Definition | Reasons for Procedure | Possible Complications | What to Expect | Call Your Doctor

Definition

Coaptite is a gel-like substance. It is used as a 'bulking agent' to increases the size of the urethra. The urethra is a tube that allows urine to pass from the bladder to the outside of the body.

Reasons for Procedure

This procedure is for women who have stress urinary incontinence. This is the leakage of urine caused by weakening of the muscles around the bladder and pelvis.

Muscles Involved in Incontinence in Women

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Possible Complications

If you are planning to have a coaptite injection, your doctor will review a list of possible complications which may include:

You should avoid this procedure if you have a history of:

  • Urinary tract infections
  • Current irritation of your bladder or urethra
  • The wall of your urethra being easily damaged

Be sure to discuss these risks with your doctor before the injection.

What to Expect

Your doctor may do the following:

  • Physical exam, blood and urine tests, and imaging tests
  • Discuss with you the type of anesthesia that will be used and the potential risks

Talk to your doctor about your medicines. You may be asked to stop taking some medicines up to one week before the procedure. The medicines may include:

  • Aspirin or other anti-inflammatory drugs
  • Blood thinners, like warfarin (Coumadin)
  • Clopidogrel (Plavix)

Other things to keep in mind before the procedure:

  • Arrange for a ride home from the hospital.
  • If instructed by your doctor, do not eat or drink for eight hours before the procedure.

This procedure can be done under local, spinal, or general anesthesia. It will block any pain. Sedation may also be used to ease anxiety.

An IV will be placed in your arm . It will deliver fluids and medicines directly into your bloodstream. A special jelly or fluid may be placed into your urethra to numb the area. If you are having spinal anesthesia, it will be injected into the spine. General anesthesia will be given through an IV.

The doctor will insert a tiny camera into your urethra. This will allow the doctor to see the bladder. The coaptite substance will be passed through the scope. It will be injected into the urethra wall near the bladder. The procedure will be repeated on the other side of the urethra. The gel will create a bulge just under the bladder.

You will be monitored as the anesthesia wears off..

The procedure usually takes 15-30 minutes.

Anesthesia prevents pain during the procedure. Ask your doctor about medicine to help with pain after the injection.

After the procedure, the hospital staff may provide the following care:

  • Monitor you while you recover from the anesthesia and/or sedation
  • Help you to eat and move around again
  • Give you pain medicine

You will not need to stay overnight.

When you return home, do the following to help ensure a smooth recovery:

  • Take medicines as directed. They will help to reduce pain and the chance of infection.
  • Avoid hard activity and heavy lifting.
  • Drink plenty of fluids, especially water.
  • Do not drive or have sex until your doctor says it is safe to do so.
  • Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions.

Call Your Doctor

After arriving home, contact your doctor if you have any of the following:

  • Increased pressure or pain
  • Not able to urinate
  • Changes in frequency, odor, appearance, or volume of urine
  • Signs of infection, including fever or chills
  • Blood in urine
  • Painful urination or a burning sensation
  • Leaking urine

In case of an emergency, call for medical help right away.