Minimally Invasive Treatment of Urinary Incontinence

What is a Tension free vaginal tape?

Tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) is used to treat stress urinary incontinence symptoms. A narrow ribbon of mesh (polypropylene) is placed underneath the urethra. It acts as a layer of support so that the urethra is closed off when there is laughing, coughing, sneezing and exercising. The mesh is directed behind the pubic bone and exits on the lower abdomen within the hair-bearing area of the pubic bone in two one-centimeter (1/2-inch) incisions.

When is this procedure used?

It is used to treat stress incontinence, which is a loss of urine with coughing, sneezing, laughing or exercise. This procedure is not intended to relieve urge incontinence, which is a loss of urine when you can’t make it to the bathroom in time.

Read more about urinary incontinence and prolapse treatments:
American Urogynecologic Society
Prepare for Your Procedure (Urethral Sling)