Artificial Urinary Sphincter in Turkey: Cost & Best Doctors

The urinary sphincter is a vital muscle that controls the flow of urine from the bladder. It prevents involuntary leakage by keeping the bladder outlet closed until urination is desired. When this muscle becomes damaged due to ageing, surgery, or medical conditions, it can lead to urinary incontinence, which is a condition that can disrupt the flow of life of a patient.

Artificial urinary sphincter surgery is a medical procedure  where an artificial device that functions like the natural urinary sphincter is implanted around the urethra to facilitate normal urine flow and reduce urine leakage. For those suffering from severe stress urinary incontinence, an artificial urinary sphincter surgery can be life-changing. However, accessing this treatment can be challenging in countries like the UK, USA, and Australia due to long waiting times, high costs, and limited accessibility.

In the UK, the National Health Service often faces budget constraints and high demand, resulting in lengthy waiting times for non-emergency procedures like AUS implantation. Similarly, in Australia, the public healthcare system can be slow, and private healthcare options can be highly expensive. In the USA, the cost of Artificial urinary sphincter surgery is a bit too high, with many patients facing significant out-of-pocket expenses despite having insurance coverage. In contrast, Turkey has risen as a top medical tourism hub and offers high-quality care at affordable prices. 

The Turkish hospitals with CureTurkey that are located in cities like Istanbul, Antalya, Ankara, and Izmir are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. Surgeons here have received international training and have extensive experience performing various types of artificial urinary sphincter surgeries. The cost of AUS treatment in Turkey is significantly lower, ranging from $2,300 to $4,890 compared to Western countries, making it an attractive option for patients seeking affordable urology care. The shorter waiting times and comprehensive care packages that include accommodation, transportation, and personalised assistance provide international patients with a smooth and stress-free experience. Hence, by choosing Turkey for your AUS treatment, you can benefit from world-class medical care, experienced surgeons, and significant cost savings. 

What are the Indications for an Artificial Urinary Sphincter Surgery in Turkey? 

Artificial Urinary Sphincter surgery is a specialised treatment procedure that might not be suitable for all patients with urinary incontinence.  Since men who develop urinary incontinence after prostate removal tend to regain their continence within a year post-operation, the Artificial urinary sphincter surgery is only suggested after a full year has passed. It is indicated for patients with severe stress urinary incontinence, particularly when other non-surgical treatments such as TURP and prostatectomy have failed to provide relief.

In most cases, AUS surgery is recommended for:

• Men experiencing stress urinary incontinence following prostatectomy or TURP: This is the most common indication for an AUS surgery. Since many men naturally regain bladder control within a year after prostate surgery, AUS implantation is generally considered only after 12 months have passed without any improvement in the condition.
• Women with intrinsic sphincter deficiency: Although less common, an artificial urinary sphincter surgery in Turkey can is also an effective treatment for women who have not responded to other interventions and have been thoroughly evaluated by a specialist.
• Patients with neurological conditions affecting bladder control: Patients with conditions such as spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, or spina bifida may be candidates for AUS if incontinence is due to sphincter dysfunction and other therapies are ineffective.

A comprehensive assessment by a urologist can help determine whether a patient is a suitable candidate for AUS surgery. This includes evaluating bladder function, overall health, previous treatments, and the patient’s ability to operate the device.

Who Is the Best Candidate for an Artificial Urinary Sphincter Surgery in Turkey?

Artificial Urinary Sphincter surgery is an effective surgery for patients suffering from moderate to severe stress urinary incontinence, particularly when other treatment options have failed. However, it is not suitable for everyone. You are an ideal candidate for this surgery if:

• You’re a man experiencing ongoing urinary leakage after prostate surgery, and conservative treatments haven’t worked.
• You’ve tried medications, exercises, or other procedures without improvement.
• You are physically and mentally able to operate the device, which is a small pump in the scrotum or labia.
• You do not have active infections, poor bladder function, or uncorrected urethral blockages.
• You’re looking for a long-term fix that will improve your quality of life.

What is the Step-by-step Procedure for an Artificial Urinary Sphincter Surgery in Turkey? 

Artificial Urinary Sphincter surgery in Turkey is performed with precision and care by experienced urologists using state-of-the-art facilities and modern techniques. Here are the steps that are followed when performing an Artificial urinary sphincter in Turkey: 

■ Initial Consultation and Evaluation:

Before the surgery, you will undergo a thorough medical evaluation and discuss it with your urologists to determine your suitability for Artificial urinary sphincter surgery. During this consultation, your urologist will assess your medical history and current symptoms and determine whether the artificial urinary surgery is appropriate for your condition.

■ Pre-Operative Testing:

To establish your suitability for the procedure, you will have to undergo pre-operative tests like general health assessments, bladder function studies, and urine analysis and imaging.

■ Anesthesia Administration:

The surgical procedure will be performed under general anaesthesia to eliminate any discomfort and promote a smooth treatment process. 

■ Surgical Incisions and Device Placement:

Once you are in deep sleep, a small incision is made in the perineal area between the scrotum and anus in men or near the vaginal area in women to place the cuff around the urethra. This cuff controls the flow of urine. A second incision is made in the lower abdomen to implant the pump and pressure-regulating balloon that are part of the AUS system.

■ Closing the Incisions:

After the surgery, the incision will be closed by using absorbable sutures that dissolve naturally, eliminating the need for removal later. 

■ Postoperative Care:

While the procedure typically lasts around an hour or two, you might need an overnight hospital stay for further monitoring to check your response and any signs of discomfort. The implanted device remains inactive for the first 4–6 weeks for proper healing. You will then receive detailed post-operative care instructions, including hygiene, activity restrictions, and medication guidance. During follow-up appointments, your surgeon will assess your healing and activate the device once the recovery is adequate.

How is Recovery after Artificial Urinary Sphincter Treatment in Turkey ?

After the Artificial urinary sphincter surgery, you will be transferred to the normal hospital bedroom unit, where your medical team will monitor you for any signs of discomfort or side effects. Once you are stabilised, the nursing team will provide fluids, painkillers, antibiotics, and other medications necessary for a swift and effective recovery. The catheter and the medical devices are more likely to be removed before you are discharged. However, if you need any devices during your recovery period, the doctor will provide the necessary instructions to help manage them. Most patients start noticing their signs of recovery within a week or two of the procedure and can resume their daily activities after six weeks. You are more likely to face urinary leakage and difficulty in urination for a few days after the Artificial urinary sphincter surgery, which eventually subsides on its own. You can return to your normal diet and shower after 48 hours post-surgery, but the dressing should be removed and redressed at proper intervals. 

Why Get Artificial Urinary Sphincter Surgery in Turkey? 

Turkey has become one of the best medical tourism countries, with patients travelling from all over the world to access high-quality treatments at an affordable cost. Unlike countries like the UK, the USA, and Australia, which offer advanced treatment that costs a fortune, Turkish clinics and hospitals in cities like Antalya, Ankara, Istanbul and Izmir offer all-inclusive packages by pairing up with CureTurkey. These treatment packages are designed for international patients and include travel, surgery costs, accommodations, and post-operative care.

■ Accredited clinics: 

Turkey boasts many JCI-certified hospitals and facilities accredited by Turkey's Ministry of Health, which adheres to international policies to ensure safe and effective treatment for international patients. 

■ Latest technologies: 

Turkey houses the latest medical treatment technologies, like the AMS 800, which is known for its reliability and effectiveness, and it provides a 99% efficacy rate in artificial urinary sphincter in Turkey. 

■ High success rates: 

An artificial urinary sphincter surgery in Turkey boasts a high success rate which goes as high as 90% for treating male stress urinary incontinence post-prostatectomy. The combination of experienced surgeons and advanced medical devices helps Turkish hospitals and clinics situated in cities like Antalya, Izmir, and Istanbul deliver the highest-quality medical treatments.

■ Expert surgeons:

The leading urologists, located in Turkish cities like Antalya, Izmir, and Istanbul, have performed over 500 successful implantations and are holders of certifications in advanced urological procedures. Their training in international standards ensures successful treatment outcomes in most procedures. 

■ Convenient location:

Turkey is located in the right place and thus is easily accessible from countries all around the world. Also, the beauty and tcentres in the country make it easier to blend treatment here with a memorable vacation.