Although the symptoms and signs may be similar, incontinence occurs in different ways as a result of different causes. Diagnosing the underlying cause is the first step in deciding which type of treatment is best for each individual patient’s needs. Two of the most popular options for incontinence today are the bladder sling and the InterStim® device, and while they can both help stem the primary sign of incontinence leakage they’re used for two entirely different types of incontinence.
Bladder Sling
The bladder sling, or urethral sling, is just that: a sling, often made of the patient’s own tissues but sometimes made of a synthetic material, that’s positioned to provide additional support for weak pelvic floor muscles. The sling is attached to the abdominal wall and helps hold the bladder in place. As a treatment tool, it’s used for patients who have stress incontinence, leaking urine primarily during periods of physical activity or as a result of sneezing or coughing. Bladder slings have been used in millions of women and have a high degree of success – studies show more than 90 percent find their symptoms are resolved following the procedure.
InterStim®
InterStim® is used for patients with overactive bladder, a condition that’s accompanied by frequent and often uncontrollable urges to urinate, even when the bladder contains very little urine. This condition occurs as a result of damage or injury to the nerves that control bladder function and communicate the urge response to the brain. The InterStim® device works by regulating nerve stimulation so the brain does not misinterpret the signals that trigger the bladder to contract. InterStim® is associated with high levels of success in people with overactive bladder as well as those with fecal incontinence where nerves are involved.
Those are just two of the possible treatments for urinary incontinence; there are many more, including medication and physical therapy. November is National Bladder Health Awareness Month. If you’re suffering from incontinence, now is a great time to get started on treatment. Call us at (800) 771-1953 to schedule your appointment today in Middle Tennessee.