Overview
Periurethral bulking agents are used to treat stress urinary incontinence. The bulking agents are designed to tighten the urethra to treat urinary incontinence. The agents are injected into the urethra using a special instrument that is placed inside the urethra.
The procedure is done in a medical office or operating room, and usually takes about 15 minutes. No sedation is required, and patients may go home after they demonstrate that they can urinate effectively.
Considerations
Who should consider the procedure? Any woman bothered by incontinence who has already used pelvic floor exercises or has had a prior surgery without significant improvement.
Effectiveness
Up to 70 percent of women will see an improvement in incontinence after two injections. The duration of benefit from bulking agents is seven to 12 months.
Risks
Some people may have an allergic reaction to collagen, and will therefore need to have a skin test one month prior to the procedure. After injection, some women will have difficulty urinating, and may need a catheter to empty the bladder for a period of time.