Broken Sacral Neuromodulation Lead Migration Into the Sigmoid Colon: A Case Report

Female Pelvic Med Reconstr Surg. 2018 Nov/Dec;24(6):e49-e50. doi: 10.1097/SPV.0000000000000601.

Abstract

Sacral neuromodulation is an effective treatment of urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, and idiopathic urinary retention. The procedure is considered low risk with overall low complication rates. This report describes a 40-year-old woman who underwent sacral neuromodulation explant and full-system implant for weaning efficacy of her device. During device removal, the tined lead broke and was left in situ. Four months later, she was diagnosed as having a wound infection at the site of the retained lead. Imaging revealed lead fragment migration into the sigmoid colon. A colocutaneous fistula was noted soon thereafter. The retained lead was removed during a colonoscopy and the fistula healed. A retained lead can result in migration through the peritoneum and into the colon. This can be managed with assistance from colorectal or gastroenterology consultants.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Colon, Sigmoid*
  • Colonic Diseases / etiology
  • Cutaneous Fistula / etiology
  • Electrodes, Implanted / adverse effects*
  • Equipment Failure*
  • Female
  • Foreign-Body Migration / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Intestinal Fistula / etiology
  • Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation / adverse effects*
  • Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation / instrumentation
  • Urinary Incontinence / therapy