In a nutshell
This study examined how safe and effective adjustable continence balloons are in the treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI), after transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). This study concluded that this treatment is a safe and effective treatment for SUI after TURP.
Some background
Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is the unintentional loss of urine due to stress put on the bladder. This stress can result from sneezing or exercising. SUI can lead to a decreased quality of life. SUI is a common side-effect of prostate surgery. It can occur after trans-urethral resection of the prostate (TURP). This procedure involves a surgical instrument inserted in the urethra to remove excess prostate tissue blocking urine flow.
Adjustable continence balloons (The ProACT device; ACBs) are one treatment option for SUI. Two small, adjustable balloons are connected through short tubes to an injection port. The balloon devices are inserted on each side of the urethra through a minimally invasive procedure. The fluid-filled balloons put pressure on the bladder, and help to stop urine from leaking out.
It is not known if ACBs are a safe and effective treatment for SUI after TURP.
Methods & findings
29 patients with SUI after TURP were included in this study. All patients had an ACB implanted. Patients were followed up for an average of 21 months after balloon insertion.
Six and twelve months after the ACB implant, the quality of life of patients due to prostate symptoms improved. 21 months after balloon insertion, continence (ability to control urine) had improved in 76% of the patients. 45% of patients were dry. This means they did not require the use of an incontinence pad, or just wore a pad for security.
28 months after ACB insertion, 10 patients reported a "very much better" condition compared with before insertion. The condition of 10 patients was "much better”. It was "a little better” in two patients. One patient reported ”no change” in their condition. Daily pad use decreased from three to one incontinence pads per day.
The bottom line
This study concluded that ACBs are a safe and effective treatment for SUI after TURP.
The fine print
This was a small study. Larger studies are required to see if the results apply to larger populations.
Published By :
Neurourology and urodynamics
Date :
Mar 08, 2019
