The full form of TVT is Tension-free Vaginal Tape.
This term refers to a surgical procedure used to treat stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in women. The procedure involves placing a synthetic mesh tape under the urethra to provide support and prevent leakage during activities that increase abdominal pressure, such as coughing, sneezing, or exercise. The tape acts like a hammock, supporting the urethra and bladder neck to restore continence.
Here's a breakdown of the term:
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Tension-free: This indicates that the tape is not placed under significant tension during surgery. The idea is to provide support without constricting or compressing the urethra, allowing for normal urination.
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Vaginal: The tape is inserted through a small incision in the vagina.
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Tape: Refers to the synthetic mesh material used to create the supportive sling under the urethra.
TVT is one type of mid-urethral sling procedure. Another common variation is the transobturator tape (TOT) procedure. Both TVT and TOT aim to achieve the same outcome: to restore urinary continence by supporting the urethra.
