Outcomes of Limited Postoperative Restrictions Following Sling Placement: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Description

The purpose of this research study is to better understand optimal restrictions for patients postoperatively following a mesh urethral sling placement for patients with stress urinary incontinence. Patients undergoing a midurethral sling procedure will be assigned to one of two groups. One group with be given standard postprocedural restrictions including instructions to avoid moderate activity and no lifting over 15lbs for six weeks after surgery. The other group will have fewer restrictions, with no restrictions on activity or lifting. Participants will complete surveys at 2 weeks, 3 months and 1 year following their procedure to help providers better understand how patients are following postoperative restrictions and if there were any differences in the outcome of the procedure between the two groups.

Interventions

• Limited Restrictions (Behavioral)
  Patients will receive a handout with the following instructions: After discharge from the hospital, resume your normal activities as soon as you feel comfortable. There is no weight limit on lifting. There are no specific activities you should avoid (other than pelvic rest as described below). We recommend pelvic rest, nothing in the vagina (no intercourse, hot tubs, tub bathing or swimming) for 2 weeks.
• Standard Restrictions (Behavioral)
  Patient will receive a handout with the following instructions: After discharge from the hospital, avoid doing any strenuous activity (any activity that requires so much exertion that you cannot have a conversation comfortably while doing it). Do not lift anything over 15 pounds for 6 weeks after surgery. For 6 weeks, we recommend complete pelvic rest, nothing in the vagina (no intercourse, hot tubs, tub bathing or swimming).

Eligibility criteria

Conditions

Locations

• University of Iowa Health Care — Iowa City, Iowa, United States