By Rolando Rivera, MD, FACS
Do you ever find yourself struggling to hold it in? Or do you plan your social outings based on which local venues have the cleanest restrooms? If you are living with bladder symptoms of urgency, frequency, and leakage, it could be a common condition called overactive bladder (OAB).
The incidence of OAB is staggering and growing it is more common than diabetes, affecting nearly one in six. Many sufferers are frustrated and embarrassed and limit their lives socially, professionally, and personally. However, only 33 percent of those suffering seek treatment and as many as seven in 10 stop using medications within six months due to intolerable side effects or unsatisfying results.
NEUROMODULATION:
A DIFFERENT WAY TO TREAT OAB
Your OAB symptoms may be caused by a miscommunication between the brain and bladder. The treatment options you tried in the past may not have addressed this issue, but neuromodulation does.
If you’ve tried fluid and diet changes, Kegel exercises, physical therapy, or medications and haven’t been happy with the results, it may be time for a Medtronic Bladder Control Therapy, delivered by the NURO™ System.
Gulfshore Urology is one of the first offices in the area to offer the new Medtronic NURO™ System that delivers percutaneous tibial neuromodulation (PTNM) for the treatment of overactive bladder with symptoms of urinary urgency, urinary frequency, and urge incontinence. PTNM, a periodic, office-based procedure, is minimally invasive and proven to restore bladder function without the side effects of medication. It is thought to correct an underlying miscommunication between the bladder and brain. The most common side effects of PTNM are temporary and include mild pain or skin inflammation at or near the stimulation site.
Expect a Comfortable Experience
PTNM is delivered through the NURO System at your doctor’s office. Initial treatment consists of 12 weekly, 30-minute sessions.
The NURO System delivers therapy through an acupuncture-like needle placed in the skin near your ankle. The sensation is not painful, although you may feel a slight tingling in your heel.
You’ll be free to read, listen to music, or catch up on email during the therapy session.
Benefits of Neuromodulation
PTNM has significantly improved people’s quality of life, helping them go to the bathroom less often, have fewer accidents and regain confidence in their control. You can achieve lasting OAB relief without the side effects of medication, or the possibility of self-catheterization.
Talk with your doctor or call Gulfshore Urology to determine if neuromodulation is right for you.
Gulfshore Urology
239.333.3200
GulfshoreUrology.com
Naples
955 10th Ave North
Naples, FL 34102
Bonita Springs
28930 Trails Edge Blvd.
Bonita Springs, FL 34134
Marco Island
40 S. Heathwood Drive
Marco Island, FL 34145