Mid-Term Follow-Up of the Zephyr 375 Artificial Urinary Sphincter Implanted via a Single Perineal Incision

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Surgical Innovation
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Severe male stress urinary incontinence (SUI) often requires artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) implantation.
• Traditional AUS implantation involves two incisions (perineal and inguinal), increasing potential morbidity.
• Minimally invasive surgical techniques are sought to improve patient outcomes and reduce complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the Zephyr 375 AUS implanted via a single perineal incision.
• To assess functional outcomes and patient satisfaction in a series of male SUI patients.

Main Methods:

• Fourteen male patients with SUI post-prostate surgery underwent implantation of the Zephyr 375 AUS.
• The procedure utilized a single vertical perineal incision for bulbar urethra exposure.
• Pump-reservoir placement involved creating a scrotal dartos pouch through the perineal approach.

Main Results:

• The mean operative time was 64 minutes, with all patients discharged catheter-free the next day.
• All patients achieved continence post-activation, with high patient satisfaction reported.
• Four patients required pressure adjustments during follow-up, demonstrating the system's adaptability.

Conclusions:

• Single-perineal incision implantation of the Zephyr 375 AUS is a safe and effective treatment for severe male SUI.
• This approach simplifies the surgical procedure and reduces the morbidity associated with traditional dual-incision techniques.
• The Zephyr 375 AUS offers good functional outcomes and allows for necessary pressure adjustments, leading to high patient satisfaction.