Inside-Out Treatment for Stress Incontinence

An inside-out technique of a treatment for stress incontinence reduces the potential for urethral and bladder injury.

Called the TVT Obturator System, the treatment combines the use of Prolene polypropylene mesh and a variation of a traditional operation known as a sling procedure to correct stress urinary incontinence. The mesh is inserted through the vagina and positioned without tension underneath the urethra, creating a supportive sling. During movement or exercise, the mesh supports the urethra, allowing it to maintain its seal to prevent urine loss. The treatment utilizes a technique that passes the mesh device from a small incision in the vagina out to small incisions in the thigh folds. This passage away from the urethra and bladder avoids the retropubic space and reduces the possibility of injury to the urethra and bladder.

The procedure requires only 30 minutes and offers a short recovery time, with minimal pain. Most patients will not need catheterization. Also, the procedure can be performed under local anesthesia in an outpatient setting. The procedure was developed by Gynecare (Somerville, NJ, USA).




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