Bladder Suspension
Information on Bladder Suspension Operations
Urge incontinence is a condition suffered by many; for some, it reaches the point of requiring a bladder suspension operation. While used as a last resort, the procedure has been able to return the normal bodily function of urination to some.
The inability to hold urine is a common complaint of women. There is no complete explanation as to why the bladder muscle loses it relaxation to the point that the need to urinate occurs frequently for these women, but there are some conditions that lead to the ailment. Pregnancy, weak pelvic floor muscles and stroke can all lead to some leakage experienced during exercise, coughing, sneezing or sometimes as simple as the act of standing or walking.
Performing exercises that strengthen the pelvic muscles, the retraining of bladder function and medication are all methods of controlling urge incontinence. When all treatments have been exhausted and still the problem of urge incontinence exists, the doctor may begin to discuss bladder suspension operation; a procedure in which the bladder is returned to its normal position where it will hopefully regain normal function. There are several methods commonly applied for this procedure, with three being the most popularly performed.
A laparoscopic bladder suspension operation is the least invasive surgical means of repairing the bladder position. The procedure itself takes only about ½ hour in an outpatient environment, enabling the patient to go home the same day of the surgery. Most people receiving this type of procedure are highly satisfied with the results, with only minimal risks to the patient and few complications following the procedure. Because the surgeon requires special training to perform this procedure, there may be fewer that offer the opportunity for laparoscopic bladder suspension. Quite often, though, the patient is fully mobile within a week or two while healing.
Another method is called the sling procedure. This type of bladder suspension operation is also considered non-invasive, although full healing is not realized for about 2 to 3 months on average. Through an incision made in the vagina, a sling composed of natural or synthetic materials is used to support the bladder. Same day mobility is a plus for this form of bladder suspension.
A procedure that uses surgical thread in order to attach the bladder neck to the pubic bone is called retropubic suspension. In a surgery taking around one to one and ½ hours, an incision is made through the abdomen between the navel and the pubic bone. A longer recovery time of 2 to 3 days in a medical facility is required for this invasive procedure, and long term restrictions regarding lifting heavy items are implemented.
Certainly the best course of action with urge incontinence is to attempt control through strengthening exercises. When this is not possible, talking to a medical professional about the different methods of bladder suspension operations may provide the relief you seek.