An artificial urinary sphincter based on dielectric elastomer technology

Urinary incontinence (UI) is prevalent and distressing medical condition affecting millions of patients worldwide. Current treatment options for severe cases often involve surgical intervention, such as the implantation of an artificial urinary sphincter (AUS). However, existing AUS devices have limitations, including mechanical complexity, a risk of complications and have been mainly developed for male patients. In this context, dielectric elastomers actuators (DEAs) often referred as artificial muscles are a promising alternative. This study explores the potential of DEAs as a more efficient and less invasive AUS. Thanks to simulations performed on human urethra and tubular DEA, we designed a tubular DEA with an active thickness of 250 μm a length of 40 mm and an internal radius of 2.5 mm. We demonstrated the capability of this DEA to close the urethra with an internal pressure applied from the bladder varying from 0 to 10 000 Pa. We also demonstrated the capability of opening the urethra with a diameter of 0.58 mm at 10 000 Pa. Those results are promising and prove the potential of using DEAs as an Artificial Urinary Sphincter.