Purpose: We studied the effects of sacral (S3) nerve stimulation in patients with urge incontinence due to detrusor instability.
Materials and methods: A permanent S3 foramen electrode was implanted in 18 patients (average age 46 years) who had shown a good response during temporary stimulation via a percutaneously placed wire electrode. Average followup was 29 months.
Results: The average voiding frequency and pad use per 24 hours decreased significantly. Improvement in several urodynamic parameters was noted. The correlation between symptomatic and urodynamic improvement was incomplete.
Conclusions: Neuromodulation appears to be a valuable treatment option in these patients.