tension-free vaginal tape

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tension-free vaginal tape (transvaginal tape, TVT) (ten-shŏn-free) n. a surgical sling procedure for treating stress incontinence in women in which a tape of polypropylene mesh is inserted under the mid-urethra, passing through the retropubic space on either side, and fixed to the abdominal wall just internal to the pubic symphysis. The transobturator tape (TOT) procedure is similar, but in this technique a tunnel is created out to the obturator foramen on either side, lessening the risk of vascular and bladder injuries.

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