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Clinical utility of radiofrequency energy for female genitourinary dysfunction: past, present, and future

  • Review Article
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International Urogynecology Journal Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

Radiofrequency (RF) energy has been delivered in a variety of methods to the vagina, bladder, and periurethral tissue to improve myriad genitourinary complaints. Currently, practitioners are promoting transvaginal RF treatments with a minimal understanding of the various platforms and data to support or refute their utilization. This review explores how various RF technologies create desired tissue effects, review the published literature reporting outcomes of various treatment regimes, and peer into potential future uses of this technology in urogynecology.

Methods

A comprehensive literature review was performed for articles pertaining to RF energy use in women for genitourinary complaints with regard to stress urinary incontinence (SUI), genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), female sexual dysfunction (FSD), and overactive bladder (OAB).

Results

Radiofrequency energy devices heat tissues via direct or micro-needling applications with the goal of stimulating collagen remodeling, neovascularization, and potentially modulation of nerve function. By altering the approach and location of energy application, many new devices have been marketed for treatment of conditions such as SUI, GSM, FSD, and OAB. Available studies demonstrate promising efficacy and favorable safety; however, interpretation of studies is greatly limited by poor study quality and reporting.

Conclusions

Despite a lack of high-quality evidence for efficacy, safety, and durability in the literature, practitioners around the world continue to promote RF technology for a variety of genitourinary complaints. Currently, it appears that RF energy can potentially treat a variety of genitourinary conditions, but more robust data are needed to substantiate evidence-based use.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, The Christ Hospital, 2123 Auburn Ave, Suite 307, Cincinnati, OH, 45219, USA

    Anne M. Stachowicz, Mallorie L. Hoover & Mickey M. Karram

Authors
  1. Anne M. Stachowicz
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  2. Mallorie L. Hoover
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  3. Mickey M. Karram
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Contributions

A.M. Stachowicz: project Development, manuscript writing, and editing; M.L. Hoover: project development, manuscript writing, and editing; M.M. Karram: project development, manuscript writing and editing.

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Correspondence to Anne M. Stachowicz.

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Stachowicz, A.M., Hoover, M.L. & Karram, M.M. Clinical utility of radiofrequency energy for female genitourinary dysfunction: past, present, and future. Int Urogynecol J 32, 1345–1350 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-021-04735-9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-021-04735-9

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