Bladder incontinence is a prevalent and often debilitating condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide, significantly impacting their quality of life. From inconvenience to embarrassment, its effects can be profound. However, advancements in medical technology have brought about promising solutions, one of which is Axonics® sacral neuromodulation therapy. KCUC’s own Dr. Sam Kuykendall was the first physician in Kansas City to implant the Axonics® Therapy system for bladder control. We’ll delve into Axonics for bladder control, what this treatment entails, how it works, what patients can expect during the process, and more.
Understanding Bladder Incontinence
Bladder incontinence, also known as urinary incontinence, is characterized by the involuntary loss of urine. This condition manifests in three main forms: stress incontinence (leakage during physical activities like coughing or sneezing), urge incontinence (sudden, intense urge to urinate followed by involuntary loss of urine), or mixed incontinence (a combination of both). Medical experts have found that overactive bladder, incontinence, and urinary retention may be caused by abnormal communication between the brain and bladder.
Axonics® Sacral Neuromodulation Therapy Can Help
Axonics® sacral neuromodulation therapy is a revolutionary treatment designed to provide long-term relief for individuals suffering from bladder incontinence. Axonics® therapy uses electrical stimulation to a sacral nerve root to modulate a neural pathway. It involves the use of a small, implantable device that delivers gentle electrical pulses to the sacral nerves, which play a crucial role in controlling bladder function.
How Axonics® for Bladder Control Works
The Axonics® device is surgically implanted under the skin. Once in place, it sends mild electrical impulses to the sacral nerves, modulating their activity and restoring proper communication between the brain and the bladder. By doing so, it helps regulate bladder function, reducing episodes of urinary urgency, frequency, and leakage.
What to Expect During Axonics® Treatment
Before undergoing Axonics® sacral neuromodulation therapy, patients first must undergo a comprehensive evaluation to determine if they are suitable candidates for the treatment. This may include a physical examination, urodynamic testing, and other diagnostic procedures.
If deemed eligible, the patient will undergo a minimally invasive surgical procedure to implant the Axonics® device. The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and can be completed in less than an hour. Following the procedure, patients may experience some discomfort or soreness at the implant site, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
Neural Stimulation Can Be Fine-Tuned
One of the best features of the Axonics device is that it can be customized to the patient’s needs. After it is implanted, patients will work closely with their healthcare team to optimize its settings to achieve the best results. This may involve several programming sessions to fine-tune the stimulation parameters based on the individual’s response and symptom improvement. Every patient is different, so being able to customize the settings for maximum efficacy increases this treatment’s success rate as well as patient satisfaction.
How Well Does Sacral Neuromodulation Therapy Work?
Numerous clinical studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of Axonics® sacral neuromodulation therapy in treating bladder incontinence. In a clinical trial, at 2 years, 93 participants (82%) achieved greater than or equal to 75% reduction in UUI (urinary urgency incontinence) episodes per day, 54% achieved greater than 90% reduction in UUI episodes per day, and 37% achieved full urinary continence. At 2 years, 94% of the participants reported they were “satisfied” with their rechargeable SNM therapy, and 93% of participants reported that they would undergo the therapy again with the same expected outcomes.
Axonics® Offers a Trial Period
Axonics® Therapy offers the ability to assess symptom improvement prior to having to undergo the full implant procedure. Patients can choose a basic or an advanced trial period to determine if the therapy will be effective before having the device implanted.
Axonics® Battery Lasts up to Fifteen Years
One of the key advantages of Axonics® therapy is its long-term durability. Unlike traditional sacral neuromodulation devices that may require frequent battery replacements, the Axonics® device boasts an extended battery life, lasting up to 15 years. This means fewer surgical interventions and greater convenience for patients.
Better Bladder Control for a Better Quality of Life
Bladder incontinence can have a profound impact on an individual’s life, but with advancements in medical technology, there is hope for long-term relief. Axonics® sacral neuromodulation therapy offers a promising solution for those struggling with this condition, providing effective symptom management and improved quality of life. If you or someone you know is living with bladder incontinence and seeking a solution that offers lasting results, Axonics® therapy may be the answer. Make an appointment with one of our board-certified urologists to learn more about Axonics for bladder control and determine if it’s right for you. Take the first step towards reclaiming control and enjoying a life free from the constraints of bladder incontinence.