Sacral Nerve Stimulator
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Bladder (and bowel) problems are often caused by dysfunctional sacral nerves, a group of five spinal nerves that originate from the sacrum, the triangular bone at the base of the spine. To restore the function of your bladder and bowels, we offer both Medtronic Interstim™ and Axonics® neurostimulation therapies.
When is Sacral Nerve Stimulation Used
Sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) is a minimally invasive procedure used to relieve symptoms as they happen so that you can get back to your usual activities with fewer disruptions.
SNS may be helpful for patients who aren’t having success with conservative treatments like lifestyle changes and medications for the following problems:
- Overactive bladder
- Excessive urination
- Urge incontinence
- Nonobstructive urinary retention
How It Works
The goal of this treatment is to restore your bladder and bowel control using gentle nerve stimulation, sometimes described as a “bladder pacemaker.”
Your physician at Colorado Springs Urological Associates will discuss your symptoms and evaluate the health of your bowel and bladder to determine if sacral nerve stimulation (SNS): treatment is right for you.
If yes, the next step is to determine which device fits your lifestyle and to go through a two-week trial period to be sure it works for you. A trial period using a temporary system is often used to be certain the device will relieve your symptoms.
If your trial period is a success, your urologist will then place a long-term implant just beneath the skin of your upper buttock/lower back that targets the nerves that control your bladder and bowel. Implantation is minimally invasive and done on an outpatient basis.
Device Types
There are two common SNS device types. Here are the main differences between them.
MetronicInterStim™
This tiny device is implanted to help your nerves function normally by delivering mild electrical pulses. It works much like a pacemaker. The device is implanted in your lower back and does not need recharging; however, it typically needs replacement after five years.
Axonics® Neuromodulator
This device is implanted just beneath the skin in the upper part of your buttock and also works like a pacemaker. The device does need 1-hour wireless recharging each month but typically does not need replacement for fifteen years.
