Posted 3/17/2023 11:54 PM (GMT 0)
The device is pretty much the same as it was some years ago. Supposedly, in the future there will be a major upgrade that will include Bluetooth connectivity for adjusting the pressure on the cuff.
The pros are that you will be dry for a change and not dealing with leaks, pads, etc. The cons include that the device tends to need replacement in 7-10 years, largely due to erosion of the urethra. You can also have surgical complications to where the device has to be removed. Those are the outliers though.
I’ve had mine for almost 4 years and would gladly do it again. Recovery isn’t a big deal, just sore for a few days, no lifting for a while, etc. I kept a journal and can post a link to it if you want to read it.
As far as restricting activities, I’m a distance runner and swimmer and it doesn’t impact those at all. I do bike some but will tell you right off that I have some problems there. Pressure on the perineum can cause the cuff to distort and cause a leak. I understand that sustained pressure like that could damage the cuff. I had a narrow split seat on my bike and it wouldn’t work at all. I ended up getting a wide seat, like the ones we had on our 3-speed in the 60s-70s and that is better. I think if I really pursued bicycling I’d get one of those seats that just has two padded disk that the butt bones rest on.
As far as questions to ask the uro, the usual queries would include inquiring how many of these surgeries the uro done, etc. The surgery itself isn’t that complicated, as surgeries go. I found a full video of one on YouTube and watched it so I was pretty informed going into it. If you are going to Cleveland Clinic, you should be fine. I traveled there for my RALP but had the AUS installed here in Montana.
Keep in mind that the device won’t be activated for about 6-weeks, giving your system time to heal, but once it is, life is greatly improved.