Needle suspension procedures for female incontinence.

In the past, needle suspensions were considered a viable option to treat female stress urinary incontinence. There have been many modifications since the first needle suspension over 40 years ago. Despite these modifications, the long-term outcome data does not support the efficacy of needle suspension procedures, with only a 67% cure/dry rate at > 48 months. The long-term results are much more efficacious with the sling procedure (83%), as well as with retropubic suspensions (84%). Needle suspensions have historical significance, but because of the poor long-term results, they currently have a limited role in the management of stress urinary incontinence.