Outcome of the Lima periurethral constrictor in children and adolescents: a European perspective

The Lima constrictor was described in 1996 as a less complex and less expensive alternative to the artificial urinary sphincter for use in cases of pediatric neuropathic sphincter incontinence. The device provides a fixed periurethral resistance which creates continence, yet allows urethral catheterization without the need to deflate the cuff. We report our multicenter experience, and continence, revision and erosion rates.

We performed a retrospective review of 14 consecutive patients who underwent insertion of the periurethral constrictor (Silimed, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) between 2005 and 2011. Data are presented as medians (range).

A total of 14 patients (13 male, 1 female) with spina bifida (10), sacral agenesis (3) and Hirschsprung disease (1) underwent insertion of the constrictor at a median age of 12 years (range 8 to 20). All patients were wet despite clean intermittent catheterization, medical therapy and/or previous surgery. Eleven patients underwent simultaneous bladder augmentation and/or Mitrofanoff formation. The constrictor was activated a median of 8 weeks (range 2 to 99) after the procedure in 11 patients whereas 3 became dry without activation. Complications occurred in 4 patients (29%), including spontaneous bladder perforation and constrictor erosion (1), tubing disconnection requiring revision (2) and wound infection (1). At a median of 23 months of followup (range 7 to 77) 13 patients were dry and 1 was damp. All patients performed urethral or Mitrofanoff clean intermittent catheterization. The continence rate with the device in situ was 92%.

At a median followup of 23 months the Lima constrictor provided a 92% continence rate with erosion and revision rates of 7% and 14%, respectively. Interim results suggest that the constrictor provides a safe and effective surgical option, particularly in patients who are unable to void to completion.