What is the difference between a (male) sling and ProACT?
A male sling is a long strip of woven propylene material (mesh) that is used to compress or reposition the urethra. These devices can typically not be adjusted to the patient’s individual needs. ProACT balloons are small balloons made from silicone, attached by tubing to an injectable port placed under the skin. ProACT works by compressing the urethra just enough to ensure there is no leakage. ProACT can be adjusted to the needs of the individual patient by injecting fluid into the balloon. There are several types of male slings. Male slings tend to be somewhat more invasive than ProACT. If removal is required, this tends to be more complicated. Slings are also typically suggested for patients suffering from mild to moderate incontinence, while ProACT has been used successfully in patients with mild, moderate and severe incontinence.
