Use of a handheld real-time ultrasound unit in post-prostatectomy incontinence rehabilitation

Abstract

Following surgery for prostate cancer, a 56-year- old man self-referred to a specialist pelvic health physiotherapist working in private practice. An assessment was performed, and a holistic treatment programme was implemented. The patient was an advanced clinical practitioner who concurrently employed real-time ultrasound as a biofeedback tool. This was part of a wider, physiotherapist-supervised programme of pelvic floor muscle training and overall rehabilitation. An early return to continence was achieved. While recognizing the limitations of the unique circumstances described, this case report discusses the possibilities that it raises with regard to: male pelvic health rehabilitation; the use of biofeedback tools; and access to information or adjuncts that might be usefully employed by physiotherapists working in this field.