[Transvaginal electrical stimulation of the pelvic floor in the treatment of stress urinary incontinence: clinical and ultrasonographic assessment].

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of transvaginal electrical stimulation on the treatment of women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in selected cases.

METHODS

Twenty two women with primary stress urinary incontinence diagnosed by urodynamic study were submitted to transvaginal electrical stimulation. The mean age was 49 years old (range 22 to 74). The treatment consisted of two weekly sessions of stimulation, each 20 minutes long, during 8 weeks. Women were evaluated through history, clinical and urogynecological exam, weekly registration of frequency of urinary leakage, stress test and transperineal ultrasound before and after treatment. A pulse of 700 sec. was used, frequency of 50 Hz and intensity varying from 12 to 53 mA according to the women's sensitivity.

RESULTS

Eighteen of 22 subjects (81.7%) were satisfied with electrical stimulation and frequency of urinary incontinence reduced significantly (p<0.01). Stress test was negative in 77.2% of the women after treatment. Valsalva leak-point pressure was higher in 14 (63.3%) women after treatment, although not reaching statistical significance (p=0.37). Bladder neck mobility did not change significantly before and after electrical stimulation (p=0.30).

CONCLUSION

Transvaginal electrical stimulation of the pelvic floor is an effective and safe treatment to women with SUI without sphincter deficiency, with significant reduction of the frequency of urinary leakage.