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Sacral nerve stimulation is a procedure used to treat a range of bladder and bowel disorders, including overactive bladder syndrome, urge incontinence, and faecal incontinence. The treatment, which is also known as sacral neuromodulation or sacral neurostimulation, involves implanting a small device that sends electrical signals to the sacral nerves, which control the bladder and bowel. These signals help to regulate nerve activity and improve symptoms.
At Circle Health Group, we offer private sacral nerve stimulation treatment to help patients manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. Our specialist consultants can assess your individual case and develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs.
If you are experiencing bladder or bowel symptoms and are looking for a private sacral nerve stimulation treatment, our experienced consultants are here to help. Our team is dedicated to providing high-quality, personalised care to help you feel your best. Call or book online today and you could have your initial consultation within 48 hours.
Some of the symptoms that can be helped using sacral neuromodulation include:
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Overactive bladder
- Urinary and/or faecal incontinence
- Constipation
- Difficulty emptying the bladder or bowel
- Pelvic organ prolapse
These symptoms can indicate a variety of different problems and conditions, and sacral nerve stimulation won't always be the answer. That's why it's always important to speak to a specialist, get an accurate diagnosis and from there decide what's the best treatment for your personal circumstances.
Sacral nerve stimulation has been used successfully to treat several conditions, including:
Urinary urge incontinence
Sacral nerve stimulation can help alleviate urinary urge incontinence by regulating the signals that control the bladder and pelvic floor muscles.
Urinary retention
Sacral neuromodulation can help to improve your ability to empty your bladder and relieve urinary retention.
Faecal incontinence
Sacral neurostimulation can help control bowel function by regulating the anal sphincter muscles and nerves.
Chronic pelvic pain
In some instances, the treatment can help alleviate chronic pelvic pain, including pain caused by interstitial cystitis, pudendal neuralgia, and other pelvic floor disorders.
If you're experiencing any of these conditions, a consultation with a specialist at Circle Health Group can help determine if sacral nerve stimulation is the right treatment option for you.
At Circle Health Group, we understand that seeking treatment for bladder and bowel control problems can be uncomfortable. For many people it is a big decision. We are here to help make the process as smooth as possible.
During your initial consultation, your specialist will begin by taking a thorough medical history and performing a physical examination. This will help us to better understand your symptoms and the underlying causes of your condition.
Depending on your individual case, we may recommend further tests or scans to get a better picture of your specific needs. These may include urodynamics testing, which measures the function of the bladder and urethra, or imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans.
Your first consultation is an important opportunity to ask questions and discuss your concerns with our experienced consultants. We will take the time to listen to your needs and work with you to develop an individualised treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs.
Our team of specialists has extensive experience in treating bladder and bowel control problems and we are committed to providing the highest level of care and support throughout your treatment journey. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and take the first step towards regaining control over your bladder and bowel function.
During a sacral nerve stimulation procedure, a small device called a sacral nerve stimulator (sometimes called a neuromodulator) is implanted under the skin, usually near the upper buttock area. The device sends electrical impulses to the sacral nerves, which are located near the tailbone. This can help to control symptoms related to bowel, bladder, or pelvic floor dysfunction.
Most sacral nerve stimulation procedures are performed under general anaesthesia, which means that you will be asleep during the procedure. The procedure usually takes about 30-60 minutes, depending on the patient's individual needs and circumstances.
First, the surgeon will make a small incision in the upper buttock area. They will then insert the device and attach it to a small wire, which is threaded under the skin and connected to the sacral nerves. Once the device is in place, the surgeon will test it to make sure that it is working properly.
Recovering from a sacral neuromodulator implantation procedure
After the procedure, you may experience some discomfort or soreness at the incision site. Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for the incision and manage any pain or discomfort.
Most patients can return home the same day as the procedure and can resume normal activities within a few days. However, it may take several weeks for the device to start working properly, and your surgeon will monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to the device during follow-up appointments.
It's important to note that every person is different, both the specific details of the procedure and your recovery timeline may vary based on individual needs and circumstances. Your surgeon will discuss the specifics of the procedure with you in more detail during your initial consultation.
If you are considering sacral nerve stimulation, it is important to understand the potential risks and complications involved with the procedure. While complications are generally rare, they can still occur, and include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Allergic reaction to anaesthesia
- Device failure or malfunction
- Pain at the implant site
- Nerve damage
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Unwanted changes in stimulation
- Need for additional surgeries
Be sure to discuss these risks and potential complications with your consultant before making a decision about whether sacral nerve stimulation is right for you. Your consultant can help you understand the benefits and risks of the procedure, as well as any alternative treatments that may be available.
How long does sacral nerve stimulation take to work?
The effectiveness of sacral nerve stimulation varies from person to person, but many people begin to experience improvements within a few weeks of starting treatment. It may take up to three months to see the full benefits of the treatment.
What is a sacral nerve stimulator?
A sacral nerve stimulator, or sacral neuromodulator, is a small device that is implanted under the skin, usually in the buttocks area. It works by sending mild electrical impulses to the sacral nerves, which can help to improve bladder, bowel, and pelvic pain symptoms.
How to stimulate sacral nerve?
Sacral nerve stimulation typically involves the implantation of a sacral nerve stimulator device, which sends electrical impulses to the sacral nerves. However, some exercises and lifestyle changes may help to stimulate the sacral nerves naturally, such as pelvic floor exercises, yoga, and meditation. It's important to discuss any new exercises or lifestyle changes with your healthcare provider before starting them.
How to stimulate the sacral nerve naturally?
Some exercises and lifestyle changes may help to stimulate the sacral nerves naturally, such as pelvic floor exercises, yoga, and meditation. However, it's important to note that natural methods may not be as effective as sacral nerve stimulation treatment for some people.
When you choose to go private with Circle Health Group, you can expect:
- Flexible appointment times and locations to fit your routine
- The freedom to choose which hospital and consultant suit your needs
- Personalised, consultant-led treatment plans tailored to your individual needs
- Comfortable and safe private facilities maintained by expert multidisciplinary teams
- Private ensuite rooms as standard and delicious healthy meals
- Affordable, fixed-price packages with aftercare included
- Flexible payment options to help you spread the cost of your care
If you would like to learn more about sacral nerve stimulation, book your appointment online today or call a member of our team directly.
Content reviewed by Circle in-house team in March 2023. Next review due March 2026.
- Sacral Nerve Stimulation (sacral nerve stimulation), Bladder & Bowel Community
- Sacral nerve stimulation (neuromodulation), NHS Cambridge University Hospitals
- Sacral Neuromodulation, NHS North Bristol
- Sacral nerve stimulation, The London Clinic
- Sacral nerve stimulation for faecal incontinence, NICE
- Sacral Neuromodulation, NIH
