[Urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy. Urinary artificial sphinter]

Abstract

Urinary artificial sphincter (UAS) is currently the gold standard treatment for urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy. 5-25% of the patients under-going radical prostatectomy develop urinary incontinence. This complication generates important deterioration in the quality of life of these patients. Conservative and minimally invasive treatments, such as Kegel exercises, use of pads, drugs, and electrostimulation, or minor surgery have been used without success. This review summarizes the advantages and complications of the urinary artificial sphincter and its efficacy in the management of urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy.