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Question: Is there any consensus on placing a prophylactic sling at the time of a colpocleisis procedure to prevent urinary incontinence?

Answer: Placement of sling can be considered at the same time (during colpocleisis procedure) if urodynamics have confirmed the patient has stress incontinence. Literature reviews note that placing an MUS at the time of colpocleisis is a safe and effective therapy which appears to be unaffected by pre-operative urinary retention status. Still, each case must be individualized and based on the patient's main complaints.

Appropriate counseling is also required. A small number of patients may develop voiding problems, so it is important to discuss and understand the patient’s lifestyle and work environment. If significant post-surgery retention is experienced, a long-term catheter may be required, or, if feasible, the patient can do intermittent self catheterization. A majority of patients who have colpocleisis are elderly and/or frail women who may not be able to do intermittent self catheterization.

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