Implantable Neuromodulation for Neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction: A Single-Institution Retrospective Study

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Neurology
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) significantly impacts patients with neurologic disorders.
• Implantable neuromodulation has shown promise in managing NLUTD symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the experience with sacral and pudendal neuromodulation in patients diagnosed with NLUTD.
• To assess the feasibility and effectiveness of neuromodulation for NLUTD.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of patients with neurogenic bladder (ICD-9/10 codes) from 2008-2020.
• Analysis of demographic and clinical data, including neurologic diagnosis, voiding symptoms, fecal incontinence, and intermittent catheterization.
• Assessment of patient progression to stage 2 implantable pulse generator (IPG) placement based on symptom improvement (>50%).

Main Results:

• Eighty-two patients with neurologic diagnoses underwent stage 1 neuromodulation.
• Common diagnoses included diabetic cystopathy, spinal surgery complications, and spinal cord injury.
• Urinary urgency and urge urinary incontinence were the most frequent symptoms. Overall, 71.95% advanced to stage 2 IPG placement.

Conclusions:

• Neuromodulation is a feasible and effective treatment option for NLUTD.
• Further research is recommended to explore the broader utilization of neuromodulation in NLUTD management.