Effectiveness of transcutaneous tibial nerve stimulation on overactive bladder treatment

There is no consensus on the effectiveness, the sites of application and, optimal dosage and frequency of attendance of transcutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (tTNS) on the treatment of overactive bladder. The aim of the study was to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of eight weeks lasting transcutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (TNS) treatment and its effects on the quality of life of the patients.

In this cross-sectional study conducted between September 2022 and December 2023 at a tertiary care center, 56 patients with overactive bladder were allocated to receive transcutaneous tibial nerve stimulation or sham therapy weekly for eight weeks; 30 of them had transcutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (study group) and remaining 26 patients formed the control group. Overactive Bladder Questionnaire Awareness tool V8 (OAB-v8), International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICIQ-UI SF), and Visual Analog scale (VAS) scales were used for evaluation of bothersome degree. Patients who received tTNS therapy have been evaluated at 3rd and 6th and 12th months and time-dependent change in the Incontinence Quality of Life Questionnaire (I-QOL) scores were determined.

After eight weeks of tibial nerve stimulation treatment, a statistically significant increase was found in the OAB -V8, ICI-Q and VAS scores compared to the sham therapy group (p<0,05). Minimum 50% increase was achieved in I-QOL scores at the 3rd and 6th months of treatment, but the improvement was less than 50% at the12th month.

Transcutaneous TNS is an effective treatment option for women with OAB, but its long-term effectiveness is insufficient. Therefore, rescue sessions to be held at 6-8 month intervals can be used to increase patient satisfaction.