Plasticity of urinary bladder reflexes evoked by stimulation of pudendal afferent nerves after chronic spinal cord injury in cats

Real-time prediction of bladder urine leakage using fuzzy inference system and dual Kalman filtering in cats

The use of electrical stimulation devices to manage bladder incontinence relies on the application of continuous inhibitory stimulation. However, continuous stimulation can result in tissue fatigue and increased delivered charge. Here, we employ a real-time algorithm to provide a short-time prediction of urine leakage using the high-resolution power spectrum of the bladder pressure during the presence of non-voiding contractions (NVC) in normal and overactive bladder (OAB) cats. The proposed method is threshold-free and does not require pre-training. The analysis revealed that there is a significant difference between voiding contraction (VC) and NVC pressures as well as band powers (0.5-5 Hz) during both normal and OAB conditions. Also, most of the first leakage points occurred after the maximum VC pressure, while all of them were observed subsequent to the maximum VC spectral power. Kalman-Fuzzy method predicted urine leakage on average 2.2 s and 1.6 s before its occurrence and an average of 2.0 s and 1.1 s after the contraction started with success rates of 94.2% and 100% in normal and OAB cats, respectively. This work presents a promising approach for developing a neuroprosthesis device, with on-demand stimulation to control bladder incontinence.

Bioelectronic medicine for the autonomic nervous system: clinical applications and perspectives

Bioelectronic medicine (BM) is an emerging new approach for developing novel neuromodulation therapies for pathologies that have been previously treated with pharmacological approaches. In this review, we will focus on the neuromodulation of autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity with implantable devices, a field of BM that has already demonstrated the ability to treat a variety of conditions, from inflammation to metabolic and cognitive disorders. Recent discoveries about immune responses to ANS stimulation are the laying foundation for a new field holding great potential for medical advancement and therapies and involving an increasing number of research groups around the world, with funding from international public agencies and private investors. Here, we summarize the current achievements and future perspectives for clinical applications of neural decoding and stimulation of the ANS. First, we present the main clinical results achieved so far by different BM approaches and discuss the challenges encountered in fully exploiting the potential of neuromodulatory strategies. Then, we present current preclinical studies aimed at overcoming the present limitations by looking for optimal anatomical targets, developing novel neural interface technology, and conceiving more efficient signal processing strategies. Finally, we explore the prospects for translating these advancements into clinical practice.

State-dependent bioelectronic interface to control bladder function

Electrical stimulation therapies to promote bladder filling and prevent incontinence deliver continuous inhibitory stimulation, even during bladder emptying. However, continuous inhibitory stimulation that increases bladder capacity (BC) can reduce the efficiency of subsequent voiding (VE). Here we demonstrate that state-dependent stimulation, with different electrical stimulation parameters delivered during filling and emptying can increase both BC and VE relative to continuous stimulation in rats and cats of both sexes. We show that continuous 10 Hz pudendal nerve stimulation increased BC (120–180% of control) but decreased VE (12–71%, relative to control). In addition to increasing BC, state-dependent stimulation in both rats and cats increased VE (280–759% relative to continuous stimulation); motor bursting in cats increased VE beyond the control (no stimulation) condition (males: 323%; females: 161%). These results suggest that a bioelectronic bladder pacemaker can treat complex voiding disorders, including both incontinence and retention, which paradoxically are often present in the same individual.

Intraspinal stimulation with a silicon-based 3D chronic microelectrode array for bladder voiding in cats

Objective.

Bladder dysfunction is a significant and largely unaddressed problem for people living with spinal cord injury (SCI). Intermittent catheterization does not provide volitional control of micturition and has numerous side effects. Targeted electrical microstimulation of the spinal cord has been previously explored for restoring such volitional control in the animal model of experimental SCI. Here, we continue the development of the intraspinal microstimulation array technology to evaluate its ability to provide more focused and reliable bladder control in the feline animal model.

Approach.

For the first time, a mechanically robust intraspinal multisite silicon array was built using novel microfabrication processes to provide custom-designed tip geometry and 3D electrode distribution. Long-term implantation was performed in eight spinally intact animals for a period up to 6 months, targeting the dorsal gray commissure area in the S2 sacral cord that is known to be involved in the coordination between the bladder detrusor and the external urethral sphincter.

Main results.

About one third of the electrode sites in the that area produced micturition-related responses. The effectiveness of stimulation was further evaluated in one of eight animals after spinal cord transection (SCT). We observed increased bladder responsiveness to stimulation starting at 1 month post-transection, possibly due to supraspinal disinhibition of the spinal circuitry and/or hypertrophy and hyperexcitability of the spinal bladder afferents.

Significance.

3D intraspinal microstimulation arrays can be chronically implanted and provide a beneficial effect on the bladder voiding in the intact spinal cord and after SCT. However, further studies are required to assess longer-term reliability and safety of the developed intraspinal microstimulation array prior to eventual human translation.

Designing and Implementing an Implantable Wireless Micromanometer System for Real-Time Bladder Pressure Monitoring: A Preliminary Study

Many mini-implantable devices have been developed and fabricated for diagnostic and treatment purposes. Wireless implantable biomicrosystems provide a desirable approach for long-term physiological signal monitoring. In this study, we implemented a wireless implantable biomicrosystem for bladder-cavity pressure measurements in a freely moving rabbit. To manage the power more effectively, a magnetic reed switch was applied to turn on/off the implantable module using a neodymium-iron-boron (NdFeB) magnet. The measured bladder pressure signal was wirelessly transmitted from the implantable module to a host unit. Our results indicated that the implantable biomicrosystem exhibited satisfactory performance and safety, as evidenced by an error percentage of less than ±1% for pressure measurements and less than 2 °C of a temperature rise under normal operation. The wireless biomicrosystem was implanted into the bladder cavity of a rabbit. Bladder pressure was simultaneously measured by both the biomicrosystem and conventional cystometry in the animal. The two signals were similar during the voiding phase, with a correlation coefficient of 0.885. Additionally, the biomicrosystem coated with polydimethylsiloxane in this study showed no cytotoxicity, which confirmed its biocompatibility. In conclusion, we demonstrated a good biocompatible wireless biomicrosystem which showed good reproducibility with respect to pressure monitoring by conventional cystometry. Further studies are needed to confirm the results of this preliminary feasibility study for actual clinical applications.

Sympathetic afferents in the hypogastric nerve facilitate nociceptive bladder activity in cats

This study in α-chloralose-anesthetized cats revealed a role of hypogastric nerve afferent axons in nociceptive bladder activity induced by bladder irritation using 0.25% acetic acid (AA). In cats with intact hypogastric and pelvic nerves, AA irritation significantly ( P < 0.05) reduced bladder capacity to 45.0 ± 5.7% of the control capacity measured during a saline cystometrogram (CMG). In cats with the hypogastric nerves transected bilaterally, AA irritation also significantly ( P < 0.05) reduced bladder capacity, but the change was significantly smaller (capacity reduced to 71.5 ± 10.6% of saline control, P < 0.05) than that in cats with an intact hypogastric nerve. However, application of hypogastric nerve stimulation (HGNS: 20 Hz, 0.2 ms pulse width) to the central end of the transected nerves at an intensity (16 V) strong enough to activate C-fiber afferent axons facilitated the effect of AA irritation and further ( P < 0.05) reduced bladder capacity to 48.4 ± 7.4% of the saline control. This facilitation by HGNS was effective only at selected frequencies (1, 20, and 30 Hz) when the stimulation intensity was above the threshold for activating C-fibers. Tramadol (an analgesic agent) at 3 mg/kg iv completely blocked the nociceptive bladder activity and eliminated the facilitation by HGNS. HGNS did not alter non-nociceptive bladder activity induced by saline distention of the bladder. These results indicate that sympathetic afferents in the hypogastric nerve play an important role in the facilitation of the nociceptive bladder activity induced by bladder irritation that activates the silent C-fibers in the pelvic nerve.

Spinal interneuronal mechanisms underlying pudendal and tibial neuromodulation of bladder function in cats

This study examined the mechanisms underlying pudendal and tibial neuromodulation of bladder function at the single neuron level in the spinal cord. A microelectrode was inserted into the S2 spinal cord of anesthetized cats to record single neuron activity induced by bladder distention over a range of constant intravesical pressures (10-40 cmH₂O). Pudendal nerve stimulation (PNS) or tibial nerve stimulation (TNS) was applied at 5 Hz frequency and 0.2 ms pulse width and at multiples of the threshold (T) intensities for inducing anal or toe twitches. A total of 14 spinal neurons from 11 cats were investigated. Both PNS and TNS at 2 T intensity significantly (p < .05) reduced by 40-50% the frequency of firing induced by bladder distention at 20-40 cmH₂O in the same spinal neurons. This reduction was not changed by blocking opioid receptors with naloxone (1 mg/kg, i.v.). Activation of pudendal afferents by repeatedly stroking (3-5 times per second) the genital skin using a cotton swab also inhibited the neuron activity induced by bladder distention. Prolonged (30 min) TNS at 4 T intensity produced a short lasting (10-18 min) post-stimulation inhibition that reduced by 40-50% bladder-related neuron activity at different bladder pressures. These results indicate that PNS and TNS inhibition of reflex bladder activity may be mediated in part by convergence of inhibitory inputs onto the same population of bladder-related interneurons in laminae V-VII of the S2 spinal cord and that an opioid receptor mechanism is not involved in the inhibition.

Lumbosacral spinal cord epidural stimulation improves voiding function after human spinal cord injury

Deficits in urologic function after spinal cord injury (SCI) manifest both as a failure to store and empty, greatly impacting daily life. While current management strategies are necessary for urological maintenance, they oftentimes are associated with life-long side effects. Our objective was to investigate the efficacy of spinal cord epidural stimulation (scES) as a promising therapy to improve bladder control after SCI. A bladder mapping study was undertaken for sixteen sessions over the course of four months in an individual with chronic, motor complete SCI. Varying combinations of stimulating cathode electrodes were initially tested during filling cystometry resulting in the identification of an effective configuration for reflexive bladder emptying at the caudal end of the electrode array. Subsequent systematic testing of different frequencies at a fixed stimulus intensity and pulse width yielded lowest post-void residual volumes at 30 Hz. These stimulation parameters were then tested in four additional research participants and found to also improve reflexive voiding efficiency. Taken together with SCI studies on step, stand, voluntary motor control and cardiovascular regulation, these findings further corroborate that scES has an all-encompassing potential to increase the central state of excitability, allowing for the control of multiple body functions, including the urological system.

Sacral neuromodulation blocks pudendal inhibition of reflex bladder activity in cats: insight into the efficacy of sacral neuromodulation in Fowler's syndrome

This study tested the hypothesis that sacral neuromodulation, i.e., electrical stimulation of afferent axons in sacral spinal root, can block pudendal afferent inhibition of the micturition reflex. In α-chloralose-anesthetized cats, pudendal nerve stimulation (PNS) at 3-5 Hz was used to inhibit bladder reflex activity while the sacral S1 or S2 dorsal root was stimulated at 15-30 Hz to mimic sacral neuromodulation and to block the bladder inhibition induced by PNS. The intensity threshold (T) for PNS or S1/S2 dorsal root stimulation (DRS) to induce muscle twitch of anal sphincter or toe was determined. PNS at 1.5-2T intensity inhibited the micturition reflex by significantly ( P < 0.01) increasing bladder capacity to 150-170% of control capacity. S1 DRS alone at 1-1.5T intensity did not inhibit bladder activity but completely blocked PNS inhibition and restored bladder capacity to control level. At higher intensity (1.5-2T), S1 DRS alone inhibited the micturition reflex and significantly increased bladder capacity to 135.8 ± 6.6% of control capacity. However, the same higher intensity S1 DRS applied simultaneously with PNS, suppressed PNS inhibition and significantly ( P < 0.01) reduced bladder capacity to 126.8 ± 9.7% of control capacity. S2 DRS at both low (1T) and high (1.5-2T) intensity failed to significantly reduce PNS inhibition. PNS and S1 DRS did not change the amplitude and duration of micturition reflex contractions, but S2 DRS at 1.5-2T intensity doubled the duration of the contractions and increased bladder capacity. These results are important for understanding the mechanisms underlying sacral neuromodulation of nonobstructive urinary retention in Fowler's syndrome.

Effects of Acute Sacral Neuromodulation at Different Frequencies on Bladder Overactivity in Pigs

Purpose

We investigated the effects of different stimulation frequencies on the inhibition of bladder overactivity by sacral neuromodulation (SNM) in pigs.

Methods

Implant-driven stimulators were used to stimulate the S3 spinal nerve in 13 pigs. Cystometry was performed by infusing normal saline (NS) or acetic acid (AA). SNM (pulse width, 210 µsec) at frequencies ranging from 5 to 50 Hz was conducted at the intensity threshold at which observable perianal and/or tail movement was induced. Multiple cystometrograms were performed to determine the effects of different frequencies on the micturition reflex.

Results

AA-induced bladder overactivity significantly reduced the bladder capacity (BC) to 34.4%±4.7% of the NS control level (354.4±35.9 mL) (P<0.05). During AA infusion, SNM at 5 Hz did not significantly change the BC (48.1%±6.9% of the NS control level) (P>0.05), but SNM at 15, 30, and 50 Hz significantly increased the BC to 54.5%±7.1%, 55.2%±6.5%, and 57.2%±6.1% of the NS control level (P<0.05), respectively. No significant differences were found among the results obtained using frequencies of 15, 30, and 50 Hz (P>0.05).

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that 15 Hz was an appropriate frequency for SNM and that frequencies higher than 15 Hz did not lead to better surgical outcomes.

Chronic monitoring of lower urinary tract activity via a sacral dorsal root ganglia interface

OBJECTIVE

Our goal is to develop an interface that integrates chronic monitoring of lower urinary tract (LUT) activity with stimulation of peripheral pathways.

APPROACH

Penetrating microelectrodes were implanted in sacral dorsal root ganglia (DRG) of adult male felines. Peripheral electrodes were placed on or in the pudendal nerve, bladder neck and near the external urethral sphincter. Supra-pubic bladder catheters were implanted for saline infusion and pressure monitoring. Electrode and catheter leads were enclosed in an external housing on the back. Neural signals from microelectrodes and bladder pressure of sedated or awake-behaving felines were recorded under various test conditions in weekly sessions. Electrodes were also stimulated to drive activity.

MAIN RESULTS

LUT single- and multi-unit activity was recorded for 4-11 weeks in four felines. As many as 18 unique bladder pressure single-units were identified in each experiment. Some channels consistently recorded bladder afferent activity for up to 41 d, and we tracked individual single-units for up to 23 d continuously. Distension-evoked and stimulation-driven (DRG and pudendal) bladder emptying was observed, during which LUT sensory activity was recorded.

SIGNIFICANCE

This chronic implant animal model allows for behavioral studies of LUT neurophysiology and will allow for continued development of a closed-loop neuroprosthesis for bladder control.

Sacral neuromodulation of nociceptive bladder overactivity in cats

AIMS

To investigate the effects of electrical stimulation of sacral dorsal/ventral roots on irritation-induced bladder overactivity, reveal possible different mechanisms under nociceptive bladder conditions, and establish a large animal model of sacral neuromodulation.

METHODS

Intravesical infusion of 0.5% acetic acid (AA) was used to irritate the bladder and induce bladder overactivity in cats under α-chloralose anesthesia. Electrical stimulation (5, 15, or 30 Hz) was applied to individual S1-S3 dorsal or ventral roots at or below motor threshold intensity. Repeated cystometrograms (CMGs) were performed with/without the stimulation to determine the inhibition of bladder overactivity.

RESULTS

AA irritation induced bladder overactivity and significantly (P < 0.05) reduced the bladder capacity to 62.6 ± 11.7% of control capacity measured during saline CMGs. At threshold intensity for inducing reflex twitching of the anal sphincter or toe, S1/S2 dorsal root stimulation at 5 Hz but not at 15 or 30 Hz inhibited bladder overactivity and significantly (P < 0.05) increased bladder capacity to 187.3 ± 41.6% and 155.5 ± 9.7% respectively, of AA control capacity. Stimulation of S3 dorsal root or S1-S3 ventral roots was not effective. Repeated stimulation of S1-S3 dorsal root did not induced a post-stimulation inhibition.

CONCLUSIONS

This study established a cat model of sacral neuromodualation of nociceptive bladder overactivity. The results revealed that the mechanisms underlying sacral neuromodulation are different for nociceptive and non-nociceptive bladder activity.

Electrical stimulation of dog pudendal nerve regulates the excitatory pudendal-to-bladder reflex

Pudendal nerve plays an important role in urine storage and voiding. Our hypothesis is that a neuroprosthetic device placed in the pudendal nerve trunk can modulate bladder function after suprasacral spinal cord injury. We had confirmed the inhibitory pudendal-to-bladder reflex by stimulating either the branch or the trunk of the pudendal nerve. This study explored the excitatory pudendal-to-bladder reflex in beagle dogs, with intact or injured spinal cord, by electrical stimulation of the pudendal nerve trunk. The optimal stimulation frequency was approximately 15-25 Hz. This excitatory effect was dependent to some extent on the bladder volume. We conclude that stimulation of the pudendal nerve trunk is a promising method to modulate bladder function.

Research Findings on Overactive Bladder

Several physiopathologic conditions lead to the manifestation of overactive bladder (OAB). These conditions include ageing, diabetes mellitus, bladder outlet obstruction, spinal cord injury, stroke and brain injury, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, interstitial cystitis, stress and depression. This review has discussed research findings in human and animal studies conducted on the above conditions. Several structural and functional changes under these conditions have not only been observed in the lower urinary tract, but also in the brain and spinal cord. Significant changes were observed in the following areas: neurotransmitters, prostaglandins, nerve growth factor, Rho-kinase, interstitial cells of Cajal, and ion and transient receptor potential channels. Interestingly, alterations in these areas showed great variation in each of the conditions of the OAB, suggesting that the pathophysiology of the OAB might be different in each condition of the disease. It is anticipated that this review will be helpful for further research on new and specific drug development against OAB.

Electrical stimulation for the treatment of lower urinary tract dysfunction after spinal cord injury

Electrical stimulation for bladder control is an alternative to traditional methods of treating neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) resulting from spinal cord injury (SCI). In this review, we systematically discuss the neurophysiology of bladder dysfunction following SCI and the applications of electrical stimulation for bladder control following SCI, spanning from historic clinical approaches to recent pre-clinical studies that offer promising new strategies that may improve the feasibility and success of electrical stimulation therapy in patients with SCI. Electrical stimulation provides a unique opportunity to control bladder function by exploiting neural control mechanisms. Our understanding of the applications and limitations of electrical stimulation for bladder control has improved due to many pre-clinical studies performed in animals and translational clinical studies. Techniques that have emerged as possible opportunities to control bladder function include pudendal nerve stimulation and novel methods of stimulation, such as high frequency nerve block. Further development of novel applications of electrical stimulation will drive progress towards effective therapy for SCI. The optimal solution for restoration of bladder control may encompass a combination of efficient, targeted electrical stimulation, possibly at multiple locations, and pharmacological treatment to enhance symptom control.

Reflex neuromodulation of bladder function elicited by posterior tibial nerve stimulation in anesthetized rats

Although posterior tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS) has been shown in both clinical and animal studies to elicit bladder-inhibitory reflexes, our understanding of the role of posterior tibial nerve (PTN) afferents that elicit these responses is significantly limited. To this end, we investigated the effects of frequency-dependant PTNS in urethane-anesthetized rats undergoing repeated urodynamic fills. Nerve stimulation trials (10 min) resulted in statistically significant inhibition of the urinary bladder, both during and after nerve stimulation ( P < 0.05). PTNS applied at 5 Hz resulted in both acute and prolonged changes that corresponded to 38.0% and 34.1% reductions in the bladder contraction frequency, respectively. In contrast, PTNS applied at 10 Hz could only elicit an acute decrease (22.9%) in bladder activity. Subsequent electrical activation of individual PTN branches (lateral or medial plantar nerves) confirmed that these bladder reflexes are mediated by specific subsets of the PTN trunk. Both acute and prolonged inhibition of the bladder were achieved by electrical stimulation of the lateral plantar (10 and 20 Hz) and medial plantar (5 and 10 Hz) nerves. Finally, we report a bladder-excitatory reflex that is elicited by electrical activation of either the PTN trunk or lateral plantar nerve at 50 Hz. This study shows that multiple bladder reflexes are tuned to specific subsets of nerve afferents and stimulation frequencies, each of which provide novel insights into the physiological effects of PTNS.

Impact of Bioelectronic Medicine on the Neural Regulation of Pelvic Visceral Function

Neuromodulation elicited by electrical stimulation of peripheral or spinal nerves is a U.S. Food and Drug Administered (FDA)-approved therapy for treating disorders of the pelvic viscera, including urinary urgency, urgency-frequency, nonobstructive urinary retention and fecal incontinence. The technique is also being tested experimentally for its efficacy in treating interstitial cystitis, chronic constipation and pelvic pain. The goal of neuromodulation is to suppress abnormal visceral sensations and involuntary reflexes and restore voluntary control. Although detailed mechanisms underlying the effects of neuromodulation are still to be elucidated, it is generally believed that effects are due to stimulation of action potentials in somatic afferent nerves. Afferent nerves project to the lumbosacral spinal cord, where they release excitatory neurotransmitters that activate ascending pathways to the brain or spinal circuits that modulate visceral sensory and involuntary motor mechanisms. Studies in animals revealed that different types of neuromodulation (for example, stimulation of a sacral spinal root, pudendal nerve or posterior tibial nerve) act by releasing different inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmitters in the central nervous system. In addition, certain types of neuromodulation inhibit visceral smooth muscle by initiating reflex firing in peripheral autonomic nerves or excite striated sphincter muscles by initiating reflex firing in somatic efferent nerves. This report will provide a brief summary of (a) neural control of the lower urinary tract and distal bowel, (b) clinical use of neuromodulation in the treatment of bladder and bowel dysfunctions,

A spinal GABAergic mechanism is necessary for bladder inhibition by pudendal afferent stimulation

Electrical stimulation of pudendal afferents can inhibit bladder contractions and increase bladder capacity. Recent results suggest that stimulation-evoked bladder inhibition is mediated by a mechanism other than activation of sympathetic bladder efferents in the hypogastric nerve, generating α-adrenergic receptor-mediated inhibition at the vesical ganglia and/or β-adrenergic receptor-mediated direct inhibition of the detrusor muscle. We investigated several inhibitory neurotransmitters that may instead be necessary for stimulation-evoked inhibition and found that intravenous picrotoxin, a noncompetitive GABAA antagonist, significantly and reversibly blocked pudendal afferent stimulation-evoked inhibition of bladder contractions in a dose-dependent manner. Similarly, intravenous picrotoxin also blocked pudendal afferent stimulation-evoked inhibition of nociceptive bladder contractions evoked by acetic acid infusion. Furthermore, intrathecal administration of picrotoxin at the lumbosacral spinal cord also blocked bladder inhibition by pudendal afferent stimulation. On the other hand, glycinergic, adrenergic, or opioidergic mechanisms were not necessary for bladder inhibition evoked by pudendal afferent stimulation. These results identify a lumbosacral spinal GABAergic mechanism of bladder inhibition evoked by pudendal afferent stimulation.

Somatic modulation of spinal reflex bladder activity mediated by nociceptive bladder afferent nerve fibers in cats

The goal of the present study was to determine if supraspinal pathways are necessary for inhibition of bladder reflex activity induced by activation of somatic afferents in the pudendal or tibial nerve. Cats anesthetized with α-chloralose were studied after acute spinal cord transection at the thoracic T9/T10 level. Dilute (0.25%) acetic acid was used to irritate the bladder, activate nociceptive afferent C-fibers, and trigger spinal reflex bladder contractions (amplitude: 19.3 ± 2.9 cmH2O). Hexamethonium (a ganglionic blocker, intravenously) significantly (P < 0.01) reduced the amplitude of the reflex bladder contractions to 8.5 ± 1.9 cmH2O. Injection of lidocaine (2%, 1-2 ml) into the sacral spinal cord or transection of the sacral spinal roots and spinal cord further reduced the contraction amplitude to 4.2 ± 1.3 cmH2O. Pudendal nerve stimulation (PNS) at frequencies of 0.5-5 Hz and 40 Hz but not at 10-20 Hz inhibited reflex bladder contractions, whereas tibial nerve stimulation (TNS) failed to inhibit bladder contractions at all tested frequencies (0.5-40 Hz). These results indicate that PNS inhibition of nociceptive afferent C-fiber-mediated spinal reflex bladder contractions can occur at the spinal level in the absence of supraspinal pathways, but TNS inhibition requires supraspinal pathways. In addition, this study shows, for the first time, that after acute spinal cord transection reflex bladder contractions can be triggered by activating nociceptive bladder afferent C-fibers using acetic acid irritation. Understanding the sites of action for PNS or TNS inhibition is important for the clinical application of pudendal or tibial neuromodulation to treat bladder dysfunctions.

Pudendal nerve stimulation and block by a wireless-controlled implantable stimulator in cats

OBJECTIVE

The study aims to determine the functionality of a wireless-controlled implantable stimulator designed for stimulation and block of the pudendal nerve.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In five cats under α-chloralose anesthesia, the stimulator was implanted underneath the skin on the left side in the lower back along the sacral spine. Two tripolar cuff electrodes were implanted bilaterally on the pudendal nerves in addition to one bipolar cuff electrode that was implanted on the left side central to the tripolar cuff electrode. The stimulator provided high-frequency (5-20 kHz) biphasic stimulation waveforms to the two tripolar electrodes and low-frequency (1-100 Hz) rectangular pulses to the bipolar electrode. Bladder and urethral pressures were measured to determine the effects of pudendal nerve stimulation (PNS) or block.

RESULTS

The maximal (70-100 cmH2O) urethral pressure generated by 20-Hz PNS applied via the bipolar electrode was completely eliminated by the pudendal nerve block induced by the high-frequency stimulation (6-15 kHz, 6-10 V) applied via the two tripolar electrodes. In a partially filled bladder, 20-30 Hz PNS (2-8 V, 0.2 ms) but not 5 Hz stimulation applied via the bipolar electrode elicited a large sustained bladder contraction (45.9 ± 13.4 to 52.0 ± 22 cmH2O). During cystometry, the 5 Hz PNS significantly (p < 0.05) increased bladder capacity to 176.5 ± 27.1% of control capacity.

CONCLUSIONS

The wireless-controlled implantable stimulator successfully generated the required waveforms for stimulation and block of pudendal nerve, which will be useful for restoring bladder functions after spinal cord injury.

Neuroprosthetic technology for individuals with spinal cord injury

CONTEXT

Spinal cord injury (SCI) results in a loss of function and sensation below the level of the lesion. Neuroprosthetic technology has been developed to help restore motor and autonomic functions as well as to provide sensory feedback.

FINDINGS

This paper provides an overview of neuroprosthetic technology that aims to address the priorities for functional restoration as defined by individuals with SCI. We describe neuroprostheses that are in various stages of preclinical development, clinical testing, and commercialization including functional electrical stimulators, epidural and intraspinal microstimulation, bladder neuroprosthesis, and cortical stimulation for restoring sensation. We also discuss neural recording technologies that may provide command or feedback signals for neuroprosthetic devices.

CONCLUSION/CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Neuroprostheses have begun to address the priorities of individuals with SCI, although there remains room for improvement. In addition to continued technological improvements, closing the loop between the technology and the user may help provide intuitive device control with high levels of performance.

Model-based analysis and design of nerve cuff electrodes for restoring bladder function by selective stimulation of the pudendal nerve

OBJECTIVE

Electrical stimulation of the pudendal nerve (PN) is being developed as a means to restore bladder function in persons with spinal cord injury. A single nerve cuff electrode placed on the proximal PN trunk may enable selective stimulation of distinct fascicles to maintain continence or evoke micturition. The objective of this study was to design a nerve cuff that enabled selective stimulation of the PN.

APPROACH

We evaluated the performance of both flat interface nerve electrode (FINE) cuff and round cuff designs, with a range of FINE cuff heights and number of contacts, as well as multiple contact orientations. This analysis was performed using a computational model, in which the nerve and fascicle cross-sectional positions from five human PN trunks were systematically reshaped within the nerve cuff. These cross-sections were used to create finite element models, with electric potentials calculated and applied to a cable model of a myelinated axon to evaluate stimulation selectivity for different PN targets. Subsequently, the model was coupled to a genetic algorithm (GA) to identify solutions that used multiple contact activation to maximize selectivity and minimize total stimulation voltage.

MAIN RESULTS

Simulations did not identify any significant differences in selectivity between FINE and round cuffs, although the latter required smaller stimulation voltages for target activation due to preserved localization of targeted fascicle groups. Further, it was found that a ten contact nerve cuff generated sufficient selectivity for all PN targets, with the degree of selectivity dependent on the relative position of the target within the nerve. The GA identified solutions that increased fitness by 0.7-45.5% over single contact activation by decreasing stimulation of non-targeted fascicles.

SIGNIFICANCE

This study suggests that using an optimal nerve cuff design and multiple contact activation could enable selective stimulation of the human PN trunk for restoration of bladder function.

Neural pathways involved in sacral neuromodulation of reflex bladder activity in cats

This study examined the mechanisms underlying the effects of sacral neuromodulation on reflex bladder activity in chloralose-anesthetized cats. Bladder activity was recorded during cystometrograms (CMGs) or under isovolumetric conditions. An S1-S3 dorsal (DRT) or ventral root (VRT) was electrically stimulated at a range of frequencies (1-30 Hz) and at intensities relative to threshold (0.25-2T) for evoking anal/toe twitches. Stimulation of DRTs but not VRTs at 1T intensity and frequencies of 1-30 Hz inhibited isovolumetric rhythmic bladder contractions. A 5-Hz DRT stimulation during CMGs was optimal for increasing (P < 0.05) bladder capacity (BC), but stimulation at 15 and 30 Hz was ineffective. Stimulation of the S1 DRT was more effective (increases BC to 144% and 164% of control at 1T and 2T, respectively) than S2 DRT stimulation (increases BC to 132% and 150% of control). Bilateral transection of the hypogastric or pudendal nerves did not change the inhibitory effect induced by S1 DRT stimulation. Repeated stimulation of S1 and S2 DRTs during multiple CMGs elicited a significant (P < 0.05) increase in BC (to 155 ± 11% of control) that persisted after termination of the stimulation. These results in cats suggest that the inhibition of reflex bladder activity by sacral neuromodulation occurs primarily in the central nervous system by inhibiting the ascending or descending pathways of the spinobulbospinal micturition reflex.

Inhibition of micturition reflex by activation of somatic afferents in posterior femoral cutaneous nerve

This study determined if activation of somatic afferents in posterior femoral cutaneous nerve (PFCN) could modulate the micturition reflex recorded under isovolumetric conditions in α-chloralose anaesthetized cats. PFCN stimulation inhibited reflex bladder activity and significantly (P <0.05) increased bladder capacity during slow infusion of saline or 0.25% acetic acid (AA). The optimal frequency for PFCN stimulation-induced bladder inhibition was between 3 and 10 Hz, and a minimal stimulation intensity of half of the threshold for inducing anal twitching was required. Bilateral pudendal nerve transection eliminated PFCN stimulation-induced anal twitching but did not change the stimulation-induced bladder inhibition, excluding the involvement of pudendal afferent or efferent axons in PFCN afferent inhibition.Mechanical or electrical stimulation on the skin surface in the PFCN dermatome also inhibited bladder activity. Prolonged (2 × 30 min) PFCN stimulation induced a post-stimulation inhibition that persists for at least 2 h. This study revealed a new cutaneous-bladder reflex activated by PFCN afferents. Although the mechanisms and physiological functions of this cutaneous-bladder reflex need to be further studied, our data raise the possibility that stimulation of PFCN afferents might be useful clinically for the treatment of overactive bladder symptoms.

Bladder inhibition by intermittent pudendal nerve stimulation in cat using transdermal amplitude-modulated signal (TAMS)

AIMS

To determine if intermittent stimulation of the pudendal nerve using a transcutaneous stimulation method can inhibit reflex bladder activity. Intermittent stimulation consumes less electrical power than continuous stimulation, requiring a smaller battery and reducing the size of the stimulator for neuromodulation therapy.

METHODS

A non-invasive stimulation method employing a transdermal amplitude-modulated signal (TAMS) was used in 18 α-chloralose anesthetized cats to stimulate the pudendal nerve via electrodes attached to the skin surface. Intermittent stimulation of different duty cycles was applied during repeated cystometrograms (CMGs) to inhibit reflex bladder activity. The bladder capacity measured during each CMG was used to indicate the inhibitory effect induced by the stimulation.

RESULTS

Continuous stimulation maximally increased bladder capacity to 172.6 ± 15% of the control capacity, while intermittent stimulation at the duty cycles of 30/30, 5/5, and 1/1 ("on/off" in seconds) significantly (P < 0.05) increased bladder capacity to 132 ± 7.5%, 154.2 ± 20%, and 165.5 ± 28%, respectively. The inhibitory effect was gradually reduced as the "on/off" ratio was decreased.

CONCLUSIONS

This pre-clinical study indicated that intermittent stimulation of the pudendal nerve could be as effective as continuous stimulation to inhibit reflex bladder activity. These results are useful for the design and development of new stimulator technology to treat overactive bladder, and are also important for understanding pudendal neuromodulation therapy.

Involvement of metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 in pudendal inhibition of nociceptive bladder activity in cats

This study used MTEP, a metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5) antagonist, to examine the role of mGluR5 in the neural control of the urinary bladder and in the inhibition of the micturition reflex by pudendal nerve stimulation (PNS). Experiments were conducted in 11 female cats under α-chloralose anaesthesia when the bladder was infused with either saline or 0.25% acetic acid (AA). AA irritated the bladder, induced bladder overactivity and significantly (P < 0.001) reduced bladder capacity to 14.9 ± 10.3% of the saline control capacity. MTEP (0.1-50 mg kg(-1), i.v.) significantly (P < 0.05) increased bladder capacity during saline distension but not during AA irritation. However, MTEP induced a transient inhibition of isovolumetric bladder contractions under both conditions. PNS (5 Hz), which was tested at the threshold (T) intensity for inducing a complete inhibition of isovolumetric bladder contractions and at an intensity of 3-4T, suppressed AA-induced bladder overactivity and significantly increased bladder capacity to 68.0 ± 31.3% at 1T (P < 0.05) and 98.5 ± 55.3% at 3-4T (P < 0.01) of the saline control capacity. MTEP dose dependently (0.1-50 mg kg(-1), i.v.) suppressed PNS inhibition of bladder overactivity at low intensity (1T) but not at high intensity (3-4T). During saline infusion PNS significantly (P < 0.05) increased bladder capacity to 167.7 ± 27.1% at 1T and 196.0 ± 37.4% at 3-4T. These inhibitory effects were not observed after MTEP (0.1-50 mg kg(-1), i.v.) which also increased bladder capacity. These results indicate that glutamic acid has a transmitter function in bladder and somato-bladder reflex mechanisms and raise the possibility that mGluR5 may be a target for pharmacological treatment of lower urinary tract disorders.