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Do you struggle with bladder or bowel incontinence? If so, you’re not alone. One in six adults have an overactive bladder, and one in 12 experience fecal incontinence. At Mission City Urology in San Antonio, Texas, board-certified urologist Arpan Satsangi, MD, PhD, and the medical staff use cutting-edge InterStim™ technology to eliminate problematic urine and bowel leaks. Schedule an evaluation today by calling the office or requesting an appointment online.
InterStim Q & A
What is InterStim technology?
The InterStim system is a highly effective treatment that strengthens bladder and bowel control, reducing incontinence to improve your quality of life. This treatment targets the sacral nerves to better control bowel and bladder function, offering long-lasting relief without invasive procedures or extensive downtime.
How does InterStim work?
InterStim technology works to reduce symptoms of incontinence using an implantable device that sends electrical pulses to your sacral nerves. The pulses reduce incontinence when lifestyle changes alone haven’t eliminated crippling bladder or bowel leaks.
Am I a candidate for InterStim?
Dr. Satsangi reviews your symptoms, discusses your medical history, completes a physical exam, and orders diagnostic tests to learn which type of incontinence you struggle with and its underlying cause. You can try InterStim therapy for about a week to determine if it will be an effective long-term treatment.
What symptoms do bladder and bowel dysfunction cause?
The symptoms of bladder or bowel dysfunction include:
- Leaking urine or feces
- Incomplete bladder emptying
- Difficulty urinating or having a bowel movement
- Inability to hold urine or feces
- Frequent urges to urinate or have a bowel movement
- Excessive trips to the bathroom
You could develop depression, anxiety, or other mental health problems because of incontinence or skip out on your favorite activities, fearful of embarrassing accidents.
What should I expect during InterStim placement?
The first step is the InterStim trial period. Dr. Satsangi places leads near the sacral nerves that communicate with your bowel and bladder, gently stimulating them to maximize their function. You’ll wear a belt with an external device during the trial phase. If the InterStim trial is successful, you’ll move on to implanting the permanent InterStim device.
Dr. Satsangi places the permanent InterStim device beneath your skin during a minor surgery. During the stimulation (which is adjustable), you could feel some tingling, pulling, or a fluttering sensation in your pelvic area.
An InterStim device can last 10-15 years. Call the Mission City Urology office anytime throughout treatment if you have questions.
Schedule an evaluation at Mission City Urology today by phone or request an appointment online to determine if InterStim is right for you.