Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 3, 2026

Subcutaneous Trigeminal Nerve Field Stimulation for Refractory Facial Pain
Published on: May 10, 2017
Sacral Nerve Stimulation as a Therapy for Patients With Refractory Voiding and Bowel Dysfunction
Karen L Noblett1, Kristen Buono
1Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California Irvine, Orange, California.
Sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) uses electrical pulses to modulate nerves controlling bladder and bowel function. This therapy improves function for various pelvic floor disorders, including incontinence and retention.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Urology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) is a neuromodulation technique targeting sacral nerves.
- It influences reflexes controlling bladder, bowel, and pelvic floor functions.
- SNS aims to improve or restore function in patients with pelvic floor disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the history and mechanism of sacral nerve stimulation.
- To describe the implantation procedure for SNS devices.
- To discuss advancements and landmark literature in SNS therapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of sacral nerve stimulation.
- Analysis of historical data and procedural descriptions.
- Examination of current and off-label applications of SNS.
Main Results:
- SNS is approved for urgency urinary incontinence, urinary urgency-frequency, nonobstructive urinary retention, and fecal incontinence.
- The review covers the evolution of SNS over two decades.
- Off-label uses for various pelvic floor disorders are also discussed.
Conclusions:
- Sacral nerve stimulation is an established therapy for specific pelvic floor dysfunctions.
- Ongoing research and advancements continue to expand its applications.
- SNS offers a treatment option for patients with refractory symptoms.
Related Concept Videos
Total Voids in Concrete
Inflammatory Bowel Disease III: Diagnostic Studies and Management I-Nutritional Therapy
Diagnostic studies
A colonoscopy is the definitive screening test, distinguishing ulcerative colitis from other colon diseases with similar symptoms. During a colonoscopy test, inflamed mucosa with exudate ulcerations can be observed, and biopsies are taken to determine the histologic characteristics of the...
Imaging Studies VI: Voiding Cystourethrography and Cystography
Chronic Bowel Disorders: Introduction
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder affecting the gastrointestinal tract. The distinctive feature is recurrent abdominal pain associated with altered bowel movements, manifesting as constipation, diarrhea, or fluctuating between both. The...
Gene Therapy
Irritable Bowel Syndrome I: Introduction
IBS is a chronic condition that can persist over a long period or recur frequently.
The pathogenesis of IBS involves a complex interplay of the following factors:
Altered...

