of Gynecologic Oncology, Women and Infants Hospital, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI
^bDivision of Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery, Women and Infants Hospital, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI
^cDivision of Research, Women and Infants Hospital, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI
^dDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women and Infants Hospital, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI

Submitted May 31, 2011; revised August 17, 2011; accepted August 23, 2011.

Supported by in part by the National Institutes of Health-funded Career Development Award (K23- HD057957; K.A.M) and the National Institutes of Health-funded Career Development Award (K23-1K23HD060665; V.W.S.)

The authors report no conflict of interest.

Reprints not available from the authors.

American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology 206(4):p 284-288, April 2012.

Vaginal cuff dehiscence and evisceration are rare but serious complications of pelvic surgery, specifically hysterectomy. The data on risks of vaginal cuff dehiscence are variable, and there is no consensus on how to manage this complication. In our review, we present a summary of the risk factors, with symptoms, precipitating events, and treatment options for patients with vaginal cuff dehiscence after pelvic surgery. In addition, we provide a review of the current literature on this important surgical outcome and suggestions for future research on the incidence and prevention of vaginal cuff dehiscence.