Evolution in sacral neuromodulation for lower urinary tract symptoms

Lower urinary tract symptoms (symptoms of an overactive bladder or disturbed bladder emptying) have considerable impact on the quality of life of patients and involve high costs for society. Medication is not always effective. Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) is a treatment for these symptoms, which induces changes in the responsible reflex paths by electrostimulation. This dissertation has shown that this therapy is effective and safe for the long term. After 5 years, appr. 70% of the patients benefit from this therapy. It was also shown that improvements in the operation techniques and equipment that were introduced throughout the years lead to a decrease of complications. Furthermore, the first results of the implantation of another model of electrode are presented. Contrary to the ‘old’ electrode this can be placed with local anaesthesia.