Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is a common condition affecting women of all ages. It is characterized by the involuntary leakage of urine during physical activities that increase abdominal pressure, such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising. Although SUI can significantly impair the quality of life and self-esteem of affected women, many do not seek medical attention due to embarrassment or the mistaken belief that it is a normal part of aging.
Fortunately, there are several treatment options available for SUI, including non-surgical and surgical approaches. In this article, we will focus on surgery for SUI in women and how it can help improve their symptoms and quality of life.
Table of Contents
What is SUI surgery?
Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI) surgery is a surgical procedure aimed at improving the function of the urinary sphincter, which is the muscle responsible for controlling the flow of urine from the bladder. The surgery involves placing a sling or a mesh under the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine out of the bladder, to support it and prevent leakage.
SUI surgery is usually performed under general or regional anesthesia and can be done on an outpatient basis or with a short hospital stay. The type of surgery chosen depends on the severity and type of SUI, as well as the patient’s age, medical history, and personal preferences.
Types of SUI surgery
There are several types of Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI) surgery available, each with its benefits and risks. The most common types of SUI surgery include:
1. Adjustable sling systems:
Adjustable sling systems, such as the American Medical Systems AdVance® and Boston Scientific Solyx™ systems, allow the surgeon to adjust the tension of the sling after surgery to optimize bladder control. However, these systems have a higher risk of infection and erosion than non-adjustable slings.
2. Autologous sling:
An autologous sling uses the patient’s tissue, such as the rectus fascia, to create a sling under the urethra. This type of sling has a lower risk of infection and erosion than synthetic slings, but a higher risk of donor site complications, such as abdominal muscle weakness.
3. Midurethral sling:
This is the most common type of SUI surgery and involves placing a synthetic mesh tape under the urethra to support it. The mesh tape is inserted through small incisions in the vagina or the abdomen and is held in place by the surrounding tissues. The procedure takes about 30 minutes to complete and has a success rate of up to 90%.
4. Retropubic colposuspension:
This procedure involves lifting and stitching the bladder neck and urethra to the pubic bone to provide support. It is performed through a small abdominal incision and is more invasive than a mid-urethral sling. The success rate of this procedure is also around 90%.
5. Transobturator sling:
This procedure involves placing a sling under the urethra, similar to a mid-urethral sling, but through small incisions in the groin instead of the abdomen. The success rate of this procedure is around 85-90%.
6. Bulking agents injection:
This is a non-surgical approach that involves injecting a bulking agent, such as collagen or silicone, into the tissues around the urethra to increase its bulk and resistance to leakage. The procedure is less invasive than surgery but has a lower success rate of around 60%.
Benefits and risks of SUI surgery
Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI) surgery can provide significant benefits to women with SUI, including:
1. Improved quality of life:
SUI surgery can help women regain control of their bladder and reduce the embarrassment and inconvenience associated with leakage.
2. Increased self-esteem:
SUI surgery can help women feel more confident and self-assured in social and intimate situations.
3. Reduced need for pads:
SUI surgery can significantly reduce the need for pads or other absorbent products to manage leakage.
However, like any surgical procedure, SUI surgery also carries some risks and potential complications, including:
- Infection: SUI surgery can increase the risk of developing a urinary tract or wound infection, which may require antibiotics or further treatment.
- Bleeding: SUI surgery can cause bleeding, either during or after the procedure, which may require additional surgery or blood transfusion.
- Urinary retention: SUI surgery can cause urinary retention, which is the inability to empty the bladder. This can lead to discomfort, urinary tract infections, and the need for catheterization.
- Mesh erosion: In rare cases, the synthetic mesh used in SUI surgery can erode or migrate, causing pain, infection, and the need for additional surgery.
- Vaginal pain or discomfort: SUI surgery can cause vaginal pain, discomfort, or scarring, which can affect sexual function.
Overall, the benefits of SUI surgery usually outweigh the risks, especially in women with moderate to severe SUI who have not responded to non-surgical treatments.
Recovery and Follow-up after SUI surgery
After SUI surgery, women can usually go home the same day or the following day, depending on the type of surgery and their overall health. They should avoid heavy lifting, strenuous activities, and sexual intercourse for several weeks to allow the surgical site to heal.
Women should also follow up with their surgeons regularly to monitor their progress and address any concerns or complications. The surgeon may recommend pelvic floor exercises, such as Kegels, to strengthen the pelvic muscles and improve bladder control.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Stress Urinary Incontinence surgery is a safe and effective treatment option for women with moderate to severe SUI who have not responded to non-surgical treatments. The surgery involves placing a sling or mesh under the urethra to support it and prevent leakage. There are several types of SUI surgery available, each with its benefits and risks. Women should discuss their options with their healthcare provider and choose the most appropriate surgery based on their individual needs and preferences.