TVT

Tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) is a surgical procedure used to treat urinary incontinence, particularly stress urinary incontinence (SUI). This condition is common in women, especially those who have experienced childbirth, menopause, or other factors that can weaken the pelvic floor muscles. The TVT procedure involves the insertion of a mesh tape under the urethra, the tube through which urine exits the body. The tape acts as a supportive sling, helping to keep the urethra closed during activities that increase abdominal pressure, such as coughing, sneezing, or exercising, thereby preventing involuntary urine leakage.

The TVT procedure was first introduced in the late 1990s and has since become one of the most commonly performed surgeries for stress urinary incontinence. It is generally considered a minimally invasive procedure and is often performed under local anesthesia, allowing for a relatively quick recovery time. The success rate of TVT surgery is high, with many patients experiencing significant improvement or complete resolution of their symptoms.

However, like all surgical procedures, TVT carries some risks. Complications can include injury to the bladder or urethra, urinary tract infections, difficulty urinating, and pain. In recent years, there has been concern over the safety of using synthetic mesh in pelvic surgeries, including TVT. Some patients have experienced mesh erosion, where the mesh wears through the vaginal wall or other surrounding tissues, leading to pain, infection, and the need for additional surgery to remove the mesh.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings and recalls for certain types of vaginal mesh, including those used in TVT procedures, due to these safety concerns. Patients considering TVT surgery are advised to discuss the potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider and to explore all available treatment options for stress urinary incontinence.