The migration pattern of the mesh used in sling surgeries with respect to the anatomical approach

Objective:The aim of this study is to evaluate the time-dependent suburetral translocation of the mesh used in transobturator and retropubic sling procedures and its relation to surgery outcomes. Materials and Methods:A total of 40 female patients undergoing surgery for stress urinary incontinence were enrolled into the study.The patients were allocated to either transobturator suspension (n=20) or retropubic suspension (n=20) group by random sampling method.They were evaluated after 24 hours of surgical intervention by transperineal ultrasonography.The craniocaudal and dorsoventral distances between the superior margin of the mesh and symphysis pubis or bladder neck both at rest and at mild straining were measured.Measurements was repeated on the postoperative 6 th week, 6 th month and 1 st year and the patients were questioned in terms of lower urinary tract symptoms such as stress urinary incontinence, abnormal emptying, urgency, frequency, nocturia and pelvic pain. Results:Transobturator and retropubic sling techniques provided cure in more than 90% of the patients.Lower urinary tract symptoms disappeared at the end of the first year in both groups. Conclusion:Suburethral mesh translocated in time towards the caudal direction in both techniques.Retropubic approach is more effective in preventing urethral mobility.