Randomized Clinical Trial Comparing Suprapubic Arch Sling (SPARC) and Tension-Free Vaginal Tape (TVT): One-Year Results

Midurethral slings for stress urinary incontinence

Midurethral synthetic slings for female stress urinary incontinence are minimally invasive polypropylene mesh tapes, which are inserted under the midurethra with trocars. In the last decade this new technology has become the most commonly performed procedure for female stress urinary incontinence, replacing the traditional open procedures. Using only 3 small incisions, these outpatient procedures can be performed under local anesthesia with conscious sedation. Retropubic and transobturator approaches will be reviewed along with a review of efficacy, comparative studies, complications, and use in many different clinical situations.

Three-year outcomes of Uretex Urethral Support System for treatment of stress urinary incontinence

To assess the medium-term performance of the Uretex Urethral Support System, patients were evaluated by the 1-h pad test, cough stress test (CST), Valsalva leak-point pressure test (VLPP), and validated questionnaires. Seventy-five patients were enrolled; median follow-up was 3.6 years (range, 3.1-4.3 years). All patients had a negative CST, 65 (87%) had no leakage during VLPP, and 62 of 72 patients (86%) had a negative 1-h pad test. Compared with baseline values of 50.0 and 28.6, median Urogenital Distress Inventory and Incontinence Impact Questionnaire-7 scores at 3-year follow-up were 16.7 and 0, respectively (P<0.001). Observed medium-term morbidity included de novo urgency in four (5%), frequency in three (4%), and urge incontinence in one (1%). No patients reported graft erosion. The Uretex Urethral Support System is highly effective (both objectively and subjectively) for treatment of stress urinary incontinence and improves quality of life in women with minimal adverse sequelae.

Complication rates of tension-free midurethral slings in the treatment of female stress urinary incontinence: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing tension-free midurethral tapes to other surgical procedures and different devices

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the complication rates of tension-free midurethral slings compared with other surgical treatments for stress urinary incontinence, including other tension-free midurethral slings.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature using MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science was performed in January 2007. Meta-analysis was conducted by using the Review Manager software 4.2.

RESULTS

Our search identified 33 randomized controlled trials reporting data on complication rates. Our meta-analysis showed that complication rates were similar after tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) and Burch colposuspension, with the exclusion of bladder perforation, which was more common after TVT (p=0.0001), and reoperation rate, which was significantly higher after Burch colposuspension (p=0.02). TVT and pubovaginal sling were followed by similar complication rates. With regards to the comparisons among retropubic tapes, TVT and intravaginal slingplasty had similar complication rates, whereas suprapubic arc sling (SPARC) was complicated by higher rates of voiding lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) (p=0.02) and reoperations (p=0.04). Comparing retropubic and transobturator tapes, the occurrence of bladder perforations (p=0.007), pelvic haematoma (p=0.03), and storage LUTS (p=0.01) was significantly less common in patients treated by transobturator tapes.

CONCLUSIONS

Tension-free slings were followed by lower risk of reoperation compared with Burch colposuspension, whereas pubovaginal sling and tension-free midurethral slings had similar complication rates. With regards to different tension-free tapes, voiding LUTS and reoperations were more common after SPARC, whereas bladder perforations, pelvic haematoma, and storage LUTS were less common after transobturator tapes. The quality of many evaluated studies was limited.

Update on the utilization of grafts in pelvic reconstruction surgeries

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Implanted grafts are increasingly used by pelvic reconstructive surgeons and gynecologists. In addition, the marketing of a variety of grafts has been aggressively expanded without scientific evidence to support their use. This review aims to provide an update of the current status and role of grafts in reconstructive pelvic surgery and to review the current knowledge of the biology of currently marketed synthetic and biologic grafts.

RECENT FINDINGS

Xenografts are preferable to human tissue-banked grafts due to more predictable integrity. How these biomaterials compare to synthetics in terms of surgical outcomes has not been well studied, however. Absorbable materials that mimic some behaviors of synthetic and biological materials have been developed. Furthermore, several new techniques have been advocated with limited studies.

SUMMARY

While the reduction of surgical failure rates in vaginal surgery is desirable, the addition of graft materials must demonstrate improvement in anatomical, functional, and quality of life outcomes over time. Furthermore, future complications due to improper placement or movement of a graft and the possible shrinkage of the graft are of concern. Therefore, significant research is necessary for the preclinical testing of materials, and expertise needs to be developed for the management of complications.

Treatment of stress urinary incontinence--midurethral slings: top-down, bottom-up, "outside-in," or "inside-out"

Two randomized trials have reported no differences in efficacy between suprapubic arc and tension-free vaginal tape at 2 years. There are no long-term studies comparing the inside-out and outside-in transobturator (TOT) approach, although short-term data show no difference in cure rates or complications. The short-term efficacy of TOT midurethral slings is comparable with the retropubic slings; however, preliminary evidence suggests that TOT slings may have a lower success rate compared with retropubic slings for the treatment of intrinsic sphincter deficiency. The risk of bladder injury may be the least with the "inside-out" approach, whereas retropubic techniques have a higher risk of cystotomy as compared with the TOT approach. Four randomized controlled trials comparing the retropubic and TOT approaches show no differences in rate of de novo urgency, retention, frequency, nocturia, or incomplete voiding.

Prospective Clinical Trial Comparing Obtape® and DUPS to TVT: One-Year Safety and Efficacy Results

OBJECTIVES

Obtape and DUPS are modifications of the original TVT procedure. To test these new products in terms of safety and efficacy, we designed a prospective clinical trial with a follow-up of at least 1 yr.

METHODS

We randomized 190 consecutive females with SUI for this study. They were evaluated by history, ICIQ-SF, physical examination, cystoscopy, UDS, and the 1-h pad test. Patients were reevaluated at 1, 6, and 12 mo. The ICIQ-SF and pad test were repeated at 1-yr follow-up.

RESULTS

There were 78, 32, and 80 patients in the Obtape, DUPS, TVT arms, respectively. An interim analysis after 32 patients in each arm indicated postoperative retention rates of 3 (9.4%), 6 (18.8%), and 4 (12.5%) patients in Obtape, DUPS, and TVT groups, respectively. Because of higher retention rate and suprapubic discomfort, DUPS was discontinued. At the end of the study, complete retention rates were 6 (7.8%), 6 (18.8%), and 6 (7.5%) in Obtape, DUPS, and TVT, respectively. TVT was the only procedure with bladder perforations at a rate of 14%. However, Obtape and DUPS were associated with more postoperative complications including complete retention, urethrolysis, hematoma, mesh erosion, UTI, and wound infection (13%, 28%, and 8%; p< or =0.025). At 1 yr, 83%, 94%, and 86% of patients in the Obtape, DUPS, and TVT groups were objectively cured (p>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

TVT was the only procedure associated with bladder perforation, but there were more postoperative complications with Obtape and DUPS. No statistically significant differences in cure rates were observed at 1-yr follow-up. Longer follow-up is needed to confirm these results.

What??s new in slings: an update on midurethral slings

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Surgical management of female stress incontinence has progressed rapidly over the past decade. The purpose of this review is to provide up-to-date information regarding surgical outcomes of midurethral slings and to discuss management of sling complications. Additionally, the newer commercially available products will be outlined and the data comparing new versus established techniques will be examined.

RECENT FINDINGS

Long-term data are available for the Tension-free Vaginal Tape procedure which demonstrates durable efficacy. Comparisons between the Tension-free Vaginal Tape and Suprapubic Arch sling procedure demonstrate no significant difference in cure rates or complications. In an effort to avoid the retropubic space, the transobturator slings were developed and short-term data suggest similar efficacy to the transabdominal techniques. The transobturator approach, while limiting abdominal complications, is not without its own complication profile. Increased experience with synthetic mesh in vaginal surgery has allowed for a more systematic approach to managing mesh erosions.

SUMMARY

The literature indicates that midurethral slings, despite the specific approach, are efficacious and an important therapy in managing stress incontinence. Prospective data will be needed before the surgeon can determine if the new products and techniques are truly an improvement over the existing products or merely a proprietary modification.

Tension-free midurethral slings in the treatment of female stress urinary incontinence: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials of effectiveness

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the efficacy of tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) compared with other surgical treatments for stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and with other tension-free midurethral slings.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature was performed in January 2007 using MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science. The searches used both "MeSH" and "free text" protocols. Meta-analysis was conducted using the Review Manager software 4.2 (Cochrane Collaboration).

RESULTS

Our search identified 37 randomized controlled trials. According to the Jadad score, the quality of the evaluated studies was limited in most papers. TVT outperformed Burch colposuspension in terms of postoperative continence rates (odds ratio [OR] from 0.38 to 0.59, according to the different end points), whereas success rates were similar after TVT and pubovaginal slings. Comparing TVT to the other retropubic tension-free midurethral vaginal slings, TVT was more efficacious than both intravaginal slingplasty (IVS; OR = 0.47; p = 0.007) and suprapubic arc (SPARC; OR from 0.53 to 0.56 according to the different evaluated end points). Indeed, the available data suggest similar efficacy for retropubic and trans-obturator tapes both in terms of subjective (OR = 0.98; p = 0.92) and objective (OR = 0.81; p = 0.34) cure rates.

CONCLUSIONS

Our meta-analysis showed that TVT outperformed Burch colposuspension; efficacies of TVT and pubovaginal sling were similar. TVT was more efficacious than IVS and SPARC, whereas retropubic and trans-obturator tapes showed overlapping cure rates. The poor quality of most of the studies, both in terms of methodologic and clinical parameters, limits the strengths of the recommendations derived by the meta-analysis.

Polypropylene Midurethral Tapes Do Not Have Similar Biologic and Biomechanical Performance in the Rat

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the biomechanical properties and histologic changes of different commercially available polypropylene midurethral tapes (MUTs) after implantation in the rat.

METHODS

Pieces of Advantage, intravaginal slingplasty (IVS), suprapubic arch sling (SPARC), and tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) were implanted over the rectus fascia of rats, with six rats serving as controls. On retrieval 24 wk later, the degree of adherence and sample measurements were recorded. Biomechanical testing of the retrieved samples was performed using the uniaxial loading method. Histologic evaluation of the samples under light microscopy included the following parameters: inflammatory infiltrate, fibrosis, mast cell presence, muscular infiltration, and collagen filling of the mesh.

RESULTS

No mesh extrusion or infection was encountered. The biomechanical and histologic results were consistent within each group. TVT displayed peculiar adherence characteristics not found among the other brands. No statistically significant difference were found in mean peak load and extension at peak load among the four tested brands. Stiffness of TVT was significantly lower than that of each of the other three brands. Stiffness of Advantage was significantly higher than that of SPARC. The histologic findings differed from one MUT brand to another. By grading certain histologic parameters, an untested model to assign a score for biocompatibility potential in the rat, to different MUTs, was developed.

CONCLUSIONS

Commercially available polypropylene MUTs display different biologic and biomechanical properties in the rat.

Tension-free vaginal tape versus transobturator tape as surgery for stress urinary incontinence: results of a multicentre randomised trial

OBJECTIVES

This prospective, multicentre, randomised study compared the safety and success rate of tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) and transobturator tape (TOT) in treatment of female stress urinary incontinence.

METHODS

Of 148 women, 73 were randomised to TVT and 75 to TOT. Preoperative workups included case history, clinical examination, Urogenital Distress Inventory and Impact Incontinence Quality of life questionnaires, 1-h pad test, pelvic ultrasound, and urodynamics. Intra- and postoperative complications were the primary end point; subjective and objective changes in SUI, and postoperative voiding dysfunctions were secondary end points. Patients were classified into two main categories: dry (no leakage during clinical and/or stress test and/or reported by patients) versus wet. Patients who referred being wet were separated into "improved" or "failure" on subjective analysis. Other outcome variables were quality of life questionnaires and VAS scale. Clinical checkups were conducted at 3, 6, 12 mo, and then annually.

RESULTS

Both techniques are safe and no significant differences emerged in intra- and postoperative complications. At a mean follow-up of 31 mo, the overall objective cure (dry) was 71.4% for TVT and 77.3% for TOT (p=ns). When one considered "dry" plus "wet but improved," these values increased to 90% and 90.6%, respectively (p=ns). Median satisfaction rate was 9 (range: 1-10) for both procedures. Postoperative storage symptoms are a controversial issue; they persisted in 44% of patients in TVT group versus 24% in TOT group (p<0.053).

CONCLUSIONS

TOT appears as safe and effective as TVT in surgery for female SUI, with minimal complications at mean follow-up of 31 mo.

Transobturator and retropubic tape procedures in stress urinary incontinence: a systematic review and meta-analysis of effectiveness and complications

BACKGROUND

Various types of suburethral tapes inserted via the transobturator route (tension-free vaginal tape obturator route [TVTO] and transobturator tape [TOT]) have been widely adopted for treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) before proper evaluation of their effectiveness and complications.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness and complications of TOTs as treatment of SUI by means of a systematic review.

SEARCH STRATEGY

MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, LILIACS (up to September 2006), CENTRAL (The Cochrane Library, Issue 3, 2006), MetaRegister of Controlled Trials, The National Library for Health, the National Research Register and Google Scholar were searched using various relevant search terms. The citation lists of review articles and included trials were searched, and contact with the corresponding author of each included trials was attempted.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared the effectiveness of TVTO or TOT with synthetic tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) by retropubic route (Gynecare; Ethicon Inc., NJ, USA) for the treatment of SUI in all languages were included.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two reviewers extracted data on participants' characteristics, study quality, population, intervention, cure and adverse effects independently. The data were analysed in the Review Manager 4.2.8 software.

MAIN RESULTS

There were five RCTs that compared TVTO with TVT and six RCTs that compared TOT with TVT. When compared by subjective cure, TVTO and TOT at 2-12 months were no better than TVT (OR 0.85; 95% CI 0.60-1.21). Adverse events such as bladder injuries (OR 0.12; 95% CI 0.05-0.33) and voiding difficulties (OR 0.55; 95% CI 0.31-0.98) were less common, whereas groin/thigh pain (OR 8.28; 95% CI 2.7-25.4), vaginal injuries or erosion of mesh (OR 1.96; 95% CI 0.87-4.39) were more common after tape insertion by the transobturator route.

AUTHOR'S CONCLUSIONS

The evidence for short-term superiority of effectiveness of TOTs is currently limited. Bladder injuries and voiding difficulties are lower, but the risk of vaginal erosions and groin pain is higher with TVTO/TOT. Methodologically sound and sufficiently powered RCTs with long-term follow up are needed, and the results of continuing trials are awaited.

Identification of Risk Factors for Voiding Dysfunction Following TVT Placement

OBJECTIVE

To determine preoperative risk factors of postoperative voiding dysfunction after tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) procedure.

METHODS

In 2004, 100 patients with genuine stress urinary incontinence underwent surgery by the TVT procedure. Preoperative and postoperative urodynamic study was performed for each patient. Postoperatively, patients' perception of result and quality of life were assessed on two validated scales, namely, Mesure du Handicap Urinaire (MHU) and Ditrovie. Voiding dysfunction was defined by a postoperative peak flow rate of <15 ml/s at 3 mo. Clinical and urodynamic parameters were compared and analysed.

RESULTS

At 3 mo, 20 patients (20%) showed evidence of voiding dysfunction despite the absence of clinical symptoms in 14 of them (70%). Multivariate analysis showed that age (p<0.038) and preoperative peak flow rate (p<0.001) were independent risk factors for voiding dysfunction. Parity, menopausal status, body mass index, and maximal urethral closure pressure were not statistically related to the risk of voiding dysfunction.

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms the existence of an important rate of postoperative voiding dysfunction, mostly asymptomatic, and identifies age and preoperative maximal peak flow rate as independent preoperative risk factors. Identification of voiding dysfunction in patients may lead to better follow-up and early detection of late potential complications of suburethral procedures.

Long-Term Tensile Properties of Tension-Free Vaginal Tape, Suprapubic Arc Sling System and Urethral Sling in an In Vivo Rat Model

PURPOSE

Slings have gained widespread popularity for stress urinary incontinence. Commonly used sling materials include TVT, SPARC and Stratasis. To our knowledge no long-term comparative in vivo studies assessing the tensile strength of these materials have been reported. We examined tensile properties during a 1-year period after in vivo implantation in a rat model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 30 Sprague-Dawley rats had 1 x 2 cm strips of TVT, SPARC and Stratasis implanted on the inner abdominal wall. The animals were grouped for sacrifice at 6 weeks, and 3, 6, 9 and 12 months, at which time the tape materials along with their associated fibrotic tissue were removed. Tensile properties were analyzed.

RESULTS

The initial control mean break load for TVT, SPARC and Statasis was 0.717, 0.453 and 0.298 kg, respectively (p=0.001). At 6 weeks, and 3, 6, 9 and 12 months TVT had a mean break load of 0.525, 0.678, 0.696, 0.568 and 0.522 kg, respectively. During the same intervals SPARC had a mean break load of 0.516, 0.596, 0.450, 0.514 and 0.496 kg, respectively. Stratasis had a mean break load of 0.147, 0.183, 0.132, 0.062 and 0.070 kg, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

TVT has tensile properties comparable to those of SPARC and each is superior to Stratasis. These differences in tensile properties of the mesh material along with the fibrous reaction may have clinical implications in terms of the success of pubovaginal slings made with such materials.

[Determinants of success and recurrence after suburetral free tape procedure for female urinary incontinence]

OBJECTIVE

To provide a critical assessment on the tension free vaginal tape procedure used to support the urethra in female urinary incontinence.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We identified articles related to Tension free vaginal tape through a MEDLINE search of English published literature from May 1998 to May 2006. Randomised control trial (RCTs) and retrospective clinical trials were selected including 478 publications on TVT (Tension-free Vaginal Tape), 55 on TOT) (Transobturator Tape), 17 on SPARC (Supra Pubic Arc), 2 on TPP) (Pre Pubic TVT). For the analysis of the functional results of the tape were not available: papers with a mean follow-up under 6 months, the invitation papers or non reviewed manuscript, the redundant papers in the same department, specific case control study.

RESULTS/DISCUSSION

Preoperative age over 70years old and morbid obesity do not seem to be a risk factor for failure of the TVT procedure; however, there is an increase of de novo urgency for age over 70 years old and BMI over 35. Suburetral tape procedure is highly effective in women with intrinsic sphincter deficiency. The urethral hypermobility increases the efficacy of the procedure, however women with fixed urethra, are at significantly increased risks for failure of the procedure. In the same way, preoperative mixed urinary incontinence and voiding difficulties alter the success rate of the procedure. The mode of anaesthesia and the topography of the tape (retropubic or transobturator) have no incidence on the results. There is a definite learning curve (n=20) for the efficiency and the morbidity of the procedure. Cranial topography of the tape and associated procedures are associated with urgency and voiding difficulties.

CONCLUSION

The prognosis factors having an effect on the success of the procedure are the urethral mobility, the mixed urinary incontinence, the learning curve, and the type of protheses.

Early outcomes of mid-urethral slings for female stress urinary incontinence stratified by valsalva leak point pressure

AIMS

To assess the early results of mid-urethral slings placed via the transobturator approach (TVT-O) for stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in women with high (>60 cm H(2)O) and low (<or=60 cm H(2)O) valsalva leak point pressure (VLPP).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-three women with urodynamically proven SUI underwent TVT-O. Patients were divided into either high (>60 cm H(2)O) or low (<or=60 cm H(2)O) VLPP categories based on preoperative urodynamic studies. Patient outcomes were assessed based on degree of postoperative SUI as either dry (no pads, no SUI), or wet (any leakage). Follow-up visits were at 1, 6, 12, and 24 weeks.

RESULTS

Overall, 65% (28/43) women were cured following TVT-O for SUI. When stratified based on preoperative VLPP, 77% (24/31) of patients with VLPP greater than 60 were cured while only 25% (3/12) of patients with VLPP less than or equal to 60 were cured. No intraoperative complications were noted. The odds of continued SUI following TVT-O were 12 times greater for women with VLPP <or=60 compared to those with VLPP >60.

CONCLUSIONS

With limited follow up, TVT-O appears to be a safe and effective surgical treatment for female SUI producing excellent results in patients with VLPP >60 cm/H(2)0. Patients with low VLPP may consider conventional, retropubic mid-urethral slings or other procedures as treatment for SUI.

A multicenter, prospective, randomized clinical trial comparing tension-free vaginal tape surgery and no treatment for the management of stress urinary incontinence in elderly women

AIMS

The aim of our study was to test the hypothesis that elderly women undergoing tension-free vaginal tape surgery (TVT) will have a better quality of life (QOL) and satisfaction compared to non-treated women despite age- and technique-related potential morbidity.

METHODS

This multicenter, prospective, randomized, controlled trial enrolled a total of 69 women aged over 70 years who initially consented to be randomized to either undergo immediate TVT surgery or to wait for 6 months before submitting to the same surgery (control group). The main outcomes measured at every visit (pre-randomization, 8-12 weeks and 6 months) consisted of the Incontinence-Quality of Life (I-QOL) Questionnaire, the Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire and the Urinary Problems Self-assessment Questionnaire, among others.

RESULTS

The analysis included 31 patients in the immediate surgery group and 27 subjects in the control group. Peri-operative complications in the immediate surgery group were bladder perforation (22.6%), urinary retention (12.9%), urinary tract infection (3.2%) and de novo urgency (3.2%). At 6 months, the mean I-QOL scores for the TVT and control groups were respectively 96.5 +/- 15.5 and 61.6 +/- 19.8 (P < 0.0001); mean Patient Satisfaction scores were respectively 8.0 +/- 2.7 and 2.0 +/- 2.4 (P < 0.0001); and mean Urinary Problems scores were respectively 4.5 +/- 4.3 and 11.6 +/- 3.5 (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

At 6 months post-randomization, the group of elderly women who underwent immediate TVT surgery showed a significant improvement in QOL, patient satisfaction and less urinary problems compared to the group of women waiting for the same surgery.

Outcome of tension-free vaginal tape procedure when complicated by intraoperative cystotomy

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to determine risk factors for intra-operative cystotomy during TVT and whether this affects surgical outcome and morbidity.

STUDY DESIGN

Charts of 340 women who underwent TVT were reviewed. Those who had a cystotomy during the procedure (cases) were compared with those without (controls) for the variables: age, race, parity, body mass index (BMI), TVT with or without other procedures, previous pelvic surgery, blood loss, length of catheter drainage, UTI, and voiding dysfunction. The t-test and chi-squared test were used and differences resulting in P < .05 were statistically significant.

RESULTS

Cystotomy occurred in 49/340 TVT procedures (14.4%). Only those who had a history of abdominal hysterectomy and BMI greater than 26.5 were more likely to have a cystotomy (P = .05 and P = .001, respectively). Cases were more likely to go home with catheter drainage (P = .005). There was no increased risk of UTI or voiding dysfunction, nor was there a difference in surgical cure rate.

CONCLUSION

Cystotomy does not seem to negatively affect the outcome of the TVT procedure.

Laparoscopic colposuspension versus vaginal suburethral slingplasty: A randomised prospective trial

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to determine if laparoscopic colposuspension (LC) was as effective as vaginal suburethral slingplasty (SPARC).

METHODS

Ninety-seven women with urodynamic stress incontinence were prospectively randomised to LC (n=48) or SPARC (n=49). Outcome measures were measured at, baseline, six months (n=87) and two years (n=58), and comprised leakage episodes per week and visual analogue scale (VAS) of incontinence severity. The LC and SPARC groups at baseline had similar leaks per week (8.8 vs 9.8) and VAS (5.6 vs 5.9).

RESULTS

Laparoscopic colposuspension took longer to perform (48 vs 30 mins, P<0.001), had a slightly higher blood loss (104 vs 82 mL, P<0.01), had a longer hospitalisation (4.0 vs 1.5 days, P<0.001) and had a longer time to resumption of normal activities (3.6 vs 2.8 week, P<0.01). At six months there were no significant differences between LC and SPARC with regard to leaks per week (1.1 vs 2.6) and VAS (1.3 vs 0.7). The success rates were similar (88.3 vs 81.8%). These results again had no significant differences at two years (leaks per week 2.1 vs 3.5, and VAS 1.7 vs 2.2). At two years, the cure/improved rates again found no significant difference (81.5 vs 77.4%)

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic colposuspension is as effective as vaginal suburethral slingplasty after two years' follow-up.

SPARC Sling System for Treatment of Female Stress Urinary Incontinence in the Elderly

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the safety and efficacy of the suprapubic arch (SPARC) sling procedure for the management of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in elderly women.

METHOD

Forty-three women, aged 65-91 yr, underwent the SPARC procedure for urodynamic SUI. Before surgery, a complete medical history was obtained and a urogynecology examination and urodynamic test were performed. The objective cure rate was evaluated by clinical and urodynamic examination at 3, 6, and 12 mo and the subjective cure rate was assessed using a visual analogue score and a global patient impression questionnaire.

RESULTS

No severe intraoperative or postoperative complications occurred. No patient referred de novo urge incontinence. Significant differences were found between the preoperative and postoperative number of daytime voidings (p < 0.001), the pad weights and numbers of pads used (p < 0.001), and the visual analogue score (p = 0.021). No significant differences in preoperative and postoperative urodynamic parameters were reported. At the mean follow-up of 36+/-14 mo (range, 12-54 mo), objective and subjective cure rates were 91% and 95%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The SPARC procedure is effective and offers a satisfactory cure rate without significant morbidity in elderly women with SUI.

Laparoscopic Burch colposuspension and the tension-free vaginal tape procedure

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Minimally invasive procedures for urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse have gained increasing popularity in the past decade. The advantages of minimal access through laparoscopic and vaginal routes include smaller incisions, shortened hospital stay, decreased analgesia, rapid recovery and rapid return to work. The laparoscopic Burch colposuspension and the tension-free vaginal tape procedure were at the forefront of minimal access antiincontinence procedures. The most recent and significant publications regarding laparoscopic Burch colposuspension and tension-free vaginal tape procedure are highlighted in this article.

RECENT FINDINGS

The laparoscopic Burch is time-consuming and requires a steep learning curve in laparoscopic suturing, thwarting its adoption and staying power. The advantages and success of the retropubic midurethral sling procedures such as tension-free vaginal tape have largely replaced all other antiincontinence procedures and have ignited the development and adoption of transobturator midurethral sling procedures and vaginal 'kit' procedures for pelvic organ prolapse.

SUMMARY

Clinical trials show that laparoscopic Burch cure rates are equal or inferior to tension-free vaginal tape cure rates. Publications regarding laparoscopic Burch colposuspension have tapered significantly in the past year, which may represent the ebb of its utilization. Tension-free vaginal tape and other midurethral sling procedures may become the new 'gold standard' antiincontinence therapy.

A randomized controlled equivalence trial of short-term complications and efficacy of tension-free vaginal tape and suprapubic urethral support sling for treating stress incontinence

OBJECTIVE

To establish the equivalence between the tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) and the suprapubic urethral support sling (SPARC). Approximately 35% of women have stress urinary incontinence (SUI), and although TVT is now perceived as the standard treatment, the SPARC is a very similar procedure and is thought to have fewer peri-operative complications.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with clinical SUI were recruited from public and private urology/urogynaecology clinics, and participated in the trial of TVT vs SPARC. The primary outcome was bladder perforation; secondary outcomes were blood loss, voiding difficulty, urgency, and cure of SUI symptoms. Sample size calculations, based on an estimated 2% perforation rate, showed that 290 patients would be needed to detect a clinically significant difference of 5%. Stratification was by previous incontinence surgery and the experience of the surgeon.

RESULTS

There were 301 operations; the difference in bladder perforations was not statistically significant, at one/147 TVT (0.7%), and three/154 SPARC (1.9%), with the difference in rate of 0.013 (95% confidence interval (CI) - 0.01 to 0.04; odds ratio 2.89, 95% CI 0.30-28.21; P = 0.62), and nor were differences in estimated blood loss of >100 mL (TVT, 32/147, 21.8%; SPARC 28/154, 18.2%); de novo urgency (TVT 15/37, 40.5%; SPARC 14/33, 42.4%), objective cure (TVT 143/147, 97.3%; SPARC 148/152, 97.4%) or vaginal mesh erosion (TVT 7/147, 4.8%; SPARC 16/152, 10.5%). Acute urinary retention (TVT none of 147; SPARC 10/154, 6.5%; odds ratio infinity, 95% CI 2.2-infinity; P = 0.002) and subjective cure (TVT 128/147, 87.1%; SPARC 117/153, 76.5%; odds ratio 2.07, 95% CI 1.13-3.81; P = 0.03) were statistically significantly different.

CONCLUSION

These results are consistent with clinical equivalence between TVT and SPARC for bladder perforation. There was no statistically significant difference between TVT and SPARC in blood loss, urgency or objective cure of SUI symptoms at 6 weeks. However, SPARC was more difficult to adjust correctly, and a statistically significant number of patients required loosening of the tape in theatre (P = 0.002). TVT had a lower rate of vaginal erosion and a statistically significantly higher cure rate of subjective SUI symptoms than SPARC. Overall, voiding difficulty (loosening of the tape), urgency and vaginal mesh erosion were the most important clinical problems. This trial showed the importance of testing new devices which appear to be similar, but which might have relevant differences. There was no financial assistance for this study, and a long-term follow up is planned.

Tension-free vaginal tape sling for recurrent stress incontinence after transobturator tape sling failure

The transobturator tape (TOT) sling is a new minimally invasive technique to treat stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Short-term follow-up studies show high success rates; however, as with any surgical treatment of SUI, failures are known to occur. The treatment of recurrent or persistent stress urinary incontinence after a TOT sling is therefore a new dilemma as well. In this paper, we describe the successful use of a retropubic tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) sling in five patients after failed TOT sling. We present case series of five patients who had TOT slings placed for stress incontinence that failed and subsequently had TVT slings placed for persistent SUI. The TVT slings were placed under local/regional anesthesia without removal of the TOT sling. Retrospective chart review of office and hospital charts was completed, and both objective and subjective data were collected. Five patients had TVT slings placed 6-30 weeks after early failure of TOT slings that were placed for stress urinary incontinence. Postoperatively, all patients with urodynamic testing showed evidence of intrinsic sphincter deficiency; however, all maintained urethral mobility of 30 degrees . All five patients had successful treatment of their incontinence with the retropubic tension-free sling procedure with a mean follow-up of 17 months. Recurrent or persistent stress urinary incontinence after TOT sling may be treated with TVT sling without removal of the TOT sling. Further studies with larger numbers and longer-term follow-up is warranted.

Synthetic slings: which material, which approach

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The success in the use of the tension-free midurethral sling procedures (tension-free vaginal tape, suprapubic arch, transobturator tape) has dramatically altered the approach to the surgical management of stress urinary incontinence in women and marked a resurgence in the use of mesh. We will analyze the characteristics of synthetic meshes and explain the rationale for using monofilament materials with larger pore sizes. Thus, the purpose of this review is to introduce the surgeon to a variety of commercially available mesh materials and the characteristics that make mesh suitable for use as sling grafts.

RECENT FINDINGS

Type I macroporous mesh materials appear most suitable for transvaginal implantation. Utilization of these materials in a minimally invasive retropubic or transobturator approach, promising early and intermediate follow-up data has been achieved. The outcome of these procedures in women with urethral hypermobility and genuine stress incontinence seems clear. No controlled data, however, exist to define the role of these procedures in difficult cases of stress incontinence. Newer generations of minimally invasive slings may offer treatment alternatives in these difficult cases.

SUMMARY

Minimally invasive slings using Type I mesh materials are safe and effective. 'Hybrid' type slings may offer alternatives in difficult cases of stress urinary incontinence.

Évolution des interventions chirurgicales pour incontinence urinaire d'effort chez la femme dans les services de chirurgie gynécologique de l'Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris entre 2002 et 2004

OBJECTIVE

To appreciate the evolution of surgical operations for female stress urinary incontinence.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Sixteen gynaecology departments of Parisian public hospitals were surveyed by postal questionnaire about their surgical practice for the treatment of female stress urinary incontinence in two successive periods, between 1st September 2002 and 31st August 2003 inclusive, and between the 1st of September 2003 and the 31st of August 2004 inclusive. The number, the type of operation, the type of suburethral tapes and their surgical routes were detailed.

RESULTS

The participation rate in the survey was 87.5%. Suburethral slings represent the technique of choice for stress urinary incontinence (505 [86.2%] in 2002-2003 and 468 [92.7%] in 2003-2004, P < 0.001). Other practices are exceptional. The transobturator approach has widely progressed between the two periods of the study (157 [31.1%] and 302 [64.5%], P < 0.001), and is more often performed than the ascending retropubic approach (245 [48.5%] in 2002-2003 and 117 [25.0%] in 2003-2004, P < 0.001).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Suburethral tape placement is nowadays the main surgical treatment for female stress urinary incontinence, in Gynaecology departments in Parisian public hospitals, in particular the transobturator approach.

Risk factors influencing the complication rates of tension-free vaginal tape-type procedures

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Tension-free vaginal tape (TVT)-type procedures are gradually becoming the new gold-standard treatment for female stress urinary incontinence. Studies trying to determine the influence of possible risk factors on complications of TVT surgery are needed in order to achieve more favorable results in the future. This review attempts to summarize the current studies which address the possible risk factors influencing the complication rates of TVT-type procedures.

RECENT FINDINGS

Articles published in 2004 and 2005 were included and focused, while the older articles were used for historical purposes and achieving the integrity. Risk factors stated in the literature for immediate, infectious, vaginal and urethral erosion complications are found to be mostly on anectodal and speculative bases. The role of concomitant surgery as a risk factor for complications is conflicting, while preoperative low urine flow and low detrusor contractility for urinary retention, and previous anti-incontinence surgery and old age for de-novo urgency seem to appear as possible risk factors.

SUMMARY

Most of the risk factors stated were anecdotal and speculative. No consensus exists on concomitant surgery's being a risk factor for postoperative urinary retention and bladder perforation, while prior anti-incontinence surgery and old age were found to be possible risk factors for postoperative overactive bladder symptoms. Multicentric data collection with well designed parameters under the surveillance of a well known organization is needed in order to identify the risk factors influencing the complications of TVT-type procedures.

Peri-operative complications and pain after the suburethral sling procedure for urinary stress incontinence: a French prospective randomised multicentre study comparing the retropubic and transobturator routes

OBJECTIVE

To compare peri-operative complications, pain, and the immediate functional results of the sub-urethral sling procedure for urinary stress incontinence by the retropublic and transobturator routes, using a non-elastic polypropylene sub-urethral sling.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This prospective, multicentre study involved 88 women undergoing the sub-urethral sling procedure for stress urinary incontinence (SUI). The retropubic route (RPR) and the transobturator route (TOR) were used in respectively 42 and 46 cases. The characteristics of the women in the RPR and TOR groups were as follows: mean age (+/-standard deviation) 56.8+/-12 years and 53.4+/-10 years, respectively; mean BMI: 25+/-4 and 26+/-4; mean parity: 2.1+/-0.9 and 2+/-1 children; post-menopausal status: 66.7% and 58.7%; prior surgery for SUI: 7.1% and 6.5%; and prior hysterectomy: 21.4% and 26.1%. None of these characteristics differed significantly between the groups. Likewise, pre-operative urinary functional status (SUI stage, and pollakiuria, nocturia and urgency rates) was similar in the two groups.

RESULTS

Mean hospital stay and overall morbidity rate were not significantly different between the RPR and TOR groups. Mean operating time was longer in the RPR group. Bladder injury was significantly more frequent in the RPR group and vaginal injury was significantly more frequent in the TOR group. Pain scores were significantly lower in the TOR group. The objective functional results at one month did not differ between the groups. Quality of life, evaluated with questionnaires and numerical rating scales, was similarly improved in the two groups.

DISCUSSION

The suburethral sling procedure was less painful by the TOR route than by the RPR route. Bladder injury, haematomas and abscesses were only observed in the RPR group, while vaginal injury only occurred in the TOR group. The immediate functional results of the two approaches were similar.