Re-operation rates after permanent sacral nerve stimulation for refractory voiding dysfunction in women

Outcomes and efficacy of magnetic resonance imaging-compatible sacral nerve stimulator for management of fecal incontinence: A multi-institutional study

BACKGROUND

Fecal incontinence (FI) is an involuntary passage of fecal matter which can have a significant impact on a patient's quality of life. Many modalities of treatment exist for FI. Sacral nerve stimulation is a well-established treatment for FI. Given the increased need of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for diagnostics, the InterStim which was previously used in sacral nerve stimulation was limited by MRI incompatibility. Medtronic MRI-compatible InterStim was approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration in August 2020 and has been widely used.

AIM

To evaluate the efficacy, outcomes and complications of the MRI-compatible InterStim.

METHODS

Data of patients who underwent MRI-compatible Medtronic InterStim placement at UPMC Williamsport, University of Minnesota, Advocate Lutheran General Hospital, and University of Wisconsin-Madison was pooled and analyzed. Patient demographics, clinical features, surgical techniques, complications, and outcomes were analyzed. Strengthening the Reporting of Observational studies in Epidemiology(STROBE) cross-sectional reporting guidelines were used.

RESULTS

Seventy-three patients had the InterStim implanted. The mean age was 63.29 ± 12.2 years. Fifty-seven (78.1%) patients were females and forty-two (57.5%) patients had diabetes. In addition to incontinence, overlapping symptoms included diarrhea (23.3%), fecal urgency (58.9%), and urinary incontinence (28.8%). Fifteen (20.5%) patients underwent Peripheral Nerve Evaluation before proceeding to definite implant placement. Thirty-two (43.8%) patients underwent rechargeable InterStim placement. Three (4.1%) patients needed removal of the implant. Migration of the external lead connection was observed in 7 (9.6%) patients after the stage I procedure. The explanation for one patient was due to infection. Seven (9.6%) patients had other complications like nerve pain, hematoma, infection, lead fracture, and bleeding. The mean follow-up was 6.62 ± 3.5 mo. Sixty-eight (93.2%) patients reported significant improvement of symptoms on follow-up evaluation.

CONCLUSION

This study shows promising results with significant symptom improvement, good efficacy and good patient outcomes with low complication rates while using MRI compatible InterStim for FI. Further long-term follow-up and future studies with a larger patient population is recommended.

Pilot Study of a Novel At-Home Posterior Tibial Nerve System for Overactive Bladder Syndrome

IMPORTANCE

Urgency urinary incontinence and overactive bladder are common conditions. Third-line therapies are often underutilized because of either being too invasive or being burdensome for the patient.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to determine the efficacy and acceptability of a noninvasive, home-based posterior tibial nerve treatment system for the treatment of overactive bladder syndrome.

STUDY DESIGN

In this pilot study, 10 postmenopausal women with urgency urinary incontinence were given the SoleStim System for home-based posterior tibial nerve stimulation. Symptoms at baseline and completion of the 8-week study were determined by 3-day voiding diary and quality-of-life questionnaire (Overactive Bladder Questionnaire) to assess for reduction in incontinence episodes.

RESULTS

All patients were 100% adherent to the SoleStim System application over the 8-week period and reported statistically significant reductions in the mean number of voids (-16.3%, P = 0.022), urgency episodes (-31.2%, P = 0.02), and urgency urinary incontinence episodes (-31.4%, P = 0.045). Forty percent of participants reported a decrease of ≥50% in their urgency urinary incontinence episodes. SoleStim was scored a value of 1.8 ± 2.0 (mean ± SD) on a 10-point usability scale, indicating that it was highly acceptable from an ease-of-use perspective. No adverse events were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

The SoleStim System improved key overactive bladder (frequency, urgency, and urgency urinary incontinence episodes) and quality-of-life metrics. The results from this pilot study suggest that the SoleStim System may be a safe, effective, and highly acceptable at-home overactive bladder therapy.

Predictive Factors in Sacral Neuromodulation: A Systematic Review

INTRODUCTION

Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) is an effective treatment in patients with overactive bladder syndrome or nonobstructive urinary retention when conservative treatment fails. Several factors that could impact outcome with SNM have been studied. This systematic review investigated these predictive factors and their relevance for clinical practice.

METHODS

Systematic review according to the PRISMA guidelines was conducted. This review is registered in the PROSPERO register (CRD42015016256).

RESULTS

Seventy-eight studies (of which 11 abstracts) were included. Females, younger patients, and a tined lead procedure tend to be predictive in successful SNM outcome. Factors that did not influence SNM outcome were prior back surgery, surgery for stress urinary incontinence, affective symptoms, and duration of complaints. Reduced detrusor contractility is associated with a lower success rate. The level of evidence of most studies (graded according to the Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine) was 3b.

CONCLUSION

Even though this systematic review investigated predictive factors (gender, age, type of procedure, type of lead, and detrusor contractility), no general consensus on predictive factors could be made. Most studies are small, retrospective, and involve a heterogeneous population. Therefore, prospective research in larger specific patient groups remains necessary to find predictors of SNM outcome.

Removal of sacral neuromodulation quadripolar tined-lead using a straight stylet: description of a surgical technique

Background

Up to 7.5% of tined-lead removals in patients having sacral neuromodulation (SNM) therapy are associated with a lead breakage. It is still unclear what adverse effects can be caused by unretrieved fragments. The aim of our study was to describe the lead removal technique we have been using for the last 2 years in our centre.

Methods

We retrospectively enrolled patients who had lead removal between January 2018 and January 2020 using our standardized technique. The novelty of the technique is in the use of the straight stylet, which is available in the quadripolar tined-lead kit. The stylet gives the electrode greater stiffness, reducing interactions with surrounding tissues and probability of damage or breakage during removal.

Results

In 59 patients (42 women, mean age 57.2 years [range 40–79 years]) the lead was removed using our standardized technique. In 44 of 59 patients, the tined-lead was removed within 2 months from the SNM-test, due to lack of beneficial effects. In 15 patients the electrode was removed because of failure of definitive implantation. Meantime from definitive implantable pulse generator (IPG) implantation to lead removal was 67.9 months. We recorded only 1 case of lead-breakage during removal: a female patient with a non-tined lead fixed on sacral bone, placed 18 years previously using an open technique.

Conclusions

Lead breakage during removal is not uncommon and adverse effects of retained fragments may occur. Our technique has been safely used for the last 2 years in our centre, with no episodes of lead breakage or retained fragments, except for one non-tined electrode.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10151-020-02403-6.

Predictive factors of PNE success in a contemporary series: A single institution experience

PURPOSE

Peripheral nerve evaluation (PNE) permits a trial of sacral neuromodulation to determine candidates for single stage implant. Before routine fluoroscopy, PNE success rates were 40%-50% compared to approximately 77% with staged procedures. There are limited data on PNE success rates with the use of fluoroscopy and improved techniques. We evaluated a contemporary series of PNE patients to determine predictors of PNE success and persistent functional response following permanent implantation.

METHODS

A retrospective review of PNE patients at a large academic center from 2015 to 2019 was performed. Patients with urgency-frequency, urge incontinence, and/or fecal incontinence (FI) were included. Rates of permanent implant after successful PNE trial and continued improvement at ≥1 month were reviewed. Multivariable logistic regression determined predictors of PNE success and continued response at follow-up.

RESULTS

A total of 102 PNE patients were included. A total of 78 patients (76.5%) were PNE responders. Predictors of PNE success included younger age (p = .014), urgency incontinence (p = .021), FI (p = .017), absence of a neurologic diagnosis (p = .04), presence of bellows and toe responses (p = .038), and perineal sensation (p = .027). A total of 68 of 78 PNE responders (87.2%) maintained optimal responses at ≥1 month. Absence of a neurologic diagnosis was predictive of persistent success at follow-up (p = .013).

CONCLUSIONS

This contemporary PNE series revealed screening success equivalent to a two-staged approach. A small proportion of patients demonstrate suboptimal responses following permanent implant. Conversion from testing to permanent implant may not be the ideal outcome as it may overestimate success, and evaluation for persistent improvement should be investigated further as a more reliable indicator of successful screening.

The Impact of Fluoroscopy During Percutaneous Nerve Evaluation on Subsequent Implantation of a Sacral Neuromodulator Among Women With Pelvic Floor Disorders: A Randomized, Noninferiority Trial

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate whether percutaneous nerve evaluation (PNE) without fluoroscopy is inferior to fluoroscopy use in women undergoing trials of sacral neuromodulation (SNM) for pelvic floor disorders (PFDs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In an unblinded noninferiority trial, women undergoing PNE were randomized to fluoroscopy or no fluoroscopy. The primary outcome was "success" and defined as implantation of the permanent SNM device within three months of PNE. At an expected 40% success and a 30% noninferiority threshold, 33 participants in each group were needed for 80% power (α = 0.05). Univariate analyses and a logistic regression model adjusting for univariate variables associated with the primary outcome were performed.

RESULTS

From April 2016 to December 2018, 74 participants underwent PNE of which 36 underwent PNE with fluoroscopy and 38 without. The fluoroscopy group had less baseline mean daily voids compared to the no fluoroscopy group (10.79 ± 6.48 vs. 16.21 ± 10.05, p = 0.01). PNE performed without fluoroscopy had similar success (18/38, 47.4%) compared to fluoroscopy (21/36, 58.3%), meeting our noninferiority definition (difference 10.9%, 90% CI -8% to 30%, p = 0.049). In a logistic regression model adjusting for age, Charlson comorbidity index, stage of prolapse, and number of baseline voids per day, trial success was still similar between the two groups (adjOR 1.82, 95% CI 0.52 to 6.94, p = 0.36).

CONCLUSIONS

PNE performed without fluoroscopy is noninferior to PNE with fluoroscopy use for the outcome of SNM device implantation within three months among women undergoing therapy for PFDs.

A randomized controlled trial of neuromuscular electrical stimulation for chronic urinary retention following traumatic brain injury

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) therapy for chronic urinary retention (CUR) following traumatic brain injury (TBI).

METHODS

This 2-arm randomized controlled trial (RCT) enrolled 86 eligible patients with CUR following TBI. All included patients were randomly allocated to a treatment group (n = 43) or a sham group (n = 43). The administration of NMES or sham NMES, as intervention, was performed for an 8-week period treatment, and 4-week period follow-up. In addition, all subjects were required to undergo indwelling urinary catheter throughout the study period. The primary outcome was assessed by the post-voiding residual urine volume (PV-VRU). The secondary outcomes were evaluated by the voided volume, maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax), and quality of life, as assessed by Barthel Index (BI) scale. In addition, adverse events were also recorded during the study period. All primary and secondary outcomes were measured at baseline, at the end of 8-week treatment, and 4-week follow-up.

RESULTS

At the end of 8-week treatment, the patients in the treatment group did not achieve better outcomes in PV-VRU (P = .66), voided volume (P = .59), Qmax (P = .53), and BI scores (P = .67), than patients in the control group. At the end of 4-week follow-up, there were also no significant differences regarding the PV-VRU (P = .42), voided volume (P = .71), Qmax (P = .24), and BI scores (P = .75) between 2 groups. No adverse events occurred in either group.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, the findings of this study showed that NMES therapy may not benefit patients with CUR following TBI.

The first Iraqi experience in sacral neuromodulation for patients with lower urinary tract dysfunction

Objectives

To present our experience, in Iraq, with sacral neuromodulation (SNM) in patients with refractory lower urinary tract dysfunction, with discussion of the factors that affect the response rate.

Patients and methods

In this prospective, clinical, interventional study, 24 patients were evaluated and treated by a team comprised of a Urologist and a Neurosurgeon with SNM over a 1.5-year period. The gender, age, pathology, and clinical presentation, were all studied and evaluated. Successful clinical response was defined as achieving a ≥50% improvement in voiding diary variables.

Results

The mean age of those that responded to SNM was 28 years, with females responding better than males (10 of 14 vs four of 10). The SNM response rate according to presentation was six of 10 in those with overactive bladder/urge urinary incontinence, six of nine of those with urinary retention, and two of five in those with a mixed presentation. The response rate in idiopathic voiding dysfunctions was 11 of 13, whilst for neurogenic dysfunctions it was three of 11. Other benefits such as in bowel motion, erectile function, menstruation, power of lower limbs, and quality of life (QoL), were also recorded. The complications were reasonable for this minimally invasive procedure.

Conclusion

SNM offers a good and durable solution for some functional bladder problems, if patients are well selected. There may also be additional extra-urinary benefits that contribute to improvements in QoL. SNM was well tolerated by our patients with an encouraging response rate, especially in psychologically stable patients with idiopathic dysfunctions.

Long-term outcome of sacral neuromodulation in patients with idiopathic nonobstructive urinary retention: Single-center experience

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to determine the safety and efficacy of sacral neuromodulation (SNM) in patients with idiopathic nonobstructive urinary retention.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the files of patients who underwent staged neuromodulation for idiopathic nonobstructive urinary retention from 2004 to 2016 at our hospital. Patients who had a 50% improvement in symptoms after 1 week of stage 1 procedure were qualified for permanent device implantation. Patient data were assessed on efficacy and need for intermittent self-catheterization, complications, and operative revision rates.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven female patients who underwent SNM therapy were analyzed. The mean age of the patients was 32.5 ± 10.8 years. The mean duration of urinary retention was 3.2 ± 1.7 years. All patients were doing intermittent self-catheterization, but few were able to void <100 ml. Twenty-four (88.8%) of the 27 patients demonstrated a >50% improvement in symptoms and underwent permanent device placement. At a median follow-up of 5.7 ± 3.2 years, 20 (83.3%) of the 24 patients demonstrated sustained improvement rates of >50%. Seventeen (70.83%) of 24 patients could void spontaneously with a mean residual urine of 28.1 ± 24.4 ml (P < 0.001). Three (12.5%) were voiding with significant mean decreasing number of catheterizations from 5.6 ± 2.4 to 1.4 ± 2.1 (P < 0.001). Four (16.6%) had their device explanted. Ten (41.6%) of the 24 patients underwent surgical revision. Most of the adverse events were managed by device reprograming.

CONCLUSION

SNM is a highly effective and safe procedure in this subset of the female population with idiopathic refractory nonobstructive urinary retention.

OnabotulinumtoxinA vs Sacral Neuromodulation on Refractory Urgency Urinary Incontinence in Women: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Women with refractory urgency urinary incontinence are treated with sacral neuromodulation and onabotulinumtoxinA with limited comparative information.

Objective

To assess whether onabotulinumtoxinA is superior to sacral neuromodulation in controlling refractory episodes of urgency urinary incontinence.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Multicenter open-label randomized trial (February 2012-January 2015) at 9 US medical centers involving 381 women with refractory urgency urinary incontinence.

Interventions

Cystoscopic intradetrusor injection of 200 U of onabotulinumtoxinA (n = 192) or sacral neuromodulation (n = 189).

Main Outcomes and Measures

Primary outcome, change from baseline mean number of daily urgency urinary incontinence episodes over 6 months, was measured with monthly 3-day diaries. Secondary outcomes included change from baseline in urinary symptom scores in the Overactive Bladder Questionnaire Short Form (SF); range, 0-100, higher scores indicating worse symptoms; Overactive Bladder Satisfaction questionnaire; range, 0-100; includes 5 subscales, higher scores indicating better satisfaction; and adverse events.

Results

Of the 364 women (mean [SD] age, 63.0 [11.6] years) in the intention-to-treat population, 190 women in the onabotulinumtoxinA group had a greater reduction in 6-month mean number of episodes of urgency incontinence per day than did the 174 in the sacral neuromodulation group (-3.9 vs -3.3 episodes per day; mean difference, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.13 to 1.14; P = .01). Participants treated with onabotulinumtoxinA showed greater improvement in the Overactive Bladder Questionnaire SF for symptom bother (-46.7 vs -38.6; mean difference, 8.1; 95% CI, 3.0 to 13.3; P = .002); treatment satisfaction (67.7 vs 59.8; mean difference, 7.8; 95% CI, 1.6 to 14.1; P = .01) and treatment endorsement (78.1 vs 67.6; mean difference; 10.4, 95% CI, 4.3 to 16.5; P < .001) than treatment with sacral neuromodulation. There were no differences in convenience (67.6 vs 70.2; mean difference, -2.5; 95% CI, -8.1 to 3.0; P = .36), adverse effects (88.4 vs 85.1; mean difference, 3.3; 95% CI, -1.9 to 8.5; P = .22), and treatment preference (92.% vs 89%; risk difference, -3%; 95% CI, -16% to 10%; P = .49). Urinary tract infections were more frequent in the onabotulinumtoxinA group (35% vs 11%; risk difference, -23%; 95% CI, -33% to -13%; P < .001). The need for self-catheterization was 8% and 2% at 1 and 6 months in the onabotulinumtoxinA group. Neuromodulation device revisions and removals occurred in 3%.

Conclusions and Relevance

Among women with refractory urgency urinary incontinence, treatment with onabotulinumtoxinA compared with sacral neuromodulation resulted in a small daily improvement in episodes that although statistically significant is of uncertain clinical importance. In addition, it resulted in a higher risk of urinary tract infections and need for transient self-catheterizations.

Adverse events of sacral neuromodulation for fecal incontinence reported to the federal drug administration

AIM: To investigate the nature and severity of AE related to sacral neurostimulation (SNS).

METHODS: Based on Pubmed and Embase searches, we identified published trials and case series of SNS for fecal incontinence (FI) and extracted data on adverse events, requiring an active intervention. Those problems were operationally defined as infection, device removal explant or need for lead and/or generator replacement. In addition, we analyzed the Manufacturer and User Device Experience registry of the Federal Drug Administration for the months of August - October of 2015. Events were included if the report specifically mentioned gastrointestinal (GI), bowel and FI as indication and if the narrative did not focus on bladder symptoms. The classification, reporter, the date of the recorded complaint, time between initial implant and report, the type of AE, steps taken and outcome were extracted from the report. In cases of device removal or replacement, we looked for confirmatory comments by healthcare providers or the manufacturer.

RESULTS: Published studies reported adverse events and reoperation rates for 1954 patients, followed for 27 (1-117) mo. Reoperation rates were 18.6% (14.2-23.9) with device explants accounting for 10.0% (7.8-12.7) of secondary surgeries; rates of device replacement or explant or pocket site and electrode revisions increased with longer follow up. During the period examined, the FDA received 1684 reports of AE related to SNS with FI or GI listed as indication. A total of 652 reports met the inclusion criteria, with 52.7% specifically listing FI. Lack or loss of benefit (48.9%), pain or dysesthesia (27.8%) and complication at the generator implantation site (8.7%) were most commonly listed. Complaints led to secondary surgeries in 29.7% of the AE. Reoperations were performed to explant (38.2%) or replace (46.5%) the device or a lead, or revise the generator pocket (14.6%). Conservative management changes mostly involved changes in stimulation parameters (44.5%), which successfully addressed concerns in 35.2% of cases that included information about treatment results.

CONCLUSION: With reoperation rates around 20%, physicians need to fully disclose the high likelihood of complications and secondary interventions and exhaust non-invasive treatments, including transcutaneous stimulation paradigms.

Intermittent sacral neuromodulation for idiopathic urgency urinary incontinence in women

AIMS

SNM has been proven to be effective in the treatment of refractory UUI. Total costs and patient burden due to regular battery changes may prevent broad implementation of this treatment. The aim was to achieve a minimal improvement of 50% in incontinence episodes compared to pre-SNM by using iSNM.

METHODS

This prospective cohort study was performed in women with UUI receiving treatment with SNM for a minimum of 6 months. The neurostimulator was programmed to 8 hr "on" and 16 hr "off" per day for 12 weeks. Prior to iSNM, data were collected during no SNM and cSNM. Bladder diaries and various patient reported outcome measures were collected at predetermined time points: 1-5 weeks, and 8, 12, and 16 weeks. Nonparametric tests were used for the statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Of the 19 patients 63% showed an improvement of >50% of incontinence episodes during iSNM compared to pre-SNM. Bladder diary parameters showed a difference between pre-SNM and iSNM median (P-value); incontinence episodes/24 hr, 4.1-1.0 (P = 0.04), incontinence severity, 2.0-1.0 (P = 0.001), voiding episodes/24 hr, 13.0-8.0 (P = 0.001), and voided volume, 149-219 ml (P = 0.04). The UDI-6, 50.0-27.8 (P = 0.03), and the IIQ-7 scores, 50.0-9.5 (P = 0.04) also showed a significant improvement. No difference was demonstrated between iSNM and cSNM.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared to pre-SNM parameters, iSNM shows an improvement in both objective and subjective outcomes. Specifically no difference was found between iSNM and cSNM, indicating that iSNM could be a feasible and cost-effective alternative. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:385-389, 2017. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Predictors of reoperation after sacral neuromodulation: A single institution evaluation of over 400 patients

AIMS

To explore factors that may predispose patients to reoperation after sacral neuromodulation (SNM).

METHODS

Patients enrolled in our longitudinal neuromodulation database were reviewed. Medical records data, and voiding diaries, Interstitial Cystitis Symptom-Problem Indices (ICSI-PI), and Overactive Bladder Questionnaires (OAB-q) at baseline and 3 months were analyzed with Pearson's χ² , Fisher's Exact test, Wilcoxon rank tests, and multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

Of 407 patients, 134 (33%) had at least one reoperation over median 28.9 months follow-up (range 1.6-121.7); 78/407 (19%) were revised, and 56/407 (14%) were explanted. The most common reason for reoperation was lack of efficacy/worsening symptoms (n = 87). The reoperations group had a higher proportion of women (P = 0.049), lower mean body mass index (BMI; P = 0.010), more reprogramming events (P < 0.0001), longer median follow-up (P = 0.0008), and higher proportions with interstitial cystitis (P = 0.013), using hormone replacement therapy (P = 0.0004), and complications (P < 0.0001). Both reoperations/no reoperations groups had similar improvements in ICSI-PI (P < 0.0001 for both), OAB-q severity (P < 0.0001 for both) and quality of life (P < 0.0001 for both). On multivariate analysis, only longer follow-up (P = 0.0011; OR 1.048; CI 1.019, 1.078) and having a complication (P < 0.0001; OR 23.2; CI 11.47, 46.75) were significant predictors of reoperations. In women only, using HRT at time of implant was also predictive of reoperation (P = 0.0027; OR 3.09; CI 1.48, 6.46).

CONCLUSIONS

In this largest known series to date, one third of the patients required reoperation and the most common reason was lack of efficacy/worsening symptoms. Ongoing study is needed as the technology continues to evolve. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:354-359, 2017. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The role of electrical stimulation techniques in the management of the male patient with urgency incontinence

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Overactive bladder affects 10-27% of men, a significant portion of whom report urge urinary incontinence that is inadequately treated with first-line and second-line treatments. There is thus a substantial need to critically evaluate the alternative means of clinical management.

RECENT FINDINGS

This review presents the current evidence for the use of sacral neuromodulation and percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation in the treatment of men with urge incontinence, as well as evaluates the financial implications of these treatments. Other alternative modes of electrical stimulation for urge incontinence are also briefly reviewed.

SUMMARY

Both sacral neuromodulation and percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation prove to be viable, durable options for treating patients with refractory urge incontinence. Alternative modes of stimulation are also beginning to show promise.

Outcome of sacral nerve stimulation for fecal incontinence at 5 years

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the outcome of sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) for fecal incontinence at 5 years after implantation and to identify predictors of sustained efficacy.

BACKGROUND

There is a lack of knowledge about the long-term outcome of SNS for fecal incontinence.

METHODS

Prospectively collected data from patients who underwent implantation of an SNS device between 2001 and 2006 were reviewed.

RESULTS

One hundred and one patients were available for outcome evaluation at 5 years. Sixty of 101 patients [42.6% on intention-to-treat (ITT) and 55.6% per protocol (PP)] reported a favorable outcome, 41 patients (ITT 29.1%; PP 38.0%) reported an unfavorable outcome, of whom 24 patients (ITT 17.0%; PP 22.2%) had their device explanted or permanently switched off before 5 years. Wexner incontinence scores improved significantly from a baseline median of 16 (range 6-20) to a median of 6 (range 0-20) at 3 months (P < 0.0001), and the improvement compared with baseline was maintained throughout the 5-year follow-ups (P < 0.0001).Age was a negative predictive factor [odds ratio (OR): 0.96 each year increase, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.92-0.99; P = 0.016]. Positive predictors included improvement of urge incontinence episodes during percutaneous nerve evaluation (OR: 10.8; 95% CI: 1.72-132; P = 0.036), improvement of incontinence scores at 6 months from baseline (OR: 6.29; 95% CI: 1.33-34.3; P = 0.025), particularly improvement of incontinence scores from 3 to 6 months (OR: 41.5; 95% CI: 3.51-811; P = 0.007). Overall, 521 reportable events were recorded from 94 patients (93.1%).

CONCLUSIONS

On an ITT analysis, 42.6% of patients reported favorable outcomes at 60 months. Patient's age, improvement of urge incontinence during PNE, and sustained efficacy during the first 6 months after implantation are some of the predictors identified.

Neuromodulation for overactive bladder

Overactive bladder (OAB) affects millions of people worldwide yet first-line treatments are often poorly tolerated and compliance rates are low. Neuromodulation works via afferent nerve modulation and offers a minimally invasive and reversible alternative treatment option for patients with OAB who have failed first-line therapy. Neuromodulation has revolutionized the management of OAB and is now well established as a safe and effective treatment for those refractory to conservative treatments. Multiple neuroanatomical pathways have been described for sacral neuromodulation including the S3 nerve root, pudendal nerve and tibial nerve. The S3 nerve root is currently the main treatment target and has the most long-term data on safety and efficacy to support its use. However, studies on neuromodulation at the pudendal nerve or posterior tibial nerve have been positive and their role in treatment continues to evolve. Most urologists who are experienced in voiding dysfunction can become proficient in each technique. Patient selection, surgical techniques and postoperative management differ slightly between approaches and urologists should familiarize themselves with these differences. Treatment of OAB should progress from the least to most invasive modality, and neuromodulation provides an attractive option owing to its minimally invasive approach, tolerability, positive outcomes and reversibility.

Efficacy of sacral neuromodulation on urological diseases: a multicentric research project

INTRODUCTION AND AIM OF THE STUDY

Sacral neuromodulation has been used as a safe, effective treatment option for patients with lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD). Several clinical studies demonstrated its positive effects on refractory urge incontinence, non-osbstructive urinary retention, urgency frequency syndrome, as well as on other non- urological disorders, such as fecal incontinence and chronic constipation. The aim of this research project was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of sacral neuromodulation on the management of LUTD refractory to the standardized first line treatment options.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively collected and evaluated data from patients undergoing sacral neuromodulations between September 2001 and November 2010 in 4 Urological Centres of North-East Italy. The patients were affected by Overactive Bladder Syndrome (OAB), Urinary Retention (UR), Fecal Incontinence (FI), Constipation (CO), Chronic Pelvic Pain (CPP). All the patients were evaluated with voiding diaries, before and after implantation.Patients included in the present evaluation were followed up in a network of 4 Italian urological centres, which participate to in the Italian Clinical Service project - a national urological database and medical care project aiming at describing and improving the use of implantable urological devices in the Italian clinical practice. Continuous normally distributed variables were reported as the mean value ± standard deviation (SD). Continuous non-normally distributed variables were presented as the median values and an interquartile range (IQR). The t-test and Wilcoxon test were used to compare continuous variables, as appropriate. A two-sided p <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Overall, 157 patients underwent implantation of sacral neuromodulator during the period under review. Eighty-three out of 157 (53%) patients complained of OAB; 52 (33%) of UR; 5 (3%) of faecal incontinence; 4 (2%) of chronic constipation; 12 (8%) of CPP. The median follow- up was 11 months (IQR 1 - 91 months). In patients treated for OAB, we documented a statistically significant reduction in the mean number of: incontinence episodes/die, pads/die, daily micturitions, nocturnal micturitions and global micturitions. In patients treated for UR, we observed a statistically significant reduction in the mean post- voiding residual volume and in the number of self catheterization. Interpretation of results: It is difficult to translate into quantifiable data the subjective perception of improvement of the symptoms expressed by the patients, as they are frequently subjective perceptions, not always numeric data. This subjective perception makes it difficult to the clinician to evaluate the real outcomes of this procedure, and makes it difficult to achieve a complete follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

This multicenter research project confirmed the midterm safety and effectiveness of sacral neuromodulation in the treatment of refractory overactive bladder syndrome and urinary retention, showing high cure rates and low complication rates.

A modified approach to patient's selection with improved clinical outcomes in sacral nerve modulation

INTRODUCTION

Since the marketing of the percutaneous permanent tined leads (PPTL), many centres rely solely on these instead of the percutaneous nerve evaluation (PNE) as a screening tool. At our centre, we routinely perform PNE. Moreover, with our limited hospital resources, we have adopted a stricter definition of success in the patient selection process using an improvement of more than 60% as a cut-off point. This study presents our experience with sacral nerve stimulation using PPTL as an adjunct to PNE to improve the outcome of the screening method for patients suffering from refractory voiding dysfunction.

METHODS

We reviewed the charts of 106 patients who underwent a PNE between 2001 and 2008. The outcome of the procedures, the complication rates and its long-term effect were reviewed.

RESULTS

Overall, 116 PNE were performed and it was successful in 54%. Forty-five out of the 62 patients with a successful PNE underwent the stage I procedure. Of these, 93% had a successful stage I and were later implanted with the implantable pulse generator (IPG). The remaining 12 patients underwent the simultaneous implantation of the PPTL and IPG using the open procedure and it was successful in 10 of them.

CONCLUSION

The PNE is a good adjunct to the staged procedure to select the appropriate candidates for sacral nerve stimulation, especially with limited resources.

Postoperative issues of sacral nerve stimulation for fecal incontinence and constipation: a systematic literature review and treatment guideline

BACKGROUND

There is a lack of knowledge on the incidence and management of suboptimal therapeutic effect and the complications associated with sacral nerve stimulation for fecal incontinence and constipation.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to review current literature on postoperative issues and to propose a treatment algorithm.

DATA SOURCE

PubMed, MEDLINE, and EMBASE were searched using the keywords "sacral nerve stimulation," "sacral neuromodulation," "fecal incontinence," and "constipation" for English-language articles published from January 1980 to August 2010. A further search was conducted on a wider literature using the keywords "complication," "adverse effect," "treatment failure," "equipment failure," "infection," "foreign-body migration," "reoperation," "pain," and "algorithm."

STUDY SELECTION

Four hundred sixty-one titles were identified, and after a title and abstract review, 135 were subjected to full article review; 89 were finally included in this review. Five articles were added by manual search and consensus.

RESULTS

Forty-eight studies were identified as cohort studies reporting on postoperative issues, including 1661 patients who underwent percutaneous nerve evaluation and 1600 patients who proceeded to sacral nerve stimulation therapy. Pooled data showed that the most common problem during percutaneous nerve evaluation was lead displacement (5.3%). The incidence of suboptimal outcome, pain, and infection after implantation was 12.1%, 13.0%, and 3.9%.

LIMITATIONS

There was significant underreporting of untoward events, because 60% of the studies did not report complications during percutaneous nerve evaluation, and suboptimal outcome after implantation was not disclosed in 44% of the studies.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of untoward events associated with sacral nerve stimulation appears to be low. However, there is a significant underreporting of the incidence. Using the information from the structured and systematic literature review, we formulated a clinically relevant guideline for reporting and managing postoperative issues. The guideline can provide a framework for clinical practice.

Long-term outcome and surgical interventions after sacral neuromodulation implant for lower urinary tract symptoms: 14-year experience at 1 center

PURPOSE

Few reports address the reoperation rate after sacral neuromodulation implants. We report our long-term results and reoperations during our 14-year experience with sacral neuromodulation at our center.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the patient database at our center to assess the long-term outcome, incidence and cause of surgical re-intervention after InterStim® sacral neuromodulation implantation for lower urinary tract dysfunction between 1994 and 2008.

RESULTS

A total of 96 sacral neuromodulation devices were implanted in 88 women and 8 men. Indications for implantation were bladder pain syndrome in 47.9% of cases, urgency urinary incontinence in 35.4% and idiopathic urinary retention in 16.7%. The explantation rate was 20.8% and median time to removal was 18.5 months. Reasons for explantation in all subgroups were poor result in 12 patients, painful stimulation in 6 and radiation of stimulation to the leg in 2. Median long-term followup was 50.7 months. The long-term success rate was 87.5%, 84.8% and 73% in patients with idiopathic urinary retention, urgency urinary incontinence and bladder pain syndrome, respectively. Overall 39% of patients needed revision of the sacral neuromodulation implant. The main reason for revision was loss of stimulation in 58.5% of cases. The revision rate decreased with the introduction of the tined lead technique from 50% using lead Model 3092 to 31% using lead Model 3893 (Medtronic, Minneapolis, Minnesota). The battery was changed in 8 patients. Mean battery life was 101.8 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Sacral neuromodulation is a minimally invasive procedure with a good long-term outcome. The reoperation rate has improved with advances in surgical technique and equipment.

Contrasting the percutaneous nerve evaluation versus staged implantation in sacral neuromodulation

Sacral neuromodulation is increasingly used for the treatment of voiding dysfunction, pelvic pain syndromes, and gastrointestinal disorders. While increased use of this technology has led to a greater understanding of its potential as well as its limitations, difficulty persists in identifying the patients that will benefit most. Either of two trial stimulation techniques is performed before placement of a permanent neuromodulator: the monopolar percutaneous nerve evaluation and the tined quadripolar staged trial. The preponderance of recent literature asserts the superior sensitivity of the staged trial over percutaneous nerve evaluation. However, the techniques offer disparate advantages, and other issues, such as cost-effectiveness, remain largely unexplored. The role of sacral neuromodulation will continue to expand as physicians and patients become increasingly aware of its therapeutic potential. Widespread adoption of this clinically superior technique will most rapidly help the greatest number of patients.

Suboptimal outcome following sacral nerve stimulation for faecal incontinence

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was to identify the incidence of suboptimal therapeutic responses and adverse events associated with sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) for faecal incontinence, and to determine their influence on treatment outcome.

METHODS

Prospectively collected data from 176 patients who underwent SNS were reviewed retrospectively. Patient variables and reportable events were analysed by binary regression to identify the predictors of treatment outcome.

RESULTS

Overall, 592 reportable events were recorded from 150 patients (85·2 per cent) at a median of 11 (interquartile range (i.q.r.) 4-26) months. Loss of efficacy (212 events, 87 patients), lack of efficacy (186 events, 68 patients) and pain/discomfort (126 events, 67 patients) accounted for 88·5 per cent of reportable events. Loss of efficacy (odds ratio (OR) 2·52, 95 per cent confidence interval 1·33 to 4·79; P = 0·007), lack of efficacy (OR 2·80, 1·46 to 5·36; P = 0·002) and pain in the leg (OR 4·07, 1·34 to 12·33; P = 0·013) were predictors of unfavourable outcome in the medium to long term. At a median follow-up of 33 (i.q.r. 20-52) months, 31 patients (17·6 per cent) had explantation of the device or discontinued treatment.

CONCLUSION

Suboptimal therapeutic responses and adverse events are not uncommon when SNS is employed for faecal incontinence. They have a negative impact on treatment outcome.

Efficacy and adverse events of sacral nerve stimulation for overactive bladder: A systematic review

AIMS

To systematically review the literature regarding efficacy and adverse events of sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) via the InterStim device for treatment of women with refractory overactive bladder (OAB).

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Collaboration databases from 1980 to September 2008. All English studies reporting on efficacy or adverse events of SNS for the treatment of refractory OAB were considered. Only studies where 30 or more women received the complete therapy (implanted lead and generator) were included. The quality of the studies (good, fair, or poor) was assessed based on predefined criteria.

RESULTS

Seven studies were designated "good" regarding efficacy of SNS for OAB. Multiple authors reported results from the same cohort of patients. In this instance, the highest quality study was chosen, leaving three independent studies regarding efficacy. In these studies, incontinent episodes per day and pad usage significantly improved after SNS therapy. Six studies were designated "good" regarding adverse events. Using tined leads, surgical revision rates ranged from 3% to 16%. Six percent of patients were explanted due to lack of efficacy and 5-11% of patients were explanted due to infection.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on observational data, SNS appears effective for treatment of OAB in women. Adverse event rates with tined leads are lower than previously published estimates using non-tined leads. High-quality studies are needed to confirm our findings and to provide additional data regarding reprogramming, quality of life, and efficacy when compared to other therapies.