InterStim Therapy: A Contemporary Approach to Overactive Bladder

Overactive bladder is a common and challenging condition for the practicing obstetrician-gynecologist. The prevalence of the condition is increasing with our aging population. Although some patients respond to first-line therapy, a significant number will require sacral nerve stimulation to address the underlying neurologic condition that causes overactive bladder as well as other pelvic floor conditions. This article summarizes the epidemiology and symptomatology, office evaluation, and treatment of overactive bladder with particular emphasis on sacral nerve stimulation (SNS). SNS technique, results, and future applications are also reviewed.