What Happens During the AVESTA^® Procedure

The following information describes what you can expect when undergoing the AVESTA procedure. It is intended as a general overview. Your experience may differ. Please talk to your doctor for specifics regarding your case.

Before Surgery

Your doctor will provide you with information on how to prepare for the procedure. In particular, you will be instructed on what you can eat and drink prior to surgery and when you should arrive for surgery. You should follow these instructions carefully.

During Surgery

The AVESTA procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis, but it does require general anesthesia. During surgery, your doctor will make several small incisions in your abdomen. He or she will pass small surgical instruments through these incisions in order to visualize your pelvic organs and perform the AVESTA procedure.

During the AVESTA procedure, suture is passed through the ligaments that support the top of your vagina, shortening and strengthening them to correct the prolapse. The length of the surgery will vary depending on whether the AVESTA procedure is performed alone or in conjunction with other repairs.

After surgery, your doctor will close the small incisions and cover them with a bandaid. You may be allowed to return home after recovering from the anesthesia.

Your doctor will provide you with information regading postoperative care including postoperative pain management.

After Surgery

Your doctor will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for your incision sites and on signs and symptoms that may require further medical attention.

After surgery, you may feel pain around the incision sites. In most cases, the pain can be managed with oral medications. Usually, you can expect to return to work and your activities around the home shortly after the AVESTA procedure. Normally, you can resume sexual activity within one month or when you feel ready. Post operative care and your activities may change if you have also had other procedures with AVESTA.

If you have any questions, ask you doctor. Also, your doctor will advise you on when to return for a postoperative check-up.

Possible Risks and Complications

As with any laparoscopic surgical procedure, the AVESTA procedure poses certain risks including: reactions to the anesthesia, bleeding, infection, and damage to other organs

Complications from the AVESTA procedure are rare and usually minor. If you are experiencing any unusual symptoms, contact your doctor.