|
|||||||
|
|||||||
InterStim
Placement of the InterStim device is a 2 stage process. The first step is a minimally invasive test either done in the office or ambulatory center under local anesthesia in which 2 small wires (or leads) are placed in the small of the back near the tailbone. This is called a Percutaneous Nerve Evaluation or PNE. This stimulates the S3 peripheral nerves to send signals to the bladder. The patient wears a small stimulator box connected to these leads for several days. This simple non-invasive test allows the treating physician to see what the response would be if the actual InterStim were to be implanted. It also allows the patient to see if the InterStim would be right for them. Results can be dramatic. Patients who wake up several times per night often now sleep through the night. A greater than If the test is successful, patients can have the pacemaker battery and lead placed through a minimally invasive technique under fluoroscopic x-ray completely under the skin. The incisions used to implant the device are small and inconspicuous. InterStim has improved the lives of thousands of men and women throughout the world. Our urologists at USWF have implanted hundreds of InterStim devices since it was FDA approved. They have also trained other physicians in the placement of InterStim and are considered experts in the technology. Click here for more information. Home | Administration | Locations: Urology Specialists of West Florida 1 in Clearwater, Bardmoor, Palm Harbor | Urology Specialists of West Florida 2 - Urology Consultants in Safety Harbor, Trinity, Tampa | Urology Specialists of West Florida 3 in New Port Richey, Tampa, Trinity, Palm Harbor | Urology Specialists of West Florida 4 - Pinellas Urology in St. Petersburg | Urology Specialists of West Florida Radiation Oncology Center in Clearwater | Our Doctors | Patient Education for Urology Conditions | Post-Operative Instructions for Urology Patients | Latest Technology for Urological Conditions | Urology Specialists of West Florida In the News Disclaimer: The pictures displayed in www.UrologySpecialistsFlorida.com are images of physicians, patients and employees who have consented to have their pictures in this website.
|
 |
|
 |
||||
There are many tools available to urologists including cystoscopy, ultrasound scanning to image the prostate and bladder, urodynamic testing to evaluate the cause of urinary problems and urinalysis. Click here to learn more about the new innovations in Urology Oncology.  Urology places special emphasis on the urinary tracts of males and females as well as the reproductive system of males. Often, urology problems and disorders show many different signs and symptoms and many urology diseases and disorders have similar symptoms. Read more.
Our physicians put particular emphasis on the urinary tracts of males and females, as well as the reproductive system of males, and their primary focus is to diagnose, treat, and control urological disorders. Read more.
We understand the health problems and concerns specific to men. It is important to detect male health problems early and to modify lifestyles to live longer. Read more.
Women of all ages can have urological problems. From bladder problems to kidney disorders, to urinary tract infections, we devote a great deal of time and energy to investigating and treating these urological problems and others. Read more.
|
|||||||
 |
 |
||||||
InterStim therapy for overactive bladder (OAB) or urinary retention is a device that is used to send signals to the bladder so that it can function normally. The device works by using a tiny pacemaker that sends a signal to the 3rd sacral nerve root in order to establish normal bladder function. This technology has been used worldwide in thousands of patients and can dramatically decrease urinary frequency, urgency, and urge incontinence. The InterStim can also improve urine elimination in those patients that cannot empty the bladder (increased post void residual). It also may be effective in some patients with Interstitial Cystitis. The InterStim is produced by Medtronic, Inc., a leader in cardiac pacemakers and other neurostimulators.
Patients that are candidate for InterStim therapy have either failed medications for their bladder (anticholinergics), or have a medical contraindication to taking medications. It can also help alleviate the need to self catheterize in order to empty the bladder. Patients who have side effects from medications (severe dry mouth, glaucoma, constipation) may find the InterStim a more desirable alternative. 
50% improvement in symptoms is considered a successful test. Patients who have urinary retention may see their need to catheterize decrease dramatically or not needing to catheterize at all. Additional testing is available if the PNE fails in which the actual lead for the InterStim can be used for testing (1st stage InterStim).
