Related Experiment Videos
Gracilis muscle transposition with electrical stimulation for sphincteric incontinence: a new approach
M B Chancellor1, J P Heesakkers, R A Janknegt
1Neuro-Urology and Urinary Incontinence Programs, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pennsylvania, USA.
Abstract:
Neurovascularly intact gracilis-muscle transposition to the proximal urethra is an exciting new technique for sphincteric incontinence. The functional urethral closure of gracilis myoplasty assures dryness, permits intermittent self-catheterization when necessary, and avoids the risks of erosion associated with the artificial urinary sphincter. Electrical stimulation of the transposed muscle (dynamic urethral myoplasty) using intramuscular electrodes and a subcutaneously placed pulse generator can alter the molecular physiology of the gracilis muscle from that of predominantly fast-twitch to that of slow-twitch fibers that are fatigue-resistant and more suitable for long-term sphincter function.