The artificial urinary sphincter is a medical device used for the treatment of urinary incontinence in men. This treatment helps to control urination in men who experience significant urine leakage.
Artificial Urinary Sphincter for Incontinence in Men
How does the artificial urinary sphincter work?
The artificial urinary sphincter works by mimicking the function of the natural sphincter around the urethra, which normally contracts to prevent urine leakage and relaxes to allow urination.
The artificial urinary sphincter consists of three main components: an inflatable cuff that surrounds the urethra, a pump placed in the scrotum or groin, and a reservoir placed in the abdomen. The person can control the function of the artificial sphincter by manipulating the pump, which inflates or deflates the cuff around the urethra to open or close the passage of urine.
At Andrology Barcelona, we have experts like Dr. Lluis Peri, a urologist specialized in the placement of this device, which can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from severe urinary incontinence by providing greater control over their urinary function.
How does it work?
In this video, we show you how the artificial urinary sphincter works. When you need to urinate, you press the pump so that the inflatable cuff around the urethra fills with fluid and closes the urine passage. After urinating, you press the pump again to deflate the cuff, allowing you to urinate normally.
Parts of the Device
The artificial urinary sphincter is composed of three distinct parts: an inflatable cuff that surrounds the urethra, a pump that is placed in a comfortable part of your body, such as the scrotum or groin, and a saline reservoir placed in the abdomen. All of these components remain inside the body and are not naturally visible.
What are the main advantages of the artificial urinary sphincter?
Incontinence Control: The artificial urinary sphincter helps regain control over urination in individuals with severe incontinence, allowing them to retain urine until the appropriate time to empty the bladder.
Minimal Interference with Daily Activities: Once adapted to the device, daily activities can generally be carried out without major interruptions. This may include physical activities, sports, or sexual activities.
How is the surgery for the artificial urinary sphincter?
Generally, the patient will remain hospitalized for 24 hours with a catheter to drain urine. Afterward, they will be discharged with a series of recommendations provided by the urologist.
The patient will need to wait approximately six weeks before the artificial urinary sphincter is activated, as the area needs to fully heal. During this time, it’s likely that the patient will continue to experience urinary incontinence and may feel pain in the pelvic area or while urinating. The doctor may prescribe medications to relieve these symptoms.
During the first week after surgery, activities such as gym exercise, cycling, or lifting heavy objects weighing more than 4 kilograms should be avoided for at least six weeks. The doctor will determine when sexual activity can be resumed.
Frequently Asked Questions from Our Patients
How long will you stay in the hospital?
Generally, the patient will remain hospitalized for 24 hours with a catheter to drain urine. Afterward, they will be discharged with a series of recommendations provided by the urologist.
Does the device affect sexual activity?
The device should not have any negative effect on sexual activity. It is recommended that your partner understands the device, where the control pump is located, and how it works.
Will it be detected during screenings or tests?
Do you need an artificial urinary sphincter treatment?
Contact us, and we will answer all your questions and concerns about this treatment for male incontinence.