Step 1: InterStim Therapy Evaluation- Stories of Control
Learn about the experience of others with bladder control problems during the InterStim Therapy evaluation (also called the "trial assessment"). These statements recount the experiences of patients who are receiving neurostimulation for the treatment of bladder control problems. Please bear in mind that the experiences are specific to each particular person. Not everyone who receives InterStim Therapy will receive the same results as the patients in these stories.
Susan W., Urge incontinence
"As soon as my therapy was turned on I experienced for the first time the feeling of a full bladder—and I was absolutely thrilled!"
Sarah's Story
Evaluation
Sarah H., Urge incontinence
"My test stimulation period was interesting. It involved a lot of different changes to my settings to try to figure out which one was going to work."
Beckie H., Urinary retention
"Looking back, I should have done it sooner. I noticed results immediately!"
Barbara's Story
Evaluation
Barbara B., Urge incontinence
"When I realized I wasn't wet, I had hope. That 4-letter word was mine."
Ellen G., Urgency-frequency
"Once I had some results, I didn't hesitate to go on to long-term therapy. That's the beauty of InterStim Therapy – you don't go on to step 2 unless you pass step 1. I was really glad to have a chance to see that it would work."
Loraine's Story
Evaluation
Loraine H., Urge incontinence
"I noticed a difference right away in my bladder habits. There was no urgency – I just knew I had to go to the bathroom. It just felt what I remembered normal feeling like."
Linda's Story
Evaluation
Linda H., Urinary retention
"I'm very hopeful that this is going to be successful. Because I don't lose anything, even if this isn't successful."
Elaine H., Urgency-frequency
"I finally said, 'This is something that might help me, so I should give it a try. If it doesn't work, my doctor told me I could always have it removed.'"
Jane H., Urgency-frequency
"Once I understood it was a neurological problem, a neurological solution like electrical nerve stimulation made sense to me."
Next: Step 2: Long-term InterStim Therapy: Stories of Everyday Freedom
Medtronic invited these patients to share their stories candidly. Not everyone who receives InterStim Therapy will receive the same results as the patients in these stories. Talk with your doctor to determine if sacral nerve stimulation is right for you. In addition to risks related to a surgical procedure, complications associated with InterStim Therapy can include pain at the implant sites, new pain, infection, lead (thin wire) movement/migration, device problems, interactions with certain other devices or diagnostic equipment such as MRI, undesirable changes in urinary or bowel function, uncomfortable stimulation (sometimes described as a jolting or shocking feeling), and others. Surgery is required to remove the InterStim Therapy system. Please refer to Important Safety Information. Always discuss the potential risks and benefits of the therapy with your physician. This therapy is not for everyone. A prescription is required.
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