Aim: To report our experience of the tension-free vaginal tape-obturator (TVT-O) procedure for the treatment of severe female urodymanic stress incontinence (USI) during 2 years of follow-up.
Methods: Between January 2005 and June 2007, 67 women with severe USI who underwent the TVT-O procedure were enrolled in the study. Pelvic examination, pad test, urodynamic study, and quality of life (QoL) assessment were performed pre- and post-operatively. Regular follow-up was arranged for analysis.
Results: The median duration of follow-up was 24 months. The objective cure rate was 76.2%. The postoperative pad test revealed significant reduction of leakage. The subjective cure rate was 83.5%, and improvement occurred in 14.9%. The postoperative QoL showed significant improvement. One (1.5%) extrusion of tape occurred and three cases of de novo detrusor overactivity were detected. Three patients (4.4%) had immediate postoperative urine retention. No major complications occurred.
Conclusion: Our results show that the TVT-O procedure is an effective and safe surgical procedure for severe female USI with satisfactory outcomes, significant improvement in quality of life, and few complications during 2 years of follow-up.