Long-term subjective results of Marshall-Marchetti-Krantz procedure

Retrospective, subjective evaluation of results of suprapubic vesicourethropexy (Marshall-Marchetti-Krantz procedure) for stress urinary incontinence.

A total number of 81 patient records operated between 1980 and 1994 at our institution were reviewed and questionnaires were mailed to them to estimate the success rate, period of continence, current complaints and patient satisfaction. Patients with primary incontinence constituted 73% of this group, the remainder of 27% being recurrent or persistent incontinence.

The response rate was 75% (60 cases) and this group was evaluated. Mean postoperative time was 9.9 (2-15) years at the time of assessment. Mean duration of continence was 78.5 months and was not influenced by prior hysterectomy or parity. Weak correlation was found between patients' age and continence period. It was similar in patients operated in their 5th and 6th decades of life and was shorter in the 7th decade. Additional sutures placed between the anterior bladder wall and rectus fascia (Lapides modification) resulted in a longer continence period. Cure rates decreased with time and were 81, 77, 57 and 28% after 6, 12, 60 and 120 months respectively. In the incontinent group, 34% of patients described leakage degree as lesser than preoperatively and 65% required protection. As many as 90% of continent and 62% of incontinent women evaluated their urinary system status as better than preoperatively. 90% of continent and 69% of incontinent women would repeat surgery again.

This procedure is characterized by a high 81% early postoperative success rate that decreases with time. Despite recurrence of stress incontinence, one third of patients declare lesser incontinence degree and do not require protection.