Long-term experience with the double-cuff AMS 800 artificial urinary sphincter.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the efficacy and safety of the double-cuff artificial urinary sphincter over a long-term period.

METHODS: Ninety-five patients charts were reviewed from December 1986 to November 1995. Data on the degree of urinary incontinence and complications were compiled and tabulated.

RESULTS: There were 10 cuff erosions (10.5%) and one infection (1.1%) requiring removal of the double-cuff system, with one death from unrelated causes. Two patients in the erosion group had a double-cuff system reinserted at a later date. Eighty-six patients have a double-cuff system, with 97.6% remaining dry.

CONCLUSIONS: A tandemly placed double-cuff artificial urinary sphincter is safe and effective in the treatment of severe postprostatectomy urinary incontinence.