Penile compression devices for the treatment of urinary incontinence: current status and future prospects

Urinary incontinence (UI), especially stress UI, is common after prostatectomy. Penile compression devices (PCDs) may be a safe, tolerable option for conservative management in men who are not candidates for or not interested in surgical intervention for their UI.

This article examines the epidemiology of post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence (PPI), and options for management. All available studies on PCDs are explored, including those on biomechanics, safety, tolerability, and user experience. History, availability of PCDs, and areas for future development are discussed.

PCDs are an option for conservative management of PPI. They are recommended for those men without impairment in cognition, dexterity, or sensation. They should be worn for short periods of time and are best used during situations when incontinence might be precipitated. Overall, data suggest they are well tolerated and effective when tested, but large randomized comparative trials and studies of long-term use with relevant patient reported outcome measures are lacking. More studies are needed on commercially available PCDs. Biomechanical studies suggest that there are superior designs and materials both for efficacy and tolerability. With an aging population, and more older men going for prostate surgery, a larger market for these devices is likely.