Pixel-CO2 laser for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence
Agnieszka Nalewczyńska, Michael Barwijuk, Piotr Kolczewski, Ewa Dmoch–Gajzlerska
Abstract
Abstract The aim of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of a minimally invasive pixel-CO 2 laser procedure for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI). This was a prospective, open-label study with a cohort of 59 women. Patients were treated intravaginally with a fractional/pixel CO 2 laser every 4–6 weeks for a total of three treatments and assessed at 3, 6, and 12 months. Evaluation tools included a Sandvik severity score based on a validated questionnaire, 1-h pad test, vaginal health index score (VHIS), validated female sexual function index (FSFI), patient’s impression of disease severity (PGI-S), global impression of improvement (PGI-I), and the short-term pelvic floor impact questionnaire (PFIQ-7) to assess improvements in quality of life. Reduction in SUI severity was noticed throughout the duration of the study, as compared to the baseline in which 2% of the patients were defined as “slight,” 73% “moderate,” and 25% “severe.” Gradual improvement of symptoms resulted in redistribution of severity score and the best outcome observed between 3 and 6 months. Sanitary pad weight declined from an average of 35.45 g per day at baseline to 12.47 g at the 3rd treatment, and increased to 23.06 g at 12 months. Vaginal acidity changes showed a similar pattern. No serious adverse events were reported. Pixel-CO 2 laser is safe and effective for treating SUI. Additional maintenance treatments should be considered during the 6–12-month post-treatment period in order to maintain the beneficial effects. Brief summary Pixel-CO 2 laser is a safe and effective treatment for SUI. Maintenance treatments should be considered at 6–12 months.