Scientists have made a major discovery about Botox that could change how we use the medication in the future. Researchers at Duke University determined that Botox works about as well as a surgically implanted device to help women who suffer from severe incontinence, according to a statement from Duke.

That’s a big deal for women who have severe incontinence, as now they have a choice in their treatment. The treatments both work by relaxing the overactive bladder muscles.

It’s a discovery that could also save patients money. The surgical procedure is more expensive at first. Botox injections are not only less invasive but they are less expensive, although a long period of time they may end up costing more than the device.

Researchers came to their conclusions after studying women with severe incontinence who couldn’t be helped with drugs or other treatments, and found that Botox injections helped 20 percent of women, compared to 4 percent with the implant.

“Urgency urinary incontinence is common, with 17 percent of women over age 45 and 25 percent of women over age 75 suffering from it,” said Cindy L. Amundsen, M.D., the study’s lead author and the Roy T. Parker Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Duke University School of Medicine. “That’s why it’s important for both patients and health care providers to have information that can guide their choice between these two therapies.”