Sacral Neuromodulation
Sacral neuromodulation is a surgical procedure that is indicated to treat urinary and faecal incontinence. Learn more about the therapy below.
What is sacral neuromodulation?
Sacral neuromodulation uses a small implanted medical device to send mild electrical impulses to nerves that control your bladder.5 It may help to restore communication between the brain and the bladder.
How does sacral neuromodulation work?
Sacral neuromodulation works by delivering stimulation to the sacral nerves, located near the tailbone. The sacral nerves control the bladder and muscles related to urinary function. These impulses are delivered by a neurostimulator, a device similar to a pacemaker, implanted just under the skin in the buttocks. The impulses travel through insulated wires called leads.
Sacral neuromodulation may help the brain and the nerves to communicate so the bladder and related muscles can function properly.5 By improving the communication, the stimulation may help you get back to doing everyday activities. The degree of reduction in symptoms will vary from person to person. More conservative treatments should be considered prior to sacral neuromodulation.
Communication is key for bladder and bowel function.
Sacral neuromodulation works by using a small implant that stimulates the sacral nerves, located near the tailbone.
This helps the brain and nerves communicate so that the bladder and bowel can function properly.(1,2,3)
- Dasgupta R, Critchley HD, Dolan RJ, Fowler CJ. Changes in brain activity following sacral neuromodulation for urinary retention. J Urol. 2005;174:2268-2272.
- Griffiths D, Derbyshire S, Stenger A, Resnick N. Brain control of normal and overactive bladder. J Urol. 2005;174:1862-1867.
- Griffiths D, Tadic SD. Bladder control, urgency, and urge incontinence: evidence from functional brain imaging. Neurourol Urodyn. 2008;27(6):466-474.
