Aims: The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of sub-sensory amplitude settings of sacral neuromodulation therapy on overactive bladder symptoms in subjects with urinary urge incontinence.
Methods: Subjects who qualified for a neurostimulator device implant were randomized to one of three amplitude settings (50% of sensory threshold [ST], 80% of ST, and ST). Subjects completed urinary voiding diaries (3-day), International consultation on incontinence modular questionnaire-overactive bladder symptoms quality of life questionnaire, and patient global impression of improvement (PGI-I) to assess change in voiding symptoms and quality of life (QoL) from baseline through 12 weeks.
Results: Forty-eight subjects had a successful test stimulation, 46 were implanted with a neurostimulator device and 43 completed the 12-week follow-up visit. The change from baseline to 12 weeks is -3.0 urinary incontinence (UI) episodes/day (95% confidence interval [CI]: -4.4 to -1.7) for the 50% of sensory threshold group, -2.9 UI episodes/day (95% CI: -4.7 to -1.2) for 80% of sensory threshold group, and -3.6 UI episodes/day (95% CI: -5.2 to -1.9) for the sensory threshold group. In each randomized group, improvements were observed in health-related QoL, its subscales, and symptom interference. Subjects across all three randomization groups reported on the PGI-I that their bladder condition was better at 12 weeks compared to before they were treated with InterStim therapy.
Conclusion: These findings provide insights into possible advancements in the postimplantation phase of therapy with potential for improved patient comfort and increased device longevity.
Keywords: overactive bladder; quality of life; sacral neuromodulation; sensory thresholds; urinary incontinence.
© 2021 Medtronic. Neurourology and Urodynamics published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.