Leakage after prostate surgery
Many men leak urine with coughing, lifting or standing up after a radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer, or after TURP. For most, leakage improves over the first year with time and pelvic floor exercises. When stress incontinence persists beyond a year, it can limit work, exercise and confidence. Effective treatments exist.
What ProACT is
The Coloplast ProACT Adjustable Continence Therapy for Men uses two small, soft balloons placed on either side of the urethra, just below the bladder. The balloons add gentle support that helps the urinary channel close during activity. Each balloon connects by thin tubing to a small port placed under the skin of the scrotum. This lets the balloon volume be adjusted later in the office with a simple needle, so support can be fine-tuned without another operation.
Who it is for
ProACT is FDA-approved (PMA P130018, 2015) for adult men with stress incontinence from intrinsic sphincter deficiency lasting at least 12 months after radical prostatectomy or TURP, who have not responded adequately to conservative therapy. Its safety and effectiveness have not been established in men who received radiation after surgery, and radiation may increase the risk of device erosion. Dr. Neal Patel reviews your history to determine whether ProACT, a male sling or an artificial urinary sphincter is the best fit.
The procedure and adjustments
ProACT is placed through small incisions in the perineum, using imaging guidance, typically as an outpatient procedure. Afterward, the balloons can be adjusted in the office over several visits to balance dryness with comfortable urination. As with any implant, possible issues include infection, balloon movement or leakage, and the need for repositioning or replacement. These are discussed in detail before treatment.
Expertise
Dr. Neal Patel is a national expert in ProACT adjustable continence therapy. He provides careful patient selection, placement and follow-up adjustments to help men regain confidence after prostate surgery. Related pages: Overactive bladder & incontinence, Men's health. Source: Coloplast ProACT. Call 678-344-8900.
Preparing for your visit with Dr. Neal Patel
Bring a list of your current medications and supplements, any prior urine, blood or PSA results, and the reports (or discs) from recent imaging. If you can, arrive with a comfortably full bladder, because a urine sample and a bladder scan are often part of the first visit. Write down your main questions so nothing is missed. A family member is welcome to join you. If you prefer Spanish or Korean, let the office know when you book so language support is ready.
Your chart is reviewed before you arrive, and insurance requirements for likely imaging or procedures are checked up front so approvals can move sooner. Before you leave, your orders, prescriptions and follow-up plan are reviewed with you, and you receive education materials tailored to your condition.
At the end of the visit you will receive a written summary in your preferred language that explains what was found, what was ordered and what happens next. Your primary care physician or referring doctor receives a clear update letter with findings, plan and next steps, so everyone caring for you stays informed. Appointments are available at the Johns Creek, Cumming, Decatur and Braselton offices; call 678-344-8900.
Reviewed by Dr. Neal Patel, MD, board-certified urologist. This page is general information and not a substitute for medical advice.