InterStim Therapy for Urinary Urge Incontinence, Urgency/Frequency, and Non Obstructive Retention
InterStim therapy for the treatment of urgency and urge incontinence was first approved by the food and drug administration in 1997 and with new modifications has since that time gained a valuable role in the treatment of not only urgency and urge incontinence but also frequency, and non obstructive urinary retention.
When we compare urinary incontinence in women particularly it is a more prevalent condition than hypertension, depression, or diabetes. Even more impressive is that overactive bladder is more prevalent than osteoporosis, diabetes, and asthma. Therefore the treatment of this entity is of utmost importance.
There are different treatments for these conditions, including modification of diet, pelvic floor exercises and biofeedback, as well as medications. However, these modalities do not work for everyone. In fact, many people on medications stop taking them after the first trial period. This could be due to expense, side effects, or ineffectiveness. It is for these individuals that InterStim therapy may work.
InterStim is initially attempted as an office type procedure where a lead is placed at the appropriate level in the back and tested. This is the initial trial period. The patient is sent home and monitored for the next week to see if they get an observable benefit. If this trial is successful we can place the actual device to help relieve your symptoms. This procedure is reversible, minimally invasive and non-destructive.
InterStim also can help people who do not empty their bladder very well as long as they fit certain criteria. This criterion is that although the patient does not empty their bladder well, they can not have an obstruction to the flow of urine, also called non-obstructive urinary retention.
For further information or if you think InterStim might help you, a family member or someone you know, the “Overactive Bladder program” at UCC may be of benefit.
Call (706) 324-7700 or visit our website for details and more information.
Sean A. Castellucci, DO
Urology Center of Columbus, LLC
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