InterStim® FAQs

Still have questions or concerns about the InterStim neurostimulator?

Dr. Shashoua answers frequently asked questions below.

 

 

 

  • Q: Am I a candidate for InterStim?
  • A: InterStim may be used to treat over active bladder (OAB), urinary retention (not caused by an obstruction), fecal incontinence and pelvic floor dysfunction.

  • Q: How does InterStim work for incomplete bladder emptying?
  • A: The nerves controlling pelvic floor contraction and bladder relaxation are stimulated, resulting in proper emptying of the bladder.

  • Q: How does InterStim work for such a wide array of symptoms?
  • A: Sacral Nerve Stimulation with InterStim is dynamic in amplitude and frequency. Following InterStim placement, nerve stimulation settings are adjusted to treat the patient’s individual symptoms.

  • Q: How does InterStim work for women with pelvic floor dysfunction (painful intercourse, incomplete emptying)?
  • A: Stimulation of the targeted nerves results in relaxation of the pelvic floor, which when improperly tensed may result in painful intercourse and urinary retention.

  • Q: Where will the incision be?
  • A: A thin incision is made over the buttock.
  • Q: What will the stimulation feel like?
  • A: Most people describe the sensation as a slight tingling or “pulling.” Stimulation should not cause pain.
  • Q: What restrictions will I have after the procedure?
  • A: There is minimal pain after the procedure and you should be able to return to your normal daily activities within a few days.
  • Q: What does the battery look like that will stay in place? How big is the device?
  • A: The device is approximately 2 inches wide and ¼ inch thick.

    interstim size

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  • Q: Will I feel the device inside of me? Will it be visible to others?
  • A: In most cases you cannot feel the device, unless you press firmly at the site of implantation. Most individuals report you cannot see an outline of the device at all.
  • Q: How long does the InterStim battery last?
  • A: The battery has a life of 4-5 years and will then be replaced.
  • Q: What is done during stage I (or PNE) of InterStim?
  • A: During stage I, or PNE (Percutaneous Nerve Evaluation), a wire, about as thick as a hair, is inserted and placed next to the sacral nerve. During the week after placement, a small portable stimulator is connected to the wire that allows you to fine tune mild electrical pulses until the proper settings are set and provide optimal symptom relief. If you are happy with InterStim after stage I, we remove this temporary wire and proceed to stage II.


  • Q: Can I shower during stage I of InterStim?
  • A: Yes. However, after stage I, there is a temporary wire that exits the skin and a bandage will be placed over the wire. This bandage may need to be replaced after a shower.
    During InterStim II, the temporary wire and bandage are removed so there will be no limitation on showering.
  • Q: What is done during stage II of InterStim?
  • A: Stage II is simply placement of the permanent InterStim battery, at the incision site made during stage I.

    interstim implanted

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  • Q: Do I have to turn the InterStim on and off for it to work properly?
  • A: No. Your doctor and InterStim team will make adjustments as needed.
  • What if I want to adjust the settings?
  • A: You can adjust the settings at home with your programmer (shown below), in a matter of minutes. We will help you to understand the process of programming settings.

    InterStim Icon

    (+ click to enlarge)

  • Q: What happens if InterStim is not successful for me?
  • A: We will talk about alternative therapies at that time. InterStim can be removed at any time.
  • Q: Can InterStim be removed if it is not working or I am having intolerable side effects?
  • A: Yes.
  • Q: Is InterStim reversible?
  • A: Yes.
  • Q: Do patients want InterStim removed or have intolerable side effects very often?
  • A: No.
  • Q: How often will I need to see my doctor for InterStim therapy?
  • A: We will see you in the office in the week following stage I and stage II and about 6 weeks after stage II. After this, we will see you as needed and then on an annual basis.
  • Q: After InterStim, can I go through a metal detector?
  • A: Yes.
  • Q: Can I have an MRI after InterStim?
  • A: No. If you need an MRI, talk with your doctor. You may require a CT, x-ray or ultrasound to avoid injury to yourself or the device.