A new technique of laparoscopic implantation of stimulation electrode to the pudendal nerve for treatment of refractory fecal incontinence and/or overactive bladder with urinary incontinence.

STUDY

OBJECTIVE

To show a new technique of laparoscopic implantation of electrodes for stimulation of the pudendal nerve for treatment of fecal incontinence and/or overactive bladder with urinary incontinence.

DESIGN

Step-by-step explanation of the technique using videos and pictures (educative video).

SETTING

Hyperactivity of the bladder with urinary incontinence, in particular the non-neurogenic form of the condition, but also fecal incontinence may affect millions of women worldwide without any comorbidities and in particular without any neurologic disorders or prolapsed organs. First-line conservative treatments do not always result in sufficient improvement of symptoms and are often associated with disabling adverse effects leading to treatment failure. Electrical stimulation of the pelvic nerves has emerged as an alternative and attractive treatment in refractory cases. A novel technique of implantation of an electrode to the pudendal nerve has been developed for treatment of fecal incontinence and of hyperactivity of the bladder with urinary incontinence. The laparoscopic approach is the only technique that enables placement of an electrode in direct contact with the endopelvic portion of the pudendal nerve within the protection of the pelvis.

INTERVENTION: Laparoscopic transperitoneal implantation of a stimulation electrode to the endopelvic portion of the pudendal nerve.

CONCLUSION

This technique of transperitoneal placement of an electrode to the endopelvic portion of the pudendal nerve is an effective, safe, and reproducible day procedure for treatment of intractable hyperactive bladder, urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, and a combination of both forms of incontinence.