The male sling is a relatively newer treatment for male stress urinary incontinence, it is a less invasive option than the artificial urinary sphincter.
The male sling is a treatment for mild to moderate stress urinary incontinence, where the sphincter control mechanism is insufficient, resulting in leakage of urine even with minimal activites such as changing position from sitting to standing.
The most common causes of urine leakage are radical prostatectomy or radiotherapy for prostate cancer, and transurethral resection of prostate (TURP) for prostatic enlargement. Other causes, such as spinal cord injury or urethral reconstruction following pelvic fractures may lead to sphincteric dysfunction resulting in stress urinary incontinence.
If you have significant urinary incontinence 6 months to one year after prostatectomy, an AUS implant or a male sling maybe considered. The choice of the device depends on the severity of incontinence.
The male sling is implanted during an operation, which take place under general anaesthesia. The device is passed underneath the urethra through a single, small incision in the perineum.
How does the male sling work?
The male sling repositions the part of the urethra, to give it more support and resistance to prevent urine leakage during times of raised abdominal pressure, such as when coughing or exercising. The sling has no moving parts and is active once fitted.
Complications and problems of the male sling
For those in whom a male sling is insufficient, an AUS can still be considered. Male slings are at risk of infection and erosion, however the long-term risks are yet to be documented.