Frequently Asked Questions About ProACT®
- How long does the patient have to wear this device?
- How does the patient empty the balloon in order to void?
- How long will the device last?
- How many patients have been implanted?
- Where are the balloons placed?
- Can this be used for irradiated patients?
- How long will the pressure last before the balloons should be filled again?
- Can the patient bicycle after the implantation?
How long does the patient have to wear this device?
ProACT is a device that is permanently implanted and stays in place unless the treatment is not successful in which case removal can be effected easily.
How does the patient empty the balloon in order to void?
The ProACT system is a passive system. Unlike with an artificial sphincter, the patient does not have to do anything to void. Regular detrusor pressure will be sufficient to override the co-aptation effect of the balloons.
How long will the device last?
The balloons are designed to have at least a 10 year life. As the therapy is relatively new, we do not have any patients that have reached and surpassed this milestone. There are however patients that have been implanted more than 6 years ago who are still benefiting from the therapy.
How many patients have been implanted?
More than 5000 men have been implanted with ProACT.
Where are the balloons placed?
In men after radical prostatectomy, the balloons are placed at the bladder neck at the level of the anastomosis. In men who are incontinent after TURP, the balloons will be placed that the apex of the prostatic remnant.
Can this be used for irradiated patients?
Outcomes in irradiated male patients are certainly not as good as those in non-irradiated patients. We have seen more complications in this patient group. Uromedica recommends against the use of ProACT in irradiated patients.
How long will the pressure last before the balloons should be filled again?
Balloons are filled over a period of time until the desired level of continence is achieved. Assuming that an isotonic solution was used. The balloons would not need to be re-filled unless anatomical changes affecting the tissues would cause a recurrence of incontinence. At that time, the balloons can again be filled using the regular filling method.
Can the patient bicycle after the implantation?
We recommend patients take it easy immediately after the implant (as after any surgery). Some of our patients have started using “cutaway” saddles with a channel centered down the length of the seat.
—This page last modified Wednesday February 20, 2008