A Simple, In-Office Test for Overactive Bladder Relief
If you are struggling with overactive bladder (OAB)—including urgency, frequency, or urge incontinence—you may be a candidate for a percutaneous trial of InterStim™ sacral neuromodulation.
At Prestige Medical Group, we offer this quick, minimally invasive in-office procedure to help determine if nerve stimulation therapy can significantly improve your bladder control—before committing to a permanent implant.
What Is InterStim™ Therapy?
InterStim™ therapy is a type of sacral neuromodulation, which uses gentle electrical stimulation to regulate the nerves that control the bladder.
These sacral nerves play a key role in:
- Bladder storage
- Urinary urgency
- Bladder emptying
When these signals are not working properly, it can lead to symptoms of overactive bladder. InterStim helps “reset” these signals to improve bladder control.
What Is the Percutaneous Trial?
The percutaneous trial (also called a PNE trial) is a short-term test that allows you to “try” InterStim therapy before moving forward with a permanent implant.
This trial helps answer one key question:
👉 Will this treatment work for you?
Who Is a Candidate?
You may be a candidate if you experience:
- Urinary urgency
- Frequent urination
- Urge incontinence (leakage before reaching the bathroom)
- Overactive bladder not improved with medications
- Intolerance to bladder medications
This trial is typically recommended after conservative treatments have not provided adequate relief.
What to Expect During the Procedur
The percutaneous trial is performed in the office and is quick and well tolerated.
During your visit:
- You will lie comfortably on your stomach
- Local anesthesia is used to numb the skin on your lower back
- A small needle is used to identify the sacral nerve that controls bladder function
- A thin wire is placed on each side near the nerve
- The wires are connected to a small external control device
⏱ Procedure time: About 20 minutes
⏱ Total appointment time: Approximately 1 hour
What Happens After the Procedure?
After the wires are placed:
- The wires remain external and connected to a small device
- You will go home the same day
- You can drive yourself to and from the appointment
- No preparation is required before the procedure
Trial Period:
- Typically lasts 3 to 7 days
- You will track your urinary symptoms during this time
- You will take antibiotics during the trial period
This allows you and your provider to evaluate how well the therapy improves your symptoms.
What Does the Device Feel Like?
Most patients describe the stimulation as:
- A mild pulsing or tingling sensation
- Comfortable and adjustable
The goal is not discomfort, but gentle nerve modulation to improve bladder control.
How Do We Know If It’s Working?
The trial is considered successful if you experience:
- Reduced urgency
- Fewer trips to the bathroom
- Decreased leakage episodes
- Improved quality of life
Typically, a 50% or greater improvement in symptoms is considered a positive result.
What Happens If the Trial Is Successful?
If you experience significant improvement, you may be a candidate for a permanent InterStim implant, which is placed under the skin and provides long-term symptom control.
If the trial is not successful, the wires are simply removed, and alternative treatments can be explored.
Benefits of the Percutaneous Trial
- Minimally invasive
- No incisions
- Quick in-office procedure
- No downtime
- Reversible and temporary
- Helps avoid unnecessary permanent procedures
This trial allows you to make an informed decision about your treatment.
Are There Any Risks?
The procedure is very safe, but potential risks may include:
- Mild discomfort at the insertion site
- Temporary soreness
- Infection (rare, minimized with antibiotics)
- Wire displacement
Your provider will review all risks and answer any questions before your procedure.
Why Choose Prestige Medical Group?
At Prestige Medical Group, we specialize in advanced, minimally invasive treatments for bladder conditions. We focus on:
- Personalized care plans
- Evidence-based treatments
- Patient comfort and convenience
- Clear guidance every step of the way
We understand how disruptive overactive bladder can be—and we are here to help you regain control.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the procedure painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort due to local anesthesia.
Do I need to prepare beforehand?
No. There is no preparation required.
Can I drive myself home?
Yes. You may drive yourself to and from the procedure.
How long does the trial last?
Typically 3 to 7 days.
What happens to the wires after the trial?
They are easily removed in the office.
Will insurance cover this?
Many insurance plans cover InterStim trials for appropriate candidates. Our team can help verify your benefits.
Schedule Your Evaluation
If you are struggling with overactive bladder and want to explore a treatment that goes beyond medications, a percutaneous InterStim trial may be the next step.
Prestige Medical Group
18302 Irvine Blvd #200
Tustin, CA 92780
📞 (949) 825-7650
🌐 prestigemedigroup.com