Bladder pacemaker surgery, medically known as sacral neuromodulation, is an advanced treatment method based on stimulating the nerves that regulate urinary control with a special device (pacemaker system). The aim is to bring problems such as urinary incontinence, frequent urination and a sudden urge under control by reorganizing the communication between the bladder and the brain.
Purpose
- To reduce overactive bladder symptoms
- To bring urinary incontinence episodes under control
- To suppress the sudden urge
- To functionally increase bladder capacity
- To improve the patient’s quality of life
How Does It Work?
- A mild electrical stimulus is given to the sacral nerves in the spinal region
- This stimulus regulates the bladder control center
- Abnormal nerve signals are balanced
- The overactivity of the bladder muscle is reduced
Application Stages
1. Test (trial) period
- A temporary electrode is placed
- The patient’s response is observed for a few days
to weeks - If successful, the permanent pacemaker stage is started
2. Permanent pacemaker placement
- A small device (pacemaker) is placed under the skin
- The electrodes are connected to the sacral nerves
- The device can be controlled externally
Advantages
1. The possibility of control without medication
- It can reduce long-term use of medication
2. A nerve-regulating effect
- It reorganizes the bladder’s nerve signals
3. A significant increase in quality of life
- It strengthens social life and comfort
4. A reversible system
- The device can be removed or adjusted if necessary
Who Is It Suitable For?
- Overactive bladder
- Urinary incontinence (urge incontinence)
- Frequent urination of unexplained cause
- Patients who do not respond to medication
Possible Risks
- Infection
- Displacement of the electrode
- Need for device adjustment
- Rarely, pain or a feeling of discomfort
The Postoperative Period
- Short recovery time
- The device can be adjusted externally
- Fast return to daily life
- Requires regular check-ups
Clinical Summary
The bladder pacemaker (sacral neuromodulation) is an advanced technology treatment option that works through the nervous system in medication-resistant bladder control problems. With correct patient selection, it can provide significant improvement in urinary control and a strong increase in quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
There is a permanent version, but it can be removed if desired.
No, it is applied with minimally invasive surgical methods.
First, the response is evaluated in the test stage, and then a permanent effect is achieved.
It provides a significant reduction in many patients and can provide complete control in some patients.
On the contrary, it usually significantly improves quality of life.
