Urinary incontinence, especially common in women, can significantly impact quality of life. Fortunately, various treatment options are available, including Tension-free Vaginal Tape (TVT) surgery. TVT is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to treat stress urinary incontinence in women.
What is TVT Surgery?
The main principle of TVT surgery is to place a supportive tape that reinforces the urethra and prevents urine leakage. This tape is usually made of a biocompatible material like polypropylene, known for its durability and integration with bodily tissues. During the surgery, the tape is positioned under the urethra, providing support and restoring the normal anatomical angle between the bladder and urethra.
How is TVT Surgery Performed?
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Anesthesia: The surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia, meaning only the surgical area is numbed. In some cases, general anesthesia may be preferred.
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Incisions: A small incision is made in the vagina, and small incisions are made on both sides of the groin area.
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Tape Placement: Using a special instrument, a tape (mesh) is passed through the vaginal incision and placed under the neck of the bladder. The ends of the tape are brought out through the incisions in the groin. The tape is positioned without tension to support the urethra and prevent urine leakage.
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Securing the Tape: The ends of the tape are secured to the tissues in the groin area. In some cases, the ends of the tape may be secured with special clips.
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Closing the Incisions: The incisions in the vagina and groin are closed with dissolvable stitches.
Benefits of TVT Surgery:
- Minimally invasive: TVT surgery involves smaller incisions and less discomfort compared to traditional open surgery.
- Quick recovery: Most patients can return to their normal activities within a few days.
- High success rates: TVT surgery has a high success rate in treating stress incontinence.
- Low complication rate: Although complications can occur, they are relatively rare.
Possible Complications:
While generally safe, TVT surgery, like any surgical procedure, carries some risks. Potential complications include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Pain
- Tape erosion or migration
- Urinary retention or voiding difficulties
- Bladder perforation
Recovery After TVT Surgery:
The recovery process varies from patient to patient but is generally quite fast. Patients usually stay in the hospital for only a few hours after the surgery and can be discharged the same day. There might be some discomfort or mild pain in the first few days, but this is usually manageable and temporary.
Complete recovery may take a few weeks. During this period, patients are advised to avoid strenuous physical activities, heavy lifting, and sexual intercourse. Most patients can return to their normal activities after 6 weeks.
For Treatment in Istanbul
For the diagnosis and treatment of stress urinary incontinence, overactive bladder, mixed incontinence, overflow incontinence, functional incontinence, reflex incontinence, and temporary urinary incontinence, you can contact Prof. Dr. Ateş Karateke in Istanbul.