Which statement about urethral bulking agents is correct?

Which statement about urethral bulking agents is correct?

• A. They permanently cure ISD in all cases.
• B. They are administered orally to increase urethral coaptation.
• C. They are injectable around the urethral lumen to increase coaptation; indicated for ISD or when a sling is not feasible.
• D. They are used to stiffen the urethral wall via external device.

Answer: (C)

Urethral bulking agents work by injecting material around the urethral lumen to bulk up and narrow the urethra, increasing coaptation of the urethral walls so it closes more effectively during coughing or straining. This approach directly helps when intrinsic sphincter deficiency is present, or when a sling isn’t feasible or desired, providing a less invasive option compared to mesh or sling procedures. They are not a permanent cure in all cases and may require repeat injections over time. They are not taken orally and they do not stiffen the urethral wall with an external device.

Urethral bulking agents work by injecting material around the urethral lumen to bulk up and narrow the urethra, increasing coaptation of the urethral walls so it closes more effectively during coughing or straining. This approach directly helps when intrinsic sphincter deficiency is present, or when a sling isn’t feasible or desired, providing a less invasive option compared to mesh or sling procedures. They are not a permanent cure in all cases and may require repeat injections over time. They are not taken orally and they do not stiffen the urethral wall with an external device.