Dr. Sam Kuykendall, urologist at KCUC Urology and Oncology, is the first physician to implant Medtronic’s new InterStim X™ system in the state of Missouri. The InterStim X™ system is an SNM (sacral neuromodulation) system used to help with bowel and bladder control. This new system will help patients with overactive bladder, urgency, urinary retention, urinary incontinence, anal incontinence, and accidental bowel leakage.
What Is Sacral Neuromodulation (SNM)?
The device sends electrical impulses to the sacral nerve located just above the tailbone. The sacral nerve activates or stops muscles and smaller nerves that affect bladder and bowel control by sending signals to the brain from the organs. If the brain and sacral nerves are not communicating properly, it can cause the wrong signals to be sent causing urinary and bowel problems. The InterStim system restores the normal communication by sending electrical signals to the sacral nerves. By modulating these signals, the device can reduce or eliminate bladder and bowel issues.
How Does the InterStim X™ System Work?
In the procedure, the physician implants the neurostimulator, which is about the size of a stopwatch, under the skin near the back of the hip. The stimulator is connected to a wire which is located near the sacral nerves and delivers the electrical pulses. The patient can turn the device on and off or adjust the level of stimulation through a small hand-held device.
Who Is a Candidate for the InterStim X™ System?
The best candidates for treatment are women who have tried other treatments for bladder or bowel control such as drugs, diet changes, behavior modification, pelvic floor exercises or using a catheter, but have not had adequate symptom control. The procedure is non-invasive and causes very few side-effects (most common are pain at the incision site and undesirable stimulation). Additionally, it can be removed if the patient experiences discomfort or is unsatisfied with the results.
Advantages of the InterStim X™ System
Powerful, Long-Lasting Battery
The InterStim X™ features proprietary 5th generation battery chemistry manufactured exclusively by Medtronic. That means a recharge-free neurostimulator with 10-15 years of battery life.
Easy to Read
The detailed display on the smart programmer has clearly visible information
Personalized
The smart programmer features more features and flexibility to tailor patient therapy. Patients have seven distinct programs and four custom options available
Proven
Only InterStim X™ systems are backed by more than 1,000 clinical articles, over 90 clinical studies, 25 years of SNM experience, more than 70 FDA approvals, and more than 350,000 patients treated.
Trusted
Medtronic has been partnering with physicians since 1949 and is one of the most trusted global leaders in healthcare technology. Their therapies have transformed the lives of more than 72 million people.
KCUC Bringing the Best to the Midwest
KCUC Urology and Oncology is proud to be the first to bring Medtronic’s new InterStim X™ System to Kansas City. From robotic surgery to cutting-edge treatments, we take pride in being the first to bring the forefront of medicine to the middle of the country.
We strive to provide the most effective treatments with the fewest side effects and the best outcomes. If you need urology or oncology care, visit one of our 23 locations in Kansas and Missouri. KCUC – where you see the best in KC.