Autologous Fat Grafting for Women with Post-Partum Perineal Pain: A Pilot Study

Introduction:During delivery, the perineum is prone to develop lesions that could lead to dyspareunia.Perineal Autologous Fat Grafting (PAFG) appeared to be a promising solution to treat this symptom.Our study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of this technique. Methods:We conducted an observational retrospective study on patients who benefited from PAFG at the CHU de Limoges in France between from 2017 to 2021.Our primary objective was to evaluate pain before and one year after PAFG using a Numerical Rate Scale (NRS).The secondary objectives were pain evaluation at 3 and 6 months, and PISQ-12, Mac Gill Pain Questionnaire, Euro Qol, and Saint Mark's score.Results: 55 patients were included.At one year, we observed a decrease in NRS in 45 patients (82%) with a decrease in mean NRS from 7.3 (CI 95% [6.86 -7.78]) to 2.89 (CI 95% [2.05 -3.72] ( p<0.001).No serious adverse events were reported.At 3 and 6 months, results were favorable and clinically relevant. Conclusion:PAFG seems to decrease perineal pain caused by labor.Further investigations should be carried out to evaluate impact on efficacy, pain, Euro Qol and anal incontinence.