Status of sacral neuromodulation for refractory constipation

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Neurology
• Urology

Background:

• Refractory idiopathic constipation presents a significant clinical challenge with limited treatment options.
• Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) is an emerging therapy for managing complex bowel dysfunction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current data on sacral neuromodulation (SNM) for refractory idiopathic constipation.
• To define the current position of SNM in the specialized management of this condition.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search of PubMed for studies on SNM in refractory idiopathic constipation.
• Inclusion of unpublished data from the authors' own studies, including pediatric cases.

Main Results:

• Seven relevant studies were identified in the PubMed database.
• A recent multicenter nonrandomized European trial was a primary focus.
• Preliminary data suggest SNM is a potentially effective treatment for refractory idiopathic constipation.

Conclusions:

• Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) is in the early stages of application for idiopathic constipation.
• Available efficacy and safety data, while limited, indicate promising outcomes.
• Percutaneous nerve evaluation (PNE) is a valuable tool to predict treatment success in SNM therapy.