Genital Nerve Research Articles

168 - Dorsal Genital Nerve stimulation in patients with overactive bladder syndrome. A feasibility study with the novel UCon neurostimulator

168 - Dorsal Genital Nerve stimulation in patients with overactive bladder syndrome. A feasibility study with the novel UCon neurostimulator

Short-Term Dorsal Genital Nerve Stimulation Increases Subjective Arousal in Women With and Without Spinal Cord Injury: A Preliminary Investigation

ObjectivesFemale sexual dysfunction (FSD) affects an estimated 40% of women. Unfortunately, FSD is understudied, leading to limited treatment options for FSD. Neuromodulation has shown some success in alleviating FSD symptoms. We developed a pilot study to investigate the short-term effect of electrical stimulation of the dorsal genital nerve and tibial nerve on sexual arousal in healthy women, women with FSD, and women with spinal cord injury (SCI) and FSD. Materials and MethodsThis study comprises a randomized crossover design in three groups: women with SCI, women with non-neurogenic FSD, and women without FSD or SCI. The primary outcome measure was change in vaginal pulse amplitude (VPA) from baseline. Secondary outcome measures were changes in subjective arousal, heart rate, and mean arterial pressure from baseline. Participants attended one or two study sessions where they received either transcutaneous dorsal genital nerve stimulation (DGNS) or tibial nerve stimulation (TNS). At each session, a vaginal photoplethysmography sensor was used to measure VPA. Participants also rated their level of subjective arousal and were asked to report any pelvic sensations. ResultsWe found that subjective arousal increased significantly from before to after stimulation in DGNS study sessions across all women. TNS had no effect on subjective arousal. There were significant differences in VPA between baseline and stimulation, baseline and recovery, and stimulation and recovery periods among participants, but there were no trends across groups or stimulation type. Two participants with complete SCIs experienced genital sensations. ConclusionsTo our knowledge, this is the first study to measure sexual arousal in response to short-term neuromodulation in women. This study indicates that short-term DGNS but not TNS can increase subjective arousal, but the effect of stimulation on genital arousal is inconclusive. This study provides further support for DGNS as a treatment for FSD.

Pudendal neuralgia

Pudendal neuralgia is the most common type of neurogenic chronic pelvic pain and is defined as a chronic neuropathic pain syndrome caused by compression and/or neuropathy of the genital nerve and localized in the area of its sensory innervation. Pudendal neuralgia negatively affects daily activity and reduces the quality of life. The diagnosis of pudendal neuralgia is established on the basis of clinical manifestations and examination data in accordance with the Nantes criteria, while instrumental methods (ultrasound, magnetic resonance and computed tomography, electrodiagnostic methods) do not allow verifying the diagnosis due to significant limitations. Currently, there are no unambiguous recommendations and standards for the treatment of pudendal neuralgia, however, a combination of different methods and a personalized approach allows in some cases to achieve significant success and long-term pain control. The article highlights in detail the anatomical features of the pudendal nerve, examines the possibilities and stages of diagnosis of pudendal neuralgia, and provides an overview of therapeutic methods from the standpoint of evidence-based medicine.

Evolving types of pudendal neuromodulation for lower urinary tract dysfunction.

Sacral neuromodulation and posterior tibial nerve stimulation for lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) and overactive bladder yield good and reliable results. However, neuromodulation research is continuously evolving because there is still need for more patient-friendly treatment options in the therapeutic management of LUTD. Pudendal neuromodulation (PNM) has been emerging as a promising alternative treatment option for the last few decades. The aim of this study is to review the current state of the art of PNM. A wide literature search was conducted in the field of PNM using Medline through the PubMed database and Elsevier using the Scopus database; a critical review of the results was then carried out. PNM has been studied in its various possible aspects: percutaneous PNM, transrectal/transvaginal PNM, and both percutaneous and transcutaneous dorsal genital nerve stimulation. Each technique was found to result in promising improvements in different clinical outcomes, with some trials reporting even better results than sacral neuromodulation. As a result of a comparison between the various PNM techniques with both sacral neuromodulation and posterior tibial nerve stimulation, we think that PNM should be seen as seriously promising, and we believe it will expand the treatment options for overactive bladder. Even though several studies accordingly showed PNM to be safe and effective, a systematic review and meta-analysis were not feasible. PNM in its various techniques is a promising treatment for LUTD. Nevertheless, further research is needed to include it in treatment algorithms.

Acute suppression of lower limb spasm by sacral afferent stimulation for people with spinal cord injury: A pilot study.

Lower limb spasm and spasticity may develop following spinal cord injury (SCI), causing hyper-excitability and increased tone, which can impact function and quality of life. Pharmaceutical interventions for spasticity may cause unwanted side effects such as drowsiness and weakness. Invasive and non-invasive electrical stimulation has been shown to reduce spasticity without these side effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of sacral afferent stimulation (SAS), through surface electrical stimulation of the dorsal genital nerve (N=7), and through implanted electrodes on the sacral afferent nerve roots, on lower limb spasm and spasticity (N=2). Provoked spasms were interrupted with conditional SAS, where stimulation commenced following a provoked spasm, or unconditional stimulation, which was applied continuously. Conditionally and unconditionally applied SAS was shown to suppress acute provoked spasms in people with SCI. There was a statistically significant reduction in area under the curve of quadriceps electromyography during acute spasm with SAS compared to a control spasm. These results show that SAS may provide a safe, low-cost method of reducing acute spasm and spasticity in people living with SCI. SAS through implanted electrodes may also provide an additional function to sacral nerve stimulation devices.

Beneficial carry-over effects of chronic at-home genital nerve stimulation on incontinence in individuals with spinal cord injury: A pragmatic trial

BackgroundGenital nerve stimulation (GNS) is a promising, but under-researched, alternative treatment for neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) in those with spinal cord injury (SCI). ObjectivesTo investigate the urodynamic, quality-of-life (QOL) and carry-over effects of GNS when applied at home for 2 weeks by participants with incomplete SCI and NDO during activities of daily living. MethodsSeven men and 1 woman participated in this 1-month protocol study. Urodynamic and QOL data were gathered during week 1 (baseline measurements), followed by 2 weeks of daily GNS at home using a portable device. GNS was applied either on-demand or thrice daily, depending on the individual's sensation. At week 4, post-stimulation tests were repeated to record any carry-over effect from the GNS. Participants maintained voiding diaries throughout the study. Assessments were carried out at the end of each protocol period in a randomized order. Clinical procedures were conducted at Taipei Medical University Hospital (Taipei, Taiwan). ResultsEveryone completed the study but only 7 of the 8 participants completed their voiding diary. Two weeks after GNS, average cystometric bladder capacity was increased by 30 % compared to baseline (P< 0.05). A 1-week carry-over effect was demonstrated as this capacity remained, on average, 35 % greater than baseline in week 4 after GNS was stopped (P< 0.05). Incontinence frequency significantly decreased by the end of week 3 (P< 0.05) but no significant improvements were recorded for either detrusor pressure or bladder compliance. ConclusionsChronic at-home GNS improved cystometric bladder capacity and reduced urinary incontinence for individuals with incomplete SCI and NDO. A carry-over effect of 1 week was observed following GNS treatment. The use of portable GNS treatment that can be applied by the individual at home merits further investigation as alternative treatment for NDO in those with SCI.

Effectiveness of intraoperative monitoring of the bulbocavernosus reflex for predicting postoperative pelvic disorders in the surgical treatment of distal spine tumors

The study evaluated the diagnostic effectiveness of changes in the parameters of the bulbocavernous reflex during intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring in the surgical treatment of caudal spinal cord tumors. The study was performed during examinations and neurosurgical treatment of 58 patients suffering from intradural extramedullary and intramedullary tumors of the caudal spinal cord. In 23 (39.7%) patients, the tumors were localized at the level of the lower thoraciclumbar spine (Th11L1), and in 35 (60.3%) patients, they were at the level of the lumbosacral spine (L2S2). Pelvic organ dysfunction was assessed based on the extent of neurogenic bladder symptoms before surgery, 1014 days after surgery, and a year later. The bulbocavernous reflex was recorded in response to genital nerve stimulation, with a series of three pulses lasting 0.5 ms each, and the repetition rate of the series was 2 Hz. The intensity of the stimulation current was 75% of the maximum intensity. The bulbocavernous reflex was registered from the external anal sphincter muscles. During intraoperative monitoring, the bulbocavernous reflex remained stable in 49 patients. In this group, pelvic dysfunction was not observed immediately or 12 months after surgery. Persistent changes in motor response parameters were registered in nine patients; seven and eight cases of dysuric disorders were observed immediately after surgery and 12 months after surgery, respectively. Persistent changes in the bulbocavernous reflex during intraoperative monitoring were significantly more often associated with pelvic organ dysfunction immediately after surgery (2 = 36,323; p 0.001) and 12 months after surgery (2 = 32,284; p 0.001). The sensitivity and specificity of intraoperative monitoring of the bulbocavernous reflex in assessing the risk of pelvic dysfunction in the postoperative period were 96.1% and 100%, respectively. In general, postoperative pelvic organ dysfunction is a frequent cause of neurological complications following surgical treatment of caudal spine tumors. Therefore, during surgery, neurophysiological monitoring is implemented to control pelvic organ functions, including the registration of the bulbocavernous reflex.

(058) Acute Dorsal Genital Neuromodulation can Improve Subjective Arousal: A Pilot Study in Women With and Without Spinal Cord Injury

Abstract Introduction Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is a potentially life altering condition that impacts an estimated 40% of women. Unfortunately, the few treatment options available have limited success due to adverse events and an inability to improve subjective arousal. One potential treatment option, neuromodulation, has improved female sexual function index (FSFI) scores in small studies. The underlying mechanisms of how neuromodulation may improve FSD are not understood. We hypothesize that neuromodulation provides benefits by increasing genital blood flow. Objective Our primary objective is to determine if a single period of dorsal genital nerve stimulation (DGNS) or tibial nerve stimulation (TNS) directly causes a change in vaginal blood flow (VBF). Our secondary objective is to assess if subjective arousal increases during a single period of DGNS or TNS. These interventions will be compared among three cohorts of women: women with C6–T10 spinal cord injury (SCI), women with FSD (FSFI lubrication sub-score &amp;lt; 4), and able-bodied women without FSD. Methods Participants attended two separate visits, one for each nerve target, randomly ordered and separated by 1–5 months. We are testing two experimental paradigms: without and with erotic audio-visual materials. The first experiments measured vaginal pulse amplitude (VPA) using a vaginal photoplethysmography transducer (VPP) before, during, and after 20 minutes of nerve stimulation. After data processing, we calculated average peak to peak (p2p) amplitudes for each time period and performed an ANOVA and post-hoc pairwise comparisons within each participant. For the second experiment we measured VPA during neutral and erotic videos both without stimulation and with stimulation. In both experiments we measured subjective arousal via a Likert-type scale at 4 timepoints and made comparisons across participants with a paired t-test. The first experiments are complete and data collection for the second experiments is ongoing. Results We recruited three participants in each cohort in the first experiments, with five participants completing both sessions. All participants saw significant changes in their p2p amplitude from before stimulation to after stimulation in DGNS trials (n = 3 increased, n = 4 decreased). Three of five participants had significant p2p increases in TNS trials and one participant had significant decreases. DGNS subject arousal scores increased significantly after stimulation, but TNS scores did not (Figure 1). Most participants reported genital sensations during DGNS (7 of 8) and TNS (3 of 6) sessions. Three participants have completed both visits in the second set of experiments, with similar trends. Conclusions Acute DGNS, but not TNS, increased subjective arousal across all participants. VPA responses to stimulation were heterogeneous and although most changes were significant, there may not be physiological or clinical relevance. It is possible that repeated stimulation sessions over time may enhance changes in VPA. Disclosure No

MP27-13 PERIPHERAL NEUROMODULATION OF VAGINAL BLOOD FLOW: A POTENTIAL TREATMENT FOR FEMALE SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION

You have accessJournal of UrologyCME1 Apr 2023MP27-13 PERIPHERAL NEUROMODULATION OF VAGINAL BLOOD FLOW: A POTENTIAL TREATMENT FOR FEMALE SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION Priyanka Gupta, Elizabeth Bottorff, Patricia Maymi-Castrodad, Mackenzie Moore, Giulia Lane, Gianna Rodriguez, and Tim Bruns Priyanka GuptaPriyanka Gupta More articles by this author , Elizabeth BottorffElizabeth Bottorff More articles by this author , Patricia Maymi-CastrodadPatricia Maymi-Castrodad More articles by this author , Mackenzie MooreMackenzie Moore More articles by this author , Giulia LaneGiulia Lane More articles by this author , Gianna RodriguezGianna Rodriguez More articles by this author , and Tim BrunsTim Bruns More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000003255.13AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is a potentially life altering condition that impacts an estimated 40% of women. Unfortunately, the few treatment options available have limited success due to their high incidence of adverse events and inability to improve subjective arousal. One potential treatment option, peripheral neuromodulation, has been successful in improving female sexual function index scores. However, the underlying mechanisms of how neuromodulation improves FSD are still largely unknown. We hypothesize that improvements in FSD symptoms are due to improvements in genital hemodynamics. METHODS: We developed a clinical study to investigate changes in vaginal blood flow (VBF) in response to dorsal genital nerve (DGN) and tibial nerve stimulation in three cohorts of women: healthy controls, women with FSD, and women with spinal cord injury (SCI). Incorporating women with SCI allows us to investigate which neural pathways contribute to genital sexual arousal. Each participant attends two study visits: one for each nerve target, randomly ordered. At each visit, a vaginal photoplethysmography (VPP) sensor is used to measure blood flow during a 5-minute baseline, 20 minutes of nerve stimulation, and a 5-minute washout period. The VPP signals are filtered in the neurogenic energy frequency spectrum (0.76 – 0.20 Hz) for analysis. RESULTS: Seven out of eight participants reported genital sensations due to nerve stimulation, three of whom have SCI. One participant with a complete SCI had increases in their VPP neurogenic energy during dorsal genital nerve stimulation (Figure 1). An animal study is being planned to investigate the VBF response observed in complete SCI. CONCLUSIONS: This work provides further support for neuromodulation as a treatment for neurogenic and non-neurogenic FSD. Source of Funding: Craig H. Neilsen Foundation and International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health © 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 209Issue Supplement 4April 2023Page: e367 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Priyanka Gupta More articles by this author Elizabeth Bottorff More articles by this author Patricia Maymi-Castrodad More articles by this author Mackenzie Moore More articles by this author Giulia Lane More articles by this author Gianna Rodriguez More articles by this author Tim Bruns More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

MP52-10 CHRONIC, NON-INVASIVE NERVE STIMULATION THERAPY TO TREAT INCONTINENCE IN PEOPLE WITH NEUROGENIC BLADDER

You have accessJournal of UrologyCME1 Apr 2023MP52-10 CHRONIC, NON-INVASIVE NERVE STIMULATION THERAPY TO TREAT INCONTINENCE IN PEOPLE WITH NEUROGENIC BLADDER Seth Meade, Dennis Bourbeau, Steven Brose, Kenneth Gustafson, Cesar Colasante, and Kevin Suarez Seth MeadeSeth Meade More articles by this author , Dennis BourbeauDennis Bourbeau More articles by this author , Steven BroseSteven Brose More articles by this author , Kenneth GustafsonKenneth Gustafson More articles by this author , Cesar ColasanteCesar Colasante More articles by this author , and Kevin SuarezKevin Suarez More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000003300.10AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Reduction of urinary urgency and incontinence is a top priority for individuals with neurogenic bladder (NB). Multiple clinical studies show non-invasive genital nerve stimulation (GNS) can modulate sympathetic reflexes to inhibit bladder contractions acutely and is well-tolerated. To translate GNS as an effective adjunct therapy for managing neurogenic bladder, further evidence of chronic efficacy and feasibility is needed. METHODS: In this “before-and-after” prospective cohort study, participants acted as their own controls. 9 individuals with NB were enrolled (8/9 (88.9%) male) and confirmed to: 1) have NB by urodynamics examination and 2) have bladder contractions inhibited by GNS. 5 participants (100% male) who tolerated GNS without additional medications and were adherent to voiding diaries tested the efficacy of at-home, self-administered GNS using a commercial TENS unit. Participants completed voiding diaries, each detailing at least 1 continuous week of tracked voiding, leak, and urgency events. Diaries were completed once at study initiation during a control period without GNS or medications, and then for 3 separate periods during prolonged use of GNS to manage incontinence (baseline, 6 months, 1 year). Participants also completed a bladder-related quality of life questionnaire (Qualiveen) at their initial evaluation, as well as 6 and 12 months later. RESULTS: Preliminary findings show that GNS increased bladder capacity for all 9 individuals tested by an average of 58%, and 3/5 individuals tested chronically maintained an increased bladder capacity after 6 months of GNS. 4/5 individuals reported increased bladder-related QOL by total Qualiveen after 6 months of at-home GNS. Of 2 individuals who experienced leakage with chronic voiding data one reduced their leaks/day by 90% at 6 months of use and the other by 30% at 1 year of GNS. Of 2 individuals with the primary goal of reducing bladder urgency, neither was able to reduce their urgency events/day but were able to reduce their voiding frequency by 65% and 15% after more than 1 month of use. The primary reason individuals reported for dropping from the study was difficulty placing the electrodes and keeping them in place. CONCLUSIONS: GNS can provide a durable reduction in leakage events for individuals with incontinence due to neurogenic bladder up to 6 months. Multiple subjects reported issues with electrode placement and adhesion as well as associated wires from the TENS unit leading to less-than-ideal GNS for some. Source of Funding: -RX002512 Department of Veterans Affairs -642810 Craig H. Neilsen Foundation (CHNF) © 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 209Issue Supplement 4April 2023Page: e706 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Seth Meade More articles by this author Dennis Bourbeau More articles by this author Steven Brose More articles by this author Kenneth Gustafson More articles by this author Cesar Colasante More articles by this author Kevin Suarez More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

Minimally Invasive Two-passage Electrical Genital Nerve Stimulation: A Human Cadaver Study of a New Technique

To present and evaluate the feasibility of a new technique of lead-electrode stimulation to the genital nerves using a 2-step, double-passage retropubic/retrograde approach. Prospective observational study. The procedure was initiated in the retropubic passage by placing the electrode from below through a paravulvar/testicular small incision toward the urogenital diaphragm, guided through the retropubic space along the backside of the pubic bone. Through a second passage along the frontside of the pubic bone, the lead-electrode was placed finally at the genital nerves. Department of Anatomy, University Bern, Bern, Switzerland PARTICIPANTS: The study was performed in 5 cadavers (bilaterally) and tested by 10 obstetrics and gynecology surgeons. Positions and courses of the lead electrode in relation to the dorsal nerve of the clitoris/penis were evaluated by dissection of the genitals and showed an optimal parallel course of the lead electrodes to the dorsal nerve from the perforation of the urogenital diaphragm to the crura of the clitoris, with area of the dorsal nerve of the clitoris/penis to the electrode never exceeding 2 mm. Participant surgeons self-evaluated reproducibility and difficulty of the procedure by using a score from 1 to 10 (1, easy/safe; 10, extremely difficult/dangerous). Both reproducibility and difficulty achieved a score of 1 by all participants. The double-passage genital nerve stimulation procedure is a new peripheral nerve stimulation technique that had a high self-evaluated rate of ease and reproducibility for surgeon participants.

Can Wireless Transcutaneous Nerve Stimulation Applied to the Genital Nerve Manage Urinary Incontinence Following Spinal Cord Injury and Multiple Sclerosis?

Individuals with spinal cord injury and multiple sclerosis usually use intermittent catheterization for urinary management; however, many patients will also encounter a condition of neurogenic detrusor overactivity, which causes urinary incontinence. The use of muscarinic receptor antagonists is the first-line treatment to manage this condition. These drugs, however, have significant side effects. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation applied to the genital nerve (GEN) is an alternative noninvasive method that produces detrusor inhibition through neuromodulation. Despite studies demonstrating bladder inhibition with GEN, more outcomes are required regarding decreased use of bladder inhibitory medications and concerns with dangling wires. It is proposed that wireless-GEN can be used in home-use studies in order to address these limitations. If needed, wireless tibial nerve stimulation could be added to improve incontinence management.

QS4: Genital Neurosensory Outcomes After Innervated Radial Forearm Phalloplasty

Purpose:Radial free forearm flap (RFFF) phalloplasty is the most commonly-used technique for gender-affirming phalloplasty procedures. Microsurgical coaptation of the free flap nerves to branches of the genital nerves aims to provide patients with a sensate neophallus. Return of sensation in the neophallus is poorly understood and has yet to be well characterized in the literature. This study serves to describe sensation in the neophallus, which will assist in setting patient expectations for recovery and improving operative technique and planning, especially in selection of nerves for coaptation.Methods:A total of 14 patients undergoing RFFF were tested for pressure sensation in the neophallus postoperatively. Testing was conducted via 1-point static (1PS) testing using the Pressure Specified Sensory Device (PSSD). A 100g monofilament was used to screen the neophallus for sensation beginning at 3 cm distal to the base and advancing distally by 1 cm until the patient reported no sensation; the PSSD was then applied at the last point the patient reported sensation for precise pressure measurements. These measurements were taken on the right and left ventral and dorsal shaft 1 cm from the ventral and dorsal midlines, respectively. The right and left urethral meatus was also measured for sensation (representing the ulnar-most skin of the RFFF). Measurements were taken at intervals beginning as early as 1 week postoperatively; the longest patient follow-up thus far has been 17 months.Results:Of the 14 patients, 13 had tactile pressure sensation at their most recent measurement (range 1-17mos). The remaining patient did not have a measurement beyond one month postoperatively. Of the 14 patients, consistent long-term follow-up measurements were currently available for 7. Among these patients, return of any sensation was measured at an average of 69 days (12-160 days) postoperatively. The earliest time point at which a patient had any sensation was two weeks postoperatively while another patient had sensation through the full length of the neophallus measured at 2.5 months postoperatively; subsequent measurements of this patient showed a decreased threshold (increased sensitivity) for pressure sensation over time.Conclusions:Preliminary data suggests that innervation of the RFFF neophallus can be accomplished via microsurgical nerve coaptation and that recovery of sensation may occur much faster in some patients than previously thought possible. Further follow-up and a larger patient cohort is necessary to fully characterize nerve recovery and regeneration in gender-affirming phalloplasty patients.

Minimally invasive combined surgical treatment of postcoital cystitis

Introduction. Urethral transposition remains the most popular operation for postcoital cystitis, however, traumatism and complications, especially such as pudendal neuropathies, dyspareunia and anorgasmia, make us continue to search for effective, but safer techniques.The study objective is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the proposed treatment of postcoital cystitis, including removal of urethrogymenal adhesions and subsequent paraurethral filler implantation, in comparison with isolated hymenoplasty.Materials and methods. Since 2013, 75 patients with postcoital cystitis have been treated. Patients were divided into two groups: main group – hymenoplasty (removal of urethral adhesions) with paraurethral filler implantation (n = 45), control group – hymenoplasty (n = 30). The gel was injected paraurethrically, fan-shaped, in the volume of 1–2 ml, from a point on the 6-hour conditional dial, creating a gel cushion and thus raising the meautus and distal urethra. To assess the quality of treatment, profile questionnaires were used.Results. In the main group of patient, the quality of life improved in 35 (78 %); in 5 patients, due to the process of biodegradation of the gel during 1 year, the cystitis recidivated, which required the filler reimplantation. In 5 patients, the operation was not effective. In the control group the efficiency of isolated hymenoplasty was noted in 3 (10 %) patients, relapse of cystitis occurred in 27 (90 %) patients, which later required the implantation of a filler. No complications were observed.Conclusions. The suggested combined technique allows to improve the results of treatment of patients with postcoital cystitis. The operation does not carry the risk of damage to the sprigs of the genital nerve, can serve as an alternative to traditional urethral transposition. The main disadvantage is the natural biodegradation of the gel, which may create the need for its reintroduction.

Ambulatory urodynamic monitoring assessment of dorsal genital nerve stimulation for suppression of involuntary detrusor contractions following spinal cord injury: a pilot study.

A prospective interventional pilot study using within-individual comparisons. To assess the effect of dorsal genital nerve stimulation (DGNS) on urine-storage parameters in participants with spinal cord injury (SCI) and neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) during natural bladder filling. The London Spinal Cord Injuries Centre at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Stanmore, UK. Ambulatory urodynamic monitoring (AUM) was carried out with and without DGNS, before and after a week of using DGNS at home. DGNS was applied on-demand by four participants with bladder sensation, and both continuously and intermittently by one participant with absent sensation. A Wilcoxon sign-rank test was used to test paired results of changes within an AUM session. Urodynamic outcomes were improved using DGNS. Bladder capacity was increased from 244 ± 59 to 346 ± 61 ml (p = 0.0078), a mean change of 46 ± 25%. Maximum detrusor pressure was decreased from 58 ± 18 to 47 ± 18 cmH2O (p = 0.0156), a change of 17 ± 13%, and average peak detrusor pressure was decreased from 56 ± 16 to 31 ± 128 cmH2O (p = 0.0156), a mean reduction of 50 ± 19%. There was an increase in the number of detrusor contractions from the first involuntary detrusor contraction to a strong desire, urgency or incontinence, from 1.5 ± 1.4 to 4.3 ± 1.7, and an increase in time of 23 ± 22 min. There were no changes in baseline outcomes following home use of DGNS. DGNS may be applied on-demand, intermittently or continuously, to increase bladder capacity, decrease storage pressures and provide extra time. Improvements were made in addition to existing antimuscarinic medication regimes.

The rodent vaginal microbiome across the estrous cycle and the effect of genital nerve electrical stimulation.

Treatment options are limited for the approximately 40% of postmenopausal women worldwide who suffer from female sexual dysfunction (FSD). Neural stimulation has shown potential as a treatment for genital arousal FSD, however the mechanisms for its improvement are unknown. One potential cause of some cases of genital arousal FSD are changes to the composition of the vaginal microbiota, which is associated with vulvovaginal atrophy. The primary hypothesis of this study was that neural stimulation may induce healthy changes in the vaginal microbiome, thereby improving genital arousal FSD symptoms. In this study we used healthy rats, which are a common animal model for sexual function, however the rat vaginal microbiome is understudied. Thus this study also sought to examine the composition of the rat vaginal microbiota. Treatment rats (n = 5) received 30 minutes of cutaneous electrical stimulation targeting the genital branch of the pudendal nerve, and Control animals (n = 4) had 30-minute sessions without stimulation. Vaginal lavage samples were taken during a 14-day baseline period including multiple estrous periods and after twice-weekly 30-minute sessions across a six-week trial period. Analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequences was used to characterize the rat vaginal microbiota in baseline samples and determine the effect of stimulation. We found that the rat vaginal microbiota is dominated by Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Actinobacteria, which changed in relative abundance during the estrous cycle and in relationship to each other. While the overall stimulation effects were unclear in these healthy rats, some Treatment animals had less alteration in microbiota composition between sequential samples than Control animals, suggesting that stimulation may help stabilize the vaginal microbiome. Future studies may consider additional physiological parameters, in addition to the microbiome composition, to further examine vaginal health and the effects of stimulation.

A Urodynamic Comparison of Neural Targets for Transcutaneous Electrical Stimulation to Acutely Suppress Detrusor Contractions Following Spinal Cord Injury.

ObjectivesTo assess and compare the effect of transcutaneous Dorsal Genital Nerve Stimulation (DGNS), Tibial Nerve Stimulation (TNS), Sacral Nerve Stimulation (SNS), and Spinal Stimulation (SS) on Neurogenic Detrusor Overactivity (NDO) and bladder capacity in people with Spinal Cord Injuries (SCI).Materials and MethodsSeven male participants with supra-sacral SCI were tested. Standard cystometry (CMG) was performed to assess bladder activity at baseline and with stimulation applied at each site. This was conducted over four separate sessions. All stimulation was monophasic, 15 Hz, 200 μS pulses and applied at maximum tolerable amplitude. Results were analysed against individual control results from within the same session.ResultsDorsal Genital Nerve Stimulation increased bladder capacity by 153 ± 146 ml (p = 0.016) or 117 ± 201%. DGNS, TNS and SNS all increased the volume held following the first reflex contraction, by 161 ± 175, 46 ± 62, and 34 ± 33 ml (p = 0.016, p = 0.031, p = 0.016), respectively. SS results showed small reduction of 33 ± 26 ml (p = 0.063) from baseline bladder capacity in five participants. Maximum Detrusor Pressure before leakage was increased during TNS, by 10 ± 13 cmH2O (p = 0.031) but was unchanged during stimulation of other sites. DGNS only was able to suppress at least one detrusor contraction in five participants and reduced first peak detrusor pressure below 40 cmH2O in these 5. Continuous TNS, SNS, and SS produced non-significant changes in bladder capacity from baseline, comparable to conditional stimulation. Increase in bladder capacity correlated with stimulation amplitude for DGNS but not TNS, SNS or SS.ConclusionIn this pilot study DGNS acutely suppressed detrusor contractions and increased bladder capacity whereas TNS, SNS, and SS did not. This is the first within individual comparison of surface stimulation sites for management of NDO in SCI individuals.

Genital Nerve Stimulation - GNS - for Treatment of Non-neurogenic OAB

Genital Nerve Stimulation - GNS - for Treatment of Non-neurogenic OAB

Effects of Genital Nerve Stimulation Amplitude on Bladder Capacity in Spinal Cord Injured Subjects.

Background/Purpose Few studies have investigated the effects of changing the amplitude of dorsal genital nerve stimulation (GNS) on the inhibition of neurogenic detrusor overactivity in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). The present study determined the acute effects of changes in GNS amplitude on bladder capacity gain in individuals with SCI and neurogenic detrusor overactivity. Methods Cystometry was used to assess the effects of continuous GNS on bladder capacity during bladder filling. The cystometric trials were conducted in a randomized sequence of cystometric fills with continuous GNS at stimulation amplitudes ranging from 1 to 4 times of threshold (T) required to elicit the genitoanal reflex. Results The bladder capacity increased minimally and maximally by approximately 34% and 77%, respectively, of the baseline bladder capacity at 1.5 T and 3.2 T, respectively. Stimulation amplitude and bladder capacity were significantly correlated (R = 0.55, P = 0.01). Conclusion This study demonstrates a linear correlation between the stimulation amplitude ranging from 1 to 4T and bladder capacity gain in individuals with SCI in acute GNS experiments. However, GNS amplitude out of the range of 1-4T might not be exactly a linear relationship due to subthreshold or saturation factors. Thus, further research is needed to examine this issue. Nevertheless, these results may be critical in laying the groundwork for understanding the effectiveness of acute GNS in the treatment of neurogenic detrusor overactivity.

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation to Improve Female Sexual Dysfunction Symptoms: A Pilot Study

To perform a pilot study using transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) on the dorsal genital nerve and the posterior tibial nerve for improving symptoms of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) in women without bladder problems. We hypothesize that this therapy will be effective at improving genital arousal deficits. Nine women with general FSD completed the study. Subjects received 12 sessions of transcutaneous dorsal genital nerve stimulation (DGNS; n = 6) or posterior tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS; n = 3). Stimulation was delivered for 30 min at 20 Hz. Sexual functioning was evaluated with the female sexual functioning index (FSFI), and surveys were also given on general health, urological functioning, and the Patients' Global Impression of Change (PGIC) after treatment. Surveys were given before treatment (baseline), after 6 and 12 weeks of treatment, and 6 weeks after the completion of stimulation sessions. The average total FSFI score across all subjects significantly increased from 15.3 ± 4.8 at baseline to 20.3 ± 7.8 after six sessions, 21.7 ± 7.5 after 12 sessions, and 21.3 ± 7.1 at study completion (p < 0.05 for all time points). Increases were observed in both DGNS and PTNS subjects. Significant FSFI increases were seen in the subdomains of lubrication, arousal, and orgasm, each of which is related to genital arousal. Bladder and general health surveys did not change across the study. PGIC had a significant increase. This study provides evidence that transcutaneous stimulation of peripheral nerves has the potential to be a valuable therapeutic tool for women with FSD.