Urinary Incontinence Surgical Treatments Available at SHRC:

1. Sling Procedures (Midurethral Sling Surgery)
The most common surgery for stress urinary incontinence (SUI), which often results from weakened pelvic muscles. Surgical options include:

Trans Obturator Sling: A minimally invasive procedure where a mesh sling is inserted under the urethra to provide support and prevent leakage during physical activities like coughing, sneezing, or lifting.

Tension-Free Vaginal Tape (TVT): A small piece of mesh is placed under the urethra to provide support and reduce incontinence symptoms. It is performed through a small vaginal incision.

2. Bladder Neck Suspension (Burch Colposuspension)

This procedure is designed to reposition the bladder neck and urethra to reduce urinary leakage in women with stress incontinence. The bladder neck is lifted and supported through small incisions in the lower abdomen, improving control over urination.

3. Artificial Urinary Sphincter (AUS)

For patients with severe stress urinary incontinence, especially men or those with neurogenic bladder, an artificial urinary sphincter may be implanted. The AUS consists of a cuff placed around the urethra and a pump that the patient can control to manage urine flow.

AUS Implantation: This device allows patients to regain control over urination, restoring confidence and normal function.

4. Periurethral Bulking Injections

This minimally invasive procedure involves injecting a bulking agent around the urethra to help it stay closed, preventing urine leakage. It is commonly used for mild to moderate stress incontinence and can be an option for patients who are not ideal candidates for more invasive surgeries.

5. Sacral Nerve Stimulation (SNS)

For patients with urge incontinence (a sudden and intense urge to urinate), sacral nerve stimulation can be an effective treatment. A small device is implanted near the sacral nerve in the lower back to improve bladder control by sending electrical pulses that regulate the bladder.

Sacral Neuromodulation Therapy: This treatment is typically used when other therapies, such as medication, have not been effective.

6. Bladder Augmentation Surgery

In cases where urinary incontinence is caused by a very small bladder (due to congenital conditions, injury, or disease), bladder augmentation may be performed. The procedure involves using a piece of the intestine to enlarge the bladder, improving its capacity and function.

Augmentation Cystoplasty: This procedure can reduce the need for frequent urination and incontinence episodes.

7. Cystectomy with Urinary Diversion

For patients with severe or complex cases of incontinence due to bladder dysfunction, a cystectomy (removal of the bladder) may be necessary, followed by creating a urinary diversion. This can involve creating a new path for urine to exit the body, such as through a stoma (ileal conduit) or a new bladder formed from intestinal tissue (neobladder).