bladder "lift"?

[PenguinK]

I have been putting off the surgery to lift my bladder since I was initially diagnosed with IC in 2004. My doctor said we had to get my symptoms under control first because it was so bad.

Now, I'm ready to discuss it again, but I'm so afraid that it will start up the horrible flares again. I can't stand the leaking, accidents, etc. and I can't use the pessary - way to painful with the IC and pelvic floor spasms- so I know I need the surgery. I like my state of remission with only the occasional flare up. I'm scared to death to do this, but I know it is necessary. Is it really that bad, or am I just imagining the worst?

I am moving back to Southwestern PA from NJ and need to find a doctor first, then trust him or her to do the surgery. Any suggestions on how to find a good Uro to do the job? How do you "interview" them when you barely know anything about it yourself? I would feel like I was being condescending to them.

Help!:help:
KK

[dg2901]

I had a bladder lift done 3 years ago along with posterior repair and TVH. Eight months later I had the Monarc Hammock (urethral sling) placed.
My Dr did a simple anterior repair to lift my bladder back into position. While it didnt cause too much pain, I did experience horrible retention 3 weeks pre-op that landed me in the ER. Other than that there were no problems and according to my new urogyn things are still in place.
All of this was done thinking that prolapse was the cause for all my bladder issues. Unfortunately that turned out to be untrue.

take care
diana

[kellyann]

I had a bladder lift also. It didn't make my IC worse, but like Diana I had terrible retention. Mine however didn't put me in the ER, but I did have to keep a cath in 24/7 with a bag for two weeks. Then I had to "retrain" my bladder. I would go ahead with it personally. Good luck in finding a doc.
Take Care,
Kelly