another treatment decision.

[Sparky4]

prostatectomy 2011, salvage radiotherapy 2015. Psa levels undetectable since then but lots of late effect problems from the radiotherapy.

Have had several urethral dilatations due to strictures and following the last one earlier this year my incontinence has increased .

The Urologist has suggested Artificial urinary sphincter surgery & I will soon have to make a decision.

At 64 I am loathe to go down this route but after kegel exercises have not worked & it is effecting my quality of life I may mot have much choice.

I wonder how many others have had this & what their experiences are.

[London441]

I’ve had no strictures but I did have the chronic incontinence. Like you my best efforts failed to solve it. Like you I wasn’t keen on another surgery, but the AUS has been great. Not perfect but close, and extremely easy to use.

Some (almost entirely those who don’t have one) complain about the imperfection, and that it sometimes needs to be replaced every 7-15 years. Considering how life was before I have no problem with either.

I think it’s probable that only someone who has experienced the daily misery of intractable heavy incontinence for an extended time can truly understand. If that’s you I recommend the AUS highly.

[Sparky4 in reply to London441]

thank you for the reply, it is much appreciated . As you say, there is so much negativity out there regarding the device that it is good to hear from someone who has had a good outcome with it. Like every thing else on this journey ultimately the decision is mine but its great to get first hand feedback. Thanks again

[Blueslover]

Radiation effects last for life!. ED of course is one - had an implant.Really painful case of radiation cystitis 10-11 years later; eventually cured by hyperbaric oxygen.

Urinary, and mild but annoying fecal incontinence. Ongoing. Considering Botox injections into the bladder neck (Duke).

In spite of all this the radiation was a valuable part of my recovery! At last visit my oncologist said I would not die of prostate cancer (am 78).

Hugh

[Sparky4 in reply to Blueslover]

Yes your right Hugh, it seems the more time passes since having Radiotherapy the more the side effects , at least thats been my experience. Small price to pay I know for being cancer free but would like to get back quality of life.