Changes in the MRI morphology of the stress continence control system after TVT (tension-free vaginal tape) insertion

ObjectiveMagnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to investigate whether tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) insertion (according to Ulmsten) leads to morphologic changes of the stress continence control system.MethodsTwenty women (mean age 53.4 years) with clinically and urodynamically proven stress urinary incontinence without prolapse were examined by MRI before and 13 months after TVT insertion.ResultsPostoperative MRI showed a signal intensity loss of the suburethral portion of the endopelvic fascia in the area of the anterior vaginal wall in 9/20 women with additional signal loss of the paraurethral portion of the fascia in 3/20 women. No morphologic changes of the levator ani muscle and the urethra were seen postoperatively.ConclusionsTVT insertion does not damage the structures of the stress continence control system or impact on their topographic relationships. MRI identified no excessive scar formation resulting from integration of the TVT.