Questions and Answers – Neurostimulation

What is neurostimulation?

Neurostimulation works with the sacral nerves, located near the tailbone. The sacral nerves control the bladder and muscles related to urinary function. If the brain and sacral nerves don’t communicate correctly, the nerves will not tell the bladder to function properly, which can cause bladder control problems. InterStim Therapy targets this communication problem by stimulating the nerves with mild electrical pulses.

Neurostimulation is an option for managing the symptoms of overactive bladder for people who have not found success with more conservative treatments.

Neurostimulation therapy is reversible, and uses an implantable device that sends mild electrical pulses to the sacral nerves.

Neurostimulation may help you resume normal activities, and help you avoid frustrating experiences associated with overactive bladder.

What do nerves have to do with urination?

The sacral nerves are involved in the control of the bladder and muscles related to urinary function. A breakdown of communication between the sacral nerves and the brain can lead to problems with storing and voiding urine.

What are the potential side effects or complications of neurostimulation?

Side effects may include implant site pain, skin irritation, infection, device problems, and lead (thin wire) movement. These conditions were generally resolvable in a clinical study.

See Important Safety Information for possible adverse events.

What are the benefits of neurostimulation?

Neurostimulation may reduce symptoms for many people who suffer from overactive bladder. Neurostimulation is reversible and can be discontinued at any time by turning off or removing the device.

How long has neurostimulation for OAB been around?

Medtronic neurostimulation was FDA-approved in 1997 for urge incontinence and in 1999 for urinary retention and significant symptoms of urgency-frequency.

Where can I get more information?

Request more information about neurostimulation for overactive bladder, or call us toll-free Patient Services Line at (800) 510-6735.

Next: Getting a Trial Assessment

Information on this site should not be used as a substitute for talking with your doctor. Always talk with your doctor about diagnosis and treatment information.

Last updated: 3 Jun 2009