Urinary Incontinence Surgeries

Urinary incontinence is a condition commonly observed among women but often concealed due to embarrassment. It can occur during activities like sneezing, coughing, suddenly, or in a leakage form. If it affects daily activities, it is necessary to consult a doctor. For most women, lifestyle changes and medical treatments can alleviate their complaints.

Urinary incontinence can manifest in different ways. If a patient leaks urine during coughing, sneezing, lifting heavy objects, or exercising, it is called stress urinary incontinence. If the patient leaks urine suddenly following the urge to urinate, it is called urge urinary incontinence. This type of urinary incontinence can persist throughout the night. It can occur in urinary tract infections, diabetes, and nerve damage. Overflow urinary incontinence is characterized by a constant feeling of fullness in the bladder and leakage. This type of urinary incontinence can be observed in cases of bladder prolapse. Functional urinary incontinence can be observed in physical and mental disorders. In severe joint conditions, a patient may leak urine in the toilet without removing their pants. Mixed-type incontinence is a type of urinary incontinence where a combination of these occurs.

It can develop due to many reasons. Excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption, artificial sweeteners, excessive intake of vitamins C and B, medications containing excessive carbohydrates, corn syrup, and the use of heart and blood pressure medications can be observed in correctable conditions. Pregnancy, difficult vaginal delivery history, uterine removal surgeries, menopause, conditions causing urinary tract obstruction, and neurological diseases can cause urinary incontinence.

Regarding the complications of urinary incontinence, skin and urinary tract infections are frequently observed due to a constantly moist environment. Additionally, urinary incontinence affects a woman’s social and work life, confining her to her home.

In treatment, it is crucial to determine the type of urinary incontinence through questioning the patient and conducting tests. Efforts should be made to eliminate the causes. The patient should be informed about bladder training and pelvic floor exercises. Medical treatment should be initiated for necessary cases, especially in urge-type incontinence.

Surgical procedures are particularly recommended for stress and mixed-type urinary incontinence. These can be performed as sling procedures, where the bladder neck is supported using synthetic materials or mesh, procedures involving lifting the bladder neck performed abdominally, and procedures aimed at correcting sagging.