TVT/ TOT
TVT or TOT procedure?
TVT (tension-free vaginal tape) and TOT (transobturator tape) are procedures that lift a woman’s sagging bladder or urethra into normal position. During surgery, a narrow band of tape is placed under the urethra. The tape supports the urethra and bladder like a hammock.
Why do I need a TVT or TOT procedure?
Your doctor may recommend a TVT or TOT procedure to treat stress incontinence. Stress incontinence is when pressure from an activity like coughing, sneezing, laughing, running, or lifting causes you to leak urine. The leakage stops when the activity stops.
Stress incontinence is fairly common among women. It’s caused by weakness in the muscles and tissues that surround the bladder and urethra. The weakness prevents the urethra from closing, so urine leaks out. TVT or TOT support can often relieve or correct this.
How is a TVT or TOT procedure done?
During the procedure, the surgeon makes very small incisions (cuts) in the groin, lower abdomen, and vagina. Then a narrow band of synthetic material (tape) is passed through these cuts, slinging it around the urethra to lift and support the urethra and bladder. The surgeon adjusts the tape during surgery to provide the right amount of support. After the surgery the tape stays in place. It does not poke outside your body. The small stitches slowly dissolve in the days after the procedure.