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Sling Surgery for Incontinence

If you’re like the millions of Americans living with urinary incontinence, we know how disruptive it can be to your life and peace of mind.

The urologist at Evanston Regional Hospital specializes in techniques, including bladder sling, a common outpatient procedure that provides a protective “hammock” to help prevent urinary leaks. It is especially effective for stress incontinence, where leakage is caused by certain movements like coughing, sneezing or lifting.

About the Procedure

At your initial consultation, we may first recommend nonsurgical options, including bladder retraining, Kegel exercises to strengthen pelvic muscles or medication. But, if you’ve tried those without success, you may be a good candidate for sling surgery.

During the procedure, your surgeon creates and attaches a sling made of mesh or human tissue. The technique is different for women and men – both which have shown to be highly effective for long-term relief from stress incontinence:

Sling for Women

Your doctor makes one small incision inside the vagina, and one just above the pubic hair line or in the groin. The sling is passed under your urethra (the tube that urine passes through) and bladder neck (the part of the bladder that connects to the urethra).

Sling for Men

Your doctor makes a small incision between the scrotum and anus and puts the sling around part of the urethral bulb (the enlarged end of the urethra in men). This will squeeze and lift the urethra, which helps prevent leaks.

Recovery & Follow-Up Care

We usually perform the procedure on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia, allowing you to leave the hospital the same day and recover comfortably at home. In certain cases, you may need to spend a night or two at the hospital.

Recovery time varies, usually around two to four weeks of healing before returning to activities that include heavy lifting or exercise. It may be up to six weeks before you’re able to resume sexual activity. You may need a temporary catheter after surgery to help drain urine while you heal.

As with any surgery, your doctor at Evanston Regional Hospital will discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure and help you make the best choice for your health and life.

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