Sacral neuromodulation to treat urinary and faecal incontinence
Using a small electrical current, this advanced treatment can restore both bladder and bowel function.
Who is it for?
What does it involve?
How can I find out more?
Where can I go for treatment?
Who is it for?
- Those who find that first-line treatments don’t significantly improve incontinence
- Those with an overactive bladder, urge urinary incontinence or urinary retention
- Those with faecal incontinence
- Those with mixed incontinence
What does it involve?
Sacral neuromodulation is a procedure used to treat complications associated with an overactive bladder (OAB), urinary retention and urge incontinence. It involves placing a small device into the lower back, next to the sacral nerve. The sacral nerve is involved in emptying the bladder, so by stimulating this with an electrical current, it is possible to restore the bladder to a healthier function. The procedure can also be reversed, and the device removed, if required.
In addition, sacral neuromodulation can be used for bowel incontinence, since the sacral nerve is also crucial in controlling the anal muscles. This means it is a particularly good treatment for those who suffer from mixed incontinence.
How can I find out more?
For more information on sacral neuromodulation, watch the following video or download a patient brochure:
Where can I go for treatment?
Sacral neuromodulation is an advanced incontinence therapy that can offer a long-term solution for some patients. To find out if it’s suitable for you, the next step is to make an appointment at your local treatment centre.
The Medtronic Clinic Finder can help you locate nearby options and if you need further support, take a look at our useful tips and advice on how to prepare for an appointment.
References
Leong R.K et al Satisfaction and Patient Experience with Sacral Neuromodulation: Results of a Single Center Sample Survey; Journal of Urology. 2011; vol. 185, 588-592.
Steven Siegel et al. Five year follow up Results of a prospective, Multicentre Study of Patients with Overactive Bladder treated with Sacral Neuromodulation. Journal of
Urology Vol, 199, 229-236, january 2018.
Van Wunnik BP, Govaert B, Leong R, Nieman FH, Baeten CG. Patient experience and satisfaction with sacral neuromodulation: results of a single-center sample
survey. Dis Colon Rectum. 2011 Jan;54(1):95-100.
Hull et al. Long-term Durability of Sacral Nerve Stimulation Therapy for Chronic Fecal Incontinence Dis Colon Rectum 2013; 56: 234–245.
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Who is it for?
What does it involve?
How can I find out more?
Where can I go for treatment?
