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Urinary incontinence is a common condition affecting many women and can significantly impact quality of life. In Graz, specialized surgical treatments are available. Univ. Prof. Dr. Arnim Bader and his team provide personalized treatment solutions tailored to each patient’s needs.
Urinary incontinence, defined as the involuntary loss of urine, is an increasingly prevalent condition among women. There are several forms, with the following being the most common:
Stress incontinence
Urge incontinence
A thorough medical evaluation is essential to determine the type and cause of incontinence.
The causes of urinary incontinence in women are diverse. Risk factors include pregnancy and childbirth, aging, obesity, genetic predisposition, as well as certain diseases or prior surgeries. A comprehensive gynecologic assessment is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
The symptoms of urinary incontinence can range from occasional leakage to constant, uncontrollable loss of urine. These symptoms can have a profound impact on a woman’s daily life and emotional well-being. Early diagnosis and targeted treatment are vital to restoring confidence and improving quality of life.
Several surgical methods are available for treating urinary incontinence, depending on the type and severity of the condition. The most common procedures involve the placement of tension-free slings (TVT-O, TVT), which support the urethra and prevent leakage during physical exertion. A detailed evaluation by a gynecologist or urologist is necessary to determine the most appropriate surgical technique for each patient in Graz. Treatment selection is based on diagnostic findings and the individual’s specific anatomy and health status.
The course of surgery for urinary incontinence varies depending on the chosen method. Typically, the operation is performed under general or local anesthesia. During a TVT procedure, for example, a small synthetic sling is placed under the urethra to stabilize it and prevent involuntary urine leakage. The surgery usually lasts around 30 minutes and is often performed using minimally invasive techniques. Before the procedure, Univ. Prof. Dr. Arnim Bader provides each patient with a comprehensive consultation explaining the steps, potential risks, and expected outcomes. The goal is to restore normal bladder function and improve continence.
Postoperative care is essential for long-term success after surgery for urinary incontinence. Patients should rest and avoid physical exertion during recovery. Pelvic floor exercises can strengthen the muscles and provide additional support for the urethra. Regular follow-up appointments with the gynecologist or urologist help monitor healing and identify potential complications early. Through consistent aftercare, patients in Graz can achieve lasting improvement and return to an active lifestyle free from unwanted urine loss. In some cases, adjunct medical therapy may also be beneficial.
The effective treatment of urinary incontinence often requires close collaboration between gynecology and urology. This interdisciplinary approach is a cornerstone of care at the Continence and Pelvic Floor Center in Graz, where specialists work together to ensure comprehensive management for each patient.
Accurate diagnosis is crucial for selecting the right treatment strategy. The diagnostic process typically includes:
Patient history and physical examination
Ultrasound imaging, urodynamic studies, and cystoscopy (bladder endoscopy)
Several preventive measures can help reduce the risk of urinary incontinence. These include:
Regular pelvic floor training
A healthy lifestyle with balanced nutrition and adequate physical activity
Maintaining a healthy body weight and addressing risk factors such as chronic coughing or constipation early can also lower the risk. At the Continence and Pelvic Floor Center in Graz, patients receive detailed counseling on preventive strategies. Regular check-ups with a gynecologist can further help detect early signs of incontinence and initiate timely treatment.
