Posterior tibial nerve stimulation using a wirelessly powered system in anesthetized cats

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Urology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Posterior Tibial Nerve Stimulation (PTNS) is an established therapy for overactive bladder (OAB), typically involving weekly sessions over 12 weeks.
• The precise mechanism of action for PTNS remains unclear, and concerns exist regarding the long-term efficacy of its delivery.
• Investigating novel methods for PTNS delivery and understanding its effects on bladder function is crucial for improving OAB treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of a wirelessly powered system for stimulating PTN afferents.
• To characterize how varying stimulation frequencies impact bladder activity.
• To provide pre-clinical evidence for a potentially translatable therapeutic approach for lower urinary tract symptoms.

Main Methods:

• A multi-contact electrode was surgically implanted in the hind limb of anesthetized cats.
• A wirelessly powered system was used to deliver short-duration, supra-threshold electrical stimulation.
• Stimulation trials were conducted across a frequency range of 2-20 Hz using an isovolumetric bladder model.

Main Results:

• The study demonstrated the feasibility of using a wireless system for PTN stimulation.
• A frequency-dependent modulation of bladder activity was observed in response to PTNS.
• Specific stimulation frequencies influenced bladder function, suggesting a targeted therapeutic potential.

Conclusions:

• This research offers the first pre-clinical evidence supporting frequency-dependent modulation of bladder function via PTNS.
• A wirelessly powered system presents a viable approach for PTNS delivery.
• These findings support the clinical translation of this novel therapeutic strategy for managing diverse lower urinary tract symptoms.