In a nutshell
This study looked at the use of a sling (material used to support the bladder and other pelvic organs) to treat recurrent stress urinary incontinence (rSUI – leaking urine when straining) and intrinsic sphincter deficiency (ISD – weakness in a muscle that controls the bladder). The study found that an adjustable sling helped to cure rSUI and ISD with less complications.
Some background
Recurrent stress urinary incontinence (rSUI) and intrinsic sphincter deficiency (ISD) are common problems that cause leakage of urine. A sling is a type of material that can be surgically placed to support the bladder. This may reduce symptoms of SUI and ISD. It is important to assess if a sling is useful in treating bladder symptoms.
Methods & findings
The records of 205 women were examined in this study, and bladder symptoms were assessed. All patients had undergone sling surgery. Patients were followed for 89 months.
165 (71.7%) patients were cured of rSUI following surgery. 40 (17.4%) patients still had rSUI after sling surgery. 31 (15.1%) patients had an overactive detrusor (muscle which empties the bladder). 88 patients needed re-adjustment of the sling during follow-up.
28.8% of patients had complications after sling surgery. These included infection and erosion of the vaginal wall or urethra (tube urine passes through).
The bottom line
The study found that a re-adjustable sling was useful for treating rSUI and ISD.
The fine print
This study was not compared with patients who did not use slings (no study control). This research was sponsored by a pharmaceutical company.
What’s next?
Talk to your doctor about sling surgery for treating incontinence.
Published By :
Neurourology and urodynamics
Date :
Nov 11, 2017
