Name of the Procedure:

Insertion of Inflatable Urethral/Bladder Neck Sphincter

Summary

This procedure involves surgically placing an artificial sphincter system to help control urine flow in individuals with urinary incontinence. The system includes a cuff around the urethra or bladder neck, a pump in the scrotum or labia, and a reservoir in the abdomen.

Purpose

The procedure addresses urinary incontinence, often due to a weakened or damaged urethral sphincter. The goal is to restore control over urine flow, improving the patient's quality of life.

Indications

• Severe urinary incontinence not responsive to other treatments.
• Patients with intrinsic sphincter deficiency.
• Prior unsuccessful surgical treatments for incontinence.

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for a few hours before the procedure.
• Medication adjustments, especially blood thinners, will be necessary.
• Preoperative assessments, including urine tests and imaging, may be required.

Procedure Description

• Patients receive either general or regional anesthesia.
• A small incision is made in the perineal area to place the cuff around the urethra or bladder neck.
• Another incision is made in the scrotum or labia to position the pump.
• A third incision is made in the lower abdomen to place the reservoir.
• All components are connected and tested, then incisions are closed with sutures.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours.

Setting

It is usually performed in a hospital or surgical center.

Personnel

• Urologic surgeon
• Surgical nurses
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical technician

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Mechanical failure of the device
• Injury to surrounding tissues
• Urinary retention requiring catheterization

Benefits

• Improved control over urine flow
• Enhanced quality of life
• Potential for returning to normal activities

Recovery

• Patients may stay in the hospital overnight.
• Instructions include limited physical activity and avoiding heavy lifting for 4-6 weeks.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor device function and incision healing.

Alternatives

• Behavioral therapies and pelvic floor exercises
• Medications
• Other surgical options like sling procedures
• Use of absorbent pads or catheters

Patient Experience

• Mild to moderate discomfort at the incision sites.
• Swelling and bruising initially.
• Pain management will be provided, and symptoms typically improve within a couple of weeks.