Overview

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in women is the involuntary leakage of urine during activities that increase abdominal pressure, such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising. It often results from weak pelvic floor muscles, childbirth, aging, or hormonal changes.

Sling surgery, including Transobturator Tape (TOT) and Tension-Free Vaginal Tape (TVT) procedures, is a minimally invasive surgical solution that provides long-term relief from stress incontinence. Dr. Swapnil Gholap specializes in these advanced techniques to restore urinary control, confidence, and quality of life.

When is Sling Surgery Recommended?

Sling surgery may be advised for women experiencing:

• Persistent urine leakage during physical activity

• Failed conservative treatment, such as pelvic floor exercises, medications, or lifestyle changes

• Reduced quality of life due to urinary incontinence

• Stress-related leakage post-childbirth or menopause

Types of Sling Surgery

1. Tension-Free Vaginal Tape (TVT)

   • A thin mesh tape is placed under the urethra to support it.

   • Restores continence without tension on the urethra.

2. Transobturator Tape (TOT)

   • The tape passes through the obturator foramen (side of the pelvis) for urethral support.

   • Minimally invasive, with lower risk of bladder injury compared to TVT.

Both procedures are performed through small vaginal incisions, resulting in minimal scarring and faster recovery.

Procedure

• Performed under spinal or general anesthesia.

• A small incision is made under the mid-urethra.

• A synthetic mesh tape is positioned to support the urethra, preventing leakage during physical activity.

• The tape is secured without tension, allowing natural urinary flow.

• Surgery usually takes 30–60 minutes, with same-day discharge or short hospital stay.

Benefits of Sling Surgery (TOT/TVT)

• High success rate for stress urinary incontinence

• Minimally invasive with small incisions

• Quick recovery – most women resume normal activities in a few days

• Long-term continence and improved quality of life

• Preserves normal urinary function and bladder health

Recovery & Aftercare

• Mild discomfort or vaginal spotting may occur for a few days.

• Avoid heavy lifting, sexual activity, or strenuous exercise for 4–6 weeks.

• Drink plenty of water and maintain good hygiene to prevent infection.

• Follow-up visits ensure proper healing and tape positioning.

• Pelvic floor exercises may be recommended to strengthen muscles and maintain continence.

Why Choose Dr. Swapnil Gholap

With specialized expertise in female urology and minimally invasive pelvic surgeries, Dr. Swapnil Gholap provides precise sling procedures tailored to each patient’s condition. His focus is on long-term continence, minimal complications, and rapid recovery, ensuring women regain confidence and comfort in daily life.

FAQs

1. Is sling surgery painful?
The procedure is performed under anesthesia, so patients do not feel pain during surgery. Mild discomfort or vaginal soreness may occur afterward but usually resolves in a few days.

2. How long is the recovery period?
Most women can resume light activities within 1–2 weeks, while full recovery, including resuming exercise and sexual activity, generally takes 4–6 weeks.

3. Will the surgery leave scars?
No visible scars are left, as the procedure is performed through small vaginal incisions. The tape is placed internally under the urethra.

4. Can stress incontinence come back after surgery?
Recurrence is rare if the procedure is done correctly, but it may occur due to aging, pregnancy, or other pelvic floor weakening. Pelvic floor exercises help maintain long-term results.

5. Is sling surgery safe for all women?
Sling surgery is generally safe for most women with stress incontinence. Your suitability will be assessed by Dr. Swapnil Gholap based on your medical history, severity of symptoms, and overall health.

6. How effective is TOT/TVT surgery?
TOT and TVT procedures have a high success rate (85–95%) for relieving stress urinary incontinence and improving quality of life.