Leakage Problems After Radical Prostectomy

[lgpaul]

Does anyone have experience with Artificial Sphincter Surgery to block leakage?

[London441]

it works great. Best for heavy, insoluble leakage since it is a surgery, but if like me that’s what you had, it’s 100% worth it.

[lgpaul in reply to London441]

Thank you. I hate to contemplate more surgery, but leakage is much worse after six years since we took out the prostate.

[lgpaul in reply to London441]

Thanks. So far, 100% positive.

[Iupiter]

I just had an AUS installed 3 weeks ago, after 3 years of dealing with diapers and pads following my RALP, so I have little experience to share. But so far so good. I am still learning how to use it. Having said all that, I think it is worth it.

[lgpaul in reply to Iupiter]

thank

[Iupiter in reply to lgpaul]

Even though it is surgery, it is ambulatory. You go home the same day. Only takes 1 to 1 1/2 hours.

The problem is -if you consider this a problem- the recovery. It is slow. You need to wait 6 weeks before you feel "normal" down there again and the AUS can be activated and you can start to use it.

Notwithstanding all the above, I have found it well worthwhile. If I had to do it again, I would. There is no comparison between dealing with diapers and pads and operating the AUS. I would agree with others in that the AUS returns 90% of the freedom you had before going incontinent.

Whatever is your final decision, I wish you are satisfied with it in the long run.

[Istomin]

I had it done at MSK in NYC 13 months ago by a specialist in this procedure (worth finding one near you or traveling to one rather than relying on a surgeon who deals with various urogenital issues) and it changed my life (for the better!).

[lgpaul in reply to Istomin]

Again, thanks. I now have an appointment with a specialist. Two questions: pain during and after surgery? Ballpark estimate of cost?

[lgpaul]

Thank you. I’ve been getting worse after 6-7 years. I don’t want further surgery, but am glad to read all three reports received.

[micky3]

Had an AUS 1 year ago after 11 years of leakage which really started to get worse 3 years ago. To say this was a life changing event for the best would be understating it. I have virtually no leakage, can walk, exercise, golf and work in my yard with no leakage. I would highly recommend an AUS for incontinence.

[lgpaul in reply to micky3]

thank you, That’s 4-for-4 and other tthan working in the yard, about covers my activities! 😇

[Bruins11 in reply to micky3]

Had RP 4 years ago successfully but was left with mild stress incontinence. It was in this forum that someone suggested ProAct therapy which is a much simpler procedure than AUS. Found a Dr in Naples, Fl. who was trained in the ProAct surgury. Regrettably the procedure failed as one of the balloons migrated .

One month ago I had the ProAct surgury again at Tufts Medical Center in Boston. It went very smoothly and the Dr. said I have an 80% chance of improvement. Having my first adjustment in 3 weeks. Hoping for the best.

You may want to check this out. Good luck!

[lgpaul in reply to Bruins11]

Thank you

[Istomin]

I found the pain post surgery tolerable. If I had to go through it again I would. My Medicare Advantage policy insurance covered the cost.

[lgpaul in reply to Istomin]

Thank you again. That’s al good news. I’ll see whst the surgeon says on Monday.