Hope for Urinary Incontinence -- Research Summary

BACKGROUND: Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is the most common type of urinary incontinence, affecting 15 million women in the United States alone. SUI is the involuntary leakage of urine which occurs during periods of increased intra-abdominal pressure (“stress”).

CAUSE: The primary cause of SUI is inadequate support of the bladder resulting in leaks during activity. SUI affects women of all ages, including approximately 25% of women age 30-59 years, particularly those who have delivered at least one baby vaginally.
Other factors that may worsen stress urinary incontinence include: urinary tract infection, obesity, smoking, diabetes, excessive consumption of alcohol or caffeine, and sports like running or tennis. (Source: Mayo Clinic)

COMMON SYMPTOMS: If you have SUI, you may experience urinary leakage when you: cough, sneeze, laugh, stand up, lift something heavy or exercise. (Source: Mayo Clinic)

SURGICAL OPTIONS:
• Injectable bulking agents: Collagen, synthetic sugars or gels may be injected into tissues around the upper portion of the urethra. These materials increase pressure on the urethra, improving the closing ability of the sphincter. Because this intervention is relatively noninvasive and inexpensive, it may be an appropriate treatment alternative to try before other surgical options.
• Open retropubic colposuspension: This procedure is often used to treat women with stress incontinence. Sutures attached either to ligaments or to bone lift and support tissues near the bladder neck and upper portion of the urethra.
• Sling procedure: In this procedure most often performed in women, the surgeon uses the person's own tissue or a synthetic material to create a "sling" that supports the urethra. Slings for men are used less frequently, but this surgical approach is under investigation. A recently developed technique using a mesh sling has proved effective in easing symptoms of stress incontinence in men. (Source: Mayo Clinic)

RENESSA: Renessa is a non-surgical treatment for women who experience SUI. The Renessa treatment uses a small device which your physician passes through your urethra. It involves the controlled heating of microscopic tissue sites at the base of your bladder, after which the device is immediately removed. There are no catheters, bandages or dressings to change. It takes about 45 minutes. The full effect of treatment is typically seen within 60-90 days. (Source: renessa.com) MORE
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