Artificial Urinary Sphincter (AUS) implantation is a surgical procedure designed to treat urinary incontinence in men, particularly those with sphincter dysfunction following prostate surgery or other pelvic procedures. At SHIFAA PAN African Hospitals, our urology specialists perform AUS implantation surgeries with precision and expertise, helping men regain bladder control and improve their quality of life.

Understanding AUS Implantation:

Purpose and Importance:

• AUS implantation is recommended for men experiencing urinary incontinence due to sphincter weakness or damage, commonly seen after prostatectomy or radiation therapy for prostate cancer.
• The procedure aims to restore urinary continence, reduce leakage episodes, and enhance bladder control for improved daily functioning.

Procedure Overview:

Pre-surgical Evaluation:

• Patients undergo thorough evaluations, including medical history reviews, physical examinations, urodynamic testing, and possibly imaging studies to assess urinary function and incontinence severity.
• Candidacy for AUS implantation is determined based on the underlying cause of incontinence, bladder function, and overall health status.

Surgical Technique:

• Device Description: The AUS consists of three components – a cuff placed around the urethra, a pressure-regulating balloon placed in the abdomen, and a control pump usually implanted in the scrotum.
• Implantation Process: During surgery, a small incision is made in the scrotum to position the control pump. Another incision is made in the lower abdomen to place the pressure-regulating balloon. The cuff is placed around the urethra to provide sphincter-like control over urine flow.

Post-Procedure Care and Recovery:

Activation and Training:

• Following surgery, the AUS device is activated after a healing period to allow proper tissue integration and device functionality.
• Patients receive training on how to operate the control pump to inflate and deflate the cuff, regulating urinary flow during voiding and preventing leakage.

Continence Management and Follow-up:

• Urology specialists provide guidance on bladder training exercises, fluid management, and lifestyle modifications to optimize continence and AUS function.
• Regular follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor device function, adjust settings as needed, and address any concerns or complications.

 

Who is a candidate for AUS implantation?

Candidates are typically men with moderate to severe urinary incontinence following prostate surgery, radiation therapy, or other pelvic procedures, where conservative treatments have not provided sufficient relief.

 

How long does it take to recover after AUS implantation?

Recovery times vary, but most patients can resume normal activities within a few weeks post-surgery, with gradual improvement in continence control over time as they become accustomed to using the AUS device.

 

Can the AUS device be seen or felt by others?

The AUS components are discreetly placed within the body and are not typically visible under clothing or during regular activities. Patients can comfortably manage the device without noticeable external changes.

 

Are there any restrictions or precautions with AUS implantation?

Patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities during the initial recovery period to promote healing. Regular follow-ups are essential to monitor device function and address any issues promptly.

 

What are the potential risks or complications of AUS implantation?

Risks may include infection, device malfunction, erosion, or mechanical issues requiring revision surgery. Healthcare teams provide thorough pre-operative evaluations and post-operative care to minimize these risks and optimize outcomes.

 

Is AUS implantation covered by insurance?

Insurance coverage for AUS implantation typically includes surgical costs, device expenses, follow-up care, and necessary adjustments. Patients should consult with their insurance providers and healthcare teams to understand coverage details and financial considerations.