Sacral root neuromodulation in chronic lower urinary tract dysfunction: Preliminary reports on our clinical experience

Abstract

— Chronic lower urinary tract dysfunction not responsive to conventional therapies can be treated by sacral root neuromodulation. Before implantation of a permanent stimulator, the effect is tested by temporary implantation of a wire electrode connected to an external stimulator (PNE). We report our experience with 19 PNE and 2 permanent implants with a follow-up of 12 and 6 months, very good results and no serious side effects. A short excursus follows about PNE and the permanent implant technique and above all indications of this technique and patient selection. From our clinical experience and data, patients with excellent response to PNE, who have urethral or detrusorial instability, would appear to respond best after permanent implant.