Single-centre experience in using the adjustable transobturator male system in treatment of stress urinary incontinence in patients after radical prostatectomy

Abstract

Context: Urinary incontinence is the most threatening complication after radical prostatectomy. This disorder has an important impact on the quality of life of patients and its treatment is a challenge for urologists as well. Objective: The objective of this article is to report our experience with the adjustable transobturator male system (ATOMS, AMI, Austria) for the treatment of post-prostatectomy incontinence. Material and methods: A total of 35 men with post-prostatectomy incontinence were treated. Before and after device implantation, the number of pads used per day was counted, and a one-hour pad test, uroflowmetry and postmicturition residual volume were assessed. Prior to surgery, anastomosis stricture was either ruled out or treated. To evaluate the success rate, ‘cured’ was defined as no pad use or one safety pad, ‘improved’ was defined as one or two pads or reduction of pad usage by more than 50%, respectively. All data about efficacy and safety were collected from all 35 patients. Results: After a median (range) follow-up of 21.2 (3–63) months, the success rate was 32 out of 35 patients (91.5%) with 22 patients (62.9%) ‘cured’ and 10 patients (28.6%) ‘improved’. Recovery of continence was achieved in seven patients (20.0%). The remaining patients (80%) needed an adjustment. The mean (range) number of adjustments to reach desired results (continence, improvement or patient satisfaction) was 4.3 (1–15). The most common adverse event was transient perineal pain, which was reported in 14 (40%) patients and disappeared within two weeks. Temporary urine retention appeared in one patient (2.9%). There were three cases (8.6%) of wound infection at the site of a port leading to explantation of the port in two patients (5.7%) and the removal of the system in one patient (2.9%). Conclusion: Treatment of post-prostatectomy incontinence with the self-anchoring ATOMS is safe and effective.