Information for the public
What has NICE said?
What has NICE said?
There is not much good evidence about how well single-incision short sling mesh insertion for stress urinary incontinence in women works in the long term. Also, there is evidence that it causes rare but serious complications such as lasting pain, discomfort and failure. The mesh implant is supposed to be permanent. But, if it needs to be removed, this can be very difficult or impossible because of the way it's fixed in place. It should only be used if extra care is taken to explain the risks, and extra steps are put in place to record and review what happens.
What does this mean for me?
Your health professional should fully explain what is involved in having this procedure, and discuss the possible benefits and risks with you. In particular, they should explain the uncertainty about the evidence on how likely it is to improve your symptoms and possible complications. You should also be told how to find more information about the procedure. You should only be asked if you want this procedure after having this discussion. Your health professional should ask you if details of your procedure can be collected.
Your healthcare team
A healthcare team experienced in managing stress urinary incontinence in women should decide who should be offered single-incision short sling mesh insertion. Only clinicians with specific training in the procedure should carry it out. Removal should only be done by people with expertise in this specialised surgery.