Extraurethral (non-circumferential) retropubic adjustable compression devices for stress urinary incontinence in women

Extraurethral (non-circumferential) retropubic adjustable compression device insertion aims to prevent stress urinary incontinence by increasing urethral resistance and providing support to the bladder neck.

With the patient under local, regional or general anaesthesia, an incision is made in the perineum. Specially designed introducers are used to insert 2 small silicone balloons. Under radiological guidance the balloons are positioned on either side of the urethra, close to the bladder neck. The balloons are filled with a mixture of water and radiocontrast medium to enable the positioning to be confirmed. Each balloon is then attached to a subcutaneous port sited in the labia major. These ports can be used to add or remove fluid to the balloon postoperatively, thereby achieving the best balance between voiding and leakage.