Benefits and Risks - Neurostimulation

If you’ve tried other treatments without success, or you’ve experienced intolerable side effects from medications, neurostimulation may provide you relief from urinary retention.

Benefits

Neurostimulation is a reversible treatment option that can be discontinued at any time by turning off or removing the device. Many people with neurostimulation have reported:

Improved quality of life
Freedom to live without worry of leaks or frequent urination

Risks

As with any medical treatment, neurostimulation may cause you to experience some of these side effects:

Pain at the implant site or new pain
Infection or skin irritation
Lead (thin wire) movement/migration
Device problems
Interactions with certain other devices or diagnostic equipment
Undesirable changes in urinary or bowel function
Uncomfortable stimulation (sometimes described as a jolting or shocking feeling)

In most cases, these issues can be resolved, so talk to your doctor about your experience. (See Important Safety Information for possible adverse events.) This therapy is not for everyone. Please consult your doctor. A prescription is required.

Next: Questions and Answers

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: 17 Nov 2009