Artificial urinary sphincter for recurrent/severe stress incontinence in women. Urogynecologic perspective.

Eight American Medical Systems 800 artificial urinary sphincters were implanted in seven women with severe and/or recurrent stress urinary incontinence. The surgical approach to urethral cuff implantation consisted of both abdominal and combined abdominal and vaginal approaches. Indications, preoperative evaluations, surgical technique and complications are discussed. Postoperative follow-up for 6-24 months showed all the patients to be completely continent subjectively and objectively. The artificial urinary sphincter is a viable option in these difficult cases of urinary incontinence.