Interstim for Overactive Bladder

An implantable treatment for Overactive Bladder (OAB) & Incontinence

Although OAB affects millions of Americans many people are reluctant to talk about it. Some people think that having an overactive bladder is just a natural part of getting older. While the symptoms of OAB may occur more often as people get older, that does not mean they have to be a normal part of aging. For many people, an overactive bladder does not have to be a part of their lives.

Discussing OAB with your physician can be the first step to getting help. Our dedicated team of medical professionals is committed to helping you on your journey through our OAB Treatment Pathway to help you obtain the highest bladder health possible.

Find Relief for Bladder Control Problems

If you’re urinating more than 8 times a day, avoiding social events, or using pads to control leaks, you may benefit from Interstim. Bladder control problems affect tens of millions of people every day. If you’re one of them, you should speak up.

Evidence suggests that breakdowns in the bladder-brain communication pathway may be a root cause of OAB and non-obstructive urinary retention. That’s why conventional treatments may not produce the results you want – they don’t directly target this miscommunication. Unlike conventional treatments, the Medtronic InterStim systems gently stimulate the sacral nerves in the pelvic area that control the bladder. This may help restore bladder-brain communication and reduce symptoms.

Interstim Care Pathway

Is Interstim Right for You?

You may be a good candidate for Medtronic Bladder Control Therapy delivered by the InterStim systems if:

You have significant OAB symptoms or non-obstructive urinary retention
You’ve tried lifestyle changes and oral medications
These therapies haven’t given you the relief you want

Say yes to the test

Take back control with an evaluation for an InterStim system

Unlike other bladder control treatments, this therapy lets you try it first with an evaluation – like a test run, not a long-term commitment.

Here’s how it works:

The simple test starts at your doctor’s office or an outpatient center.
A lead (thin wire) is inserted in the upper part of your buttock.
The lead attaches to a small external device worn discreetly under your clothes.
Stop, start, or adjust the therapy settings with an easy-to-use programmer that resembles a smartphone.
Go about most of your regular activities for 3 to 14 days
Track your symptoms to see if they improve

Complications can occur with the evaluation, including movement of the wire, technical problems with the device, and some temporary pain. Your doctor or nurse will provide you with the information regarding how to operate the test device and inform you of other precautions related to the evaluation and activity restrictions.

Get more control with the InterStim

3X greater improvements in OAB quality of life
82% of people achieved success at 5 years
Only therapy that lets you see if it works before you and your doctor decide
More than 375,000 people worldwide have chosen the Medtronic InterStim systems for more control and long-lasting relief6,7
Recharge-free and rechargeable options let you choose the right device for your lifestyle
Try it during an evaluation
Proven long-term relief

Interstim Center of Excellence Physicians

Kalpit Patel, M.D.

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Jeffrey G. Proctor, M.D.

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Edan Y. Shapiro, M.D.

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More Qualified Interstim Providers

Carl Capelouto, M.D.

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Wesley Ludwig, M.D.

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Shaya Taghechian, M.D.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is this therapy different?

You can try it before you decide, and it’s reversible if you change your mind later. And unlike injections, it doesn’t require self catheterization or repeated treatment visits.

What can this therapy do for me?

It may significantly reduce symptoms in people who have frequent urges to urinate or related frequent leaks or are unable to fully empty their bladder.

Will it cure my condition?

No. It can be effective, but it’s not a cure. If the neurostimulator is turned off or removed, symptoms can return.

What does the stimulation feel like?

Most people describe the stimulation sensation as a tingling, flutter, or vibration in the pelvic area. It should not be painful. Stimulation settings can be adjusted, and sensations will vary from person to person.

Can I have an MRI?

People with an InterStim™ system can have a full-body‡ MRI scan under certain conditions. Your doctor will determine whether you meet those conditions.

Medtronic’s proprietary SureScan™ MRI technology enables patients to get full-body‡ NG 1.5 and 3T MRI scans. It is the only sacral neuromodulation system with SureScan technology. This means:

Full-body^‡ 1.5 and 3T scans
No impedance checks required before MRI scans
Scans are allowed even if you have had out-of-range impedances
MRI mode is easy to activate or deactivate on Medtronic’s smart programmer without clinician or Medtronic interaction
Digital display for clear confirmation of MRI mode activation

Will insurance cover the costs?

Medicare and many private insurance companies cover this therapy. Talk to your doctor to learn more about your insurance coverage.