Urinary Incontinence Surgery

Understanding Urinary Incontinence

Urinary incontinence (UI) is the involuntary leakage of urine that affects millions of adults worldwide. It’s particularly common in women after childbirth or menopause and in men following prostate surgery. When conservative treatments fail, surgery can provide a long-term solution.

Types of Urinary Incontinence Requiring Surgery

1. Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI)

• Leakage during physical activity (coughing, sneezing, exercise)
• Caused by weakened pelvic floor muscles or urethral sphincter

2. Urge Incontinence (Overactive Bladder)

• Sudden, intense urge to urinate followed by leakage
• Often related to bladder muscle abnormalities

3. Mixed Incontinence

• Combination of stress and urge symptoms
• Requires comprehensive evaluation

4. Overflow Incontinence

• Incomplete bladder emptying leading to constant dribbling
• Common in men with prostate issues

Surgical Treatment Options

For Women:

1. Mid-Urethral Slings (TOT/TVT)
   • Gold standard for SUI
   • Polypropylene mesh tape supports urethra
   • 85-90% success rate
   • Minimal recovery (2-4 weeks)
2. Burch Colposuspension
   • Open or laparoscopic bladder neck suspension
   • Long-term solution (80% success at 5 years)
   • 4-6 week recovery
3. Bulking Agents
   • Injectable materials to thicken urethral walls
   • Office procedure, temporary solution

For Men:

1. Artificial Urinary Sphincter (AUS)
   • Implanted device controls urine flow
   • 75-90% success for post-prostatectomy incontinence
   • Lasts 10+ years
2. Male Slings
   • Less invasive than AUS
   • Best for mild-moderate leakage
3. Prostate Treatments
   • For incontinence caused by BPH

Advanced & Emerging Techniques

• Laparoscopic/Robotic Approaches – Faster recovery
• Stem Cell Therapy – Experimental but promising
• Neuromodulation (InterStim) – For urge incontinence

Recovery Expectations

• Hospital Stay: Outpatient or 1-2 days
• Activity Restrictions: 2-6 weeks (depending on procedure)
• Full Results: May take 3-6 months
• Success Rates: 70-95% depending on procedure

Risks & Complications

• Infection (1-3%)
• Urinary retention (temporary)
• Mesh erosion (with slings)
• Device malfunction (AUS)

Why Consider Medical Tourism?

Many patients travel abroad for:

• Cost Savings (50-70% less than US/EU)
• Access to Top Specialists
• Shorter Wait Times
• All-Inclusive Care Packages