[Surgical strategy in incontinence and prolapse]

By means of 5 typical examples, repeated problems in the operative strategy of incontinence and descensus are discussed. Prior to each vaginal repair a urodynamic examination should be done to clarify the risk of incontinence. In the case of vaginal repair the periurethral structures should be preserved. In the case of abdominal colposuspension nonabsorbable suture material should be used. A wide elevation should be avoided. Continent patients with a cystocele and a urodynamically verified, hidden stress incontinence need, in addition, a vaginal colposuspension. In the case of vaginal stump prolapse the organ-saving operation (vaginal sacropexy) should be preferred to colpectomy. In the case of recurring stress incontinence, patients should preoperatively undergo an intensive local therapy, thus enabling a tension-free elevation.