Outcome of transvaginal radiofrequency for treatment of women with stress urinary incontinence

The objective of the study was to assess the outcome and patient acceptance of the transvaginal radiofrequency bladder neck suspension procedure. A retrospective chart review of 18 women treated with the transvaginal radiofrequency bladder neck suspension procedure for stress urinary incontinence was conducted. Data on demographics, urodynamics, daily leakage episodes, complications, patient satisfaction, and further intervention were collected. The mean number of leaks per day was 5.7. There were no complications. Postoperatively, two patients were continent, four were improved, and ten were unimproved. The mean number of daily leaks was reduced to 2.7. Five patients reported to be extremely satisfied with the procedure. One patient was satisfied, and ten were not satisfied. Seven patients sought additional treatment within 1 year. Low cure rate, low patient satisfaction, and high rate of additional treatment led us to discontinue transvaginal radiofrequency bladder neck suspension procedure as a treatment option. It is important that long-term outcome data of the initial studies be made public.