STABILIZATION SLING FOR USE IN MINIMALLY INVASIVE PELVIC SURGERY

摘要

The present invention relates to prefabricated urethral suspension slings (10), methods of making the slings, methods of attaching suture to the slings, kits comprising the slings, and methods of using the slings to treat urinary incontinence. The slings (10) comprise a biocompatible material having an elongate shape adapted for urethral suspension. The material has a central portion (12) extending longitudinally between a first end portion (14) and a second end portion (16). Each end portion (14, 16) of the sling (10) contains at least one suture receiving site (18). The suture receiving sites (18) are formed prior to surgery and may be reinforced through a variety of means. Sutures (36) may be attached to the suture receiving sites (18) during the manufacturing process or by the physician prior to or during surgery. Additionally, the end portions (14, 16) of the sling (10) containing the suture receiving sites (18) may be thicker than the central portion (12) of the sling.