Use of New Rechargeable Battery and MRI-Friendly Technologies in Sacral Neuromodulation Systems to Treat Fecal Incontinence

Abstract

Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) is a minimally invasive therapeutic technique that has been used to effectively treat overactive bladder and bowel dysfunction. There have been, however, several obstacles with standard, non-rechargeable SNM devices such as frequent battery replacement and complications with the conditional safety for full-body Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Recently, rechargeable and MRI-friendly technologies have been introduced into SNM devices to be used in the treatment of fecal incontinence. Though rechargeable batteries have been utilized recently for treating overactive bladder and urinary dysfunction, the implementation of these new technologies into the treatment of bowel or fecal incontinence is still an emerging topic. Despite its relatively new appearance to the field, previous reports indicate that the implementation of rechargeable batteries and MRI-friendly technologies in SNM systems could provide a wide range of benefits to patients with fecal incontinence. This mini review is based on recently conducted experimental studies and will assess the benefits and limitations that new technologies in sacral neuromodulation impose in treating fecal incontinence.