Suturing Techniques on Perineal Pain

Perineorrhaphy, sometimes referred to as perineoplasty, is a common procedure in pelvic reconstructive surgery that entails surgical repair of the perineum. Indications may include: prevention of recurrent prolapse, treatment of pain, and improved sexual function and cosmesis, as well as to treat the sensation of a "wide vagina." Differences in postoperative pain by suturing technique and standard use of suture type are not well established. Patient satisfaction can be influenced by patient perceptions regarding postoperative pain, therefore reducing postoperative pain scores remains a priority. It is unclear whether suturing technique is associated with less pain after this procedure. Based on studies on repair of obstetric lacerations, we hypothesize that a subcuticular skin closure will be associated with less postoperative perineal pain compared to interrupted transcutaneous sutures.