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ContiReflex® AUS Guide: Managing Post-Prostate Incontinence

ContiReflex® AUS Guide: Managing Post-Prostate Incontinence

ContiReflex® AUS Guide: Managing Post-Prostate Incontinence

ContiReflex® AUS Guide: Managing Post-Prostate Incontinence

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    ContiReflex® AUS Guide: Managing Post-Prostate Incontinence


Living with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) can significantly impact your quality of life, particularly after prostate surgery. The ContiReflex® Enhanced Artificial Urinary Sphincter (AUS) from Rigicon® is an innovative and clinically validated solution that helps restore continence and confidence.

This guide will explain how to properly use your ContiReflex® device and what makes it uniquely effective. Please remember that this guide is a supplement to the personalized instructions and training you will receive from your urologist.

📺 Expert Video Series
ContiReflex® Artificial Urinary Sphincter – Patient Instructional Video

Understanding Your ContiReflex® AUS

The ContiReflex® AUS is a surgically implanted device that mimics the function of a healthy urinary sphincter. It allows you to control urination voluntarily and prevents involuntary leakage.

Components:

  • Occlusive Cuff: Encircles the urethra to prevent urine leakage when inflated.
  • Control Pump: Placed in the scrotum; used to deflate the cuff for urination.
  • Smart Reflex Balloon (PRB): Senses abdominal pressure changes and dynamically adjusts urethral pressure for leak prevention.

Step-by-Step: Using Your ContiReflex® AUS

1. Staying Dry (Default Mode)

  • The occlusive cuff remains gently inflated during daily activities, preventing leakage.
  • No manual action is required during this phase.

2. Getting Ready to Urinate

When you feel the need to urinate:

  • Locate the control pump in your scrotum.
  • Squeeze and release the lower, softer part of the pump 4–5 times.
  • Stop once the pump feels softer, indicating the cuff is deflated.

3. Urinate Normally

  • With the cuff open, urine flows naturally through the urethra.
  • Take your time to fully empty your bladder.

4. Automatic Re-Closure

  • The cuff re-inflates automatically within approximately 2.5 minutes.
  • This delay ensures complete bladder emptying before closure resumes.

The Smart Reflex Advantage

ContiReflex® features an advanced two-bladder Smart Reflex Balloon that detects increases in intra-abdominal pressure (e.g., from coughing, laughing, exercising, or lifting) and instantly applies additional pressure to the cuff.

“This ensures real-time protection against stress-induced leakage—something conventional pressure balloons cannot offer.”

Additional Patient Benefits

  • Fully Internal Design: No external visibility.
  • User-Friendly Pump: Easy to activate and deactivate.
  • Hydrophilic Coating (HydroShield): Allows compatibility with antibiotic solutions.
  • Wide Cuff Size Range: Enables a tailored fit for each patient’s anatomy.
  • Dual Implant Compatibility: Can be used with Rigicon’s Infla10® Inflatable Penile Prosthesis for patients with concurrent erectile dysfunction.

What to Expect After Surgery

  • 🔄 The AUS remains deactivated for 4–6 weeks post-surgery to allow proper healing.
  • 👨‍⚕️ Your urologist will activate the system during a follow-up visit.
  • 📋 Follow your doctor’s post-operative care instructions closely for optimal results.

FAQs

  • Will people know I have an AUS? No. All components are internal and discreet.
  • Is ContiReflex® suitable after prostate cancer treatment? Yes. It is frequently recommended for patients experiencing SUI following radical prostatectomy.
  • Can I use it with an inflatable penile prosthesis? Absolutely. The ContiReflex® is designed for compatibility with the Infla10® IPP.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is a ContiReflex® Artificial Urinary Sphincter, and how does it work?

The ContiReflex® AUS is an implantable medical device designed to treat stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in men, particularly after prostate surgery. It mimics the function of your body’s natural sphincter by using a fluid-filled cuff to close the urethra and prevent urine leakage. When you need to urinate, you simply squeeze a control pump in your scrotum to temporarily open the cuff. After a few minutes, the cuff re-inflates automatically, restoring continence.

2. Who is a candidate for a ContiReflex® AUS?

This device is generally recommended for men who have persistent moderate to severe SUI following prostate surgery or radiation therapy and who have not had sufficient relief from conservative treatments like pelvic floor exercises. It is also appropriate for men with adequate manual dexterity and cognitive ability to operate the pump effectively.

3. What makes the ContiReflex® device different from other AUS systems?

The ContiReflex® features a Smart Reflex Balloon, which dynamically adjusts the pressure on your urethra in response to sudden changes in abdominal pressure—such as when you cough, laugh, or lift something heavy. This real-time response offers enhanced protection against leakage compared to traditional systems with static pressure regulation.

4. How long does it take to recover after AUS implantation surgery?

Full recovery typically takes 4 to 6 weeks, when the AUS remains inactive to allow healing. During your follow-up visit, your urologist will activate the device. Most patients can resume normal activities gradually, and your care team will provide specific post-operative instructions tailored to your situation.

5. Is the implant visible to others? Will anyone know I have it?

No. The ContiReflex® AUS is entirely internal. All components are surgically placed within your body, with no visible parts. Only you and your healthcare provider will know about the device unless you choose to share that information.

6. What are the risks or potential complications associated with the AUS?

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks, including infection, mechanical failure, erosion of the urethra, or device malfunction. While rare, these complications may require revision surgery. Following your surgeon’s instructions closely after implantation helps reduce these risks.

7. Can I use the ContiReflex® AUS if I also have erectile dysfunction?

Yes. If you have erectile dysfunction and require treatment, the ContiReflex® AUS can be safely used in conjunction with an inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) such as the Rigicon® Infla10®. Depending on your medical needs, both devices can be implanted at the same time or separately.

8. Does the device require any maintenance?

The ContiReflex® AUS is a passive hydraulic device that doesn’t require charging or battery replacement. However, routine follow-ups with your urologist are important to ensure long-term performance. Over time, some patients may need a revision due to natural wear or mechanical issues, but many devices function well for 7–10 years or longer.

9. Will this device completely stop all urinary leakage?

Most men experience significant improvement, with many achieving complete dryness or requiring only a minimal pad for security. While no device can guarantee 100% dryness for every individual, the ContiReflex® is designed to offer robust continence support, particularly during stressful activities.

10. What should I do if I have difficulty using the control pump?

If you find locating or operating the pump challenging, don’t worry—this is common early on. Your surgeon will teach you how to use it; with practice, it becomes second nature. If you continue to have trouble, contact your urologist. Adjustments or additional training may help, and your provider can evaluate whether the pump placement is optimal.

Final Thoughts

The ContiReflex® Enhanced Artificial Urinary Sphincter offers a clinically proven, technologically advanced, and patient-friendly solution for men with stress urinary incontinence. By following these instructions and your doctor’s guidance, you can regain control over your bladder and your life.

  • Discreet and fully internal design
  • Smart pressure adaptation for active lifestyles
  • Simple operation with minimal maintenance
  • Compatible with penile implants for complete solutions
For more information, consult your urologist or visit Rigicon.com.
Publish Date: April 15, 2025