VICTO device benefits drawbacks and how to use it for men

Are you struggling with urinary incontinence after prostate surgery or due to a weak urinary sphincter? The VICTO device is a modern and effective solution for men seeking full control and daily comfort. This artificial urinary control system is specially designed to help you urinate normally while reducing leakage and dependence on pads. In this Delly Medical article, we will review the benefits of the VICTO device, its potential side effects, and the step-by-step usage process, so you can know everything you need before and after device implantation and maintain your daily life with confidence and ease.

1️⃣ What is the VICTO Device?

The VICTO device is an artificial urinary control system for men, consisting of:

Cuff around the urethra: Closes the urethra to prevent leakage.
Pressure-Regulating Balloon (PRB): Controls the cuff pressure.
Pump in the scrotum: Opens the cuff during urination.

✅ Key feature: The device allows adjustable pressure after implantation according to the patient’s needs, ensuring optimal urinary control.

2️⃣ Who is the VICTO Device Recommended For?

Men with severe urinary incontinence after prostate surgery or urethral injury.
Cases that did not improve with medications or other devices, such as bladder support belts.

3️⃣ Is VICTO Implant Surgery Difficult or Risky?

The procedure is surgical but relatively safe under the supervision of a specialized urologist.
It requires a short recovery period with follow-up for pressure adjustment and device function checks.
As with any surgery, risks include infection, bleeding, or issues with the cuff or pump.

4️⃣ When Can the Pump Be Used After Implantation?

Typically 4–6 weeks after surgery, once the surgical wounds have healed.
The doctor will teach the patient how to operate the pump safely to open the cuff and urinate.

5️⃣ Does the VICTO Device Require Maintenance or Adjustment?

Yes, the cuff pressure can be adjusted as needed for optimal urinary control.
Regular follow-ups with the doctor are essential to avoid urethral complications or leakage.

6️⃣ Is the VICTO Device Permanent?

The device is designed to function for many years.
Occasionally, adjustments or maintenance may be required due to:
- Urethral erosion over time.
- Mechanical issues with the cuff or pump.
- Rare infections or complications.

7️⃣ Will I Still Have Urinary Incontinence After VICTO Implantation?

Most patients achieve significant improvement or near-complete urinary control.
Some cases may require cuff pressure adjustment or size modification for the best result.

8️⃣ Can I Exercise or Resume Daily Activities After Implantation?

After recovery, most daily activities and light exercise are possible.
Avoid heavy lifting or direct pressure on the scrotum during the first few weeks.

9️⃣ Common Complications

Common: Infection at the implantation site, mild swelling, slight pain, minor leakage.
Rare: Pump blockage, urethral erosion, balloon issues.

⚡ Does the Device Affect Sexual Activity?

The device generally does not affect sexual function.
Some patients may feel pressure or a foreign body sensation around the scrotum initially, which usually disappears over time.

VICTO Device for Male Urinary Incontinence: Benefits, Stages, and Usage

Men with urinary incontinence after prostate surgery or urethral injuries often experience a significant impact on daily life and psychological well-being. The VICTO device offers a modern, artificial solution for complete urinary control, with long-term proven results.

1️⃣ Stages of VICTO Device Implantation

A. Pre-Surgery Preparation

Routine tests: Blood work, evaluation of kidneys, bladder, and urethra.
Administer preventive antibiotics to reduce infection risk.

B. Implanting the Cuff Around the Urethra

The cuff is placed to allow urinary control.
Proper cuff size is selected based on urethra diameter.

C. Implanting the PRB (Pressure-Regulating Balloon)

Positioned in the abdomen or behind muscles to control cuff pressure.

D. Implanting the Scrotal Pump

A small pump allows the patient to open the cuff and urinate when needed.

E. Connecting Components and Initial Pressure Adjustment

All components are pre-connected; the surgeon sets initial cuff pressure.

F. Closing the Surgery and Follow-Up

Surgical incisions are closed and cleaned.
The patient is monitored for bleeding or infection.

2️⃣ Device Function After Implantation

Initial Recovery (2–4 weeks)

The cuff automatically closes the urethra.
The pump is not used during this period.

Pump Training Stage

The doctor instructs the patient on how to use the pump to urinate.
The cuff closes automatically after a few minutes.

Adjustment Stage

Cuff pressure is personalized to provide just enough pressure for urinary control.

Long-Term Normal Use

The patient controls urination naturally using the pump.
Regular follow-up ensures the device is functioning correctly.

3️⃣ Benefits of the VICTO Device

Complete and effective urinary control: Prevents involuntary leakage, reduces reliance on pads or diapers.
Improved psychological and social quality of life: Reduces stress and restores independence.
Personalized adjustment: Pressure can be modified after implantation to avoid sores or weak urine flow.
Solution for refractory cases: Effective when medications, physiotherapy, or bladder support belts fail.
Proven long-term results: High patient satisfaction (≈70–88%) with relatively few complications.
Reduced reliance on external devices: Less need for daily pads or diapers.
Safe and easy patient control: Small, convenient pump, easy to operate under medical supervision.

Types of VICTO Devices

1️⃣ VICTO® (Standard Version)
Components:

Cuff around the urethra (Cuff)
Pressure-Regulating Balloon (PRB)
Pre-connected scrotal pump with self-sealing port

Advantages:

Pump allows doctor to adjust cuff pressure post-implantation.
Pre-connected design simplifies implantation.
Cuffs available in multiple sizes (3.7, 4.0, 4.5, 5.0, 5.5 cm) to fit all urethra sizes.

2️⃣ VICTO+® (Victo Plus)

Includes all components of the standard version: cuff + PRB balloon + pump + pressure adjustment port.

Additionally, it includes a temporary stress relief balloon (SRB):

Function: Temporarily increases cuff pressure during sudden abdominal pressure (e.g., coughing, sneezing, heavy lifting).
Helps prevent urine leakage in sudden situations while maintaining low pressure under normal conditions to reduce the risk of urethral erosion.

⚖️ When to Choose Each Type

Standard VICTO:

Suitable for patients with continuous urinary leakage but without strong sudden pressure.

VICTO+:

Best for patients with stress incontinence caused by sneezing, coughing, or sudden movements.
The additional balloon provides temporary control and reduces the risk of complications.

Choosing the Correct Cuff Size:

Extremely important for device success and minimizing complications.
Depends on the patient’s urethra size.

⚕️ Important Technical Notes

Both types are pre-connected, meaning all parts are assembled before implantation.
Device pressure can be adjusted after implantation to customize urinary control for each patient.
Multiple cuff sizes allow personalized fitting according to the patient’s anatomy for optimal results with minimal complications.

Potential Risks and Symptoms After VICTO Implantation

While the VICTO device is highly effective in controlling urinary incontinence, some risks or side effects may occur. It is important to monitor these signs and report them to your doctor promptly.

1️⃣ Risks of the VICTO Device

A. Device-Related Risks

Excessive urethral pressure: High or prolonged cuff pressure may cause urethral erosion or weakening over time.
Cuff or pump degradation: Parts of the cuff may wear out or the pump may shift, causing leakage or requiring reoperation.
Balloon or pump malfunction: Mechanical failure can lead to loss of urinary control or difficulty using the pump.

B. Surgery-Related Risks

Post-implant infection: May affect the pump, scrotum, or cuff, sometimes requiring temporary or permanent device removal.
Bleeding or hematoma: Common after surgery, but large collections may require drainage.
Nerve or tissue injury: Rare, but may cause temporary pain or numbness in the scrotum or penis.

C. Long-Term or Rare Risks

Gradual loss of urinary control due to urethral erosion or cuff stretching.
Skin issues around the pump such as irritation or minor ulcers.
Psychological effects: Some patients may feel anxious or uncomfortable with a permanent implant.

2️⃣ Symptoms After VICTO Implantation

A. Normal Symptoms

Mild swelling and bruising around the scrotum or surgical site (lasting about two weeks).
Sensation of a foreign body or slight pressure inside the body, which gradually decreases.
Mild pain or discomfort after urination or when pressing the pump, usually relieved by pain medication.
Temporary changes in urine volume or flow in the first few days after surgery.

B. Abnormal Symptoms (Seek Immediate Medical Attention)

Persistent or increased urinary leakage.
Severe pain or increasing swelling several days after surgery.
Redness, warmth, or discharge from the surgical site.
Difficulty or pain when pressing the pump.
Color changes in the scrotum or urethra (paleness or bluish tint).
Fever, especially after surgery.

3️⃣ Important Tips for Managing Symptoms

Follow-up during the first 2–6 weeks after implantation is essential.
Adhere strictly to your doctor’s instructions regarding pump use and hygiene.
Do not press the pump forcefully or attempt to adjust the device without medical guidance.
Any sign of infection, severe pain, or persistent leakage should be addressed immediately to prevent serious complications.

VICTO Complications and Pre-/Post-Implantation Advice

The VICTO device is effective in controlling urinary incontinence, but like any medical device or surgery, complications may occur. Knowing potential complications and following pre- and post-operative guidance reduces risks and improves outcomes.

1️⃣ VICTO Complications

A. Common or Moderate Complications

Surgical site infection: May occur in the scrotum or around the pump/cuff. Signs include redness, swelling, warmth, discharge, or mild fever. Usually treated with antibiotics; some cases may need temporary device removal.
Swelling and bruising: Common after surgery; resolves in a few weeks.
Local pain or foreign body sensation: Normal initially, decreases over time.
Skin sensitivity or irritation: Due to cuff/pump pressure or friction.
Mild urine leakage: May occur in the first weeks before device pressure is optimized.

B. Rare or Severe Complications

Cuff erosion or migration: Can cause sudden urinary leakage or bleeding, requiring surgical intervention.
Pump or balloon problems: Obstruction or leakage may impair urinary control.
Excessive urethral pressure (urethral atrophy): Long-term use may reduce urethral thickness, weakening device effectiveness.
Severe infection or sepsis: Very rare but serious; requires device removal and urgent treatment.
Surgical issues: Severe bleeding, hematoma, or temporary nerve injury.

2️⃣ Pre-Implantation Advice

A. Medical Preparations

Comprehensive testing: blood work, kidney/bladder/urethra evaluation.
Review medical history, especially diabetes or hypertension.
Inform the doctor about medications such as blood thinners or heart medications.

B. Surgical Preparations

Follow fasting instructions before surgery.
Clean the genital area thoroughly.
Wear loose, easy-to-remove clothing for returning home.

C. Mental and Emotional Preparation

Understanding the procedure and device function reduces stress.
Discuss concerns about pain, complications, or recovery with the doctor.

3️⃣ Immediate Post-Implantation Tips (First Days of Recovery)

A. Wound Care

Keep the surgical site clean and gently dry after showering.
Do not remove dressings unless instructed by the doctor.
Monitor for redness, swelling, or discharge and report promptly.

B. Physical Activity

Complete rest during the first 2–3 weeks.
Avoid heavy lifting or intense exercise.
Light walking helps circulation and reduces swelling.

C. Pain and Antibiotics

Use pain medication and antibiotics as prescribed.
Do not press the pump or attempt to open the cuff until your doctor allows it.

4️⃣ Tips After Starting Pump Use

A. Learning and Proper Use

The doctor will teach you how to press the pump to open the cuff for urination.
After urination, the cuff automatically closes within a few minutes.
Practice several times under supervision until the process becomes natural.

B. Pressure Adjustment and Monitoring

In the first few weeks, device pressure may be adjusted to provide enough control without harming the urethra.
Any difficulty urinating or leakage should be reported immediately.

C. Hygiene and Ongoing Care

Wash hands before using the pump.
Maintain scrotal hygiene to reduce infection or skin irritation.
Monitor for inflammation, swelling, or unusual pain.

5️⃣ Long-Term Advice

Regular follow-ups with a urologist to monitor device function and urethral condition.
Avoid excessive pressure on the pump or attempting self-adjustments.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle to reduce wound healing issues or infections (healthy diet, controlled diabetes and blood pressure).
Report any sudden urine leakage, severe pain, swelling, or redness immediately.

6️⃣ How to Use the VICTO Device for Urinary Control

Initial Recovery Period (First Days–Weeks Post-Implantation)

Device is automatically closed: the cuff compresses the urethra to prevent leakage.
Do not use the pump until approved by the doctor (usually 4–6 weeks post-surgery).
Monitor wound healing: maintain cleanliness and watch for redness, swelling, or discharge.

First Stage of Pump Use
A. How to Press the Pump

Wash hands thoroughly before touching the pump.
Locate the pump in the scrotum; it is small and easy to feel under the skin.
Gently press the pump to open the cuff around the urethra, allowing urine to flow.

B. During Urination

After pressing the pump, the cuff opens to allow urine to flow naturally.
Sitting or standing in a comfortable position during urination helps ensure proper urine flow.

C. After Urination

The cuff automatically closes within a few minutes.
This closure maintains urinary control and prevents leakage.

3️⃣ Important Tips During Use

Do not press the pump too forcefully: gentle pressure is sufficient to open the cuff.
Do not adjust the device yourself: any pressure adjustment must be performed by the doctor via the adjustment port.
Clean the area before and after use to prevent infection.
Monitor for any problems: difficulty urinating, urine leakage, severe pain, swelling, or redness. Contact your doctor immediately if any of these occur.

4️⃣ Using the Device During Daily Activities

After full recovery, most daily activities and light exercise can be performed safely.
Avoid direct pressure or trauma to the scrotum, especially in the first few months after implantation.
Regular follow-up with your doctor for device adjustment ensures optimal urinary control.