Decreasing numbers of patients for vaginal hysterectomy and plasty.

Among 2904 patients who needed hysterectomy, the numbers of patients who needed vaginal hysterectomy and plasty have decreased steadily during the 40 years, 1948-88, although indications have remained constant. There has been a steady reduction in the severity and numbers of patients with uterine sagging. Likewise, there has been a notable decrease in the severity of, and numbers of, patients with old perineal lacerations. The major reason for these changes is the steady improvement in prior obstetric delivery techniques. Both graphic and statistical evidence is presented.