Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 6, 2026
11:34
Breathing-controlled Electrical Stimulation BreEStim for Management of Neuropathic Pain and Spasticity
Published on: January 10, 2013
23.7K
Neurostimulation Strategy for Stress Urinary Incontinence
Summary
A new wireless microstimulator, NuStim, effectively exercises pelvic floor muscles to treat stress urinary incontinence. Preclinical studies show successful implantation and chronic use for well-tolerated muscle contractions.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Neuromodulation
- Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation
Background:
- Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) affects many women, impacting quality of life.
- Current treatments for SUI can be invasive or have limited efficacy.
- Pelvic floor muscle exercise is a key therapeutic approach for SUI.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a percutaneously implantable, wireless microstimulator (NuStim) for pelvic floor muscle exercise.
- To assess the feasibility and efficacy of NuStim for treating stress urinary incontinence.
- To validate the device's safety and performance in preclinical settings.
Main Methods:
- Development of a charge-regulated microstimulator (NuStim) powered wirelessly via RF magnetic field.
- In vitro and in vivo preclinical studies for device implantation and chronic operation.
- Evaluation of stimulation parameters, muscle response, and tissue tolerance.
Main Results:
- NuStim successfully implanted in an effective, low-threshold location.
- Wireless power and control enabled chronic operation of the device.
- Effective and well-tolerated skeletal muscle contractions were achieved.
Conclusions:
- Percutaneously implantable wireless microstimulators offer a promising new approach for pelvic floor muscle exercise.
- NuStim technology demonstrates potential for effective and safe treatment of stress urinary incontinence.
- Further clinical investigation is warranted to confirm efficacy in human subjects.
