Artificial Urinary Sphincter in London
For men with significant, persistent stress urinary incontinence, often following prostate surgery, an artificial urinary sphincter may be considered. This fully implanted device helps restore control over urine flow by supporting the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body.
It is an established surgical option for men whose leakage remains troublesome despite pelvic floor rehabilitation or other treatments.
What is an artificial urinary sphincter?
An artificial urinary sphincter, often shortened to AUS, is a small device implanted inside the body to help control urine flow. It takes over the role of the natural urinary sphincter, the muscular valve that normally keeps the urethra closed until you are ready to pass urine.
Stress urinary incontinence in men can develop when this natural valve has been weakened, most commonly after treatment for prostate cancer. An AUS may be considered when leakage is moderate to severe and has not improved enough with pelvic floor rehabilitation or other treatment.
The device has three connected parts, all placed inside the body. A soft cuff sits around the urethra and gently keeps it closed. A small pump is placed in the scrotum, while a pressure-regulating balloon sits in the lower abdomen.
When you need to pass urine, you squeeze the pump in the scrotum. This temporarily releases the cuff, allowing urine to flow. The cuff then refills and closes again automatically after a few minutes.
The device is not visible from the outside. Your consultant will explain how it works, what living with an AUS involves and whether it may be appropriate for you.
A seal you control
The artificial urinary sphincter uses three concealed components to help manage urine flow.
The cuff
A soft, fluid-filled cuff is placed around the urethra to support closure and reduce urine leakage.
The pump
A small pump in the scrotum allows you to release the cuff when you want to pass urine.
Automatic re-closing
After you empty your bladder, the cuff automatically refills and closes again after a short time.
Who an artificial urinary sphincter may suit
An artificial urinary sphincter may be considered for men who:
- Have moderate to severe stress urinary incontinence
- Have persistent leakage after prostate surgery
- Have not had enough improvement with pelvic floor rehabilitation
- Have found a male sling unsuitable or insufficient
- Have the hand function needed to operate the pump
- Have been assessed as suitable by a consultant urologist
What to expect
- Assessment
Your consultant will assess the pattern and severity of your leakage, medical history and bladder function. This may include urodynamic testing to understand how your bladder stores and releases urine. You will also discuss how the device works day to day. - The operation
The AUS is implanted during surgery under anaesthetic. All components are positioned inside the body, with nothing visible externally. A short hospital stay may be required. - Activation and life with the AUS
The device is left deactivated while the tissues heal, usually for several weeks. It is then activated during a follow-up clinic appointment, when your consultant will show you how to use the pump.
Why choose The Forbury Clinic for AUS in London?
An established option for severe leakage
The artificial urinary sphincter may be considered for men with more significant stress incontinence, particularly after prostate surgery.
Control in your hands
The pump allows you to release the cuff when you want to pass urine, while it closes again automatically afterwards.
Discreet by design
All parts of the device are fully implanted, with no external components.
Consultant-led care in London
Your assessment, surgery and follow-up are led by a consultant urologist at The Forbury Clinic, 45 Queen Anne St, London W1G 9JF.
Frequently asked questions
Is artificial urinary sphincter surgery a major procedure?
It is a planned surgical procedure performed under anaesthetic. Recovery takes several weeks and the device is not activated until the area has healed. Your consultant will explain what the operation and recovery are likely to involve for you.
Will other people be able to tell that I have an AUS?
No. The cuff, pump and pressure-regulating balloon are all placed inside the body. The pump sits discreetly in the scrotum and is designed to be operated privately.
Will I be completely dry after surgery?
The aim is to reduce leakage and improve control. Results vary between individuals. Your consultant will discuss what may be realistic based on the severity of your incontinence, previous treatment and individual circumstances.
How long does an artificial urinary sphincter last?
An AUS can work well for many years. As with any implanted mechanical device, components can wear over time and some men may need further surgery to revise or replace part of the device. Your consultant will discuss this before treatment.
Should I try other treatment first?
Pelvic floor rehabilitation is often an important first step. A male sling may be an option for some men with milder stress incontinence. An AUS is generally considered when leakage is more severe or other treatments have not provided enough improvement.
Ask about the artificial urinary sphincter
If leakage after prostate surgery is still affecting your confidence and daily life, an artificial urinary sphincter may be an option worth discussing. Submit an enquiry or call our team in confidence.
- AppointmentBook a consultation
- Reception0118 920 7055
- Location
The Forbury Clinic London, 45 Queen Anne St, London, W1G 9J
