Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 8, 2026
07:00
Novel Surgical Rodent Model for Studying Neuroma Pain Treatment Options using Targeted Muscle Reinnervation Through the Saphenous Nerve
Published on: November 14, 2025
Sacral neuromodulation: cost considerations and clinical benefits
Sherif R Aboseif1, Dennis H Kim, Jocelyn M Rieder
1Department of Urology, Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles, California 90027, USA. sherif.r.aboseif@kp.org
Urology
|December 26, 2007
Summary
Sacral neuromodulation with InterStim therapy significantly reduces healthcare costs and improves patient outcomes for voiding dysfunction. This effective treatment option leads to fewer doctor visits and lower medication expenses.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Medical Devices
- Health Economics
Background:
- Medically refractory voiding dysfunction presents a significant challenge in patient care.
- Sacral neuromodulation offers a potential therapeutic avenue for managing complex voiding disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of sacral neuromodulation using InterStim therapy.
- To compare healthcare utilization costs associated with voiding dysfunction before and after InterStim implantation.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 65 patients undergoing InterStim therapy.
- Analysis of healthcare utilization (visits, procedures, prescriptions) and associated costs (Medicare data, pharmacy costs) for one year pre- and post-implantation.
- Efficacy assessment through patient-reported outcomes, voiding diaries, pad usage, and catheterization frequency.
Main Results:
- InterStim therapy led to a significant decrease in outpatient visits (mean 2.2 visits, 73% cost reduction) and diagnostic/therapeutic procedures (mean 0.97, 92% cost reduction).
- Drug costs decreased by 30% ($693 to $483 per patient).
- Overall, voiding-related healthcare costs were substantially reduced post-implantation.
Conclusions:
- InterStim therapy is an effective treatment for medically refractory voiding dysfunction.
- The therapy demonstrates significant reductions in healthcare utilization and associated costs.
- High patient satisfaction is reported with InterStim therapy.
