Dr. Neza Koron
Medical Research Specialist, Fotona
Contrary to the notion of surgery as the only option for treating urinary incontinence, newer non-invasive treatments, such as Erbium YAG (Er:YAG) laser and high-intensity magnetic technology are gaining recognition.
Urinary incontinence is one of the most common health problems that negatively impact the female quality of life. Physiotherapy, kegel exercises and lifestyle changes (caffeine reduction, physical activity, etc.) are typically the first treatments offered to women suffering from involuntary urine leakage. When this fails, surgical therapy is traditionally recommended.
Considering non-invasive options
Surgical procedures come with risks of complications such as long-term pain, temporary difficulty urinating, painful sex and more.
To avoid these risks, more women are opting for safer and incision-less options, such as vaginal laser treatment and pelvic floor muscle strengthening with HITS™ (High Intensity Tesla Stimulation) magnetic technology.
How laser therapy works
IncontiLase® is a non-invasive erbium laser therapy for treating mild and moderate stress urinary incontinence. It uses patented Fotona SMOOTH® technology to deliver laser light to the vaginal surface through a special handpiece, similar to a speculum used during a Pap test. The result is precisely controlled heating of the tissue, triggering the formation of new collagen and tissue renewal. The strengthened vaginal wall offers improved support to the bladder and urethra, improving the symptoms of incontinence. Usually, three sessions are recommended.
Non-invasive laser therapy has recently entered the official guidelines for treating stress urinary incontinence — issued by the associations of gynaecologists and obstetricians in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The safety and effectiveness of non-ablative Er:YAG laser gynaecology treatments have also been confirmed by more than 70 SCI published studies with over 113,000 patients treated in the past eight years.
High-intensity magnetic technology
Another non-invasive option involves sitting on a comfortable IntimaWave® chair with built-in magnetic applicators. The patient can remain fully clothed while the magnetic applicators in the chair stimulate muscle contraction in the entire pelvic floor area, leading to increased muscle strength and effective relief of uncontrolled urine flow. Multiple sessions over a few weeks are needed for optimal results. These can help treat female and male urinary incontinence safely and painlessly.
Laser + magnet = the perfect combination
Fotona SMOOTH® laser treatment and IntimaWave® therapy are each effective treatments on their own. However, more effective results can be achieved by combining both the laser and magnetic treatments. This dual-treatment approach helps to regenerate tissue and restore pelvic floor strength with low risk and optimal efficiency, providing a truly patient-friendly alternative for treating incontinence.
