Pubovaginal slings using fascia lata for the treatment of intrinsic sphincter deficiency.
OBJECTIVE
Various materials and techniques have been used to construct a pubovaginal sling. We believe that fascia lata has several advantages and report our experience.


METHODS
A total of 32 female patients with urodynamically proved intrinsic sphincter deficiency underwent a pubovaginal sling procedure using fascia lata. An unscarred fascial strip 24 to 28 x 2 cm. was attached to itself over a 3 to 4 cm. bridge of abdominal wall fascia. Results were tabulated by chart review and an independent patient survey.


RESULTS
Chart review revealed that 28 of 32 patients (87%) required no pads, and 3 improved and 1 did not. An independent patient survey revealed that 70% of patients (21 of 30) required no pads, 20% required 1 to 3 small pads and 10% required more than 3 small pads per day. Of the patients 80% would undergo the procedure again.


CONCLUSIONS
Excellent results can be obtained with fascia lata for the treatment of intrinsic sphincter deficiency. A long, wide strip of fascia attached to itself allows for precise tensioning and good urethral closure, and minimizes the risk of obstruction.
Govier
F E
FE
Section of Urology and Renal Transplantation, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, Washington 98111, USA.
Gibbons
R P
RP
Correa
R J
RJ
Weissman
R M
RM
Pritchett
T R
TR
Hefty
T R
TR
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005206:Fascia Lata / Q000637:transplantation*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D014549:Urinary Incontinence / Q000601:surgery*; D014621:Vagina