Research: WILLE and co-workers,

Listed in Issue 94

Abstract

WILLE and co-workers, Department of Urology and Pediatric Urology, Philipp-Universitaet Marburg, Marburg/Lahn, Germany, have investigated pelvic floor exercises, electrical stimulation, and biofeedback after prostatectomy.

Background

The aim of this prospective randomized trial was to assess the effect of pelvic muscle exercises, electrical stimulation, and biofeedback on urinary incontinence after radical prostate surgery.

Methodology

139 patients undergoing prostatectomy were randomized to three groups. Group 1 received instructions about postoperative pelvic muscle exercises. Group 2 received the same instructions and electrical stimulation for 15 minutes twice daily. Group 3 received the same treatment as group 2 but were treated with biofeedback for 15 minutes twice daily in addition. Treatment was continued for 3 months after surgery. The outcome was assessed using a 20-minute pad test and a urine symptom inventory at baseline and 3 and 12 months post surgery.

Results

No differences were found in either subjective continence (questionnaire) or objective continence (pad test) between the different treatments.

Conclusion

The present practice of instructing patients in pelvic muscle exercises seems to be sufficient as neither biofeedback nor electrical stimulation make any difference to outcomes.

References

Wille S, Sobottka A, Hofmann R. Pelvic floor exercises, electrical stimulation and biofeedback after radical prostatectomy: results of a prospective randomized trial. The Journal of Urology 170 (2 pt 1): 490-493, Aug 2003.

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