Injectables
A variety of bulking agents, such as collagen and carbon spheres, are available for injection near the urinary sphincter. The doctor injects the bulking agent into tissues around the bladder neck and urethra to make the tissues thicker and close the bladder opening to reduce stress incontinence.
After using local anesthesia or sedation, a doctor can inject the material in about half an hour. Over time, the body may slowly eliminate certain bulking agents, so you will need repeat injections. Before you receive an injection, a doctor may perform a skin test to determine whether you could have an allergic reaction to the material.
Scientists are testing newer agents, including your own muscle cells, to see if they are effective in treating stress incontinence. Your doctor will discuss which bulking agent may be best for you.
References:
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NKUDIC)
National Institutes of Health
NIH Publication No. 08-4132
Date: October 2007
AUAFoundation - The Official Foundation of the American Urological Association
NKDEP - National Kidney Disease Education Program
NKUDIC - National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse
National Kidney and Urologic Diseases
Information Clearinghouse (NKUDIC)Kidney and Urologic Diseases A-Z list of Topics and Titles
our Patients are our #1 Priority