Sacral Neuromodulation and Pudendal Somatic Afferents

The Involvement of Pudendal Somatic Afferents in Sacral Neuromodulation Assessed by Somatosensory Evoked Potentials of the Pudendal Nerve

Sacral neuromodulation is a well-excepted minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of overactive bladder and non-obstructive urinary retention.A tined lead with 4 stimulation electrodes is placed through the third or fourth sacral foramen and stimulates sacral roots in its vicinity. Since the sacral roots are mixed nerves, it is currently still unknown which nerve fibers are stimulated (autonomic vs somatic, afferent vs efferent) and what the mechanism of action is.

This study examines the involvement of pudendal somatic afferents by measuring somatosensory evoked potentials elicited by stimulation of the pudendal nerve.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Overactive bladder
• Non-obstructive urinary retention

Exclusion Criteria:

• Neurogenic disorders (e.g. cerebrovascular accident, spinal cord injury,...)