LONG-TERM EXPERIENCE WITH THE DOUBLE-CUFF AMS-800 ARTIFICIAL URINARY SPHINCTER

Objectives. To assess the efficacy and safety of the double-cuff artif icial urinary sphincter over a long-term period. Methods. Ninety-five patient charts were reviewed from December 1986 to November 1995. Data on the degree of urinary incontinence and complications were compiled and tabulated. Results. There were 10 cuff erosions (10.5%) and one i nfection (1.1%) requiring removal of the double-cuff system, with one death from unrelated causes. Two patients in the erosion group had a d ouble-cuff system reinserted at a later date. Eighty-six patients have a double-cuff system, with 97.6% remaining dry.Conclusions. A tandeml y placed double-cuff artificial urinary sphincter is safe and effectiv e in the treatment of severe postprostatectomy urinary incontinence.