The role of electrical stimulation techniques in the management of the male patient with urgency incontinence.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Overactive bladder affects 10-27% of men, a significant portion of whom report urge urinary incontinence that is inadequately treated with first-line and second-line treatments. There is thus a substantial need to critically evaluate the alternative means of clinical management.

RECENT FINDINGS: This review presents the current evidence for the use of sacral neuromodulation and percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation in the treatment of men with urge incontinence, as well as evaluates the financial implications of these treatments. Other alternative modes of electrical stimulation for urge incontinence are also briefly reviewed.

SUMMARY: Both sacral neuromodulation and percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation prove to be viable, durable options for treating patients with refractory urge incontinence. Alternative modes of stimulation are also beginning to show promise.