Tension-free obturator tape (Monarc Subfascial Hammock) in patients with or without associated procedures

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the tension-free obturator tape (TOT) procedure in patients having concomitant hysterectomy and/or pelvic reconstructive surgery. A chart review from August 2002 to December 2004 identified 341 consecutive female patients with stress urinary incontinence who had undergone a TOT procedure alone (Monarc only group) or a TOT procedure associated with hysterectomy or other pelvic reconstructive surgery (Monarc + other surgery group). Intraoperatively, three cases of hemorrhage occurred. No transfusions were required. There were no cases of bladder injury or injury to obturator nerves or vessels during needle passage via the transobturator route. Three cases of vaginal erosion were found at 3 months follow-up, but no tape removal was required. Two hundred fifty-four patients (74.5%) were contacted by telephone for a second follow-up (average 17 months, range 6-32) and the validated short forms of the Urogenital Distress Inventory (UDI-6) questionnaire and of the Incontinence Impact Questionnaire (IIQ-7) were administered. Results showed a very good quality of life score (0-7) in 93.3% patients. Globally, only three (1.2%) patients had persistent urine leakage related to physical activity. Severe voiding dysfunction occurred in five (2%) patients. The cure rate, considered as the complete absence of urine leakage (score 0 in questions 2 and 3 of the UDI-6), was 73.7% in the Monarc only group vs 57.4% in the Monarc + other surgery group. Pelvic floor defects, benign uterine disorders, and stress urinary incontinence can be safely treated with transobturator tape, using the Monarc device, and concomitant vaginal procedures.