Further experience with the artificial urinary sphincter

Since December 1977, 78 patients with severe urinary incontinence have been treated by insertion of an artificial sphincter at our medical center. In 53 patients the device was inserted and activated at the same time. Of these 53 patients 21 (40 per cent) are perfectly dry, 8 (15 per cent) are improved but are occasionally wet and 24 (45 per cent) have failed. In 25 patients activation of the sphincter was delayed. Of this group 14 patients (56 per cent) are perfectly dry, 2 (8 per cent) are occasionally wet and 9 (36 per cent) have failed. The delayed activation technique has reduced the failure rate from 45 to 36 per cent and we recommend its use in high risk patients.