TL;DR:
- Sacral neuromodulation treats bladder or bowel issues by sending light pulses to sacral nerves, particularly S3, improving brain-signal communication.
- The treatment's procedure consists of a test stage with a wire near the S3 nerve and a device on a belt. If it improves conditions by at least 50%, a permanent device is implanted under the skin.
- It is beneficial for conditions like overactive bladder, urge incontinence, urinary retention, and fecal incontinence, where pills are often ineffective.
- Popular devices for this treatment include InterStim and Axonics, the latter lasting up to 15 years.
- Benefits outweigh the challenges for most, including improved bladder control, reduced leaks, and better sleep.
- Success rates range between 70% to 90%.
- Typical recovery time post-implant is two to four weeks.
If you are dealing with fecal or urinary incontinence, sacral neuromodulation might be the life-changing solution you've been searching for. A groundbreaking procedure like no other, it uses electrical pulses to help your body regain control over bladder and bowel functions. At the Continence Center at Nevada Surgical, we’ve seen this technique offer hope and wellness to countless patients. Join me, Dr. Kent Sasse, to explore how sacral neuromodulation works and why it’s a promising option for many.
What Is Sacral Neuromodulation and How Does It Work?
How Does Sacral Neuromodulation Work?
Sacral neuromodulation helps fix bladder or bowel problems. It sends light pulses to sacral nerves in the lower back. These nerves control when you go to the bathroom. If signals get mixed up, you might leak or feel strong urges.
The key nerve is S3, near the third bone in your low back. With this treatment, a small device sends light signals to this nerve to improve communication with the brain.
What Is the Sacral Neuromodulation Procedure?
The procedure has two stages: a test and then a full implant. In the test stage, a small wire is placed near the S3 nerve. You wear a small box on your belt for 3 to 14 days. If this makes you at least 50% better, a permanent device gets implanted under the skin on the butt cheek.
Why the Sacral Nerves Matter
Sacral nerves help your brain and body control when you go to the bathroom. If these nerves send wrong messages, you may have frequent urges or leaks. The S3 nerve is critical for controlling these signals. Placing a wire near it helps improve control and rhythm.
who should try sacral neuromodulation?
Sacral neuromodulation can help people with:
- Overactive bladder
- Urge incontinence
- Urinary retention
- Fecal incontinence
This option improves conditions which pills often cannot fix and may avoid the side effects of medication. These include dry mouth or brain fog.
The Device: InterStim and Other Options
InterStim is a popular device for sacral neuromodulation. Newer models, like Axonics, last up to 15 years. The device size is small and typically does not trigger discomfort.
Benefits and Risks of Sacral Neuromodulation
Sacral neuromodulation offers better bladder and bowel control. It does involve an implanted device, which requires care. For most, the benefits, like reduced leaks and better sleep, outweigh the challenges.
Success Rates of Sacral Neuromodulation
The success rate varies but ranges from 70% to 90%. Improvements depend on the specific condition. For example, 80% of patients with overactive bladders see significant reductions in leaks.
What to Expect During and After the Procedure
First, a test determines if sacral neuromodulation will work for you. After that, you may get a full implant if the test helps. Recovery after the implant process is usually quick. Most people return to normal activities in two to four weeks.
Real Patient Experiences
Many patients report that sacral neuromodulation changed their lives for the better. They enjoy increased mobility and freedom from constant urges or leaks. Most would recommend the procedure due to its positive impact on quality of life.
Sacral neuromodulation might be the solution for you if medications haven’t worked or caused side effects. It offers a safe, effective treatment to regain control and improve life quality. Consider talking to your doctor about it today.
Conclusion
Sacral neuromodulation offers a chance for a better, more comfortable life. This method treats overactive bladder and fecal incontinence by targeting sacral nerves. Patients often see lasting improvement in symptoms. Though some risk exists, the benefits can be life-changing. Many patients regain control over their daily activities. Real people share success stories, noting improved confidence and quality of life. If you're ready for a change, consider sacral neuromodulation as a treatment option. Empower yourself with the freedom you deserve and explore a future free from incontinence concerns.
If you're tired of dealing with ineffective medications and frustrating side effects for bladder or bowel issues, sacral neuromodulation might be the life-changing solution you're looking for. Regain control and improve your quality of life with this innovative treatment. Discover how The Continence Center at Nevada Surgical can help you and take the first step towards freedom from constant urges and leaks. Talk to your doctor and explore the possibilities today!