Recent advances in the management of urinary incontinence in the female

Author(s): K. M. Khashia & S. Prashar - Pages: 17–20

Abstract

Urinary incontinence is a distressing problem that has a significant impact on quality of life. Physiotherapy should be tried prior to considering surgical treatment for this condition. Mid-urethral sling procedures are recommended when conservative treatment fails in women with stress urinary incontinence. Primary surgical procedures offer the best success rates, and therefore, proper selection of the patient, along with appropriate counselling regarding success rates and the risks attending the procedure, should help to meet the patient’s goals and expectations following surgery. Overactive bladder symptoms are treated conservatively with lifestyle modifications, bladder training and anticholinergic agents. When there is no improvement after anticholinergic treatment, botulinum toxin A (Botox) can be considered, but this has not been licensed for this indication. Sacral or ankle nerve stimulation can be an effective alternative when medical treatment fails.

Keywords: overactive bladder, management, tension-free vaginal tape, transobturator tape, urinary incontinence.