Outcomes of Limited Postoperative Restrictions Following Sling Placement: A Randomized Controlled Trial
University of Iowa
Summary
The purpose of this research study is to better understand optimal restrictions for patients postoperatively following a mesh urethral sling placement for patients with stress urinary incontinence. Patients undergoing a midurethral sling procedure will be assigned to one of two groups. One group with be given standard postprocedural restrictions including instructions to avoid moderate activity and no lifting over 15lbs for six weeks after surgery. The other group will have fewer restrictions, with no restrictions on activity or lifting. Participants will complete surveys at 2 weeks, 3 months and 1 year following their procedure to help providers better understand how patients are following postoperative restrictions and if there were any differences in the outcome of the procedure between the two groups.
Description
There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that strict postoperative restrictions may not be beneficial. Emerging data indicate that these restrictions do not significantly influence short- or long-term outcomes and may even have detrimental effects, such as increasing the incidence of venous thromboembolism and overall deconditioning. Due to limited data on optimal postoperative restrictions following midurethral sling surgery, providers struggle to offer consistent, evidence-based recommendations. This variability can lead to inconsistent patient counseling, underscoring the need for fu…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18–99 years
- Sex
- Female
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion: Undergoing isolated synthetic mesh retropubic midurethral sling placement Exclusion criteria: Non-English speaking, incarcerated, cognitive impairment precluding informed consent, unable to ambulate without the assistance of an ambulation device, concurrent prolapse procedure
Interventions
- BehavioralLimited Restrictions
Patients will receive a handout with the following instructions: After discharge from the hospital, resume your normal activities as soon as you feel comfortable. There is no weight limit on lifting. There are no specific activities you should avoid (other than pelvic rest as described below). We recommend pelvic rest, nothing in the vagina (no intercourse, hot tubs, tub bathing or swimming) for 2 weeks.
- BehavioralStandard Restrictions
Patient will receive a handout with the following instructions: After discharge from the hospital, avoid doing any strenuous activity (any activity that requires so much exertion that you cannot have a conversation comfortably while doing it). Do not lift anything over 15 pounds for 6 weeks after surgery. For 6 weeks, we recommend complete pelvic rest, nothing in the vagina (no intercourse, hot tubs, tub bathing or swimming).
Location
- University of Iowa Health CareIowa City, Iowa