Gracilis muscle transposition with electrical stimulation for sphincteric incontinence: a new approach

World J Urol. 1997;15(5):320-8. doi: 10.1007/BF02202019.

Abstract

Neurovascularly intact gracilis-muscle transposition to the proximal urethra is an exciting new technique for sphincteric incontinence. The functional urethral closure of gracilis myoplasty assures dryness, permits intermittent self-catheterization when necessary, and avoids the risks of erosion associated with the artificial urinary sphincter. Electrical stimulation of the transposed muscle (dynamic urethral myoplasty) using intramuscular electrodes and a subcutaneously placed pulse generator can alter the molecular physiology of the gracilis muscle from that of predominantly fast-twitch to that of slow-twitch fibers that are fatigue-resistant and more suitable for long-term sphincter function.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Electric Stimulation Therapy
  • Female
  • Goats
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Muscle, Skeletal / surgery
  • Postoperative Complications / surgery
  • Prostatectomy
  • Rabbits
  • Rats
  • Surgical Flaps*
  • Urethra / surgery
  • Urinary Incontinence, Stress / etiology
  • Urinary Incontinence, Stress / surgery*