Bladder Slings Used to Treat Urinary Incontinence at Mercy

The gynecologic and urologic specialists at Mercy in Baltimore diagnose and treat urinary disorders including urinary incontinence. Our doctors offer options for urinary incontinence treatment including bladder slings, a surgical procedure that helps control urine leakage.

What is a Bladder Sling?

A bladder sling procedure is a surgical option that is offered to patients with urinary incontinence (urine leakage) issues. A sling is used to suspend and compress the tube that carries urine out of the body (urethra) which helps control leakage.

A bladder sling can be strips of body tissue, synthetic material or mesh material that is inserted around the bladder and urethra. It helps keep the urethra closed for stress incontinence issues like coughing or sneezing aiding in bladder control. It is the most common surgical device used for stress urinary incontinence, which affects women more than men.

Who should receive a Bladder Sling?

Urinary incontinence is a common problem, especially for older adults. It is the accidental leakage of urine which can result from coughing, laughing or sneezing (stress incontinence) or from the sudden urge to get to the bathroom (urge incontinence). Men who have surgery or radiation for prostate cancer often have urinary incontinence conditions.