TVT-O - a modern method of treating urinary incontinence
TVT-O is a minimally invasive procedure for permanent treatment of stress urinary incontinence — a 20-minute procedure with over 85% success rate.
What is TVT-O?
TVT-O (Tension-free Vaginal Tape – Obturator) is a modern minimally invasive surgical method for treating stress urinary incontinence in women. The procedure involves placing a synthetic tape beneath the urethra that provides support and prevents involuntary urine leakage during activities such as sneezing, coughing, laughing, or physical exertion.
What is stress urinary incontinence?
Stress incontinence is the most common form of involuntary urine leakage in women. It occurs when pelvic floor muscles weaken — most commonly after childbirth, during menopause, or due to obesity — and cannot provide sufficient urethral support during physical strain.
- Involuntary urine leakage when sneezing, coughing, laughing
- Urine leakage during physical activity or heavy lifting
- Need for daily use of sanitary pads
- Avoidance of social activities due to fear of accidents
How does the TVT-O procedure work?
The TVT-O method uses a synthetic monofilament tape placed beneath the mid-urethra through two small incisions in the groin (obturator approach). The tape forms hammock-like support — tension-free at rest but providing sufficient support to prevent leakage during exertion.
Advantages of TVT-O
- Minimally invasive — two small incisions instead of major surgery
- Short duration — procedure takes 20–30 minutes
- High success rate — over 85% of patients achieve complete continence
- Fast recovery — return to daily activities in 7–14 days
- Long-term results — the tape remains permanently and continues to provide support
- Local or spinal anesthesia — no risks of general anesthesia
Who is a candidate for TVT-O?
TVT-O is indicated for women with proven stress urinary incontinence in whom conservative methods (Kegel exercises, physical therapy) have not produced satisfactory results. A urodynamic examination is mandatory before the procedure for precise diagnosis of incontinence type.
Recovery after TVT-O
- Walking the same day — patients walk within hours after the procedure
- Discharge within 24h — most patients go home the next day
- Avoid heavy lifting — 4–6 weeks without lifting over 5 kg
- Sexual intercourse — minimum 4-week pause recommended
- Follow-up — in 2–4 weeks to assess success
Performed by
Dr Đorđe Petković
Consultant in Operative & Endoscopic Gynaecology · 17+ years of experience
Patients often ask
In over 85% of patients, TVT-O permanently resolves stress incontinence. The tape remains in the body and continues to provide long-term support.
The procedure takes only 20-30 minutes and is performed under local or spinal anesthesia.
Most patients return to daily activities within 7-14 days. Heavy physical work requires a 4-6 week pause.
Complications are rare and include temporary difficulty urinating, mild groin pain, and rarely infection. Serious complications are extremely rare.
No, the tape is made of biocompatible material and cannot be felt. It becomes part of the tissue and integrates completely.