The FDA is allowing sale of a new device to prevent incontinence, the Urgent NeuroModulation System from Uroplasty. Every week for thirty minutes, a patient would undergo the following fascinating procedure:
The percutaneous needle is inserted approximately 2 inches (5cm) cephalad to the medial malleous. After the lead wire and electrode are attached, the Urgent-PC Stimulator is turned on and amplitude is slowly increased until the patient’s large toe starts to curl, the toe digits fan out, or the entire foot extends, indicating proximity to the nerve bundle. The Stimulator produces an adjustable electrical pulse that travels up to the sacral nerve plexus via the tibial nerve. Amplitude is then reduced slightly and treatment is continued for 30 minutes.
Among other functions, the sacral nerve plexus regulates bladder and pelvic floor function. The patient is treated once per week for 30 minutes. After approximately 12-weeks, significant reductions in urge frequency and intensity have been reported, as well as pain reduction when used for pain management. Treatment frequency may be slowly reduced while closely observing the patient for the return of symptoms. If symptoms reappear or increase in severity, return to the last previously effective treatment schedule.
More from CystoMedix, the company that made the Urgent NeuroStimulator before being bought by Uroplasty…