Australia-first procedure at PDH

Obstetrician and gynaecologist Jodie Benson has completed the first stress urinary incontinence procedure using a new minimally invasive gynaecology sling.

The patient. A Portland women, was able to go home on the day of the surgery and is recovering well.

Whilst performed extensively overseas, Portland is the first hospital in Australia to undertake the procedure.

Dr Benson, who regularly visits Portland from Geelong, said it was a quicker, less invasive and less painful way to treat a urinary incontinence problem.

Urinary incontinence occurs when weaken pelvic floor muscles allow the bladder neck and urethra to drop.

The procedure involves making a small incision, about 2cm long, through the polypropylene needleless mesh tape sling is placed under the urethra.

The sling mimics the failed natural supports and keeps the urethra in its normal position, stopping the involuntary release or urine during activities that put the pressure on the bladder.

The procedure takes only about ten minutes and can be carried out under local anaesthetic.

Dr Benson said the tape was smaller and more cost effective than other tension-free slings she has used previously and is just as effective.

This is just one of the minimally invasive procedures now being performed at PDH that is specifically for women’s health.

Dr Benson said fellow obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Moses Abe will continue to provide ongoing obstetrics and gynaecology support to PDH in 2012.

STORY BY Portland Observer