Objective: There is increasing controversy surrounding the use of synthetic materials in transvaginal tape and vaginal mesh for stress incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. The aim of this study was to review the case load and operative management of a tertiary referral urology centre dealing with surgical complications of these procedures within Scotland. Participants/patients (or materials) and methods: A retrospective review of patients undergoing removal of products and analysis of their symptom, operative findings and postoperative status was conducted. Results: Twenty-five patients were identified in a one-year period. Eighty per cent of initial procedures were performed by a gynaecologist. Patients presented with a variety of symptoms including pain, infections and haematuria. The most common device needing removal was a tension-free vaginal tape obturator (TVTO). Intraoperative findings were classified using an online calculator with the most common location for complications being within the urethra. Most patients underwent successful removal of all parts of the tape and a small number required combined abdominal and vaginal approach. Postoperatively there was significant symptom resolution for most women with recurrent urinary infections and pain. Over 50% of women were continent postoperatively. Conclusion: We have demonstrated the benefit of performing operative management of these patients in a tertiary referral centre in terms of outcomes regarding improvement of symptoms and continence rates.
Allergy Services at a Tertiary Referral Centre: A One Year Retrospective Review of All Referrals“A One Year Review of Allergy Referrals”
