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The history of prosthetic devices for postprostatectomy incontinence

Urinary incontinence has been studied since the Egyptian era of the second millennium BCE. Throughout history, several devices have been developed to address this condition. The prevalence of stress incontinence has increased with the surgical treatment of prostatectomy. Since 1947, numerous devices have been developed for the treatment of this condition. We performed a narrative literature review conducted through PubMed and Google Scholar, aimed at creating a chronological outline of devices developed for managing post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence. The first known compression device introduced in 1910 evolved into advanced systems like the AMS 800 artificial urinary sphincter, key milestones in device technology and surgical techniques. Nowadays, several new devices have been developed, each incorporating an innovative solution. In addition, a new artificial sphincter also had been advanced. The incorporation of electronic sphincter control systems seems to be the next innovation. Through continuous innovation, the field has advanced from basic solutions to sophisticated, customized treatments, providing hope and enhancing the quality of life for affected individuals. The evolution of these devices not only marks a journey through history but also illustrates a future where technological advancements continue to play a pivotal role in stress incontinence after prostatectomy.

Juliusz J. Szczesniewski,a David E. Díaz,a Miguel Virseda-Chamorro,b,d Giordano Polisini,c Enrico Ammirati,d Alessandro Giammòd

  1. Urology Department, Getafe University Hospital, Carretera Madrid-Toledo km 12,500 Getafe, 28905, Madrid, Spain
  2. Urology Department, Hospital Nacional de Parapléjicos, 45071 Toledo, Spain
  3. Division of Urology, University Hospital “Ospedali Riuniti”, School of Medicine, Department of Clinical, Special and Dental Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
  4. NeuroUrology, CTO-Spinal Cord Unit, City of Health and Science of Turin, Turin, Italy
Source: Szczesniewski JJ., Díaz DE., Virseda-Chamorro M. et al. The history of prosthetic devices for postprostatectomy incontinence. Continence Reports. Volume 12, 2024, 100063, ISSN 2772-9745, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.contre.2024.100063.