TL;DR:
- Axonics therapy is an option for people with bladder or bowel control issues, who have not responded to other treatments.
- Symptoms it treats include frequent urination, urine or stool leakage, and uncontrollable bowel movements.
- Candidates should be over 18, in reasonable health, and open to low-risk surgery.
- The therapy uses a sacral nerve stimulator, implanted during a trial period. It aids bladder and bowel function, reducing accidents in 80-90% of users.
- Certain conditions, such as heart devices, pregnancy, or spinal health problems, may inhibit suitability.
- The therapy requires active participation from patients including regular follow-ups and device charging.
- Despite being invasive, most patients adapt quickly to the device which is the size of a AAA battery.
- It's a viable option if traditional methods have failed, addressing the core issue rather than just managing symptoms.
Are you struggling with fecal or urinary incontinence and wondering if Axonics therapy is right for you? At Continence Center at Nevada Surgical, we understand the impact these conditions can have on your life. Dr. Kent Sasse and our team offer expert advice to determine if you're a candidate for this innovative therapy. By reading further, you'll learn about the candidacy evaluation, process details, and how Axonics therapy could improve your well-being. Let's explore if this breakthrough could be your solution.
Who is a Good Candidate for Axonics Therapy?
Axonics therapy is for those with bladder or bowel control problems. It can help if you often feel the urge to go, leak pee without warning, or have trouble holding poop.
Who Should Consider Axonics Therapy?
You might be a candidate if your bladder or bowel problems persist despite other treatments.
Key signs include:
- Urine leaks when you don't want.
- Frequent urination without a full bladder.
- Uncontrolled fecal accidents.
- Little help from diet, retraining, or drugs.
- Desire to avoid medication side effects.
- Willingness to consider low-risk surgery.
- Being in reasonably good health to heal after surgery.
Axonics treats:
- Urge urinary incontinence (UUI): strong need to pee leads to leaks.
- Overactive bladder (OAB): frequent urination, nighttime waking, or pee leakage.
- Fecal incontinence: uncontrolled bowel movements or stool leaks.
Before trying Axonics, you should have attempted lifestyle changes or medication. If those don't work, Axonics may be a "third-line" option.
Successful candidates often are:
- 18 years or older.
- In reasonable health.
- Unresponsive to other treatments.
- Without significant health issues that prevent surgery.
Both older and younger adults can benefit if healthy enough for low-risk surgery. Age isn't as important as overall health.
Axonics Therapy Success Rates
The sacral nerve stimulator shows a high success rate. About 80-90% of users see less leakage, urgency, or fewer accidents.
Key findings:
- 93% satisfaction from users.
- Strong results can last over two years.
- Bladder and bowel problem improvements.
- Some regain near-total bladder control.
Sacral nerve stimulators help by directing when bladder and bowels should function. It’s like enhancing your body's natural abilities.
Changes may occur within days of the test trial; for others, it takes two to four weeks. Success doesn’t mean 100% dryness but a significant reduction in accidents.
Testing Before Full Implant
The process begins with a trial (Stage 1), where a soft wire is placed near a nerve in the lower back. This connects to a small external device. You try this setup for up to two weeks, tracking leaks and urges. If symptoms improve by 50% or more, you proceed to the next step. Unsuccessful trials mean the wire is removed with no harm.
Some may not match the full implant criteria, which the trial helps determine.
Health Conditions Affecting Axonics Suitability
Certain health conditions might make Axonics unsuitable:
- Heart devices like pacemakers that conflict with the system.
- Hard-to-heal health problems.
- Spine or nerve issues obstructing signals.
- Pregnancy or plans for pregnancy.
- Challenges with follow-up care or device checks.
Some mental health conditions may affect the ability to adhere to treatment. A full evaluation is necessary before proceeding.
Considerations Before Choosing Axonics Therapy
Patients must actively participate in their care by:
- Attending follow-up visits.
- Charging the device monthly.
- Reporting any changes.
The device is discrete, about the size of a AAA battery, and rests under the skin. It doesn't interfere with daily activities like driving, running, or swimming. However, if uncomfortable with the implant idea, it might not be right for you.
Most patients adapt quickly and report feeling liberated.
Previous Experience with Other Nerve Stimulators
Axonics therapy uses newer, longer-lasting technology compared to older systems. It has improved features with fewer maintenance needs.
If previous nerve stimulators didn’t work, this modern version might offer better results.
Support System Needs
While a strong support system is helpful, a home nurse isn't necessary. Most people recover well and manage site care themselves. You’ll need a driver for the trial and implant procedures, but eventually, you’ll handle most tasks solo.
Individuals with a stable home environment often experience better therapy outcomes.
Why Axonics Therapy is Important After Other Treatments Fail
Traditional solutions like pads, medications, or diet mainly manage symptoms. Medications particularly can lead to side effects such as dry mouth or brain fog. Axonics offers an actual solution by addressing the core issues rather than just symptoms.
If previous methods have failed, consider Axonics as it might be the path to regaining your life and confidence.
Conclusion
Are you pondering if Axonics therapy suits your needs? We explored who benefits from it, the steps involved, insurance matters, and the pros and cons. Axonics offers hope for tough cases of bladder and bowel control. It could improve life quality for those who've tried other treatments without success. Surgery isn't for everyone, but understanding Axonics can empower informed choices. If you have any questions or concerns, I urge you to chat with your healthcare provider. It's crucial to weigh all options for your health and peace of mind.
If you're struggling with bladder or bowel control issues and traditional treatments haven't provided relief, Axonics therapy might be the breakthrough you're looking for. With high success rates and the potential to transform your quality of life, this innovative approach addresses the root causes rather than just masking symptoms. To see if Axonics therapy could be right for you, contact The Continence Center at Nevada Surgical today. Our expert team is ready to guide you through the process and help you find a solution that works. Don't wait any longer to regain control and confidence in your daily life.