BAUS Guidelines on Managing Incontinence After Prostate Surgery

What is it about?

This research presents a consensus document from the British Association of Urological Surgeons (BAUS) for the assessment and management of post-prostatectomy incontinence-stress urinary incontinence (PPI-SUI). A guideline development group was formed to address the lack of evidence in current literature and international guidelines, utilizing a modified Delphi approach to reach consensus on 63 out of 65 statements. The consensus document categorizes these statements into terminology, assessment, conservative management, surgical treatment, perioperative care, complication management, and follow-up, aiming to standardize PPI-SUI management globally. This study highlights the importance of preoperative counseling and tailored diagnostic workups for patients undergoing radical prostatectomy. By providing structured guidance, the document seeks to improve patient care and fill existing knowledge gaps in the management of PPI-SUI. The recommendations are based on contemporary evidence sourced from MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Scopus, along with guidelines from relevant urological societies.

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Photo by Reproductive Health Supplies Coalition on Unsplash

Photo by Reproductive Health Supplies Coalition on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This review examines the British Association of Urological Surgeons (BAUS) consensus document addressing the assessment and management of post-prostatectomy incontinence-stress urinary incontinence (PPI-SUI). The significance of this work lies in its effort to standardize the management pathway for PPI-SUI, a condition with wide-ranging impact on quality of life and economic burdens. By synthesizing current evidence and expert opinions, this review aims to fill knowledge gaps and establish guidelines that can be applied globally by Urologists, enhancing patient care and outcomes. Key Takeaways: 1. The review compiles and synthesizes contemporary evidence and expert opinions to address PPI-SUI, identifying and addressing several gaps in existing literature and international guidelines, particularly concerning prostate cancer survivorship. 2. This study employs a modified Delphi consensus methodology to refine and achieve consensus on 63 out of 65 statements related to the assessment and management of PPI-SUI, emphasizing the need for standardized practices and clarity in terminology, assessment, and treatment. 3. The review highlights the importance of preoperative counseling and patient-specific treatment approaches, advocating for pelvic floor muscle training as a potential strategy to aid early continence recovery post-prostatectomy, thus contributing to improved patient outcomes.

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