# Effects of Internal Iliac Artery Ligation on Stress and Urge Incontinence: A Retrospective Evaluation

## TL;DR

This study examines whether a surgical procedure used to treat postpartum hemorrhage affects the risk of urinary incontinence.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into the specific effects of BIIAL on urge, but not stress, urinary incontinence.

## Key findings

- BIIAL was associated with a significant increase in urge urinary incontinence.
- No significant impact of BIIAL was found on stress urinary incontinence.
- Patients who underwent BIIAL had higher rates of urinary leakage in some cases.

## Abstract

Introduction: Does bilateral internal iliac artery ligation (BIIAL), a fundamental intervention in the treatment of postpartum hemorrhage, increase the risk of urinary incontinence (UI)? This study aims to shed light on the effects of BIIAL on bladder perfusion and urinary system integrity, thereby elucidating urinary function disorders following pelvic surgery.

Methods: Demographic and medical data were collected from a total of 192 female patients, with and without the application of BIIAL. Urinary incontinence conditions were assessed using the Questionnaire for Urinary Incontinence Diagnosis (QUID) test. The data collection process was conducted according to ethical standards, and the results were analyzed to determine the types of incontinence.

Results: In the group that underwent BIIAL, the number of pregnancies and births was statistically higher compared to the control group. A significant effect of BIIAL was seen in cases of urge urinary incontinence (UUI), while no meaningful impact was detected on stress urinary incontinence (SUI). After the BIIAL procedure, an increase in the rate of urinary leakage was seen in certain cases.

Conclusion: Bilateral internal iliac artery ligation has proven to be a safe and effective intervention in the management of postpartum hemorrhage. The findings suggest a potential impact of BIIAL on UUI but not on SUI. Comprehensive and long-term prospective studies are needed to further investigate the effects of BIIAL on pelvic blood flow and bladder functions.