Early postoperative small bowel obstruction associated with the use of V-loc™ sutures during surgery for pelvic organ prolapse

Aims: To describe three cases of early postoperative bowel obstruction after use of barbed suture material during surgery for pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Introduction: The utilization of minimally invasive surgical techniques for the treatment of POP is increasing, with a subsequent increase in the use of barbed, self-anchoring suture material, such as the V-loc™ suture, which facilitates intracorporeal suturing. Case report: We present three cases of early postoperative small bowel obstruction related to the use of barbed sutures during minimally invasive surgery for POP, as well as a review of the relevant literature. Conclusion: Surgeons should use barbed suture material judiciously and should have a high index of suspicion for barbed- suture related mechanical obstructions. These obstructions are not likely to resolve with conservative management. Clinical significance: Barbed suture materials allow for ease of laparoscopic suturing but carry a risk of contributing to early bowel obstruction. Laparoscopic surgeons should be aware of this relatively unknown potential complication.