Efficacy and complications of the adjustable sling system ArgusT for male incontinence: results of a prospective 2-center study

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate prospectively the efficacy and the safety of the ArgusT in male patients with persistent stress urinary incontinence.

Methods: A prospective 2-center evaluation was conducted on consecutive patients treated for persistent stress incontinence. Forty-two patients were implanted with the ArgusT male sling system with no associated surgery. Measurements included daily pad usage, 24-hour pad weight test, International Quality of Life questionnaire, International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire short form, and the Patient Global Impression of Improvement. Postoperative complications were assessed using the Clavien-Dindo classification. The definitions used were cured, 0-5 g in 24-hour pad weight test; improved, reduction of urine loss in 24-hour pad weight test >50%; and failed, all others.

Results: After a mean follow-up of 28.8 months (20-38 months), 26 patients were dry (61.9%) with a pad test of 0-5 g/24 hours. Eleven patients (26.2%) improved. Five patients are considered failures. Overall daily pad use, urine loss in the 24-hour pad test, and quality of life scores improved significantly after sling implantation. Median adjustment rate was 1.7. There were no perioperative complications. Postoperative complications were mainly grade I and II complications according to the Clavien-Dindo classification.

Conclusion: The ArgusT sling system offers an effective and safe treatment option for male patients with moderate to severe stress urinary incontinence in a follow-up >2 years, even after radiotherapy.