Does supracervical hysterectomy provide more support to the vaginal apex than total abdominal hysterectomy?

Objective: The objective of the study was to assess whether cervical preservation at the time of hysterectomy may help prevent subsequent apical vaginal vault prolapse. Study Design: Supracervical hysterectomies were performed in 12 unembalmed cadavers. Successive hanging weights of 1, 2, 3, and 4 kg were loaded against the cervical stump and distances moved were recorded. The same process was repeated after completion of a total hysterectomy. Results: Average distances pulled with 1, 2, 3, and 4 kg of traction against the cervical stump were 17.8 ± 1.9, 24.1 ± 2.5, 29.0 ± 2.8, and 34.3 ± 3.5 mm, respectively. After total hysterectomy, these distances were 17.5 ± 2.5, 23.5 ± 2.6, 29.3 ± 3.1, and 34.5 ± 3.6 mm, respectively. Conclusion: In unembalmed cadavers, it appears that total abdominal hysterectomy and supracervical hysterectomy provide equal resistance to forces applied to the vaginal apex.