Axonics® Neurostimulator for Bladder Control
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Bladder (and bowel) problems are often caused by dysfunctional sacral nerves, a group of five spinal nerves that originate from the sacrum, the triangular bone at the base of the spine.
To restore the function of your bladder and bowels, the team at Spokane Urology offers Axonics® neurostimulation therapy. This minimally invasive procedure relieves symptoms as they happen so that you can get back to your usual activities with fewer disruptions.
When It is Used
The Axonics system may be helpful for patients who aren’t having success with conservative treatments like lifestyle changes and medications for the following problems:
- Overactive bladder
- Excessive urination
- Urge incontinence
- Nonobstructive urinary retention
How It Works
The goal of treatment with the Axonics system is to restore your bowel and bladder control using gentle nerve stimulation, sometimes described as a “bladder pacemaker.”
Your Spokane Urology team first will discuss your symptoms and evaluate the health of your bowel and bladder to determine if Axonics is right for you. If yes, the next step is a trial period using a temporary system to be certain Axonics will relieve your symptoms.
If your trial period is a success, the Spokane Urology team will then place a long-term implant (1” x 2”) just beneath the skin of your upper buttock/lower back that targets the nerves that control your bladder and bowel. Implantation is minimally invasive and done on an outpatient basis.
The device has a rechargeable battery that can last up to 15 years. You control the device with an external remote to adjust your treatments to ease your symptoms as they happen.
Using the Axonics Remote
The Axonics neurostimulator remote is easy to use and conveniently fits on a keychain so that you can manage your symptoms easily and discreetly. Your remote will indicate when the Axonics neurostimulator needs to be charged.
The system uses a wireless charging system that you place over the implant site to recharge the battery. Typically, you’ll need to charge the neurostimulator once a month for less than an hour to maintain the system.
Talk with your Spokane Urology provider to find out if treatment with the Axonics neurostimulator is right for you.
