Stress urinary incontinence (SUI), characterized by involuntary urine leakage, significantly impairs quality of life and often stems from urethral sphincter insufficiency. While conventional treatments offer relief for many, they have limitations or may be unsuitable for certain patient populations. Regenerative medicine offers a transformative approach by focusing on the restoration of damaged tissue integrity and physiological function.
This systematic review delves into the current understanding and therapeutic potential of two prominent regenerative strategies: stem cell therapy (SCT) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP).
Literature research backdated from 2010 using databases like PubMed, Cochrane Library and Clarivate Web of Science.
Fourteen studies focusing on the roles of SCT and PRP were included.
Both modalities seem to show a promising effect in treatment of SUI in women and favourable safety profiles. They aim to regenerate compromised tissues and enhance sphincter function through distinct, yet potentially synergistic, biological mechanisms. We discuss their scientific rationale, summarize existing preclinical and clinical evidence, and highlight critical challenges, including the need for standardization and robust randomized controlled trials. The integration of these biologic interventions signifies a new frontier in SUI management, promising durable, minimally invasive, and biologically reconstructive solutions.
International urogynecology journal. 2026 Mar 11 [Epub ahead of print]
Islam Abaza, Alka Bhide, Alex Digesu
Urogynaecology Department - St Mary's Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust - Praed St., London, W2 1NY, UK. ., Urogynaecology Department - St Mary's Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust - Praed St., London, W2 1NY, UK.