Sacral Nerve Stimulation

Sacral Neuromodulation – Treatment for Overactive Bladder

Bladder control problems can arise when there is a miscommunication between your bladder and your brain. This miscommunication can result in overactive bladder (OAB) which is the term used to describe urgency symptoms or urge incontinence. It is a condition that waxes and wanes, with spontaneous remissions and progression that can be difficult for patients.

SACRAL NEUROMODULATION is a short minimally invasive procedure that is done in an outpatient surgical center. It is a safe FDA approved procedure that doctors have been performing for more than 15 years. The procedure is done in two phases; the first phase is an evaluation to determine if this is the right treatment for you; and second phase is implanting a sacral neuromodulation device in your bladder. This device provides gentle electrical stimulation to help correct the communication problem between the bladder and the brain that could be causing your bladder symptoms.

THE PROCEDURE:
To evaluate this treatment, you will have a thin wire implanted in your upper buttock and attached to a small external device that you can discretely wear under your clothing. During the evaluation phase, you still have the freedom to do most of your regular activities. After the evaluation phase, you and your surgeon will decide if this therapy is right for you. If you decide it is right for you, you will undergo a minimally invasive procedure in which you will have an InterStim System implanted into your bladder.

AFTER THE PROCEDURE:
There is no specific recovery time. After the procedure, you can resume your normal activities. This type of bladder control therapy is proven to last five years and will significantly improve your quality of life and provide symptom relief when other treatments fail.