Anal sphincteroplasty: This procedure is performed to bring the detached ends of anal sphincter muscle together.

Cystocele repair: A procedure that closes and provides support to a hernia that allows the bladder to drop into the vagina.

Cystoenteroplasty: A surgical procedure in which a section of bowel is added to the bladder to make the bladder bigger. This is major surgery and only considered if all other therapy for urge incontinence has been ineffective.

Detrusor myectomy: A surgical procedure in which a portion of the bladder muscle is removed so that the bladder may hold more urine. This procedure is only considered if all other conservative therapies have been deemed unsuccessful and the urge incontinence is severe.

Enterocele repair: A procedure that closes off the weakness or hernia which allows the small intestines to push through at the "top" of the vagina.

Hysterectomy: The removal of the uterus and cervix. This procedure can involve removing the uterus through the vagina or it may involve an incision in the abdomen.

Oophorectomy: The removal of the ovaries. Removal of the ovaries does not have anything to do with the terms "complete" or "partial" hysterectomy (complete and partial depend on the removal of the cervix). If you are over the age of 42, removal of the ovaries at the time of hysterectomy is offered to you. In almost all circumstances estrogen therapy is then required for an indefinite period of time.

Pubovaginal sling: A procedure to treat stress incontinence. A strip of fascia (strong tendineous material from the body) is placed under the weak urethra and provides support to the urethra during periods of increased pressure on the bladder such as running, coughing, or laughing.

Rectocele repair: A procedure providing support to a hernia in the "floor" of the vagina which allows the rectum to bulge through.

Sacral nerve stimulator: A bladder pacemaker. A lead is placed near the tailbone and sacral nerve. Another incision is made in the upper aspect of your buttock to create a "pocket" for the neurostimulator.

Urethral diverticulectomy: A procedure that removes a cyst that is located between the urethra and the vagina.

Urethrolysis: A procedure to "loosen" a prior suspension procedure if it considered too tight. This procedure is performed through the vagina in almost all cases.

Vaginal vault suspension: A procedure that provides support to the vaginal wall tissue at the top of the vagina. This procedure can be performed vaginally or abdominally depending on other circumstances.

Vesicovaginal fistula repair: Surgery to close the hole between the bladder and vagina. In almost all cases, this procedure is performed through the vagina and is usually associated with fewer complications and faster recovery the when performed through an incision in the vagina.