Also known as an artificial urinary retention device, the artificial urinary sphincter actually consists of a prosthetic kit. Males have two natural sphincter structures in the urinary tract. If these sphincter structures are damaged, an irreversible urinary incontinence problem occurs in the patient. The cause of this damage may be previous prostate surgeries, trauma, urethral surgeries and congenital anomalies.
Artifisial Urinary Sphincter Procedure
The artificial urinary sphincter consists of 3 parts: the reservoir, the cuff and the control pump. The reservoir is the structure that is placed in the intra-abdominal cavity and stores the fluid required for the system. The cuff is the structure that wraps around the urinary canal to hold the urine. The control pump is the structure that allows the system to be controlled when urine is desired by placing it on the side of the testicles. The system automatically presses around the urethra to prevent urinary incontinence. When the control pump is pressed, the system removes the pressure in the urinary canal. The removal of the pressure allows the patient to urinate. After approximately 120 seconds, the system closes itself automatically and closes the urinary tract again.
Artificial Urinary Sphincter Surgery Recovery
Artificial sphincter surgery is performed under spinal or general anesthesia. The patient is usually in the lithotomy position. The urinary canal is accessed through an incision made under the testicles. The required cuff length is calculated by measuring the circumference of the urinary canal. The nest where the reservoir will be placed in the abdomen is prepared. Antibiotics are impregnated to protect the sphincter kit from infection. After the prosthesis is placed, the cuff is left in the deactivated position. The operation takes about 60 minutes. During hospitalization on the day of the operation, intravenous antibiotics should be administered for 24-48 hours after surgery.
Artificial Urinary Sphincter how to use?
After the insertion of the artificial sphincter, the patient is discharged within 48 hours by removing the catheter. It is waited for 6 weeks for the device to be activated. After 6 weeks, the device is activated and necessary trainings are given.
Artificial Urinary Sphincter Risks
- Erosion in the urinary tract
- Prosthetic infection
- Disruption of the sphincter
- Urinary tract infection
- inability to urinate
- Bleeding
- Pain
- Unable to use the device
Artificial Urinary Sphincter Costs
The price of artificial urinary sphincter surgery may vary according to the kit used, surgeon and hospital. Some kits have a 2-year warranty, while others have a 4-year warranty. Since there is a high risk of infection in the process, sterility conditions must be observed. Experienced surgeons in prosthesis should be preferred. In our clinic, artificial sphincter surgery has been performed meticulously for a long time. Please contact us for detailed information.