Radiofrequency remodelling of the endopelvic fascia is not an effective procedure for urodynamic stress incontinence in women

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of transvaginal radiofrequency remodelling of the endopelvic fascia as a primary procedure for urodynamic stress incontinence due to urethral hypermobility in women. It included 24 patients who had the procedure at two district general hospitals. Outcome measures included the pad test, urodynamic assessment, continence diary, pain scores and operative as well as post-operative complications and assessment was made on recruitment during hospital admission and at 3, 6 and 12 months follow-up. A rising failure rate was noted as early as 3 months, leading to a cumulative cure rate of 45.8% at 12 months follow-up. This low effectiveness could be attributed to inherent weakness of the endopelvic fascia. No major complications were encountered and pain scores were mild.

Radiofrequency for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence in women

“…Seven (43.8%) patients sought additional treatment for their incontinence within 1 year. Similarly, Ismail [19] found the SURx treatment to have low effectiveness, with a cure rate of 45.8%, and 37.5% of patients going on to seek other treatment.…”

Radiofrequency in the Treatment of Urinary Incontinence of Female Stress: A Pilot Randomized Clinical Trial

“…In the 1 h pad test, an intragroup reduction in urinary loss was observed in the group that underwent the radiofrequency technique; however, the sample size was reduced to a rm that RF had a positive impact on SUI treatment. Ismail (2008) carried out a prospective study with ablative transvaginal RF in 28 women and found no difference in the 1 h pad test. [27] In addition, the study by Elser et al [28] with 136 women showed no difference in urine output assessed by the 20 min pad test.…”

“…Ismail (2008) carried out a prospective study with ablative transvaginal RF in 28 women and found no difference in the 1 h pad test. [27] In addition, the study by Elser et al [28] with 136 women showed no difference in urine output assessed by the 20 min pad test. A pilot study using nonablative RF in the external meatus identi ed a signi cant reduction (p = 0.028) in urinary loss through the 1 h pad test evaluated until three months after the use of RF.…”

Nonsurgical Outpatient Therapies for the Management of Female Stress Urinary Incontinence: Long-Term Effectiveness and Durability

“…Tissue damage likely resulted in nerve ending damage and the development of worsening urethral sphincteric function due to partial denervation. The procedure was typically performed in a hospital setting under general anesthesia, but is no longer marketed following reports of low cure rates and the frequent need for additional corrective treatment [82–84]. …”