Sacral Neuromodulation for the Treatment of Pelvic Floor Disorders

AbstractPurpose of ReviewSacral neuromodulation (SNM) is an FDA-approved treatment option for several refractory pelvic floor disorders given its efficacy and safety profile. Over the past several years, numerous papers have been published on SNM ’s long-term outcomes, emerging new indications, comparisons with other treatment options, and cost effectiveness. Therefore, we aim to review these updates to the SNM literature.Recent FindingsA PUBMED ® and MEDLINE® search was performed for scientific publications on “sacral neuromodulation” and “sacral nerve stimulation” between 2011 and 2016. Recent evidence has shown that improved objective and subjective outcomes following placement of SNM are sustained over 3–5 years in the trea tment of overactive bladder symptoms and fecal incontinence with minimal adverse events. SNM has also had promising results when used in the treatment of chronic pelvic pain, interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome, constipation, and neurogenic bladder although larger, prospective trials with long-term evaluation are needed to truly establish SNM as an effective intervention for these expanding indications.SummarySNM is a well-tolerated intervention for refractory bladder and bowel dysfunction with recent long-term longitudinal studies confirming its efficacy and safety. As we gain further insight into SNM ’s mechanism of action and broader therapeutic indications, we anticipate SNM will become even more widely utilized in the t...
Source: Current Bladder Dysfunction Reports - Category: Urology & Nephrology Source Type: research