Authors: Rajeev Ramanah Bernard Parratte Francine ArbezGindre Robert Maillet Didier Riethmuller
Publish Date: 2008/07/31
Volume: 19, Issue: 11, Pages: 1565-1570
Abstract
The aim of this study was to define the anatomical relationships of the uterosacral ligament complex USLC and to analyze histologically its content Three fetal and four adult cadavers were used Anatomical dissections were carried out Eight fresh biopsies four fetal and four adult of the USLC were analyzed histologically and immunohistochemically Specimens were stained with hematoxylin eosin safran coloration with antinervous cell antibodies PS 100 and with antismooth muscle antibodies to visualize vessel walls By removing the visceral pelvic fascia nervous fibers were found within the USLC forming the hypogastric plexus Histologically the USLC contained connective tissue nervous fibers sympathetic nodes vessels and fatty tissue No structured ligamentous organization was identified The uterosacral “ligament” is a “complex” integrating connective tissue as well as nervous and vascular elements Radical excisions and USLC suspension during pelvic floor reconstructive surgery should be performed with caution in order to preserve pelvic innervation
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