What kind of surgical intervention might be considered for patients with severe urge incontinence when conservative measures fail?

Bladder augmentation surgery is a procedure considered for patients with severe urge incontinence, particularly when conservative management techniques such as medications or pelvic floor exercises have not been successful. This surgery involves increasing the capacity of the bladder by using tissue grafts or segments from the intestine, which can help to improve bladder function and reduce urge incontinence episodes. By expanding the bladder's volume and enhancing its compliance, patients may experience better control over their urinary urgency and frequency, addressing significant discomfort or lifestyle disruptions associated with the condition.

Other surgical options, such as urethral sling surgery, primarily target stress urinary incontinence rather than urge incontinence. Prostatectomy is usually indicated for conditions like prostate cancer or benign prostatic hyperplasia in men, and nephrectomy involves removing a kidney, which is not a relevant treatment for urge incontinence. Thus, bladder augmentation addresses the specific issues associated with severe urge incontinence, making it the appropriate choice when conservative options fail.