Different sling surgery techniques effects on stress urinary incontinence

This study looked at the long term effects of sling procedures to treat stress urinary incontinence (SUI). It concluded that single incision sling techniques could improve SUI symptoms and patient quality of life long term. 

Stress incontinence (SUI) is urine leakage when there is pressure on the bladder. It is often observed when a patient coughs, sneezes or exercises. Stress incontinence happens as a result of weak muscles around the bladder. These muscles hold urine in.

Surgical slings are used to treat SUI. Surgeons insert a sling which then supports the pelvic organs and stops urine leakage. The type of surgery carried out to fit the sling can affect SUI. Single incision minisling (SIMS) is a type of surgery which may be less invasive and have less complications than other sling surgeries. 

62 patients with SUI were included in this study. Patients had the Ophira SIMS procedure. Patients filled out questionnaires to assess SUI symptoms and quality of life. Patients were physically examined. Patients also had incontinence tests. 

The number of incontinence pads the patients used was reduced after the procedure. 43.5% of patients felt the procedure was very effective. 40.3% of patients felt the procedure was effective. 16.1% of patients felt the procedure was not effective. 33.9% patients experienced complications. These included: urgent urination, painful sexual intercourse, urinary tract infections and erosion of vaginal mesh devices. 

This study concluded that SIMS could improve SUI symptoms with less complications. 

The authors note that the number of patients included in this study is small. This may affect the study's results. 

If you would like to learn more about SIMS for treating SUI, talk to your doctor.