New data from Kaiser Permanente illuminate research in incontinence.

"We determined the efficacy, safety, adjustability and technical feasibility of the adjustable continence therapy device (Uromedica, Plymouth, Minnesota) for the treatment of recurrent female stress urinary incontinence. Female patients with recurrent stress urinary incontinence were enrolled in the study and a defined set of exclusionary criteria were followed," scientists in the United States report (see also Incontinence).

"Baseline and regular followup tests to determine eligibility, and to measure subjective and objective improvement were performed. A trocar was passed fluoroscopically and with digital vaginal guidance to the urethrovesical junction through small incisions between the labia majora and minora. The adjustable continence therapy device was delivered and the balloons were filled with isotonic contrast. The injection ports for balloon inflation were placed in a subcutaneous pocket in each labia majora. Device adjustments were performed percutaneously in the clinic postoperatively. An approved investigational device exemption Food and Drug Administration protocol was followed to record all adverse events. A total of 162 subjects underwent implantation with I year of data available on 140. Mean Stamey score improved by 1 grade or more in 76.4% (107 of 140) of subjects. Improvement in the mean incontinence quality of life questionnaire score was noted at 36.5 to 70.7 (p

The researchers concluded: "Explantation does not preclude later repeat implantation."

Aboseif and colleagues published their study in the Journal of Urology (The Adjustable Continence Therapy System for Recurrent Female Stress Urinary Incontinence: 1-Year Results of the North America Clinical Study Group. Journal of ...