Urgent, your help is needed!

Such as this?

Ecomedis GmbH » Bladder Stimulation Catheters

Thank you, Heather!

I looked at the link, do you know how it really works? From 3 small pictures I can't imagine the right procedure? Do you have any more info on that?

Do we have any prototype in US? My search engine is showing me regular Foley catheters, none of them even close to the one above.

[h=3]How does sacral nerve stimulation actually work?[/h]Sacral nerve stimulation therapy uses a small device (a neurotransmitter) that is implanted under the skin in the upper buttock area. The device sends mild electrical impulses through a lead that is positioned close to a nerve located in the lower back (the sacral nerve), which influences the bladder, the sphincter and the pelvic floor muscles.

[h=3]What are the benefits and risks of sacral nerve stimulation therapy?[/h]The benefits of nerve stimulation therapy are that it can greatly reduce or eliminate bladder control problems, specifically urinary urge incontinence and urgency-frequency symptoms, in people who have symptoms of overactive bladder. It is also a type of treatment that can be completely reversed and discontinued at any time without permanent damage to the nerves.

Most risks or side effects are related to the device or the implantation procedure itself and are low and/or uncommon. The main risks include infection (about 3 to 4%), related to device implantation, or mechanical failure, in which case, the device would need to be reprogrammed or revised. Other problems such as pain at the implant site, lead movement, technical problems, and undesirable stimulations/sensations are not common and can be resolved, says the device manufacturer.

[h=3]What can I expect in the typical pre- and post- surgical period?[/h]Before the actual device is implanted, a test stimulation lead can be implanted -- stage I. This simple outpatient operation of 30 to 45 minute duration is actually a 1- to 2-week trial of the device. It is undertaken to demonstrate the effects of sacral nerve stimulation on bladder control symptoms during everyday activities. If you have a 50% or greater objective (according to your voiding diary -- see end of this document) and subjective improvement based on questionnaires, you can then proceed and have the long-term device implanted --stage II 15 minute procedure.

The long-term implant is a minimally invasive procedure that is usually performed under local anesthesia on an outpatient basis. The surgical implantation typically takes no longer than a few hours to perform.

The incision area may feel sore and/or painful for a couple of weeks. This will lessen as you heal. You may return to your doctor’s office a few more times over a 6-month period to fine-tune your stimulation settings. Once adjusted to achieve the best control of your symptoms with the least discomfort, you may need to return to your physician’s office for check-ups only once or twice a year.

For the first 3 to 6 weeks after surgery, you will be advised to limit your activities to allow your incisions to fully heal. Once you are fully healed, you can resume your full and active lifestyle.

[h=3]Will the device ever need to be replaced?[/h]Yes. The battery inside the neurostimulator typically needs to be replaced every 3 to 5 years. The battery life will fluctuate per individual, depending on strength of the signal needed to control symptoms and amount of use each day. When it is time for the battery to be replaced, the entire neurostimulator will be replaced with a new one.

[h=3]Are there any medical restrictions related to the device that I need to be made aware of?[/h]Yes. You cannot have a MRI while the device is implanted -- even if the device’s battery is turned off. According to the device manufacturer, x-ray and radiation therapy may affect the function of the device. Diathermy (a type of energy treatment -- using radio wave, ultrasound, or microwave) should not be done on any patient with a sacral nerve stimulator implant. Consult with your doctor before scheduling any additional therapies or tests. He or she will discuss the need to take any precautions.

[h=3]Will insurance cover the cost of nerve stimulation therapy?[/h]Many insurance companies will pay for the nerve stimulation therapy. One nerve stimulation device -- the InterStim® Therapy device -- has gone through clinical trials and has been found to be safe and effective and has been approved for use by the FDA.

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This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 9/17/2008…#14251