Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 3, 2026
07:43
Cavernous Nerve Stimulation and Recording of Intracavernous Pressure in a Rat
Published on: April 23, 2018
Selective Motor Stimulation of the Pudendal Nerve Using Multi-Contact Cuff Electrodes: A Pre-Clinical Study in Feline
Miguel Ortiz-Lopez1,2, Amador C Lagunas1,2, Hera Akmal1,2
1Biomedical Engineering Department, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.
Neurourology and Urodynamics
|June 2, 2026
Summary
Multi-contact cuff electrodes show promise for selective pudendal nerve stimulation, potentially improving treatments for urinary incontinence by targeting specific muscles like the external urethral sphincter (EUS) and external anal sphincter (EAS). Further research will optimize this approach.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biomedical Engineering
- Urology
Background:
- Pudendal nerve stimulation is a potential therapy for urinary incontinence.
- Current methods can lead to unintended nerve activation.
- Selective recruitment of pudendal nerve motor fibers is crucial for effective therapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of multi-contact cuff electrodes for selective pudendal nerve motor fiber recruitment.
- To assess selectivity for external urethral sphincter (EUS) and external anal sphincter (EAS) activation.
- To evaluate the potential for improved incontinence treatment.
Main Methods:
- Implantation of multi-contact cuff electrodes around the pudendal nerve in feline and ovine models.
- Systematic variation of electrode configurations and stimulation amplitudes.
- Quantification of selective recruitment using selectivity indices, EUS scores, and EAS scores.
Main Results:
- Selective motor activation of EUS and/or EAS was achieved in feline and ovine models.
- Specific electrode combinations demonstrated preferential recruitment of EUS or EAS.
- Preliminary tests showed functional improvements in leak point pressure and incontinence prevention.
Conclusions:
- Multi-contact cuff electrodes enable selective activation of EUS and EAS motor fibers in the pudendal nerve.
- Optimization of stimulation parameters is needed to enhance selectivity.
- This approach holds translational potential for restoring pelvic organ control.
