Transcutaneous Temperature-Controlled Radiofrequency Treatment: Improvement in Female Genital Appearance, Sexual Dysfunction, and Stress Urinary Incontinence

Abstract

Abstract Background Transcutaneous temperature-controlled radiofrequency (TTCRF) treatment is an emerging modality for vulvovaginal rejuvenation. However, clinical experience with this modality is limited. Objectives The aim of this study was to examine the efficacy of TTCRF treatment in improving female genital appearance, sexual function, and stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Methods Forty-eight patients complaining of sexual dysfunction (SD; n = 41) and/or SUI (n = 37) were included. Most patients had ≤3 TTCRF sessions. To evaluate the aesthetic results, photographs of the genital area taken before treatment were compared to those taken 6 weeks posttreatment in a blinded manner. Prior to treatment and 6 weeks after the final session, the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire was administered to participants complaining of SD and the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-UI-SF) to those with complaints/symptoms of SUI. Preprocedure scores were compared with postprocedure scores by paired t test. Results Aesthetic improvement was noted in all patients. Preprocedure mean total FSFI score was 21.77 vs the respective postprocedure score of 25.79 (P < 0.00001). Most FSFI domains improved (pre- vs post-TTCRF mean score): sexual desire (from 2.99 to 3.54), arousal (from 3.14 to 3.83), orgasm (from 3.14 to 4.39), pain (from 4.41 to 5.04) (P < 0.00001 for all) and satisfaction (from 3.75 to 4.42; P = 0.001). Mean preprocedure ICIQ-UI-SF score was 10.10 and decreased to 4.81 (P < 0.00001) postprocedure. Conclusions A substantial improvement in genital appearance was observed. Assessment based on validated instruments demonstrated significant improvements in sexual function and SUI. TTCRF is a safe and effective treatment for these conditions. Level of Evidence: 4