Sacral neuromodulation for bowel dysfunction: a consensus statement from the Italian group

Abstract

Analysis of the data collected reveals substantial consensus at the national level concerning all the main points with regard to the therapy. The recommendations expressed in this article can be considered as national guidelines and taken into account by the principal international implantation centers.

International Continence Society best practice statement for use of sacral neuromodulation

“…Intraoperative fluoroscopic monitoring/documentation during the implantation phase and/or postoperative documentation of the implanted hardware is recommended to document positioning of the electrode in the sacral foramen. Post‐implantation radiological imaging at routine follow up is not required, unless there is loss of efficacy potentially due to electrode dislodgement or breakage …”

“…Post-implantation radiological imaging at routine follow up is not required, unless there is loss of efficacy potentially due to electrode dislodgement or breakage. 140 24 | SUCCESSFUL OUTCOME-…”

Sacral nerve stimulation as a therapy for fecal incontinence

“…The respondents' knowledge of the literature and manufacturer's guidelines was of particular interest. Up-to-date uniform recommendations from other European countries are available in Italy and France [35][36][37], and an exchange of knowledge in this highly standardized procedure may be of great value. Evidence-based classifications of treatment options for fecal incontinence exist [2,[38][39][40] and will be updated shortly.…”

Sacral Neuromodulation for the Treatment of Faecal Incontinence: First Steps in Lithuania

“…SNM is also thought to stimulate the afferent pathway and change brain activity relevant to the continence mechanism [8]. Despite its recent introduction in coloproctology, this procedure is progressively replacing most of the older ones [9][10]. It is less invasive when compared with other techniques and it permits a 2 to 3 week period of temporary stimulation, offering an opportunity to assess its efficacy before proceeding to permanent implantation of a neuromodulation device [11][12].…”