Obstetrics & Gynaecology · Prolapse, Urinary Incontinence and Fistulas

The SISTER trial compared Burch colposuspension with pubovaginal sling for stress urinary incontinence. At 2-year follow-up, the primary outcome of complete continence showed which result?

  • A Burch colposuspension had superior success rates (85% vs 78%)
  • B Pubovaginal sling had higher success rate (66% vs 49%) but more adverse events
  • C Both procedures had equivalent success rates (~70%)
  • D Pubovaginal sling was superior only in older women (> 60 years)
Correct answer: B. Pubovaginal sling had higher success rate (66% vs 49%) but more adverse events

Explanation

The SISTER trial (Stress Incontinence Surgical Treatment Efficacy Trial) found that pubovaginal sling had significantly higher overall success rates at 2 years (66.2% vs 48.6%) compared to Burch colposuspension. However, the sling group had higher rates of adverse events including urinary tract infections, difficulty voiding, and urge incontinence. This informed practice toward mid-urethral slings (TVT/TOT) as a less morbid option with similar or better efficacy.

Reference: Shaw's Textbook of Gynaecology, 17th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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