The evolving role of submucosal injectables for treating internal sphincteric deficiency

Each of the previously mentioned materials can be used in procedures performed on an outpatient basis using sedation and local anesthesia. Teflon usually requires general anesthesia. None of these materials, however, should be used in acute conditions involving cystitis, urolithiasis, or infection. Table 4 summarizes the postoperative care after a bulking agent injection. There are obvious advantages to using injectable materials for ISD, one of which is that the outpatient procedure is usually done under local anesthesia. It does not have the risks inherent in open surgical procedures like slings or artificial sphincters, and it causes minimal increase of urethral resistance to detrusor-generated micturition force. Such procedures are obviously easier and faster to perform with less cost and rapid recovery followed by a return to regular activity within 48 hours. In conclusion, injection therapy for urinary incontinence is appropriate, but the most effective substance has probably not yet been determined.