Transalbugineal Artificial Urinary Sphincter: A Refined Implantation Technique to Improve Surgical Outcomes

Abstract

The artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) implantation is an effective treatment of post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence (PPI). Still, it may result in troublesome complications such as intraoperative urethral lesion and postoperative erosion. Based on the multilayered structure of the tunica albuginea of the corpora cavernosa, we evaluated an alternative transalbugineal surgical technique of AUS cuff placement with the aim to decrease perioperative morbidity while preserving the integrity of the corpora cavernosa. A retrospective study was conducted in a tertiary referral center from September 2012 to October 2021, including 47 consecutive patients undergoing AUS (AMS800®) transalbugineal implantation. At a median (IQR) follow-up of 60 (24–84) months, no intraoperative urethral injury and only one noniatrogenic erosion occurred. The actuarial 12 mo and 5 yr overall erosion-free rates were 95.74% (95% CI: 84.04–98.92) and 91.76% (95% CI: 75.23–97.43), respectively. In preoperatively potent patients, the IIEF-5 score remained unchanged. The social continence (0–1 pads per day) rate was 82.98% (CI 95%: 68.83–91.10) at 12 mos and 76.81% (CI 95%: 60.56–87.04) at 5 yrs follow-up. Our technically refined approach to AUS implantation may help to avoid intraoperative urethral lesions and lower the risk of subsequent erosion without compromising sexual function in potent patients. Prospective and adequately powered studies are necessary to achieve more compelling evidence.