Artificial Urinary Sphincter (AUS)
What is an artificial urinary sphincter?
An artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) is a device which is surgically implanted for the management of urinary incontinence in men.
The device has three components:
A cuff which encircles and compresses the urethra (waterpipe)
A pump in the scrotum which activates and deactivates the cuff
A reservoir of fluid in the abdomen which fills and empties the cuff
The device compresses the urethra to provide extra support during activities that increase abdominal pressure, like coughing, sneezing, or lifting.
An AUS is permanently implanted and has no external components.
Why is an artificial urinary sphincter required?
An artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) is used to treat stress urinary incontinence in men.
The most common cause for stress urinary incontinence in men is prostate surgery, such as a radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer.
An AUS is used to treat moderate to severe incontinence.
Read more about urinary incontinence below.
How does an artificial urinary sphincter work?
At rest, the artificial sphincter cuff is inflated around the urethra, preventing leakage of urine.
To pass urine, the cuff is deflated by squeezing a pump which is implanted inside the scrotum. The cuff gradually inflates over a few minutes to restore continence after the bladder is empty.
Watch the video below to understand how the artificial sphincter is operated.
Meet our Urologists
The following doctors in our practice perform AUS insertion
