Bowel issues after anal cancer treatment: Had the interstim procedure?

in reply to @geriincary I have a Medtronic intersim device located in my sacral spine so that I can empty my bladder without using catheters. The current one I have is actually the second one, as it allows me to have an MRI. I have had great success with this device, and while it can be painful at times for me because of my drastic weight loss, and have no fat in my back, I do not want it removed which is what has been offered. At one time I was having issues with intermittent passive diarrhea and my urologist told me that the programmer could be set in a different way so that this situation could be avoided. I am very happy with my device and I would suggest that you try to watch some of the YouTube videos created by Medtronic that will address your questions and concerns. The device works, the procedure to have the device "installed" did not take very long, and you will be given instructions on how to recharge the device (weekly) and how to change the settings.
Best of luck.

Thank you so much for responding. I am glad it worked out for you. I have the test in a few to see if it works for me. But I appreciate hearing from a first-hand account. My best to you.

in reply to @geriincary Thank you. I hope it works as well for you as it has for me. Admittedly, getting a hold of Medtronic can be tasking at best, but the device itself does work very well. Let me know if I can be of further assistance. Also, I do know that my implant has a lifespan of 10 years, while the prior one had a lifespan of 5 years, and I do have to recharge the thing on a weekly basis, however it is very easy to do so.

@geriincary How did the Interstim procedure go? Is it helping? . I’m scheduled for the trial at the end of June. I’m dealing with chronic constipation/ stool leakage.

It didn't work for me. I am working with a gastroenterologist taking amitriptyline and Citrucel. I think I am getting better. Less time in the bathroom.

Sorry to hear that! But, less trips to the bathroom is a positive!
I’m hoping it helps me! 🤞

After a successful trial, I had the device implanted 10 days ago (bladder problems from anal cancer radiation 23 years ago), and it’s been miserable… from nausea to peeing every hour…can’t seem to get the settings right to recreate the trial success (Medtronic rep has been responsive and helpful).
I’m interested in hearing from anyone who had similar trial & error experiences… did it eventually work? How long did it take? Has anyone had it removed then had subsequent luck with PTNS or Emselle?
Trying not to get discouraged here!!!

I’m on interstim #3. First one was the best thing ever. 2nd one wasn’t uite as good. This 3rd is the new MRI compatible which is great but not sure if I have so much scar tissue and I do have spinal stenosis have not been able to get a setting that helps me. I’m almost tempted to have it removed. Very disappointed

@ragtop2005

I had the 1 week trial of interstim, It didn't work for me at all. I am also an anal cancer survivor (2022) So I have not been able to resolve problems with urine and bowel issues. I don't know about PTNS or Emselle can you tell me about them.

Hi, @geriincary - you'll note on this Mayo Clinic page on overactive bladder https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/overactive-bladder/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355721, it talks about percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS) about halfway down the page as a nerve stimulation treatment. Emselle perhaps was a reference to Emsella, a brand name for a type of chair using high-intensity focused electromagnetic technology.

It sounds like you are trying to address both bladder and bowel issues after your radiation and chemo? And the bowel issues are improving some with the medications the gastroenterologist has you taking now?