Urinary Incontinence Surgery (TOT)

The TOT (Transobturator Tape) procedure is a surgical operation performed to treat individuals who experience urinary incontinence. Successful outcomes are achieved following the procedure we apply to patients who consult us with complaints of urinary incontinence. The TOT surgery (urinary incontinence surgery) is a suspension technique used to strengthen the weakened muscles surrounding the bladder. In addition, compared to other treatment methods, it offers a faster recovery process for individuals suffering from urinary incontinence.

What Does TOT Surgery Mean?

TOT surgery is a procedure performed to treat patients who experience stress urinary incontinence. It is a frequently preferred surgical method because it offers a permanent solution to urinary leakage. Medical tapes placed under the bladder neck help strengthen weakened muscles.

What Is Stress Urinary Incontinence?

In women, involuntary urine leakage during physical activities such as sports or exercise, coughing, sneezing, laughing, or lifting heavy objects is medically referred to as stress urinary incontinence. This condition usually occurs after the pelvic floor muscles weaken or are damaged.

This health problem develops due to weakening of vaginal tissues or muscles. It may also occur due to pregnancy, menopause, or obesity. Stress urinary incontinence is a condition that negatively affects women’s quality of life and requires treatment.

How Is Urinary Incontinence Surgery (TOT) Performed?

There are many treatment options available to resolve urinary incontinence. However, TOT surgery is the surgical method that offers the most permanent solution among all treatment options.

The operation is performed under general or spinal anesthesia. During the surgery, small incisions are made in the anterior vaginal wall and both sides of the groin to place mesh slings. These slings are used to lift and support the bladder and urethra. The meshes used during the procedure are permanent medical slings that do not dissolve in the body.

What Should Be Considered After TOT Surgery?

Some important points patients should pay attention to during the recovery process after TOT surgery include:

• Using prescribed painkillers and medications regularly for possible pain

• Preventing constipation by consuming fiber-rich and fluid-rich foods

• Maintaining adequate water intake as recommended

• Observing sexual abstinence for approximately 6 weeks (this period may vary depending on recovery)

• Avoiding heavy lifting for the specified period

• Resting sufficiently and maintaining regular care

• Avoiding weight gain to prevent recurrence of urinary incontinence

• Avoiding smoking

• Avoiding excessive tea or coffee consumption while drinking at least 1.5–2 liters of fluids daily

• Avoiding physical activities (such as exercise) for the recommended duration

In addition, if you experience burning or pain during urination or persistent vaginal discharge, you should inform us immediately. Regular follow-up visits are also essential and should not be neglected.

Are There Any Risks Associated With Urinary Incontinence Surgery?

As with all surgical procedures, there are some rare risks associated with TOT surgery. These include:

• Bladder sensitivity after surgery

• Risk of infection in the surgical area or urinary tract

• Difficulty urinating after TOT surgery

• Rejection of the mesh by the body (in such cases, the sling may need to be removed)

• Risks such as pain and bleeding after surgery

What Is the Success Rate of TOT Surgery?

In general, the success rate of TOT surgery is high and effective in resolving urinary incontinence problems. The success rate ranges between 82% and 96%. This rate also depends on the quality of the mesh sling used and the compatibility of the patient’s tissue.

What Are the Advantages of TOT Surgery?

Compared to other surgical urinary incontinence treatment methods, TOT surgery offers less pain and a faster recovery period. Thanks to the rapid healing process, patients can return to their daily activities sooner. Since urinary incontinence is resolved, patients’ quality of life significantly improves. The primary goal of urinary incontinence treatment is to enhance patients’ comfort and quality of life.

How Should Sexual Life Be After TOT Surgery?

The time to resume sexual activity after TOT surgery may vary depending on the patient’s condition, surgical technique, and post-operative care. Generally, patients can return to regular sexual activity after the recommended 5–6 weeks of sexual abstinence. Some discomfort may occur during initial sexual activity, so following medical recommendations is important. If pain or discomfort persists during intercourse, patients should schedule an appointment and consult with the clinic.

TOT Surgery Prices in Ankara

Urinary incontinence severity varies from patient to patient. Therefore, before deciding on TOT surgery, a preliminary examination and all necessary tests must be performed. After determining the appropriate treatment method, patients are informed about TOT surgery prices. Costs vary depending on the treatment method applied and the severity of urinary incontinence. To begin the treatment process, you can contact the clinic to schedule an appointment and request preliminary examinations.

After completing the post-operative recovery period, urinary incontinence will be resolved. Urinary incontinence treatment with TOT surgery offers patients a more comfortable and higher-quality life.

What Is TOT Surgery?

TOT (Transobturator Tape) surgery is a surgical technique applied to women who experience stress-type urinary incontinence. In this method, a thin mesh (synthetic tape) is placed under the urethra to eliminate urinary leakage. The mesh supports the urethra and prevents leakage during increases in intra-abdominal pressure. TOT surgery offers a less invasive approach compared to open surgery and allows faster recovery.

TOT surgery is widely used as an effective method for treating stress urinary incontinence in women. During the procedure, a thin synthetic band is placed under the urethra to provide support and prevent leakage during activities such as coughing, sneezing, or exercising. It is a minimally invasive surgical technique that promotes rapid recovery.

Who Are Suitable Candidates for TOT Surgery?

Candidates suitable for TOT surgery are generally women who experience stress-type urinary incontinence. This condition often occurs during coughing, sneezing, exercise, or other physical activities. Urinary incontinence is also common in women after childbirth or during menopause. If you experience these symptoms, you may be a suitable candidate for TOT surgery.

However, not all women are suitable candidates. In some cases, other surgical methods or conservative treatments may be more appropriate. Previous pelvic surgeries, existing urinary tract infections, or certain chronic conditions may affect suitability. Therefore, consulting an experienced specialist is essential.

Preparation Before TOT Surgery

Before TOT surgery, a comprehensive evaluation is required to create a personalized treatment plan. Your doctor will take a detailed medical history and perform a physical examination. Tests such as stress tests and urodynamic studies may be conducted to assess the severity of urinary incontinence.

Following these evaluations, your doctor will determine whether TOT surgery is appropriate for you. If approved, you will receive preoperative instructions, including medication use, dietary guidelines, and lifestyle adjustments. Following these instructions carefully will facilitate recovery.

How Is TOT Surgery Performed?

TOT surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia. During the operation, a thin synthetic mesh is placed under the urethra to provide support and prevent urine leakage during increases in abdominal pressure.

The procedure includes the following steps:

• The patient is placed under general anesthesia

• A small incision is made and the mesh is placed under the urethra

• The mesh is passed through both sides of the abdominal wall to support the urethra

• Incisions are closed with sutures or adhesive

• The surgery typically lasts 30–45 minutes

Compared to open surgery, TOT is less invasive and allows faster recovery. Most patients are discharged within 1–2 days.

Recovery Process After TOT Surgery

The recovery process after TOT surgery is generally fast and uncomplicated, though individual experiences may vary.

Mild pain or discomfort may occur in the first few days, but these symptoms can be managed with prescribed painkillers. Some patients may experience burning or urgency during urination, which usually subsides over time.

Within the first week, patients can gradually return to daily activities. However, heavy lifting, exercise, and sexual activity should be avoided for the period recommended by the doctor. Your physician will guide you through your personalized recovery plan.

Most patients report complete resolution of urinary incontinence and a significant improvement in quality of life after TOT surgery. Although complications are rare, staying in close communication with your doctor and seeking medical attention when needed is crucial for a smooth recovery.