Urinary Incontinence Surgeries

Urinary Incontinence Surgeries – Comprehensive Guide

General Information

Surgical options for the treatment of urinary incontinence are applied, especially in patients who do not respond to conservative treatments. It is most frequently preferred for stress incontinence.

1. Mid-Urethral Sling (Sling Surgeries)

It is the most commonly applied method. Support is provided by a synthetic tape placed under the urethra.

TVT (Tension-Free Vaginal Tape)

Applied via the retropubic route. Long-term success rates are high.

TOT (Transobturator Tape)

Applied via the obturator foramen. The risk of bladder injury is lower.

Advantages

• High success rate (80–90%)
• Minimally invasive
• Short operation time

2. Burch Colposuspension

Can be performed open or laparoscopically. The bladder neck and urethra are supported by being suspended upwards.

Who is it Preferred For?

In patients who do not want a sling or who are planned for concomitant abdominal surgery

3. Urethral Bulking (Bulking Treatments)

A bulking agent is injected around the urethra. Preferred in milder cases.

Advantages

• Non-surgical or minimally invasive
• Can be performed under local anesthesia

Disadvantages

• Effect may be temporary
• Repeated application may be necessary

4. Artificial Urinary Sphincter

Generally used in men and complex cases. Control is provided by a mechanical device placed around the urethra.

5. Sacral Nerve Stimulation

Used for urge incontinence and overactive bladder. Bladder control is achieved through nerve stimulation.

Complications

• Infection
• Urinary retention
• Mesh-related complications
• Pain

Success Rates

Success rates in stress incontinence surgeries are generally high. However, patient selection is critically important.

Clinical Fact

The same surgery is not suitable for every patient. Surgery should not be planned without correctly determining the type of urinary incontinence.

Conclusion

Urinary incontinence surgeries provide high success in suitable patients. A personalized approach and the selection of the correct technique are important.