Update on surgical treatment of female stress urinary incontinence

Abstract

Introduction: Urinary incontinence is a common condition that negatively impacts quality of life of millions of women. It is a result of a synergy between the structures of pelvic floor in particular levator ani muscle and pelvic connective tissues. Urinary incontinence, increasing with age, is associated with considerable personal and societal expenditure.

Evidence acquisition: Systematic data search performed using PubMed/Medline database up to August 20, 2020. Focus was only for English language publications of original studies on urinary incontinence and in particular stress urinary incontinence.

Evidence synthesis: Given the basis of published evidence and the consensus of European experts, this study provides an updated overview on clinical applications and surgical procedures of urinary incontinence.

Conclusions: Urinary incontinence is an underestimated health problem. Many surgical options exist for women with stress urinary incontinence. Nevertheless, new strategies need to be evaluated in order to improve quality of life of patients.