RECENT FINDINGS: The cause of hyperemesis is continuing to be elaborated. Recent data attest to the effectiveness of the oral doxylamine-pyridoxine in NVP. Follow-up data of children exposed in early pregnancy to doxylamine-pyridoxine for NVP are reassuring. Evidence is increasing for ginger as an effective herbal remedy for NVP. Metoclopramide is effective in NVP and hyperemesis gravidarum, with a good balance of efficacy and tolerability. A recent large-scale study on first trimester exposure to metoclopramide is reassuring of its safety. Evidence is emerging for the treatment of acid reflux to ameliorate NVP. The role of corticosteroids for hyperemesis gravidarum remains controversial. Transpyloric feeding may be warranted for persistent weight loss, despite optimal antiemetic therapy.
SUMMARY: Women with significant NVP should be identified so that they can be safely and effectively treated.
METHODS: This was a retrospective study of patients with stage 3 or 4 POP and intact uterus with decubitus ulcer who were planned for surgery that included hysterectomy after ulcer healing. Vaginal packs are replaced at least biweekly-or more frequently if extruded-until ulcer resolution.
RESULTS: Thirteen patients were studied. Mean age was 69 ± 6 years and mean duration of menopause was 19 ± 6 years. Nine patients had a single ulcer and four had multiple ulcers. Mean ulcer diameter was 2.8 ± 1.5 cm and mean duration for ulcer healing was 26 ± 14 days. Hysterectomy and pelvic floor reconstruction was performed a median of 5 (range 0-153) days after ulcer healing was first noted. Histopathological examination of the endometrium following hysterectomy showed three specimens with endocervical hyperplasia; one had concurrent proliferative endometrium, two had simple endometrial hyperplasia and another two had proliferative endometrium.
CONCLUSION: Oestrogen-soaked vaginal packing is a viable option for managing a decubitus ulcer in advanced POP. We document a measurable impact on the endometrium with this short-term preoperative regimen. Further research is needed to evaluate its efficacy in promoting ulcer healing and endometrial safety.