Urinary urge incontinence--selection of patients for surgery.

ABSTRACT

A modification of the fluid-bridge test was performed on 43 patients with urinary urge incontinence. The 'functional' length of the urethra was found to be reduced significantly in some patients and surgery which increased it produced subjective and objective cure of symptoms. It is concluded that some patients with a history suggestive of motor detrusor instability will benefit from a primary surgical procedure, contrary to current management practice.