An overview of sacral neuromodulation: a treatment for patients with symptoms of lower urinary tract dysfunction

Abstract

This article provides an introduction to patient selection for, and the processes involved in, sacral neuromodulation (SNM) device implantation as a treatment for urinary symptoms. SNM has been an option to treat lower urinary tract dysfunction for more than 20 years and is a treatment for both overactive bladder syndrome (OAB) and female non–obstructed chronic urinary retention (FCUR). It is recognised by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence as a therapeutic option for OAB and FCUR. SNM has its place in the pathway for the treatment of both conditions and, in the correctly assessed patient, can be the last option before considering major surgical intervention.