Male Sling

What is a male sling?

A soft synthetic sling is placed through a small incision between the scrotum and rectum. It supports and gently repositions the urethra so that it resists leakage during coughing, lifting, and activity. Nothing needs to be pressed or activated afterward.

Who may benefit from a male sling?

• Men using roughly one to three pads a day after prostate surgery.
• Men who have completed pelvic floor therapy without full improvement.
• Men who prefer not to operate a device.
• Generally not the best choice after pelvic radiation or for very heavy leakage.

How is the procedure performed?

Under general anesthesia through one small perineal incision, the sling is positioned and tensioned. The operation typically takes under an hour and is done as a same-day procedure.

What are the benefits?

• No device to operate and nothing visible or palpable in the scrotum.
• Short procedure and quick recovery.
• High satisfaction in appropriately selected patients.

What are the alternatives?

Pelvic floor physical therapy, urethral bulking agents, an artificial urinary sphincter, or continuing with absorbent products.

What are the risks?

• Persistent leakage if the leakage was heavier than the sling can correct.
• Temporary difficulty urinating or urinary retention.
• Perineal pain or numbness, usually temporary.
• Infection or, rarely, erosion requiring sling removal.

What should I expect before surgery?

• A pre-operative visit to review your history, medications, and goals.
• Instructions on blood thinners, supplements, and diabetes medications.
• A urine culture so any infection is treated before the procedure.
• Nothing to eat or drink after midnight unless told otherwise.
• A responsible adult to drive you home on the day of surgery.

What happens on the day of surgery?

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. Most men go home the same day after demonstrating they can urinate.

Will I have a catheter?

A catheter is used during surgery and usually removed before discharge. Occasionally it stays in overnight.

What should I expect during recovery?

• Perineal soreness for one to three weeks.
• No heavy lifting, cycling, or straining for six weeks so the sling settles.
• Continence improvement is usually immediate and continues over several weeks.

When should I call the office?

• Fever above 101.5°F or shaking chills.
• Inability to urinate, or a catheter that stops draining.
• Heavy bleeding, or clots that do not clear with increased fluids.
• Pain that is not controlled by your prescribed medication.
• Redness, swelling, or drainage at an incision site.