Artificial Urinary Sphincter Surgery
Artificial Urinary Sphincter Treatment in La Mesa, CA
Advanced surgical treatment for male urinary incontinence caused by weak sphincter muscles, prostate surgery, prostate problems, nerve damage, or spinal cord injury.
Surgical implantation of an artificial urinary sphincter is an effective treatment option for male urinary incontinence. Urinary incontinence caused by prostate problems, prostate surgery, nerve damage or spinal cord injury may be resolved with a surgical procedure to insert an artificial urinary sphincter. An artificial urinary sphincter is a device that may be helpful to men who suffer from incontinence, or urine leakage, because of weak sphincter muscles or nerve damage that has effected the function of the sphincter muscle.
Artificial urinary sphincter consultation near San Diego.
Alvarado La Mesa Urology provides evaluation and surgical treatment options for male urinary incontinence in La Mesa and surrounding San Diego communities.
Who May Benefit From an Artificial Urinary Sphincter?
An artificial urinary sphincter may be considered for men who experience urine leakage because of weak sphincter muscles or nerve damage. Urinary leakage after prostate surgery, prostate-related conditions, spinal cord injury, or nerve-related sphincter dysfunction may be evaluated to determine whether this treatment is appropriate.
A specialist evaluation is important because treatment depends on the cause and severity of leakage, prior procedures, bladder function, overall health, and patient goals.
Artificial Urinary Sphincter Surgery
The artificial urinary sphincter is implanted during a surgical procedure while the patient is sedated under anesthesia. The artificial sphincter device is comprised of three parts that are surgically placed: an inflatable cuff is fit around the urethra, a small balloon reservoir (filled with a saline liquid) is inserted into the abdomen, and a pump is placed in the scrotum. A catheter may be temporarily inserted after the surgery to drain urine from the bladder. After the surgery, medication may be prescribed for pain.
The cuff is placed around the urethra and helps keep the urethra closed to prevent urine leakage.
A small saline-filled reservoir is placed in the abdomen and works with the cuff and pump.
The pump is placed in the scrotum and allows the patient to release the cuff when ready to urinate.
Results of Artificial Urinary Sphincter Surgery
After the artificial urinary sphincter has been implanted, the patient can control urination with the use of this device. About six weeks after the procedure, after the tissue has healed, the patient can begin to use the artificial sphincter to urinate. When the individual needs to urinate, he presses the pump within the scrotum. This releases the fluid back to the abdominal balloon, allowing urine to flow through the urethra. When the bladder is empty, the cuff automatically refills to keep the urethra tightly closed. When the cuff is inflated or full, it provides circular compression of the urethra and prevents leakage of urine from occurring.
Recovery timing and device activation instructions may vary. Patients should follow their surgeon’s specific post-operative guidance and attend all follow-up visits.
Risks of Artificial Urinary Sphincter Surgery
Although it is generally considered a safe procedure, risks of artificial urinary sphincter surgery include:
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Bleeding
- Damage to the bladder or urethra
- Increase in urine leakage
Some patients may experience difficulty emptying their bladder after the surgery and may be required to wear a catheter. Over time, it is possible for patients to experience a recurrence of urine leakage.
Common questions about artificial urinary sphincter surgery.
These answers are general educational information and are not a substitute for a medical evaluation. A urologist can help determine whether an artificial urinary sphincter may be appropriate.
What is an artificial urinary sphincter?
An artificial urinary sphincter is a surgically implanted device that may help men who have urinary incontinence or urine leakage because of weak sphincter muscles or nerve damage affecting sphincter function.
Who may need artificial urinary sphincter surgery?
This procedure may be considered for male urinary incontinence caused by prostate problems, prostate surgery, nerve damage, spinal cord injury, weak sphincter muscles, or sphincter dysfunction.
What parts make up the artificial urinary sphincter?
The device is made of three surgically placed parts: an inflatable cuff around the urethra, a small saline-filled balloon reservoir in the abdomen, and a pump placed in the scrotum.
When can the device be used after surgery?
About six weeks after the procedure, after the tissue has healed, the patient can begin to use the artificial sphincter to urinate. The exact timing should be determined by the surgeon.
How does the artificial urinary sphincter work?
When the individual needs to urinate, he presses the pump within the scrotum. This releases fluid back to the abdominal balloon, allowing urine to flow through the urethra. When the bladder is empty, the cuff refills to keep the urethra closed.
What are the risks of artificial urinary sphincter surgery?
Risks may include infection, blood clots, bleeding, damage to the bladder or urethra, increased urine leakage, difficulty emptying the bladder, catheter use after surgery, and recurrence of urine leakage over time.
Where can I get an artificial urinary sphincter consultation near San Diego?
Alvarado La Mesa Urology provides artificial urinary sphincter evaluation and treatment in La Mesa, CA, serving patients from San Diego, El Cajon, Spring Valley, Lemon Grove, and nearby communities.
Credible educational references.
The educational information on this page is supported by reputable medical organizations and patient education resources. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Schedule an artificial urinary sphincter consultation in La Mesa.
If male urinary incontinence is affecting your daily life after prostate surgery, prostate problems, nerve damage, or sphincter weakness, Alvarado La Mesa Urology can evaluate your symptoms and discuss treatment options.