Electrical stimulation for the treatment of bladder dysfunction: current status and future possibilities

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biomedical Engineering
• Urology

Background:

• Peripheral nerve electrical stimulation can induce muscle contraction, activate reflexes, and modulate central nervous system functions (neuromodulation).
• Application to the spinal cord or nerves controlling the lower urinary tract can achieve bladder/sphincter contraction, micturition, and treat incontinence or urinary retention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the historical application of electrical stimulation for bladder dysfunction.
• To focus on current implantable and external neuromodulation systems for treating incontinence and urinary retention.

Main Methods:

• Historical review of electrical stimulation techniques for bladder dysfunction.
• Focus on the Finetech-Brindley stimulator for bladder emptying.
• Discussion of external and implantable neuromodulation systems for incontinence treatment.

Main Results:

• Electrical stimulation has a history of use in treating bladder dysfunction.
• The Finetech-Brindley stimulator facilitates bladder emptying.
• Various neuromodulation systems are available for incontinence management.

Conclusions:

• Recent research explores combined sacral root stimulators (SPARSI), selective nerve fiber stimulation for detrusor activation, spinal cord microstimulation, and closed-loop bladder neuroprostheses.
• These advancements aim to improve treatment outcomes for complex bladder dysfunctions, particularly overactive bladder leading to incontinence.