George Washington University technique for surgical correction of post-prostatectomy incontinence

We have described a procedure with long-term followup and modification for the correction of post-prostatectomy incontinence. The procedure involves the combined principle of rigidly placed support under the urethra to which is attached an inflatable, adjustable pillow, allowing for fine control of the urethral resistance. Of the 22 patients treated 16 are completely dry, 4 have occasional dampness and 2 are failures. More significant is the fact that since the silicone gel pillow has been enclosed in the marlex strap we have had 6 successes., 1 partial successs and no failures. The complication rate is almost non-existent. No infections were encountered and no prostheses were removed for other than reoperation. We believe that the combination of bony fixation plus the adjustable pillow gives the best control of the troublsome problem of post-prostatectomy incontinence.