Further information on the research discussed in the blog post 'Treatment of stress urinary incontinence: what are the most cost-effective treatments.'
OPAL and SIMS studies
Some HERU research projects in the area of female urinary incontinence are described. These projects are discussed more fully in the July 2020 HERU Blog post on 'Treatment of stress urinary incontinence: what are the most cost-effective treatments'.
- OPAL - Optimal PFMT for Adherence Long-term
The ‘SUI study’ was a systematic review and economic modelling of the effectiveness and efficiency of non-surgical treatments for women with stress urinary incontinence. The review suggested that Pelvic Floor Muscle Training (PFMT) plus biofeedback and PFMT with extra sessions were effective and potentially cost-effective.
As a result of the review, the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) commissioned the OPAL trial – ‘Optimal PFMT for Adherence Long-term: multicentre randomised trial of the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of basic versus intensive, biofeedback-assisted pelvic floor muscle training for female stress or mixed urinary incontinence’.
There is more information on the OPAL Trial at the ISRCTN registry record for the trial.
- SIMS - Single Incision Mini-Slings
The SIMS pilot study on 'Single Incision Mini-Slings versus standard mid-urethral slings in surgical management of female stress urinary incontinence' led to a successful funding application for a large, UK-wide SIMS randomized controlled trial.
There is more information on the SIMS Trial at the trial website, and at the ISRCTN registry.
The SIMS Pilot also led to a four-year follow-up study.
Back to the HERU Blog post on 'Treatment of stress urinary incontinence: what are the most cost-effective treatments'.
