A state-of-the-art review on the evolution of urinary sphincter devices for the treatment of post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence: past, present and future innovations.

An artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) is the only mechanical device that closely simulates the function of a biological urinary sphincter. Over the past four decades, advances in mechanical design, applications of new technology and lessons learned from clinical experience have made AMS 800 device the standard of care in post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence. While the current AMS 800 device provides an effective, safe and durable option, it is not without its limitations and complications. Newer and innovative AUS-like devices are designed to rectify some of AMS 800 device problems, but, like any mechanical device, they too have their own shortcomings. Emerging novel therapies such as nanotechnology-driven device and stem cell therapy are attractive, but are not commercially available or have no proven long-term outcome. The following article provides a critical review on the past, present and future innovations in designing the ideal urinary sphincter to treat post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence.