[Neuromodulation and neurostimulation in urology]

Functional voiding disorders, such as urge incontinence and urine retention, have a high prevalence and often lead to stigmatisation and a diminished quality of life. Patients with idiopathic voiding dysfunctions, for whom conservative treatments are insufficient, can currently be treated with sacral neuromodulation. In sacral neuromodulation a pulse generator is implanted; it is a reversible treatment that can be tested beforehand to evaluate if the patient is eligible for it. After implantation a good result is obtained, on average, in 73% of patients. Patients with spinal cord injury may currently be treated with electrical neurostimulation of the anterior sacral roots, which results in the ability to void without a residue, evacuate stools and obtain an erection or vaginal lubrication. Over 80% of the implanted patients with a spinal cord injury void without residual urine. Furthermore, continence is restored and the bladder capacity increases. In patients with therapy-resistant functional micturition disorders and in patients with spinal cord injury, neuromodulation and neurostimulation must be considered before invasive surgery is carried out.