Joint report on the terminology for surgical procedures to treat stress urinary incontinence in women

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis: Standardized terminology for surgical procedures commonly performed to treat stress urinary incontinence in women is needed to facilitate research, clinical care, and teaching in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery. Methods: This report combines the input of members of the American Urogynecologic Society and the International Urogynecological Association, assisted by external referees. Extensive searches of the literature were performed, including Instructions for Use brochures and original source documents where possible. Historical context was considered along with procedural modifications, and expert opinion was included when appropriate. Results: A terminology report for the procedures commonly performed to treat stress urinary incontinence in women was produced. Included procedures are midurethral sling, retropubic colposuspension, pubovaginal sling, urethral bulking, and artificial urinary sphincter. Appropriate figures have been included to supplement and help clarify the text. Ongoing review will be performed periodically to keep the document updated and widely acceptable. Conclusions: This document is a literature and consensus-based terminology report for surgical procedures to treat stress urinary incontinence in women. Future publications in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery should use this standardized terminology whenever possible.