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Bladder Responses to Thoracolumbar Epidural Stimulation in Female Urethane-Anesthetized Rats with Graded Contusion
Natasha L Wilkins1, Daniel Medina-Aguiñaga1, Robert F Hoey1,2
1Department of Anatomical Sciences and Neurobiology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky, USA.
Journal of Neurotrauma
|September 12, 2024
Summary
Spinal cord epidural stimulation (scES) effectively improves bladder function in female rats with spinal cord injury (SCI). Targeted stimulation at different spinal levels enhanced bladder storage and emptying, showing promise for treating SCI-related urinary dysfunction.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Urology
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Spinal cord injury (SCI) often leads to lower urinary tract (LUT) dysfunction.
- Spinal cord epidural stimulation (scES) shows potential for functional recovery after SCI.
- Previous studies noted variability in scES responses based on injury type, sex, and stimulation parameters.
Purpose of the Study:
- To map the effects of scES on LUT function in female rats with incomplete SCI.
- To investigate the efficacy of a novel miniature electrode array for precise scES.
- To determine optimal spinal levels for stimulating bladder storage and emptying.
Main Methods:
- Female rats with T9 contusion injuries underwent scES at T13, L3, and L6 spinal levels.
- A 15-electrode array was used for stimulation at sub-motor threshold.
- Bladder function was assessed during filling and voiding cycles under anesthesia.
Main Results:
- Frequency-dependent effects of scES on LUT function were observed.
- T13 and L3 scES significantly improved bladder storage (longer inter-contractile intervals).
- L6 scES significantly enhanced bladder emptying (increased void efficiency).
Conclusions:
- Selective scES can modulate distinct spinal networks for bladder storage and emptying.
- These findings support the translational potential of scES for SCI patients with LUT dysfunction.
- scES efficacy is demonstrated across different injury severities and sexes.
