Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) has emerged as a revolutionary treatment for both urinary and fecal incontinence, offering significant benefits with very few side effects. As the director of The Continence Center here in northern Nevada, I have found that one of the most appealing aspects of SNM is its favorable safety profile. While every medical treatment carries some potential risks, sacral neuromodulation tends to be associated with mild and manageable side effects compared to more invasive surgical options or long-term medication use. Understanding these potential side effects helps patients make informed decisions about their treatment and helps set realistic expectations. If you’re considering sacral neuromodulation for incontinence, here’s what to understand about side effects.
Common Side Effects of Sacral Neuromodulation
The majority of patients who undergo sacral neuromodulation report no significant side effects. When side effects do occur, they are typically mild and temporary. Here are some of the most common side effects associated with SNM:
1. Pain or Discomfort at the Implant Site
After the implant procedure, some patients experience mild pain, discomfort, or tenderness at the site where the device was implanted (typically in the lower back or “back pocket” area). This discomfort is usually temporary and subsides within a few days or weeks as the body heals. Over-the-counter pain medications are sufficient to manage this discomfort, and most patients find that it does not interfere with their daily activities.
2. Tingling or Stimulation Sensations
Some patients may feel mild tingling, buzzing, or stimulation sensations in the pelvic area or lower back, especially when the device is first activated or when the stimulation settings are adjusted. This sensation is generally described as mild and not painful. In most cases, these sensations decrease as the body adjusts to the device. If the sensation is bothersome, the device’s settings can often be adjusted to reduce or eliminate it.
3. Muscle Twitching or Spasms
Occasionally, patients may experience muscle twitching or spasms near the implant site or in the pelvic floor muscles. These spasms are typically mild and can usually be resolved by adjusting the stimulation settings on the device. In rare cases, they may persist, but this side effect is generally well managed with minor adjustments.
Less Common Side Effects on Sacral Neuromodulation
While serious complications are rare, there are a few less common side effects that patients should be aware of:
1. Infection
As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection at the incision site where the device is implanted. Most infections occur within the first few weeks after surgery and are treated effectively with antibiotics. In rare cases, if the infection does not respond to treatment, the device may need to be removed temporarily until the infection clears.
2. Device Malfunction
Although sacral neuromodulation devices, like cardiac pacemakes, are designed to be durable and long-lasting, there is a small risk of device malfunction. This could include issues such as battery failure, lead migration (movement of the device’s electrical leads), or a broken lead. If the device malfunctions, it may need to be repaired or replaced through a minor surgical procedure. However, advancements in device technology have reduced the occurrence of these issues significantly.
3. Allergic Reactions
Implanted devices like this one are biologically inert, meaning our bodies do not react to them. Materials like ceramic and titanium have stood the test of time for implants across specialties like orthopedics and neurosurgery. Rare allergic reactions could occur and may cause localized redness, swelling, or itching at the implant site. In most cases, these reactions can be treated with medication, but in severe cases, the device may need to be removed.
Long-Term Considerations of Sacral Neuromodulation
For the vast majority of patients, sacral neuromodulation provides long-term relief from incontinence with minimal ongoing side effects. However, it is important to note that the device’s battery will eventually need to be replaced after years of use. Today’s devices have a battery life estimated to be 15 years. This requires a minor surgical procedure, similar to the initial implantation, and is generally considered routine maintenance for the device.
Additionally, patients should be aware that, while the stimulation settings are adjustable, the device may require periodic monitoring to ensure that it continues to function optimally. This typically involves follow-up visits with a healthcare provider who can make any necessary adjustments to the device.
The Bottom Line
Overall, the side effects of sacral neuromodulation are remarkably mild, especially when compared to the significant benefits it provides for both urinary and fecal incontinence. The most common side effects—such as discomfort at the implant site, tingling sensations, and muscle spasms—are generally temporary and manageable. More serious complications, like infection or device malfunction, are rare but should be discussed with your healthcare provider prior to undergoing the procedure.
In my experience as a director of The Continence Center, the overwhelming majority of patients who choose sacral neuromodulation find that the benefits far outweigh the risks (check out patient reviews here, here and here!). For many, this treatment offers a new lease on life, providing freedom from the constant worry of incontinence with minimal disruption to their daily routines. If you’re interested in learning more about this procedure, contact The Continence Center at Nevada Surgical today.
