Climacturia (Uroclimax) in Men After Radical Prostatectomy: A Comprehensive Review of the Current Literature and Treatment Strategies

Abstract

Climacturia is an underreported condition seen in men who undergo radical prostatectomy. An estimated 16–93% of these patients may suffer from climacturia, with significant adverse effect on their sexual satisfaction and quality of life. Our understanding of the pathology is limited, with no standard treatment algorithm. In this review, we aim to contextualize the condition in relation to the current literature and offer an in depth evaluation of the treatment strategies, with a focus on the surgical interventions. There has been an increased emphasis on evaluating patients for climacturia routinely after radical prostatectomy. Due to the increased identification of climacturia, the last two decades have seen the development of novel techniques to address the condition. Behavioral therapy is the initial intervention that should be tried; however, depending on other comorbidities, the patient can be offered surgical interventions. These include artificial urinary sphincter, male sling, or dual implantation of penile prosthesis with an artificial sphincter or a sling. In this review, we provide a comprehensive review of the etiology, pathophysiology, and treatment strategies related to climacturia. This review focuses on current literature on the topic, with an emphasis on the available surgical interventions.