Urodynamic changes induced by the intravaginal electrode during pelvic floor electrical stimulation

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Urodynamics
• Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

Background:

• Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) affects many women, impacting quality of life.
• Vaginal electrical stimulation is a potential treatment for SUI.
• The specific effects of intravaginal electrodes on urodynamic parameters require clarification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if an intravaginal electrode for electrical stimulation causes acute changes in cystometry and urethral pressure profiles (UPP).
• To differentiate the effects of electrode presence from electrical stimulation on UPP.

Main Methods:

• 30 women with SUI underwent three urodynamic examinations.
• Examinations included: no electrode, electrode inserted (stimulator off), and electrode inserted (stimulator on).
• Key parameters measured: functional profile length (FPL), maximum urethral closure pressure (MUCP), UPP area, and cystometry filling sensations/volumes.

Main Results:

• No significant changes were observed in cystometry recordings with electrode presence or stimulation.
• The mere presence of the intravaginal electrode improved FPL, MUCP, and UPP area.
• These improvements were comparable to those observed during active electrical stimulation.

Conclusions:

• The intravaginal electrode itself, independent of stimulation, alters UPP parameters.
• The observed changes suggest a potential physiotherapeutic effect of the electrode's presence.
• Further studies are warranted to investigate the electrode's intrinsic therapeutic properties.