Reconsideration of pelvic floor muscle training to prevent and treat incontinence after radical prostatectomy.

Urinary incontinence is common after radical prostatectomy. Pelvic floor muscle training provides a plausible solution. Although early trials provided promising results, systematic reviews have questioned the efficacy of this intervention. A major consideration is that most clinical trials in men have applied principles developed for pelvic floor muscle training for stress urinary incontinence in women, despite differences in anatomy between sexes and differences in the mechanisms for continence/incontinence. Literature regarding continence control in men has been conflicting and often based on erroneous anatomy. New understanding of continence mechanisms in men, including the complex contribution of multiple layers of striated pelvic floor muscles, and detailed consideration of the impact of radical prostatectomy on continence anatomy and physiology, have provided foundations for a new approach to pelvic floor muscle training to prevent and treat incontinence after prostatectomy. An approach to training can be designed to target the pathophysiology of incontinence. This approach relies on principles of motor learning and exercise physiology, in a manner that is tailored to the individual patient. The aims of this review are to consider new understanding of continence control in men, the mechanisms for incontinence after radical prostatectomy, and to review the characteristics of a pelvic floor muscle training program designed to specifically target recovery of continence after prostatectomy.

Physiotherapy for urinary incontinence.

BACKGROUND: International guidelines recommend treatment for urinary incontinence by a health professional such as a pelvic floor or continence physiotherapist with specialised training in the management of pelvic floor disorders. OBJECTIVE: This article discusses the role of a physiotherapy program in treating women with urinary incontinence. DISCUSSION: Treatment usually involves five consultations with a pelvic floor physiotherapist over 4-6 months. After an assessment of bladder function and the pelvic floor muscles, an individualised training program is prescribed. The focus of pelvic floor muscle training is to build strength, endurance, speed and the coordination of the pelvic floor muscles in different situations. An effective program has been shown to increase contractile strength as well as increased resting tone of the pelvic floor, which then provides improved support of the pelvic organs higher in the pelvis. Women may be offered an annual review by their physiotherapist in order to promote long term continence.