Surgery for Stress Urinary Incontinence
Suburethral Slings and Bulking Agents
Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is a condition that can significantly affect a woman’s quality of life. When conservative treatments like pelvic floor exercises and lifestyle modifications are no longer effective, surgical options may be considered. Two of the most commonly used surgical treatments for SUI are suburethral slings and bulking agents.
Suburethral Slings
The suburethral sling procedure involves placing a small, supportive mesh under the urethra to prevent urine leakage during physical activities such as coughing, sneezing, or exercising. There are two main types of slings:
1.Transobturator Tape (TOT): This technique involves placing the sling through the vaginal wall and the obturator foramen, a part of the pelvic bone. It’s associated with less risk of bladder injury and quicker recovery.
2.Retropubic Tape (TVT): In this method, the sling is inserted through a small incision above the pubic bone, offering a highly effective treatment option for those with more significant symptoms. It has a slightly higher complication rate compared to the transobturator approach but offers excellent long-term results.
Both types of slings are minimally invasive, with high success rates in reducing or eliminating incontinence symptoms.
Bulking Agents
Another effective option for treating stress urinary incontinence is the use of bulking agents. These substances are injected into the tissues around the urethra to help it close more effectively, preventing leakage. Bulkamid, a commonly used bulking agent, is a gel-like substance that provides lasting support to the urethra. This treatment is often recommended for women with mild to moderate SUI or as a complementary option following sling surgery.
Dr. Bugwandin’s Expertise
Dr. Santosh Bugwandin is internationally trained in the surgical management of stress urinary incontinence, including the use of suburethral slings and bulking agents. With advanced training and extensive experience, Dr. Bugwandin provides expert care, ensuring that each patient receives the most appropriate and effective treatment for their specific condition.
