Stress Urinary Incontinence In Women Research Articles

Differentiated approach to the choice of therapy for stress urinary incontinence in women with pelvic floor dysfunction

BACKGROUND: Among the symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction, urinary incontinence is common in young patients. Stress urinary incontinence disrupts psychological health, sexual and social life. The effectiveness of modern conservative treatments for mild stress urinary incontinence in women of reproductive and perimenopausal age is being studied to prevent disease progression and improve the quality of life. AIM: The aim of this study was a comparative assessment of the effectiveness of pelvic floor muscle training using the Tyulpan laser vaginal simulator and paraurethral injections of a high-density hyaluronic biopolymer for the correction of stress urinary incontinence in women of reproductive and perimenopausal age with pelvic floor dysfunction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We examined 82 patients aged 43.35 ± 6.25 years with mild to moderate stress urinary incontinence combined with grade I to II genital prolapse. After general clinical and special studies, including voiding diaries, Urgency Bother Visual Analogue Scale, cough test, ultrasound of the urethrovesical junction and pelvic floor, 41 women were prescribed a course of remote pelvic floor muscle training under medical supervision using the Tyulpan laser vaginal simulator (group I). 41 patients underwent paraurethral injection of 4.0 ml of high-density hyaluronic biopolymer crosslinked with 1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether (group II). The effectiveness of therapy was evaluated one, six and 12 months after the start of treatment. RESULTS: After one month, the absence of stress urinary incontinence episodes based on voiding diaries was found in 29.4% of patients in group I and in 85.4% of patients in group II (2.9 times more often) (p 0.001); after 12 months, in 73.1% of patients in group I and in 36.4% of patients in group II (half as often) (p = 0.011). After one month, a negative cough test was detected in 65.0% of women in group I and in 92.1% of women in group II (1.4 times more often) (p = 0.023). After six months, the results of treatment for stress urinary incontinence based on the cough test were not different and amounted to 80.0% in group I and 71.9% in group II (p = 0.725). When assessing the pelvic floor muscle strength using the Oxford Scale and perineometry, an increase in strength after one and six months was detected in 100% of patients in group I (p 0.001). Both techniques equally reduced urethral mobility as measured by ultrasound over the one-month follow-up. Pelvic floor muscle training more significantly improved the quality of life of women 12 months after the start of therapy (p 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The introduction of high-density hyaluronic biopolymer leads to a rapid and pronounced positive result in the treatment of stress urinary incontinence and an improvement in the quality of life in the short term; it is recommended for patients interested in quickly achieving results, informed about the limited duration of the effect. Regular training of the pelvic floor muscles in biofeedback mode under the remote control of a doctor contributes to better results in the long term. This method is recommended for women who are able to contract the pelvic floor muscles and are ready for regular exercise.

The impact of pregnancy and childbirth on stress urinary incontinence in women previously submitted to mid-urethral sling: A systematic review and metanalysis.

There is no guideline or clinical consensus concerning the mid-urethral sling (MUS) operation for stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and future pregnancies. The aim of this systematic review and metanalysis is to evaluate the impact of pregnancy and of delivery on SUI in women who previously sustained a MUS surgery. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis, according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines, and selected seven publications for inclusion in the analysis. Recurrence of SUI after childbirth in women previously submitted to MUS was 22% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 18.0%-26.0%; I2 = 0%) while the reintervention rate for SUI the 5% (95% CI: 2.0%-8.0%; I2 = 47.34%) in the included studies. There was not statistically significant difference between women who delivered (both vaginally and by caesarian section) or not after MUS in SUI recurrence (RR 1.01, 95% CI 0.73-1.40; p = 0.96 and I2-test of 41% p = 0.18) and in SUI reintervention (RR 1.45, 95% CI 0.91-2.30; p = 0.12 and I2-test of 0% p = 0.38) with homogeneity among studies. There was no difference between women who delivered vaginally or by caesarian section both for recurrence of SUI (RR 1.24, 95%CI 0.77-2.01; p = 0.37 and I2-test of 0% p = 0.60) and reintervention (RR 1.61, 95% CI 0.76-3.42; p = 0.22 and I2-test of 0% p = 0.47). BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2, urinary incontinence (UI) before and during pregnancy emerged as risk factors for postpartum UI relapse. Childbirth do not affect SUI relapse or reintervention in women previously submitted to MUS. In the same population of patients, no difference was highlighted concerning the mode of delivery for the outcome SUI relapse or reintervention. Previous MUS surgery may not be an appropriate indication for cesarean birth in subsequent pregnancy.

Pharmacotherapy in Stress Urinary Incontinence; A Literature Review.

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is a commonly observed condition in females, as well as in males who have undergone prostatectomy. Despite the significant progress made in surgical techniques, pharmacotherapy has not yielded substantial outcomes within the clinical domain. This review aims to present a comprehensive overview of the existing pharmacotherapy options for stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and the emerging therapeutic targets in this field. One meta-analysis demonstrated that α-adrenergic medications are more efficacious in improving rather than curing SUI symptoms. One trial showed reduced pad weight gain with PSD-503, a locally administered α-adrenergic receptor agonist. New data show that duloxetine's risk outweighs its benefits. One small-scale trial was found to support the use of locally administered estriol in improving subjective outcomes. Emerging targets include serotonin 5HT2C agonists, selective inhibitors of norepinephrine uptake, and myostatin inhibitors. Only one of the evaluated drugs, duloxetine, has been approved by some countries. Currently, trials are evaluating novel targets. Systemic adverse effects such as gastrointestinal upset with duloxetine and orthostatic hypotension with α-adrenoceptor agonists have hampered the efficacy of drugs used to treat SUI in women and men.

The use of hyaluronic acid based bulking agent for stress urinary incontinence in women: A prospective controlled study

Background. Paraurethral injection of bulking agents in women is one of the minimally invasive technologies for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI). The effectiveness and safety of this method depend on the properties of injected substance. Aim. To evaluate the results of paraurethral injections of 1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether crosslinked high-density hyaluronic acid (EsteFILL® intim) in the treatment of SUI in women of reproductive and perimenopausal age. Materials and methods. We examined 18 patients aged 45.8±5.0 years with mild SUI in combination with grade I–II genital prolapse. After general clinical and special studies (urination diaries, King and PISQ-12 questionnaires, cough test, complex urodynamic study, urethrovesical segment and pelvic floor ultrasound with compression elastography) paraurethral injection of 4.0 ml EsteFILL® intim drug was performed. The results of therapy were studied 1 and 6 months after the procedure. Results. It was found that the injection of the drug contributed to an increase in the stiffness of paraurethral tissues by 1.5 times within 6 months after injection. According to the results of elastography before treatment, the average value of the strain ratio of paraurethral tissues of the proximal posterior wall of the urethra was 0.66±0.46 (0.42–0.91), after 1 and 6 months – 0.99±0.45 (0.76–1.23) and 1.00±0.36 (0.78–1.22) respectively; p=0.009 and 0.018. The effectiveness of EsteFILL® intim drug in the treatment of mild SUI in women after 1 and 6 months according to the results of a cough test was 88.2 and 71.4%, according to urination diaries – 88.9 and 66.7% respectively. During the entire observation period the patients noted a decrease in the degree of discomfort due to SUI and an improvement in the quality of life. Conclusion. Paraurethral injection of EsteFILL® intim drug helps to increase the stiffness of the urethra supporting structures in patients with SUI. This method of treating SUI is effective for women of reproductive and perimenopausal age with mild severity disease, who do not plan surgical treatment, are interested in achieving a quick result of therapy and are informed that the effect decreases over time after the procedure.

Can pelvic floor muscle function before surgery determine the outcome of surgical treatment of stress urinary incontinence in women?

The study aimed to determine whether pelvic floor muscle (PFM) function before surgery may correlate with the success of surgical interventions for treating stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Our hypothesis was that addressing identified variables in preoperative rehabilitation could potentially improve surgical outcomes. This prospective observational study was conducted at a single center and enrolled women qualified to mid-urethral tape insertion for SUI between 2020 and 2022. Digital palpation and manometry (Peritron™ 9300 V) were used to evaluate PFM function. The following parameters were acquired: vaginal resting pressure, vaginal pressure during maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), the area under the curve during a 10-second MVC, moreover the ability to perform correct PFM contraction, reflexive PFM contraction during cough and relaxation were assessed. All measurements were performed before the surgical treatment and during follow-up assessments at 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively. The primary endpoint of the study was defined as objective cure, characterized by a negative cough stress test (CST), along with a subjective assessment based on the Urogenital Distress Inventory-6 (UDI-6) and Incontinence Impact Questionnaire-7 (IIQ-7). The study involved 57 eligible female participants, all of whom completed the 6-month follow-up. Objective cure was observed in 75.44% of cases, while subjective cure was reported in 33%. There was no association between PFM parameters and surgical outcomes. The success of surgical treatment of SUI 6 months postsurgery is not related to preoperative pelvic floor muscle function.

Association between exposure to multiple metals and stress urinary incontinence in women: a mixture approach.

There is limited evidence linking exposure to heavy metals, especially mixed metals, to stress urinary incontinence (SUI). This study aimed to explore the relationship between multiple metals exposure and SUI in women. The data were derived from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), 2007-2020. In the study, a total of 13 metals were analyzed in blood and urine. In addition, 5155 adult women were included, of whom 2123 (41.2%) suffered from SUI. The logistic regression model and restricted cubic spline (RCS) were conducted to assess the association of single metal exposure with SUI risk. The Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) and weighted quantile sum (WQS) were used to estimate the combined effect of multiple metals exposure on SUI. First, we observed that blood Pb, Hg and urinary Pb, Cd were positively related to SUI risk, whereas urinary W was inversely related by multivariate logistic regression (all p-FDR < 0.05). Additionally, a significant non-linear relationship between blood Hg and SUI risk was observed by RCS analysis. In the co-exposure models, WQS model showed that exposure to metal mixtures in blood [OR (95%CI) = 1.18 (1.06, 1.31)] and urine [OR (95%CI) = 1.18 (1.03, 1.34)] was positively associated with SUI risk, which was consistent with the results of BKMR model. A potential interaction was identified between Hg and Cd in urine. Hg and Cd were the main contributors to the combined effects. In summary, our study indicates that exposure to heavy metal mixtures may increase SUI risk in women.

Minimally Invasive Treatment of Stress Urinary Incontinence in Women: A Prospective Comparative Analysis between Bulking Agent and Single-Incision Sling.

The study aims to compare the efficacy and safety of bulking agents and single-incision slings in the treatment of urinary incontinence in 159 patients during a 29-month follow-up period. Of the 159 patients suffering from stress urinary incontinence, 64 were treated with bulking agents (PAHG Bulkamid®) and 75 with a single-incision sling (Altis®). The ICIQ-UI-SF (Incontinence Questionnaire-Urine Incontinence-Short Form), PISQ-12 (Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaires short form), FSFI (Female Sexual Function Index), FSDS (Female Sexual Distress Scale), and PGI-I (Patient Global Improvement Index) were used to assess efficiency and quality of life. The bulking agents showed high efficacy and safety during the 29-month follow-up. Post-operative complications were recorded in both groups, with only two significant differences. The Bulkamid group experienced no pain, while 10.8% of the ALTIS group experienced groin pain and 5% experienced de novo urgency. Furthermore, patients treated with bulking agents experienced reduced nicturia (0.78 vs. 0.92 in patients treated with single-incision slings.). In both groups, we noticed a significant improvement in QoL (quality of life), with a halved ICIQ-UI-SF (International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Urine Incontinence-Short Form) score which was completed to assess the impact of urine symptoms. After 24 months of therapy, the Bulkamid group saw a decrease from 14.58 ± 5.11 at baseline to 5.67 ± 1.90 (p < 0.0001), whereas the ALTIS group experience a decrease from 13.75 ± 5.89 to 5.83 ± 1.78. Similarly, we observed an improvement in sexual function, with the number of sexually active patients increasing from 29 to 44 (56.4%) in the Bulkamid group (p = 0.041) and from 31 to 51 (61.7%) in the ALTIS group (p = 0.034). According to the most recent statistics, the PISQ-12, FSFI, and FSDS scores all demonstrated an improvement in women's sexual function. In terms of efficacy and safety, bulking agents had notable results over the 29-month follow-up period. Furthermore, the patients treated with bulking agents reported a lower incidence of postoperative complications and a no discernible difference in terms of quality of life and sexual activity compared to the ones treated with single-incision slings. Bulking agents can be considered a very reliable therapeutic option based on accurate patient selection.

Minimally invasive correction of stress urinary incontinence in women with pelvic floor dysfunction

BACKGROUND: Pelvic floor dysfunction is widespread among young women. Stress urinary incontinence is a common manifestation of the dysfunction and, even in mild forms, affects the quality of life of patients. Much attention is focused on finding and improving minimally invasive methods for treating stress urinary incontinence in women of reproductive and perimenopausal age to prevent disease progression and improve quality of life.&#x0D; AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the immediate and long-term results of paraurethral injections of a high-density hyaluronic biopolymer for the correction of stress urinary incontinence in women of reproductive and perimenopausal age.&#x0D; MATERIALS AND METHODS: We examined 37 patients aged 44.6 ± 4.7 years with mild to moderate stress urinary incontinence combined with grade I to II genital prolapse. After general clinical and special studies (urination diaries, King’s and Pelvic Organ Prolapse / Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire, cough test, complex urodynamic study, ultrasound examination of the urethrovesical junction and pelvic floor ultrasound with compression elastography), paraurethral injection of 4.0 ml of the high-density hyaluronic biopolymer crosslinked with 1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether was performed. The effectiveness of therapy was evaluated 1, 6 and 12 months after the procedure.&#x0D; RESULTS: A negative cough test was detected after one, six and 12 months of follow-up in 96.9, 73.1 and 43.8 % of women, respectively; the absence of stress urinary incontinence episodes according to urination diaries was in 85.7, 61.3 and 35.0 % of patients, respectively. Gradual resorption of the drug was monitored over 12 months of observation. An ultrasound examination showed a decrease in urethral mobility one month after the procedure. According to the results of elastography before treatment, the average value of the strain ratio of paraurethral tissues was 0.50 (0.30–0.69) (p 0.001), after one and six months — 0.88 (0.76–1.03) and 0.79 (0.66–1.07) (p 0.001 and p = 0.005 respectively). Thus, the stiffness of the paraurethral tissues of the proximal posterior wall of the urethra increased within six months after the procedure. When observing women after 12 months, the stiffness values of the studied tissues decreased and approached the values before treatment. During the entire observation period, the patients noted a decrease in the degree of discomfort due to problems with urination according to the questionnaires.&#x0D; CONCLUSIONS: The introduction of the high-density hyaluronic biopolymer helps to increase the stiffness of paraurethral tissues and improve the structural support of the urethra in patients with stress urinary incontinence. After the procedure, a 12-month follow-up revealed a decrease or absence of stress urinary incontinence episodes according to urination diaries and the preservation of the positive effect of treatment according to the results of the cough test. A gradual decrease in the effect of therapy is associated with biodegradation of the drug. This method of treating mild forms of stress urinary incontinence is effective for women of reproductive and perimenopausal age who do not plan surgical treatment, are interested in achieving a quick result of therapy and are informed that the effect decreases over time after the procedure.

Autologous Slings in Female Stress Urinary Incontinence Treatment: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of autologous fascial slings (AFS) compared with other surgical methods for female stress urinary incontinence (SUI) treatment. The search was performed on studies published before September 2023 to identify articles assessing the effectiveness and safety of AFS compared with other surgical methods in female SUI. Inclusion criteria were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and adult women with SUI. Exclusion criteria were other urinary incontinence types, combined pharmacological treatment, pregnancy, and lactation. This systematic review was conducted according to the Population, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcome framework, Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 checklist, and was registered in the Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews. Twenty RCTs were included in the systematic review and 10 RCTs in the meta-analysis. Comparison between AFS and synthetic midurethral slings (SMUS) did not show any statistically significant differences in the cure rate, frequency of urinary retention, or self-catheterization. SMUS showed more long-term postoperative complications (RR = 0.12, 95% CI: 0.03 to 0.50, p = 0.004), AFS had more in de novo urgency cases: (RR = 2.84, 95% CI: 1.13 to 7.10, p = 0.03). Operation time of SMUS was lower: (RR = 2.87, 95% CI: 2.56 to 3.19, p < 0.00001, I2 = 97%). SMUS showed significantly lower hospital stay duration: (RR = 1.92, 95% CI: 1.44 to 2.41, p < 0.00001). In this systematic review and meta-analysis, autologous slings demonstrated the same efficacy in comparison with SMUS in the management of SUI in women. AFS showed lower incidence of long-term postoperative complications. SMUS demonstrated lower operation time, hospital stay and de novo urgency.

Analyze, design, develop, implement, and evaluate approach to develop a pelvic floor muscle training guidebook to treat stress urinary incontinence in women.

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is a common problem that affects the quality of life of women worldwide. Pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) is an effective conservative first-line treatment for SUI. However, low compliance with PFMT is one of the main reasons for therapeutic failure. Indirect supervision using a guidebook may improve PFMT outcomes. To develop a PFMT guidebook using the analyze, design, development, implementation, and evaluation (ADDIE) method. A guidebook was developed from July 2020 to April 2021 using the ADDIE method. This prospective study used mixed methods, namely qualitative analysis, focus group discussions, and in-depth interviews, and involved various experts from urogynecology, urology, medical rehabilitation, and physiotherapy departments. A pilot study was conducted on patients with SUI to evaluate the effectiveness of the guidebook. The ADDIE method was successfully implemented to develop the PFMT guidebook. The formative evaluation of the ADDIE steps mainly focused on the PFMT technique, content clarity, illustration, design, and color choice of the book. After the pilot study, the guidebook significantly improved IIQ-7, 1-hour pad test, and perineometer scores. However, the pilot study showed no significant improvement in UDI-6 scores. The PFMT guidebook developed using the ADDIE method improved outcomes in patients with SUI.

Evaluation of a new management approach using a mobile application in the treatment of stress urinary incontinence in women

Pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) is effective in the treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI). The aim of this randomized controlled trial was to investigate a new management approach involving the use of a mobile application (app) along with standard pelvic floor physiotherapy. The study included 30 female participants with SUI who were aged between 30 and 60 years. The women in the intervention group performed exercises at home using an app connected to an intravaginal probe. Those in the control group performed the same exercises using paper-based instructions. The period of the intervention was 3 months, and five parameters were analysed: adherence, compliance, SUI symptoms, pelvic floor functionality and quality of life (QOL). All participants received physiotherapy sessions in parallel with PFMT. The intervention group showed improvements in incontinence symptoms (P = 0.002), QOL (P = 0.003) and pelvic floor functionality over the course of treatment. Improvements in symptoms (P = 0.021), QOL (P = 0.008), and the strength and speed of contractions were observed in the control group. Intergroup tests only identified a significant difference for the PERFECT speed parameter (P = 0.011). A decrease in motivation was noted in both groups. This study did not show that an app connected to a probe was superior to paper-based instructions for PFMT. However, it did confirm that a home exercise programme combined with physiotherapy has a positive impact on SUI symptoms and QOL.

The association between weight-adjusted-waist index and stress urinary incontinence in female adults: a population-based study.

Obesity has a significant impact on female stress urinary incontinence. The weight-adjusted-waist index (WWI), a newly explored metric for measuring physical obesity and stress urine incontinence, has not been investigated. Cross-sectional data were obtained from the 2011 to 2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) of participants with complete data for WWI and SUI. The independent connection between WWI and SUI was examined using weighted multivariable logistic regression analyses. Smoothed curve fitting was used to study their relationship. In addition, subgroup analyses were performed, and interaction tests were undertaken. In 2,361 female participants over 20, WWI and SUI showed a positive association. Model 3 found that for each one-unit increase in WWI, SUI prevalence increased by 38% [1.38 (1.20, 1.59)]. The prevalence of SUI was 84% higher among participants in the highest quartile of WWI compared to those in the lowest quartile [1.84 (1.32, 2.57)]. Observed nonlinear positive correlation between WWI and SUI was revealed through smoothed curve fitting. In addition, we found that WWI was more strongly associated with SUI than traditional indicators of obesity, including BMI and weight. Females with higher weight-adjusted waist index levels were more likely to develop stress urinary incontinence and have a stronger correlation than traditional indicators of obesity. According to our research, WWI may help detect women's stress urinary incontinence (SUI), and managing obesity through the WWI index may reduce SUI prevalence rates.

Prevalence of urinary incontinence in middle-aged and elderly adults in 10 areas in China

Objective: To describe the population and area distribution differences in the prevalence of urinary incontinence in middle-aged and elderly adults in 10 areas in China. Methods: A total of 24 913 participants aged 45-95 years who completed the third resurvey of China Kadoorie Biobank during 2020-2021 were included. The prevalence of urinary incontinence was assessed by an interviewer-administered questionnaire, and urinary incontinence was classified as only stress urinary incontinence, only urgency urinary incontinence and mixed urinary incontinence. The prevalence of urinary incontinence and its subtypes were reported by sex, age and area, and the severity of urinary incontinence and treatment were described. Results: The average age of the participants was (65.4±9.1) years. According to the seventh national census data in 2020, the age-standardized prevalence rates of urinary incontinence was 25.4% in women and 7.0% in men. The age-standardized prevalence rates of only stress, only urgency and mixed incontinence were 1.7%, 4.2% and 1.2% in men and 13.5%, 5.8% and 6.1% in women, respectively. The prevalence rates of urinary incontinence and all subtypes in men and the prevalence of urinary incontinence and all subtypes except only stress urinary incontinence in women all increased with age (P<0.001). After adjusting for age, the prevalence of urinary incontinence in both men and women were higher in rural area than in urban area (P<0.001). The treatment rates in men and women with urinary incontinence were 15.4% and 8.5%, respectively. Conclusions: The prevalence of urinary incontinence was high in middle-aged and elderly adults in China, and the prevalence rate was higher in women than in men, but the treatment rate of urinary incontinence was low.

Сравнительная оценка воздействия различных физических факторов на качество жизни женщин с диагнозом недержание мочи при напряжении

Aim. To evaluate the effectiveness of the integrated application of pulsating low-frequency alternating electric and intense focused electromagnetic fields, as well as isolated exposure to intense focused electromagnetic fields in order to improve the quality of life of women with stress urinary incontinence. Design. Prospective randomized study. Key points. The study involved 105 menopausal and postmenopausal women aged 46-62 years (average age — 55.1 ± 4.4 years) with mild to moderate stress urinary incontinence, the duration of the disease was 5.8 ± 2.5 years. The patients were divided into three groups with comparable clinical and functional characteristics: the main group (n = 35) received complex treatment, including high-intensity focused electromagnetic (VIFEM) therapy and electrostatic massage using a pulsating low-frequency alternating electric field, the comparison group (n = 35) underwent VIFEM therapy, the control group (n = 35) included women who were prescribed conservative treatment, including a bladder training program and behavioral therapy. The psychoemotional state and overall quality of life of the patients before and after treatment were assessed based on data obtained using a short form of the Incontinence Impact Questionnaire (IIQ-7) and the QOL (Quality of Life) scale. Results. After the therapy, there was an improvement in QOL scores in the main group by 65.7% (p &lt; 0.01), in the comparison group by 40% (p &lt; 0.05) and in the control group by 8-18% (p &gt; 0.05), as well as a decrease in the IIQ-7 questionnaire, especially in the main group — an average of 3.23 times, which was confirmed by a significant decrease in the sum of points: from the initial 13.6 ± 0.2 to 4.2 ± 0.02 after treatment (p &lt; 0.001). Conclusion. The combined use of pulsating low-frequency alternating electric and high-intensity focused electromagnetic fields in the treatment of stress urinary incontinence in women, compared with single exposure, provides a significant improvement in both the physical and emotional state of patients and significantly improves their quality of life, which allows it to be recommended for use in a wide clinical practice. Key words: stress urinary incontinence in women, the condition of the pelvic floor muscles, electrical stimulation of the pelvic floor muscles, pulsating low-frequency alternating electric field, intense focused electromagnetic field, improvement of quality of life.

Randomized trial of mechanotherapy for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence in women.

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) presents as unintentional urine leakage associated with activities. It significantly affects quality of life (QoL) and is the most common type of incontinence in women. Current treatment options, particularly non-surgical therapies, are lacking. To assess the efficacy of mechanotherapy provided by the Flyte® intra-vaginal device during pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT). This was a randomized, controlled, double-blinded trial. Flyte is a repeat use device for conditioning and strengthening the pelvic floor muscles (PFMs). It provides two-part mechanotherapy. Part 1 is the stretching and preloading of the PFM from the internal wand. Part 2 integrates mechanical pulses which elicit muscle cellular and tissue level responses that trigger cellular regeneration, improve neuromuscular facilitation and motor learning. Subjects used the device for 5 min/day for 12 weeks. Subjects (144) were randomized and evaluated at 6 and 12 weeks. Arm A (72) received both Part 1 and Part 2 mechanotherapy for 12 weeks, whereas Arm B (72) received Part 1 therapy for 6 weeks, then crossed over to full therapy. Mean age was 50, 49, respectively, prior pelvic/abdominal surgery 26%, 46%, and previous incontinence treatments 13%, 22%. The primary endpoint was 24-h pad weight (24-HR PW) at 6 weeks. Secondary endpoints were 24-HR PW at 12 weeks and QoL [International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire (ICIQ), Urinary Incontinence Quality of Life (IQOL)]. Part 1 therapy had a greater than anticipated therapeutic effect. Thus, the study was underpowered to identify differences between study arms. Therefore, data were pooled to assess the effects of mechanotherapy. Twenty four-HR PW was significantly reduced at 6 weeks (p = <0.0001), with further reduction from 6 to 12 weeks (p = <0.0001). Data were stratified based on 24-HR PW severity. Significant reductions were noted in all severity groups (mild p = <0.0001, moderate p = <0.0001, severe p = <0.01). QoL was similarly improved at 6 weeks (ICIQ p = <0.0001, IQOL p = <0.0001), and 12 weeks (ICIQ p = <0.0001, IQOL p = <0.0001). Compliance was >80% at 6 weeks and 70% at 12 weeks. Two-part mechanotherapy significantly improved 24-HR PW and QoL across all severities of SUI. Improvements were noted in as little as 2 weeks and appeared to be sustained through 2-year follow up. Registered on ClinTrials.gov (NCT02954042).

Comparing the Efficacy of Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization Exercises and Kegel Exercises on Stress Urinary Incontinence in Women: A Pilot Study.

Background and objective Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is a prevalent condition affecting women of various age groups, significantly impacting their quality of life. To address this multifaceted issue, a comprehensive approach that goes beyond traditional pelvic floor exercises is needed. Dynamic neuromuscular stabilization (DNS) exercises, targeting the integrated spinal stabilization system, offera promising alternative. Thus, this study aimed to compare the effectiveness of DNS exercises and Kegel exercises in managing SUI among women. Methods This single-blinded, pilot study involved 24 women aged 18-40 years with mild to moderate SUI. Participants were divided into DNS and Kegel exercise groups. Outcome measures included perineometer readings, electromyography (EMG) data, and the Urogenital Distress Inventory-6 (UDI-6). Statistical analysis compared baseline and 12-week data within and between groups, and rank-biserial correlation coefficient (r) as a measure of effect size in our study wascalculated. Results At 12 weeks, the DNS group showed significant improvement in pelvic floor muscle strength compared to Kegel exercises (p = 0.005). Both groups had significantly enhanced pelvic floor muscle strength (p < 0.05). A significant change occurred for EMG average, EMG peak, and EMG maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) at 12 weeks (average p = 0.005; peak p = 0.001; MVC p = 0.009), with significant improvements in both groups (p < 0.05). For UDI-6, a significant difference emerged between the two groups at 12 weeks (p < 0.05), with significant improvements in both groups individually from baseline to 12 weeks (p < 0.05). The effect size "r" for all variables indicated a medium to large effect size, underscoring the substantial and significant impact of DNS exercises in managing SUI among women compared to Kegel exercises. Conclusion This study suggests that DNS exercises, emphasizing the coordinated activation of the diaphragm, abdominals, multifidus, and pelvic floor, may provide a more effective approach for managing SUI in women compared to traditional Kegel exercises.

Is Diastasis Recti Abdominis Rehabilitation after Childbirth Able to Prevent the Onset of Stress Urinary Incontinence? A Case-Control Study.

Background and Objectives: Pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) represent the first-line approach to pelvic floor dysfunctions (PFDs). Recently, studies have shown a synergy between the pelvic floor and abdominal muscles, hypothesizing that the anatomical and functional integrity of the abdominal wall plays a role in the prevention of pelvic floor disorders. Some studies have shown a significant correlation between diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) and stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Nevertheless, the evidence reported in the literature is controversial and based on low-quality data. The aim of the study is to clarify whether DRA-specific abdominal rehabilitation is needed in women with SUI after childbirth. Materials and Methods: All consecutive women who had at least one delivery and complained of symptoms of pure SUI that were urodynamically proven were considered for the study. The group of symptomatic patients was compared with a series of consecutive women, identified during the same study period, without any symptoms of SUI. In both groups, we measured the inter-rectal distance (IRD) with an ultrasound scanner above and below the navel. Results: A total of 102 women eligible for the study group and 100 women who did not report any symptoms of SUI were enrolled. The inter-rectal distance above the umbilicus showed no significant difference between the two groups (2.12 ± 0.98 vs. 2.1 ± 0.77; p = 0.94). In contrast, the data from the sub-umbilical measurements showed a significant difference. Surprisingly, the asymptomatic group showed significantly greater (0.98 ± 0.9 vs. 1.33 ± 0.87 p-value: 0.009) IRD compared to the symptomatic group. Conclusions: The study shows that DRA is not a risk factor for SUI in women after childbirth. Therefore, specific abdominal wall rehabilitation after childbirth does not seem to be indicated.

External validation of the de novo stress urinary incontinence prediction model after pelvic organ prolapse surgery in Korean women: a retrospective cohort study

BackgroundDe novo stress urinary incontinence (SUI) may develop following pelvic organ prolapse surgery. Performing prophylactic continence surgery may reduce the risk of de novo SUI and subsequent continence surgery; however, it may increase the risk of complications. Therefore, many surgeons try to identify women at high risk for de novo SUI and perform continence surgery selectively. Recently, a model for predicting the risk of de novo SUI after prolapse surgery was developed using data from the Outcomes following vaginal Prolapse repair and midUrethral Sling (OPUS) trial; its prediction accuracy was significantly better than that of the stress test alone. However, few studies have verified its prediction accuracy in discrete populations. The aim of this study was to externally validate the prediction model for de novo SUI after prolapse surgery in Korean women.MethodsThis retrospective cohort study included 320 stress-continent women who underwent prolapse surgery for pelvic organ prolapse quantification stage 2–4 anterior or apical prolapse and who completed a 1-year follow-up. Predicted probabilities by the de novo SUI online risk calculator were compared with observed outcomes and quantitated using the model’s area under the curve and calibration plot. Subgroup analyses were also performed by the type of prolapse surgery.ResultsThe de novo SUI prediction model showed moderate discrimination in our study cohort; area under the curve (95% confidence interval) = 0.73 (0.67–0.78) in the whole cohort, 0.69 (0.61–0.78) in women who underwent native tissue repair or colpocleisis, and 0.74 (0.65–0.82) in those who underwent sacrocolpopexy. Calibration curves demonstrated that the model accurately predicted the observed outcomes of de novo SUI in women who underwent native tissue repair or colpocleisis but underestimated outcomes in those who underwent sacrocolpopexy. The predicted probability cutoff points corresponding to an actual risk of 50% were 40% in women who underwent native tissue repair or colpocleisis and 30% in those who underwent sacrocolpopexy.ConclusionsThe de novo SUI prediction model is acceptable for use in Korean women and may aid in shared decision-making regarding prophylactic continence procedure at the time of prolapse surgery.

Possibilities of elastography in the diagnosis of stress urinary incontinence in women

BACKGROUND:Stress urinary incontinence in women is a widespread disease. It can occur in women of reproductive age, while progressing and disrupting the quality of life. Ultrasound elastography allows for evaluating the stiffness of the urethral supporting structures and can help in studying the pathophysiology of stress urinary incontinence and in diagnosing its mild forms for timely initiation of therapy and preventing the development of severe forms of the disease.&#x0D; AIM:The aim of this study was to improve the diagnosis of mild stress urinary incontinence in women using ultrasound compression elastography of the ureterovesical junction.&#x0D; MATERIALS AND METHODS:We examined 25 women with mild stress urinary incontinence (main group) and 15 patients without urinary incontinence (control group) of reproductive and perimenopausal age. The diagnosis of stress urinary incontinence was confirmed during a comprehensive urodynamic study. To assess the urethral mobility and determine the stiffness of the supporting structures, a 2D ultrasound examination was performed with compression elastography of the ureterovesical junction using Voluson E6 and E10 ultrasound systems equipped with a transvaginal probe (GE Healthcare, USA). Four areas of interest in the paraurethral region of the proximal and middle urethra were examined. The obtained elastograms were used to evaluate the color characteristics and strain ratio of the areas of interest in three dimensions, the average values being calculated.&#x0D; RESULTS:The strain ratios in all studied areas of the paraurethral region had no significant relationship with age and were lower in patients with stress urinary incontinence compared to control values (p 0.01). Urethral hypermobility (mobility: mean urethral α angle rotation of 40 degrees) was identified in 84% of women with stress urinary incontinence. According to the results of correlation analysis, the strain ratios in the three areas of interest had a significant negative relationship with changes in the urethral α angle rotation. The ROC analysis showed that the stiffness values of the paraurethral region of the proximal posterior wall of the urethra are the most significant parameters for the diagnosis of stress urinary incontinence. The threshold value of the strain ratio for diagnosing stress urinary incontinence was determined to be less than or equal to 0.85 (sensitivity 96.0%; specificity 86.7%;p 0.001).&#x0D; CONCLUSIONS:Ultrasound compression elastography of the ureterovesical junction is a new non-invasive technique that can improve the accuracy of diagnosing stress urinary incontinence in women. It is advisable to use the technique in women with mild stress urinary incontinence who are planned for conservative treatment to confirm the diagnosis and monitor therapy.

Three-year cost utility analysis of mini versus standard slings: A trial based economic evaluation.

To report on the cost-effectiveness of adjustable anchored single-incision mini-slings (mini-slings) compared with tension-free standard mid-urethral slings (standard slings) in the surgical management of female stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Data on resource use and quality were collected from women aged ≥18 years with predominant SUI undergoing mid-urethral sling procedures in 21 UK hospitals. Resource use and quality of life (QoL) data were prospectively collected alongside the Single-Incision Mini-Slings versus standard synthetic mid-urethral slings Randomised Control Trial (SIMS RCT), for surgical treatment of SUI in women. A health service provider's (National Health Service [NHS]) perspective with 3-year follow-up was adopted to estimate the costs of the intervention and all subsequent resource use. A generic instrument, EuroQol EQ-5D-3L, was used to estimate the QoL. Results are reported as incremental costs, quality adjusted life years (QALYs) and incremental cost per QALY. Base case analysis results show that although mini-slings cost less, there was no significant difference in costs: mini-slings versus standard slings: £-6 [95% CI -228-208] or in QALYs: 0.005 [95% CI -0.068-0.073] over the 3-year follow-up. There is substantial uncertainty, with a 56% and 44% probability that mini-slings and standard slings are the most cost-effective treatment, respectively, at a £20 000 willingness-to-pay threshold value for a QALY. At 3 years, there is no significant difference between mini-slings and standard slings in costs and QALYs. There is still some uncertainty over the long-term complications and failure rates of the devices used in the treatment of SUI; therefore, it is important to establish the long-term clinical and cost-effectiveness of these procedures.