CHAPTER 4

The AUS is implanted entirely inside body. The cuff is filled with fluid, which gently squeezes the urethra closed to keep urine inside. In order for the patient to urinate, they squeeze and release the pump several times. This moves the fluid out of cuff into the pressure-regulating balloon. The cuff is no longer pressing the urethra closed and urine can flow out of the bladder. After several minutes, fluid automatically returns from the pressure-regulating balloon to the cuff. The cuff once again squeezes closed, allowing bladder to resume storage. The patient needs to do nothing else to contain urine.

Once the patient decides to be implanted with the AUS, the procedure can be done as quickly as one week. It is not difficult to use; the activation pump implanted in scrotum. There is no embarrassing, outward sign of it. The pump is easy to use and becomes second nature. It can be operated with one or 2 hands, depending on where the patient is and what access to facilities he has. There is no discomfort; most patients are not even aware they have it.