What Is TOT Surgery for Urinary Incontinence and How Is It Performed?

Urinary incontinence surgery (TOT) is a surgical treatment method applied especially in women who experience urine leakage during coughing, laughing, jumping, or sudden movement. This condition is medically called stress urinary incontinence. The underlying problem is most often weakness of the tissues supporting the urethra.

This situation, which affects daily life, is hidden for a long time by many women. It may lead to the need for pad use, social limitation, and avoidance of movement. In suitable patients, TOT surgery is an option that aims to strengthen the support mechanism. In evaluations performed in Ankara, OP. DR. Esra Demir Yüzer determines the type and degree of leakage and evaluates surgical suitability.

What Does TOT Mean?

TOT is the abbreviation of the term “Trans Obturator Tape.” In this method, a supportive tape is placed under the urethra. The aim is to limit the downward movement of the urethra when abdominal pressure increases and to reduce leakage.

This tape is made of body-compatible synthetic material and is supported by tissue. It is expected to integrate with surrounding tissue over time.

How Does the Surgery Process Proceed?

TOT urinary incontinence surgery is generally a short procedure. In most cases, regional anesthesia or short general anesthesia is preferred. A small incision is made through the vaginal route and the tape is placed.

The procedure usually lasts less than one hour. Many patients can be discharged the same day or the next day. The goal of the surgery is not to create excessive pressure on the urethra but to provide controlled support.

Who May Be a Candidate for TOT Surgery?

Not every urinary incontinence patient is suitable for TOT surgery. This method is especially evaluated in people who have significant stress-type leakage and who have not benefited sufficiently from non-surgical treatments.

It is more suitable for patients who experience leakage during coughing, sneezing, and exercise, but whose urge-type complaints are not dominant. The decision is made after examination and, if necessary, tests.

What Is the Recovery Process Like?

Recovery after TOT surgery progresses in a controlled way in most patients. Mild groin pain and vaginal sensitivity may occur in the first days. This is temporary.

During recovery, it is important to avoid heavy lifting, postpone intense exercise, and follow the given care instructions. Tissue healing progresses over several weeks.

Success Rate and Expectation Management

TOT surgery is a method with high reported success rates in the appropriate patient group. However, a one-hundred-percent guarantee is not used for any surgery. Success depends on patient selection, technical application, and tissue structure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is TOT surgery permanent?
Long-term effect is aimed.

Is a catheter needed after surgery?
It may be needed short term in some cases.

Is it a painful surgery?
Pain is usually manageable.

When is normal life resumed?
Most patients return quickly.

Can leakage recur?
It may occur in some patients long term.

TOT surgery is a supportive surgical option for suitable patients with stress-type urinary incontinence. The most accurate approach is to clarify the leakage type and evaluate personal suitability. In Ankara, this evaluation and planning process is carried out by OP. DR. Esra Demir Yüzer.