Using clinical estimate or catheter measurement of urethral mid-point result in similar retropubic mid-urethral sling position: a randomized trial

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The objective was to determine whether standardized, intraoperative urethral measurement improves retropubic mid-urethral sling (RPMUS) positioning and if the intraoperative position remains stable at 2 weeks postoperatively.

METHODS

Participants undergoing a RPMUS were randomized to mid-urethral placement as per usual surgical care (no Foley catheter measurement, no-FCM) vs urethral mid-point Foley catheter measurement (FCM). The primary outcomes were RPMUS location as determined by 2D and 3D ultrasound 2 weeks postoperatively (as percentage from urethral meatus - relative to the urethral length) and intraoperatively following the RPMUS placement.

RESULTS

Forty-four women enrolled, underwent RPMUS, and provided baseline data and intraoperative ultrasound measurements; of these, 36 (82%) had interpretable intraoperative and postoperative ultrasound measurements. Demographic data were similar in the two groups. The mean RPMUS mid-point was 57 % and 55 % in measured and controls (p = 0.685); this same measurement was relatively unchanged at 2 weeks postoperatively at 57% and 54% respectively (p = 0.538). Very much and much improvement was reported on the PGI-I by 84% and 85% of participants in the FCM and no-FCM groups respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Intraoperative RPMUS position at 2 weeks after surgery is similar to the intraoperative position. Compared with usual surgical care, intraoperative measurement of urethral mid-point with a Foley catheter did not affect RPMUS sling position.