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  4. Management of stress urinary incontinence in female patients with spinal cord injury by autologous fascial sling: time for a revival?

Management of stress urinary incontinence in female patients with spinal cord injury by autologous fascial sling: time for a revival?

Spinal Cord Series and Cases, 2022 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41394-022-00524-8 · Published: May 12, 2022

Spinal Cord InjuryUrology

Simple Explanation

This study explores a surgical solution for stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in women with spinal cord injuries. Traditional methods have drawbacks, so the researchers looked at using the patient's own tissue (autologous sling) to support the urethra. The study found that using the patient's own tissue was effective in treating SUI in this group of women. It appeared to be a good option because it worked better than less invasive methods and had fewer complications than other surgical treatments. The researchers recommend regular check-ups to monitor for potential side effects. Specifically, they noted that some women developed new bladder control issues after the surgery, requiring further management.

Study Duration
From 2011 to 2021
Participants
17 women with spinal cord injury
Evidence Level
Not specified

Key Findings

  • 1
    Autologous fascial slings were effective in treating SUI in women with NLUTD.
  • 2
    47% of women were continent and another 47% significantly improved after the autologous sling procedure.
  • 3
    Two women developed de novo detrusor overactivity after sling insertion, indicating the need for urodynamic controls.

Research Summary

This retrospective study evaluated the effectiveness of autologous fascial slings in treating stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in women with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) due to spinal cord injury. The study analyzed data from 17 women who underwent fascial sling surgery. The results showed that 47% of the women were continent, and another 47% experienced significant improvement after a median follow-up of 40 months. The authors concluded that autologous fascial slings are a safe and effective treatment option for SUI in women with NLUTD, offering advantages over minimally invasive procedures and synthetic slings.

Practical Implications

Treatment Choice

Autologous fascial slings can be considered as a viable surgical option for women with SUI and NLUTD, especially when other methods have failed or are contraindicated.

Monitoring

Post-operative urodynamic controls are essential to detect and manage potential complications such as de novo detrusor overactivity.

Future Research

Further studies, including randomized controlled trials, are warranted to compare the long-term efficacy and safety of autologous fascial slings with other surgical techniques.

Study Limitations

  • 1
    Retrospective nature of the study
  • 2
    Relatively small number of patients
  • 3
    Lack of a control group

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