MMK surgery, or the Marshall-Marchetti-Krantz procedure, is a surgical procedure designed to correct stress urinary incontinence in women by suspending the urethra and bladder neck.
Understanding the MMK Procedure
The Marshall-Marchetti-Krantz procedure (MMK) specifically addresses urethral hypermobility, a condition where the urethra moves excessively during activities like coughing or sneezing, leading to urine leakage. The surgery aims to stabilize the urethra and bladder neck, preventing this excessive movement.
Key Aspects of the MMK Procedure:
- Purpose: To treat stress urinary incontinence caused by urethral hypermobility.
- Mechanism: The procedure involves surgically elevating and supporting the urethra and bladder neck. This is typically done by suturing the tissues surrounding the urethra and bladder neck to the pubic bone.
- How it works: By providing additional support, the MMK procedure reduces the abnormal movement of the urethra during activities that increase abdominal pressure, thereby preventing urinary leakage.
Why It Was Performed:
Historically, the MMK procedure was a common surgical intervention for stress urinary incontinence. However, modern techniques, such as mid-urethral slings, are now more commonly used due to their less invasive nature and comparable success rates. The MMK surgery is more invasive than these newer procedures.
Current Status:
While still a viable option in specific cases, the MMK procedure is less frequently performed today. It may be considered when other, less invasive procedures are not suitable or have failed. Contemporary surgical approaches for stress urinary incontinence generally favor procedures that minimize invasiveness and recovery time.
