Artificial Urinary Sphincter (AUS)

Artificial Urinary Sphincter at UVM Health

The urinary sphincter is a muscle that holds urine in your bladder until you’re ready to urinate. Sometimes the effects of prostate cancer treatment or other conditions can make the muscle weak, and urine leaks out. This condition is called stress urinary incontinence (SUI).

University of Vermont Health leads the region in treatments for stress urinary incontinence, including the artificial urinary sphincter (AUS). Our surgeons use a simple procedure to insert this device, which allows you to regain urinary control and return to everyday activities.

Why Choose UVM Health?

As one of the region’s leading urologic surgery programs, we offer:

Compassionate care: Our board-certified urologic surgeons provide comprehensive care before, during and after AUS surgery. You receive care that reflects the expertise of a world-class health system with the personalized feel of a community hospital.
Research emphasis: As part of a health system anchored by an academic medical center, our physician-leaders are active researchers, many of whom are training the next generation of experts. You benefit from access to leading experts and the latest advancements in care.

What to Expect

By controlling when urine passes through the urethra, an AUS performs the same function as a natural urinary sphincter. An AUS is a three-part system consisting of:

Urethral cuff: Your provider places this donut-like cuff around the urethra. When the cuff is filled with fluid it holds the urethra closed so urine can’t pass through.
Pump: A small pump in the genital area transfers fluid out of or into the cuff. When you need to urinate, you press a button on the pump.
Balloon: The pump moves the fluid from the cuff to a sac in your abdomen. The deflated cuff allows the urethra to open so you can urinate. After a few minutes, the pump automatically moves the fluid back to the cuff, where it closes the urethra.

My doctor was sensitive to the invasive and psychologically challenging nature of the procedure I was facing. She deserves a great deal of credit for the positive outcome.

UVM Health Patient

AUS Consultation

If you are considering an AUS, you meet with one of our board-certified urologists. You will have a thorough physical examination and talk with your provider about your medical history.

If you and your provider determine that an AUS is right for you, we order pre-operative tests and schedule a time for your procedure. Our team gives you information to help you prepare for surgery.

AUS Surgery

Our urologic surgeons insert the AUS device by making two small incisions. They insert a tiny camera, specialized tools and AUS components into the incisions to implant the device.

The surgical procedure lasts a few hours, and most patients go home the same day. When you have healed — usually four to six weeks after surgery — you will need to return to your provider’s office to activate the AUS. After activation, the AUS should help you regulate urination and avoid incontinence.