What is InterStim therapy for bladder control?
May 4, 2020 | Interstim
If you struggle with bladder control issues such as urgency, frequency, and leaking, it can feel like the problem has taken over your whole life. When planning outings, the first thing you need to know is the location and number of public restrooms. You don’t sleep well at night due to waking up frequently to use the bathroom and feel embarrassed by how many times a day your co-workers see you heading in that direction.
It’s Time to Take Your Life Back
If these scenarios sound familiar and you have tried lifestyle changes and prescription medication to no avail, it may be time to consider the outpatient InterStim procedure. This surgery takes approximately one hour to complete, and most people experience significant improvement within the first six months. People who have had the InterStim surgery report a quality of life enhancement that is three times greater than those who rely on medication alone. Nearly 85 percent of respondents reported feeling satisfied with the procedure one year after having it performed.
Try InterStim Before Having It Surgically Implanted
One of the most unique things about InterStim is that your doctor typically performs a pre-operative procedure to determine if the device is likely to produce the results you seek. It is the only bladder control device of its kind that makes it possible for patients to try it before seeking permanent relief with it.
What to Expect During the InterStim Procedure
On the day of your procedure, a surgeon makes a small incision in your lower back and inserts an electrode adjacent to your sacral nerves. He or she also makes a second incision above your waistline to enable the placement of a neurotransmitter beneath your skin. Once inside your body, the InterStim device sends signals to the nerves that control bladder functioning. Over time, the transmission of signals helps your bladder to regain normal functioning.
When the procedure is over, the staff will show you how to control the settings on the device’s neurotransmitter yourself to adjust pulse strength. You will also learn about any modifications you should adhere to during recovery and schedule your first follow-up appointment for approximately one week later.