Male bulbourethral sling after radical prostatectomy: intermediate outcomes at 2 to 4-year followup.

PURPOSE: We reviewed our experience with 49 consecutive patients undergoing a male sling procedure.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The 7-item International Prostate Symptom Score and 22-item incontinence quality of life questionnaire (although not validated in Italian) were used to assess the clinical impact of the bulbourethral sling. Surgical outcome was also assessed by videourodynamics at 1 year. Urodynamic success was defined as no leakage during videourodynamic evaluation.

RESULTS: Mean followup was 32 months (range 26 to 48). Preoperatively 3 patients used 2 pads daily (mild incontinence), 34 used 3 to 5 (moderate incontinence) and the remaining 12 used more than 5 (severe incontinence). Clinical success was defined as a decrease in pad use to completely dry (no pad) or to social continence (1 pad daily) at followup. Of the 49 patients 38 (77%), 33 (67%) and 63% (31) were considered socially continent at the 3-month, 1-year and 3-year followup, respectively. Only 15 of the 49 patients (30%) were considered completely dry at the 3-year followup. Significant perineal pain was reported in the early postoperative period but it resolved in all patients. Infection occurred in 3 patients, while no erosion was found.

CONCLUSIONS: The male perineal sling is a safe surgical option for post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence, especially when strict patient selection is done. Patient satisfaction is superior to urodynamic results and the procedure allows physiological voiding. Patients should be informed of the possibility of progressive failure with time and significant perineal pain in the early postoperative period.