Abstract: A method of diagnosing bladder pathology uses Vesico Internal Sphincter ElectroMyogram (VISEMG) waveforms obtained from a plurality of VISEMG electrodes disposed on a patient. The VISEMG waveforms are converted to noninvasive (NI) urodynamic graphs. Further, a programmed computer assesses the condition of the bladder based on the VISEMG waveforms. The method does not require traditional urodynamics or any other invasive procedure. An apparatus to perform the inventive method uses a plurality of VISEMG electrodes placed on the patient. Each electrode signal is amplified and filtered and converted to a digital signal. A computer converts the digital signals (the VISEMG waveforms) to NI urodynamic graphs. Any combination of the VISEMG waveforms, the NI urodynamic graphs, and the condition of the bladder based on the VISEMG waveforms can then be shown on a display screen.

Abstract: A method of diagnosing bladder pathology uses Vesico Internal Sphincter ElectroMyogram (VISEMG) waveforms obtained from a plurality of VISEMG electrodes disposed on a patient. The VISEMG waveforms are converted to noninvasive (NI) urodynamic graphs. Further, a programmed computer assesses the condition of the bladder based on the VISEMG waveforms. The method does not require traditional urodynamics or any other invasive procedure. An apparatus to perform the inventive method uses a plurality of VISEMG electrodes placed on the patient. Each electrode signal is amplified and filtered and converted to a digital signal. A computer converts the digital signals (the VISEMG waveforms) to NI urodynamic graphs. Any combination of the VISEMG waveforms, the NI urodynamic graphs, and the condition of the bladder based on the VISEMG waveforms can then be shown on a display screen.

Abstract: Surgical apparatus for treating female stress urinary incontinence include a pair of curved delivery needles, each defining a distal end and a proximal end and adopted to be inserted into the abdomen of a female and to be positioned on either side of the bladder neck so as to define a delivery path for a tape which may be removably attached to the proximal ends of the delivery needles through the vagina for implantation into the abdomen to provide support for the urethra. A pair of curved delivery sheaths, each adapted to be inserted into the abdomen around one of the delivery needles, allow withdrawal of the delivery needles from the abdomen such that the tape is conducted along the delivery path. In the preferred embodiment, the delivery needles also allow simultaneous introduction of a local anesthetic into the abdominal tissues. Methods for treatment of stress urinary incontinence utilizing the surgical apparatus are also disclosed.

Abstract: Surgical apparatus for treating female stress urinary incontinence include a pair of curved delivery needles, each defining a distal end and a proximal end and adopted to be inserted into the abdomen of a female and to be positioned on either side of the bladder neck so as to define a delivery path for a tape which may be removably attached to the proximal ends of the delivery needles through the vagina for implantation into the abdomen to provide support for the urethra. A pair of curved delivery sheaths, each adapted to be inserted into the abdomen around one of the delivery needles, allow withdrawal of the delivery needles from the abdomen such that the tape is conducted along the delivery path. In the preferred embodiment, the delivery needles also allow simultaneous introduction of a local anesthetic into the abdominal tissues. Methods for treatment of stress urinary incontinence utilizing the surgical apparatus are also disclosed.