Functional Electrical Stimulation for Male Urinary Incontinence: A Literature Review

Abstract

Male urinary incontinence (UI), particularly post-prostatectomy incontinence (PPI), poses a significant burden on quality of life and remains a persistent challenge in urological rehabilitation. Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) has emerged as a promising adjunctive therapy to enhance pelvic floor muscle function and accelerate continence recovery. This literature review synthesizes current evidence on the efficacy and clinical application of FES in managing male UI. A structured search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane Library databases to identify relevant studies published between 2018 and 2024. Inclusion criteria encompassed randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and quasi-experimental studies involving FES interventions for men with UI. From 2,108 initial records, 8 high-quality studies were included in the final analysis. The majority of findings indicate that FES, particularly when combined with Pelvic Floor Muscle Training (PFMT), significantly reduces incontinence episodes, improves quality of life, and promotes earlier continence recovery. However, variability in stimulation protocols and limited long-term data underscore the need for standardized treatment guidelines and further research. In conclusion, FES represents a safe, effective, and evidence-supported intervention in the conservative management of male urinary incontinence.