What is the role of an artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) and in which patient population is it typically considered?

• A. An implanted device that mechanically compresses the urethra to prevent leakage; typically for men with persistent post-prostatectomy incontinence after other therapies
• B. A non-surgical therapy for women with urge incontinence
• C. A medication that relaxes the bladder
• D. A physical therapy technique

Answer: (B)

An artificial urinary sphincter is an implanted mechanical device that compresses the urethra to prevent leakage, restoring continence by allowing the patient to deflate the cuff when they need to void. It is typically considered for men with persistent post-prostatectomy incontinence after other therapies have not achieved satisfactory continence. The system usually includes a cuff around the urethra, a control pump in the scrotum, and a reservoir in the abdomen; the patient squeezes the pump to temporarily deflate the cuff, then the cuff re-inflates over time to reestablish occlusion and prevent leakage. This option is not a non-surgical therapy for women with urge incontinence, a medication that relaxes the bladder, or a physical therapy technique.