Overactive Bladder
InterStim for OAB: who's a good candidate?
Here’s the answer
InterStim may fit adults with overactive bladder, urinary retention without blockage, or bowel leakage who haven't done well with other treatments.
First comes a trial, so you see if it works before a long-term implant.
Is a visit a good idea?
People who need frequent body MRIs should ask about compatibility.
If pills haven't worked, schedule a visit to see if InterStim fits you.
Some background
The device is placed in a short outpatient procedure.
Asking about PTNS?
If you’ve read about PTNS needle sessions, we don’t provide them. The tibial nerve treatment we offer is the implantable Altaviva system from Medtronic, which sits under the skin near the ankle.
Booking your visit
From McDonough to Stockbridge and Locust Grove, Henry County families visit us at our Conyers Clinic (1366 Wellbrook Circle Suite B, Conyers, GA 30012), and procedures take place at our Snellville Clinic & Surgery Center (1557 Janmar Rd, Snellville, GA 30078). Our team will be glad to help you book.
Our urologists’ approach
InterStim is a good fit for some adults, and our urologists take time to find out whether you’re one of them. We review the treatments you’ve tried, how much urgency or leakage affects your life, and other health needs such as future MRI scans. If InterStim makes sense, you start with a trial so you can judge the results in everyday life. Other options, including Botox and Altaviva, stay on the table if the trial isn’t right for you.
Coming in to see us
For the first visit, bring a bladder diary from the last few days and a list of every bladder medicine you’ve tried. We’ll check your urine and may suggest a bladder test. You’ll have plenty of time to ask how the trial and the implant work.
When a phone call helps
Call us during an InterStim trial if you notice fever, redness or drainage at the lead site, or if your symptoms change in a way that worries you.
Short video
Learn how InterStim works on bladder nerve signals in this Advanced Urology episode.
Learn more
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