Electrically stimulated gracilis sphincter (dynamic graciloplasty) for treatment of intrinsic sphincter deficiency: a pilot study on feasibility and side effects.
OBJECTIVE
The feasibility and side effects of electrically stimulated gracilis sphincter (dynamic graciloplasty) were studied in 7 patients with severe incontinence due to intrinsic sphincter deficiency.


METHODS
The distal part of the gracilis muscle is wrapped around the bladder neck. Afterwards, 2 muscle electrodes and a programmable pulse stimulator are implanted. During a stimulation program the fatigable type 2 skeletal fibers are replaced by slow type 1 fibers, which are able to sustain a long lasting contraction.


RESULTS
Among the patients 3 are continent, 1 is partially continent and treatment failed in 3.


CONCLUSIONS
The results are encouraging. Dynamic graciloplasty may have a role in the treatment of intrinsic sphincter deficiency.
Janknegt
R A
RA
Department of Urology, University Hospital Maastricht, The Netherlands.
Heesakkers
J P
JP
Weil
E H
EH
Baeten
C G
CG
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D004599:Electric Stimulation Therapy; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000637:transplantation*; D010865:Pilot Projects; D014549:Urinary Incontinence / Q000601:surgery / Q000628:therapy*