Pelvic muscle exercise/biofeedback for urinary incontinence after prostatectomy: an education program

This study tested the effectiveness of pelvic muscle exercise (PME) with biofeedback in reducing the length of time urinary incontinence (UI) was experienced following a radical prostatectomy for localized prostate cancer.

Fifty-three men were randomly assigned to an education intervention group or a control group. The education group received instruction in PME/biofeedback and were given a PME protocol to perform three times per week for 12 weeks. The control group did not receive instruction in PME technique. Both groups recorded urine losses in three-day bladder diaries, and 24-hour pad tests were done in weeks 2, 5, 9, and 12 after surgery. Study variables included: 1) length of time urine loss was experienced; 2) episodes and frequency of urine loss; and 3) ounces of urine lost and number of pads used.

The PME/biofeedback group regained continence at a mean of 51 days; the non-PME group at 56 days. Although the PME group demonstrated reductions in episodes, frequency, ounces of urine lost by UI, and pad usage, they were not statistically significant.

After prostatectomy, men experience UI for periods of one to 80+ days. The use of biofeedback enhances learning PME and skill performance. Bladder diaries and behavioral management techniques (PME) need to be further studied as appropriate treatment methods to assist men in managing UI after cancer surgery.