[Evaluation of the results of TVT in a series of 29 major sphincter incompetence]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the results of TVT in patients with stress urinary incontinence due to major sphincter incompetence and a closing pressure less than 20 cm H2O.From March 1998 to March 2001, 29 patients with a mean age of 69 years (range: 36-92) with incontinence due to major sphincter incompetence were treated by this technique. The patients were reviewed at 3 months and then annually.The mean follow-up is 30 months (range: 12-48). 25 patients (87%) obtained a good result, including 16 (55%) with perfect continence, while 9 (32%) were improved and 4 (13%) were considered to be failures.TVT constitutes a justified treatment for major sphincter incompetence compared to suburethral slings and in patients who would have been candidates for artificial sphincter implantation before the arrival of TVT. This minimally invasive surgery considerably improves the patient's quality of life. The existence of moderate residual urine or dysuria after insertion of TVT does not alter the functional result or the upper urinary tract.