Final answer:
Artificial sphincters are used to treat stress incontinence when other treatments have not been effective. They are small devices that are implanted around the urethra to provide support and control the flow of urine.
Step-by-step explanation:
Artificial sphincters are used to treat stress incontinence when other treatments, such as Kegel exercises or surgery to improve support for the bladder, have not been effective. Artificial sphincters are small devices that are implanted around the urethra to provide support and control the flow of urine. They are typically used in more serious cases of stress incontinence, where leakage occurs with activities that increase abdominal pressure.