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Artificial Urinary Sphincter

Artificial Urinary Sphincter

An artificial urinary sphincter is the only device that closely simulates the function of a biological urinary sphincter.

An artificial urinary sphincter is reserved for treatment of complex or severe stress urinary incontinence.

Patients with intrinsic sphincter (urinary valve) dysfunction include

  • Men who have undergone
  1. Radical retro pubic prostatectomy (including laparoscopic or robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy)
  2. Radical perineal prostatectomy,
  3. Transurethral Resection of Prostate (TURP)
  4. Following pelvic trauma
  5. Following  pelvic radiation
  • Women following failed anti-incontinence
  • Patients with spinal cord injuries, myelomeningocele, or other causes of neurogenic bladder may also have intrinsic sphincter dysfunction.

Post prostatectomy incontinence, which is the most common indication for placement of an artificial urinary sphincter

Sphincter

Contraindications

  1. Urinary tract infection
  2. Recurrent urethral stricture or diverticula
  3. Small bladder or poor bladder compliance

How does it work?

An artificial sphincter has an inflatable cuff that fits around the urethra (urine pipe) close to the point where it joins the bladder. A balloon regulates the pressure of the cuff, and a bulb controls inflation and deflation of the cuff. The balloon is surgically placed within the pelvic area, and the control pump is placed in the scrotum.

The cuff is inflated to keep urine from leaking. When urination is desired, the cuff is deflated, allowing urine to drain out.

How well it work?

It has 90% success rate.

Does it need hospitalisation?

Yes.

What are risks involved?

  1. Infection
  2. Mechanical failure
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