Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 31, 2026
04:42
Treating Low Back Pain in Failed Back Surgery Patients with Multicolumn-lead Spinal Cord Stimulation
Published on: June 26, 2018
Sacral nerve stimulation for faecal incontinence: optimizing outcome and managing complications
T C Dudding1, J R Hollingshead, R J Nicholls
1Physiology Unit, St Mark's Hospital, Harrow, Middlesex, UK.
Summary
Optimizing sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) programming is key for managing faecal incontinence. Individualized device settings improve efficacy and reduce adverse effects, though further research is needed.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gastroenterology
- Urology
Background:
- Sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) is a neuromodulation technique used for faecal incontinence.
- Effective management requires understanding neurostimulation principles to maximize efficacy and minimize side effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current evidence on device programming in SNS for faecal incontinence.
- To highlight the importance of individualized programming for optimal patient outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a Medline search using keywords: sacral nerve stimulation, neuromodulation, faecal incontinence, programming, adverse effects, and complications.
- Identified additional studies through cross-referencing and appraisal of recent conference abstracts and proceedings.
Main Results:
- Neurostimulator programming is crucial for SNS efficacy, with reprogramming capable of improving or restoring treatment effectiveness.
- Adverse stimulation effects are often reversible, and non-stimulation-related complications are correctable.
- Over half of patients experiencing a total loss of efficacy can have this explained through programming or device-related issues.
Conclusions:
- Individualized selection of stimulation parameters can significantly improve outcomes in SNS for faecal incontinence.
- Further research is necessary to determine the optimal device settings for this patient population.
