Colporrhaphy

Colporrhaphy

Colporrhaphy (pronounced: kol-PO-ruh-fee) is a surgical procedure performed to repair defects in the wall of the vagina. The term is derived from the Greek words 'kolpos' meaning 'hollow, womb, vagina' and 'rhaphē' meaning 'suture'.

Procedure

During a colporrhaphy, the surgeon makes an incision in the vaginal wall and tightens the underlying tissues and muscles to narrow the diameter of the vagina. This procedure is often performed to correct vaginal prolapse, a condition where the structures supporting the vagina weaken or break, causing the vagina to descend or protrude.

Types

There are two types of colporrhaphy: anterior and posterior. An Anterior Colporrhaphy is performed to repair a cystocele (prolapse of the bladder into the vagina), while a Posterior Colporrhaphy is performed to repair a rectocele (prolapse of the rectum into the vagina).

Risks and Complications

Like any surgical procedure, colporrhaphy carries some risks, including infection, bleeding, and damage to nearby organs. There may also be complications related to anesthesia. Some women may experience changes in sexual function or develop a new prolapse in a different area.

Related Terms

• Cystocele
• Rectocele
• Vaginal Prolapse
• Anterior Colporrhaphy
• Posterior Colporrhaphy

See Also

• Pelvic Organ Prolapse
• Vaginal Surgery
• Gynecology

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Colporrhaphy
• Wikipedia's article - Colporrhaphy

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