Interstim®/Sacral Neuromodulation

WHAT IS INTERSTIM®?

Interstim is a novel therapy for overactive bladder (OAB) patients, fecal incontinence patients or patients with urinary retention (unable to empty bladder) without obstruction. The treatment involves placing a bladder pacemaker underneath the skin of the gluteal area (depicted below). This is done by making a small incision and placing a soft wire next to the sacrum (bone in lower spine) which gives feedback to the brain to help prevent urgency, frequency, and incontinence related to OAB or may help with bladder emptying or fecal incontinence. This therapy improves symptoms in most patients undergo placement. Patients are given a 1 week trial with the device at home and a second procedure is performed to permanently implant this device if improved.

More Information regarding Interstim can be found here.