What is a Bladder Sling Procedure?

A bladder sling is a type of surgery that is used to treat incontinence in women. It is a minimally invasive procedure that can be performed as an outpatient procedure. The bladder sling surgery involves placing a piece of mesh under the urethra and bladder neck to provide support. This can help to prevent leakage of urine when coughing, sneezing, or exercising. The surgery usually takes less than one hour to perform and most women go home the same day. Recovery time is typically short, with most women able to return to their normal activities within a week. There are several different types of bladder slings available, so it is important to discuss all options with your doctor before deciding which type of surgery is right for you

There are three main types of bladder slings:

1. Transvaginal Tape (TVT): This type of sling is placed through the vagina and goes around the urethra. It is then attached to the pubic bone in order to provide support. TVT slings are made from polypropylene, which is a durable material that has been used in other types of surgeries for many years
2. Tension-Free Vaginal Tape Obturator (TVT-O): This type of sling is similar to the TVT sling, but it does not attach to the pubic bone. Instead, it goes around the urethra and attaches to the obturator muscles, which are located on either side of the pelvis
3. Transobturator Tape (TOT): This type of sling goes through small incisions in the groin area and attaches to the obturator muscles in a similar way as the TVT-O sling

Bladder slings are generally very effective at treating incontinence, with reported success rates ranging from 70-95%. The most common complication from bladder sling surgery is urinary retention, which occurs when urine cannot be released normally due to blockage from the sling. This problem can usually be resolved with medication or by removing the sling altogether. Other potential complications from bladder sling surgery include infection, bleeding, pain, and neuropathy (nerve damage)

If you are suffering from incontinence, you may be wondering if a bladder sling procedure is right for you. Bladder slings are minimally invasive procedures that can be performed as outpatient surgeries. There are three main types of bladder slings, which vary depending on where they attach in order to provide support. Bladder slings are generally effective at treating incontinence, with reported success rates ranging from 70-95%. As with any surgery, there are some potential risks and complications associated with bladder sling procedures. Be sure to discuss all options with your doctor before deciding if this type of surgery is right for you.