Artificial Urinary Sphincter
Solution for Male Incontinence
The urinary sphincter is a muscle that controls the flow of urine out of the bladder. When the urinary sphincter contracts (closes), it prevents urine from leaking out.
Under normal circumstances, the urinary sphincter remains contracted until you choose to open it to urinate. Urine then leaves the bladder and flows through the urethra and out of the penis.
However, some men – including those who have had their prostate removed or have undergone radiation therapy to the prostate – have difficulty controlling their urinary sphincter. One effective treatment solution for moderate to severe stress urinary incontinence is a medical device known as the artificial urinary sphincter (AUS).
What is an Artificial Urinary Sphincter?
Made of silicone, the artificial sphincter has an inflatable cuff that fits around the urethra. The cuff is inflated to prevent urine from leaking and – when urination is necessary – the cuff is deflated, allowing urine to drain out.
The pressure of the cuff is regulated by a balloon with a bulb controlling the inflation and deflation of the cuff. The balloon is surgically implanted within the pelvic area, and the control pump is implanted in the scrotum.
To urinate with an AUS, the pump is squeezed, moving fluid from the urethral cuff into the balloon, which allows the cuff to expand and your urethra to open. The urethra stays open for an appropriate length of time to empty the bladder. Then, the cuff automatically closes.
The AMS 800 artificial urinary sphincter is considered the "Gold Standard" for treatment of male incontinence caused by sphincter dysfunction and is the most commonly used device at Wake Forest Men’s Health.
Treatments for Male Incontinence in Winston-Salem & Wake Forest, NC
To learn more about the artificial urinary sphincter as a solution for male incontinence or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ryan Terlecki, call Wake Forest Men’s Health at (336) 716-4131 or use our online request an appointment form.
