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Anyone have sacral neuromodulation (InterSTIM) for bladder issues?
I have a neurogenic bladder with idiopathic urinary retention. I’ve had two cystoscopies that were negative for problems except my bladder is floppy and enlarged. I’ve been through urodynamics and my bladder has limited functionality. They’ve recommended the MedTronic InterSTIM (I believe that is correct).
I’m reluctant to proceed with this because I want to know what caused this problem. Is it the same reason I have IBS-C? I understand idiopathic means they don’t know why, but I don’t want to focus on the problem if it’s part of a bigger picture. Is it possible I have a neurological disease like Parkinson’s or MS?
I’d sincerely appreciate hearing from others who’ve experienced this?
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Does anyone have the Medtronic InterSTIM? Is it working well for you?
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1 ReactionI am also going through the same problem since about almost 6-7 years. I have seen more than 6-7 urologists. I have been through several procedures. Drugs have not helped me a bit. Procedures like Urolift or TURP (I hope I am using
The correct acronym). One Urologist strongly recommended the InterSTIM. It is fairly new procedure. The patient has to tolerate carrying all the time on the back of your body. I thought this would be inconvenient. If anybody has any experience of using this InterSTIM device, I would like to know. Pl. respond
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3 ReactionsHas anyone had the bladder pacemaker Interstem inserted and how has it improved your life
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1 ReactionHello, @janetexmsrrose. There are a few on Mayo Clinic Connect about InterStim that you might want to check out:
- Interstim for urinary retention https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/interstim-for-urinary-retention/
- InterSTIM https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/interstim/
Has your doctor suggested this procedure for you?
@klp yes she wanted to do it 4 years ago but my incontinence has been worse lately so I am thinking about it but would love to hear from someone who is living with it
@cindybp Hi, I just had the Interstim surgery this past Monday 9/22; it is working, but I need to wait for my post op appointment to start making adjustments. During my initial trial, I did feel about a 50% improvement in my frequency/urgency symptoms, but so far post surgery it's not been that good... again, hoping for better performance once we start making adjustments.
I see you wrote this back in May, have you had surgery since then?
Thank you for writing. I have opted not to follow the recommendation for the InterSTIM.
I am taking Methenamine to prevent UTIs and have been very satisfied with this approach for my problem. My bladder is under active and thus oversized and my issue is non-urgency. I drink about 100 oz water daily so I go regularly. I’m retired so I think nothing of it. My previous life as an Ed Tech at school no doubt contributed to my condition.
I hope you post again to let me know how you make out with your new device. You’re the first person I’ve ever heard from. Thanks again.
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1 Reaction@cdhmri5
Hi
I am an 82 year old male going through the InterStim test for a week next tuesday, 11/4/2025. I am curious about how you feel about the InterStim now. Did the performance improve after adjustments?
thanks for any advice you can give
@cindybp
Hello Cindy,
My name is Heather, and I currently have InterStim. I'm currently on my third Medtronic Sacral Neuromodulations Therapy devices. The latest implant date for me was 10/2023.
So, I'm happy to help answer any questions you may have.
I have the InterSTIM device. The battery lasted for a year and cannot be recharged. I think I am going to have the device removed. Was not all that helpful. Good luck!