Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 18, 2026

Transvaginal Mesh Insertion in the Ovine Model
Published on: July 27, 2017
Anatomical path of the tension-free vaginal tape: reassessing current teachings
David D Rahn1, Spyridon I Marinis, Joseph I Schaffer
1Division of Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
Objective:
The objective of the study was to revisit the anatomical path of the tension-free vaginal tape and better describe its relationship to the perineal membrane and other important anatomic landmarks.
Study Design:
Dissections of the anterior perineal triangle, periurethral, and retropubic spaces were performed in 24 unembalmed female cadavers following placement of the tension-free vaginal tape to identify the sling's relationship to the perineal membrane, periurethral muscles, and the arcus tendineus fascia pelvis.
Results:
In 100% of specimens, the device passed cephalad to the perineal membrane. The urethrovaginal sphincter muscle was perforated in 2 of the specimens. The sling passed lateral to the arcus tendineus and perforated the pubococcygeus muscle in 6 (25%) of the cadavers. In the remaining 18 (75%) specimens, the mesh was medial to the arcus tendineus and penetrated the periurethral connective tissue.
Conclusion:
The assertion that the tension-free vaginal tape perforates the perineal membrane is incorrect.
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