Artificial sphincters

Abstract

Surgical treatment of female urinary incontinence has progressed considerably in the past 20 years and most patients who qualify for treatment will not require an artificial urinary sphincter (AUS). While in males it is the procedure of choice for post-radical prostatectomy stress incontinence [1], in females controversy exists regarding the indications as many patients, even those with severe incontinence following multiple surgeries, can be managed successfully with surgery that does not involve implantation of a mechanical prosthesis. However, it does have a place and this chapter will outline the historical aspects, clinical evaluation and indications, the surgical procedure, results and complications of its use in females. © 2006 Springer-Verlag London Limited.