TVT Procedure

Trinitas Regional Medical Center physician Labib Edison Riachi, MD, a specialist in advanced pelvic surgery and female urinary incontinence, has become the first physician in northern New Jersey and one of the first in the nation to successfully perform the Gynecare TVT-Obturator procedure for female incontinence. Dr. Riachi, who was also the first surgeon in New Jersey to perform incontinence surgery using the Boston Scientific Transvaginal Sling, is a member of the Women's Care Physician's Group, LLC and the Medical Staff of Trinitas Regional Medical Center. He is also the founder of the Center for Advanced Pelvic Surgery at Trinitas Regional Medical Center.

"Each year, more than 13 million women in the United States experience urinary incontinence, resulting in an inability to hold urine," says Dr. Riachi. "Although incontinence is a condition generally associated with aging, it can be a problem for women of all ages. In fact, one in four women between the ages of 30 to 59 have experienced an episode of incontinence. With this new procedure, we are able to offer hope to these women."

The Gynecare TVT-Obturator System Tension-Free Support for Incontinence is a novel surgical device, allowing for the placement of a mid-urethral sling. Unlike the more commonly known TVT procedure, TVT-O is placed in a passage away from the urethra and bladder, reducing the potential for urethral and bladder injury. The mesh is positioned without tension underneath the urethra, creating a supportive sling. The TVT-O procedure can be completed within 30 minutes, and most patients are able to return to normal activities within two days. Catheterization is not usually required, and the procedure is performed under local anesthesia.

After extensive training in Europe under the pioneer and inventor of the TVT-O procedure - Jean de Leval, Professor at the University of Liege in Belgium - Dr. Riachi performed the first two procedures at Trinitas Regional Medical Center in April. He had earlier performed vaginal reconstruction surgery in France with Professor Bernard Jacquetin, Chairman of the International Urogynecology Association, and Dr. Renaud de Tayrac of the Hospital Antoine Beclere.

"I feel very fortunate to have trained for this procedure under the guidance of Jean de Leval," says Dr. Riachi. "He is known around the world as the Father of the TVT-O procedure, and his skills and knowledge are unsurpassed."

Trinitas Regional Medical Center also offers specialized physical therapy services targeted to women with pelvic floor and incontinence problems. The rehabilitation services are part of the full complement of pelvic care services offered at the hospital, including biofeedback continence training, evaluation and treatment, and pelvic floor dysfunction services.

For further information on Female Urinary Incontinence and the TVT-O procedure at Trinitas Regional Medical Center, please call 908-282-2000.


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