Is pain better with Artificial Urinary Sphincter (AUS) than catheter?

@budisnothome Thanks for your input. Sorry you have had such a difficult time with the AUS - but glad you are happy with it now. I am wondering how old you are - my husband is 80 - maybe its easier for someone younger?

I also want to mention we asked the urologist why he didnt suggest using a size 14 vs 16 catheter which is much more comfortable. He said he just didnt think of it because 16 is the standard men's size. He also said when he examined him that there was some surrounding induration in the scrotum by the pump. Has anyone else experienced that?

@mirsy I was 72 when I got mine. Still active and it works great. 75 now.

For those who have yet to have an AUS installed, I suggest very carefully selecting the surgeon. My doctor is on the faculty of a medical school and she specializes in reconstructive urinary surgery, including performing procedures on transgender people. She was outstanding and I have had no issues. Everything was installed right. That was three years ago.
Can't stress enough that you get the right person for the job.

@koji480 - Yes, you are right. My husband's doctor trained at the hospital where this device was invented - so thought that was a plus for him - but he had only installed 40 AUS's. My husband is in the hospital right now with an infection in his scrotum from the device. We are not sure how to move forward seeing as how further problems could crop up also. Has anyone here had it revised or removed? Is it a big deal? Also are pads or a catheter the only other option? Thanks for your help and support!

@mirsy
If someone has had radiation, then the only effective option is the AUS. Other devices don’t really work properly with the hardened urethra caused by radiation. If someone has not had radiation, then the ProACT device is a good alternative. It still requires implanting inside the body like the AUS. The sling is another option, which may work.

I’m hoping your husband can have his problems resolved so that the AUS will become a useful tool for him.

Yes, he had radiation. We are hoping the antibiotic can stop the infection in the scrotum. He is on night 2 in the hospital and not a happy camper. Praying he can come home tomorrow but may be unlikely. Thanks for your reply.

Here is my reply to all of you who have supported us on this journey. The AUS became infected. He just had surgery this morning to remove it and just got word that it went well and he is ok. I am greatly relieved. He was not a good candidate for this procedure and the doctor should never have offered him this choice. However, he will move forward w a catheter in place - went from a 16 to a 14 and it made a huge difference in comfort. Thank you all for your caring and support and wish you all the best!!!!! p.s surgeon had done 40 of these if that makes any difference in how it turned out.

@koji480 Thanks for your input and experience with the AUS.
My experience is very similar. My surgeon is also skilled in reconstructive and gender transition surgery. Also, has done many AUS surgeries. FWIW, his 'trainee' surgeon did my install under his guidance. And they took their time - 4-hours on the table. But with his well developed skill and her careful execution I got fantastic results.
Do consider your prospective surgeon's training, and related experience.

@mirsy my first one had problems. Emergency surgery to remove. Had urethroplasty. 13 months with suprapubic catheter exchanged every 4 weeks. New AMS800 works great. There are surgeons who specialize in radiation caused problems. I found one and he changed my life. Good luck.