Urinary Incontinence Surgery

What is Urinary Incontinence?

Urinary incontinence is the loss of bladder control, leading to unintentional urine leakage. Surgical treatment options include sling procedures, bladder neck suspension, and artificial urinary sphincter implantation. These procedures aim to support the urethra and improve bladder control.

Effectiveness:

• 93% of patients were satisfied with their therapy
• 90% of patients experienced a ≥50% reduction in UUI(Urge urinary incontinence (UUI)) symptoms
• Less than 2% of patients reported discomfort at the implant site

Advantages:

• Minimally invasive and reversible: The device can be turned off or removed if it does not work or is no longer needed.
• Long-lasting: The implantable device can function for years and only needs occasional adjustments or replacement of the battery, which has a 15-year life.

What to Expect

Pre-Operative Instructions

Patients will undergo a thorough evaluation, including urodynamic studies and possibly cystoscopy. Pre-operative instructions may include avoiding certain medications and fasting before surgery.

The Procedure

The surgical procedure varies based on the type of incontinence. Sling procedures involve placing a mesh or tissue sling to support the urethra. Bladder neck suspension lifts and secures the bladder neck. An artificial urinary sphincter is implanted to provide control over urinary flow.

Post-Operative Care

Post-operative care includes monitoring for urinary retention, infection, and ensuring proper function of any implanted devices. Patients may need to follow specific instructions regarding physical activity and catheter use during the recovery period.

Our Patient Testimonials

Dr. Sasse is the best surgeon. He has a kind bed side manner.

- June Kelly

I’ve had an absolutely amazing experience with Dr Sasse’s office! Highly recommend!!!

- Cheyenne Bernardo

Dr sasse and his staff are very wonderful people that make you feel love and cared for during everything

- Lottie Erickson

Fantastic staff, all of the patients and they get to know each one

- Sara Davies

The office staff was professional, the doctor's office was very clean and welcoming, and Dr. Sasse was an excellent doctor that answered all my questions.

- Brian C

Everything You Need to Know About Sacral Nerve Modulation

How Does Sacral Nerve Modulation Work?

Dr. Sasse’s method for sacral nerve modulation delivers gentle electrical stimulation to the nerves that manage bladder and bowel function. This can help restore normal control and significantly improve symptoms.

The Evaluation Phase:

To determine if sacral nerve modulation is suitable for you, you'll first undergo a brief trial period using a temporary device. This evaluation allows you to experience the potential symptom relief that the therapy could offer before deciding on long-term treatment.

Long-term Therapy:

If you and Dr. Sasse agree that sacral nerve modulation is the right option, a minimally invasive outpatient procedure will be performed to implant a small device just under the skin in the upper buttock area.

Who is a Good Candidate for Sacral Nerve Modulation?

You and Dr. Sasse will decide together whether sacral nerve modulation is a good fit for your condition.

This therapy is approved for individuals suffering from:

- Overactive bladder (OAB) – A frequent, urgent need to urinate that may lead to urinary incontinence (leakage).
- Urinary urgency frequency – The need to urinate eight or more times per day.
- Urinary urgency incontinence (UUI) – Difficulty controlling the urge to urinate before reaching the restroom.
- Fecal (bowel) incontinence – Sudden, strong urges to pass stool that result in leakage before reaching the toilet.
- Nonobstructive urinary retention (UR) – Trouble emptying the bladder, often leading to frequent urination or difficulty starting to urinate.

Sacral nerve modulation is generally recommended for patients who have not had success with more conservative treatments such as lifestyle modifications, physical therapy, or medications.

When is Sacral Nerve Modulation Not Appropriate?

Sacral nerve modulation may not be suitable for:

- Stress incontinence.
- Urinary symptoms caused by mechanical blockages like benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), cancer, or urethral strictures.
- Patients who do not show sufficient improvement during the initial evaluation period.
- Individuals with cognitive impairments that could prevent effective management of the therapy.
- Pregnant women, unborn fetuses, or during labor and delivery.
- Pediatric patients (under 18 years old for fecal incontinence, and under 16 years old for OAB and UR).
- Patients whose urinary symptoms stem from neurological diseases such as multiple sclerosis or diabetes.

Read Dr. Sasse's official white paper publication on Axonics Sacral Nerve Modulation Device here