Voiding dysfunction after tension-free vaginal tape: a conservative approach is often successful

The published literature has focused mainly on the efficacy of tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) in correcting stress incontinence with few reports of complications. We report our experience with the first 52 cases of TVT, specifically assessing voiding dysfunction after the procedure. We carried out a retrospective study of patients undergoing TVT surgery for stress urinary incontinence (SUI) between April 2001 and July 2003. Data were collected on period of catheterization, voiding and storage symptoms, their duration and management. Fifty-two women with a mean age 54 years (36–77) were included. Postoperatively, the urethral catheter was removed routinely within 12 h. Twelve patients (23%) failed to void spontaneously and needed recatheterization. Ten of them (83%) were able to resume spontaneous voiding within 3 months. Twenty patients (38%) complained of storage symptoms postoperatively. Sixteen (80%) responded to conservative treatment. Transient urinary symptoms after TVT sling for SUI are common but can usually be managed conservatively.