In a nutshell
This study is looking at how long patients will be free from urine leaks after urinary sling surgery. It concluded that patients have a probability of being dry for many years after surgery.
Some background
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. Sometimes, patients' incontinence can return soon after surgery. Predicting the time the patient will be dry for may prove useful.
Methods & findings
1102 patients with SUI were included in this study. Patients had one of two types of urinary sling surgery. These patients were not experiencing any urine leaks at 1 and a half years after surgery. Patient characteristics were assessed. Analysis was carried out to determine the likelihood of people remaining dry over time.
The likelihood of patients not having urine leaks at 3 years after surgery was between 72-74%. The likelihood of patients not having urine leaks at 5 years after surgery was 50-60%. The likelihood of patients not having urine leaks at 10 years after surgery was 26%. A patient's age and weight may affect the likelihood of having urine leaks over time.
The bottom line
This study concluded that not having urine leaks at 1.5 years after sling surgery is a good indicator of being leak-free over time.
The fine print
The authors note that having other types of incontinence was not considered in this study.
What’s next?
If you would like to learn more about urinary slings in SUI treatment, talk to your doctor.
Published By :
Urology
Date :
Jan 08, 2019
