What causes SUI?
Stress incontinence may occur as a result of weakened pelvic muscles that support the bladder and urethra, or because of malfunction of the urethral sphincter. Prior trauma to the urethral area, neurological injury, and some medications may weaken the urethra. What minimally invasive treatments are offered at the University of Maryland? Two methods offered are the Tension Free Vaginal Tape (TVT) and the TVT Obturator System (TVTO). Tension Free Vaginal Tape is a minimally invasive surgical procedure, appropriate for some women with stress urinary incontinence. During this procedure, a sling is created using a synthetic mesh ribbon-like strip that is surgically inserted through the vagina and placed under the urethra to keep it in its normal position. This allows urethra to remain closed, preventing the involuntary release of urine. Placing the support at the middle of the urethra (as opposed to a position closer to the bladder, as in traditional sling procedures) more closely simulates
