Continence: sizing and fitting a penile sheath.

Male patients suffering from urinary incontinence can benefit from being fitted with a penile sheath and drainage bag rather than using incontinence pads or having to have an indwelling catheter to treat or manage their problem. In selecting a penile sheath it is important to select the correct size of sheath to fit onto the shaft of penis and length of sheath. A penile sheath fitted too small may cause problems not only in drainage of urine but also by restricting blood circulation to the shaft of the penis. A penile sheath fitted too large will cause creases to form, allowing urine leakage and causing the sheath to fail and fall off. This article explains what is required before fitting a penile sheath, examines various sheaths and alternatives, and how to fit one correctly.