Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 25, 2026

03:26
Detrusor Underactivity Model in Rats by Conus Medullaris Transection
Published on: August 28, 2020
[Sacral neuromodulation for neurogenic bladder dysfunction]
T M Kessler1, J Wöllner, M Kozomara
1Neuro-Urologie, Paraplegikerzentrum, Uniklinik Balgrist, Universität Zürich, Forchstraße 340, CH-8008 Zürich, Schweiz. tkessler@gmx.ch
Der Urologe. Ausg. A
|January 25, 2012
Summary
Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) offers a minimally invasive treatment for refractory neurogenic bladder. This therapy involves implanting a device to modulate nerve signals, improving bladder function for eligible patients.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Neurology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Neurogenic bladder dysfunction poses significant challenges in managing urinary issues.
- Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) is an evolving therapeutic option for refractory cases.
- Understanding SNM's efficacy across different neurogenic etiologies is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate Sacral Neuromodulation (SNM) as a treatment for neurogenic bladder dysfunction.
- To identify patient subgroups and neurological conditions that best respond to SNM.
- To detail the current minimally invasive SNM procedure and its mechanism.
Main Methods:
- A temporary electrode is placed at the S3 or S4 sacral foramen for a trial period.
- Patients monitor bladder diary outcomes during the test phase.
- Permanent neuromodulator implantation follows a successful trial.
Main Results:
- SNM is a minimally invasive procedure performed under local anesthesia.
- The exact mechanism involves modulation of medullary reflexes and central nervous system pathways via afferent nerves.
- Patients experience no activity limitations, but contraindications exist for diathermy, electrocauterization, lithotripsy, and certain imaging.
Conclusions:
- Sacral neuromodulation is a viable, minimally invasive alternative to reconstructive surgery for neurogenic bladder.
- Further research is needed to pinpoint optimal patient selection for SNM.
- Patients with implanted neuromodulators require specific precautions regarding medical procedures.
Related Concept Videos
The Micturition Reflex
Urination, or micturition involves the coordination of the bladder's detrusor muscle and two sphincters to ensure controlled bladder emptying.
The process begins with bladder filling, where the bladder wall stretches as urine accumulates. This stretching activates the urine storage reflex, mediated by the sacral spinal segments and the pontine storage center. Efferent sympathetic impulses stimulate the detrusor muscle to relax and the internal urethral sphincter to contract, facilitating urine...
The process begins with bladder filling, where the bladder wall stretches as urine accumulates. This stretching activates the urine storage reflex, mediated by the sacral spinal segments and the pontine storage center. Efferent sympathetic impulses stimulate the detrusor muscle to relax and the internal urethral sphincter to contract, facilitating urine...
Urinary Bladder
The urinary bladder is a hollow, muscular sac that temporarily stores urine before it is expelled from the body. It can hold approximately 600 mL of urine prior to micturition. The bladder is retroperitoneal and located behind the pubic symphysis in the pelvic floor.
In males, the bladder is situated in front of the rectum, while in females, it is positioned anterior to the vagina and uterus. The bladder floor contains an inverted triangular area called the trigone, defined by the two ureteric...
In males, the bladder is situated in front of the rectum, while in females, it is positioned anterior to the vagina and uterus. The bladder floor contains an inverted triangular area called the trigone, defined by the two ureteric...
Anatomy of the Genitourinary System II: Bladder and Urethra
The lower urinary system consists of the urinary bladder and urethra, which are essential in storing and expelling urine from the body. Together with the internal and external sphincters, these structures work together to regulate urination effectively.Anatomy of the BladderThe urinary bladder is a muscular, stretchable organ behind the pubic bone and in front of the rectum. In females, the bladder is positioned anterior to the vagina and inferior to the uterus, while in males, it is located...
