InterStim® Test Instructions
This video provides a step-by-step guide to the InterStim® test procedure, which typically takes less than 5 minutes to perform, and the 3 – 4 day trial period thereafter.
Remember, those overactive nerves that go to and from the bladder live just above the tip of your tailbone. Our nurses will get you changed into a comfortable gown, walk you over to our sterile procedure room and position you on your tummy. Then they’ll uncover your backside and wash off your tailbone area. We’ll take a look at your tailbone with x-ray, which helps show us where those little nerves live.
We’ll give you a couple of numbing injections then watch on x-ray as we place two little hair-like wires just under the skin and lay them right next to the nerve. We put one of those wires on each side of your tailbone. Now, during your test, we only stimulate one of the wires at a time, so you can think of the 2nd wire as a “back-up”. If, for some reason, we’re not seeing the improvement we want with the first wire, the 2nd gives us another opportunity to ensure you get a good test.
Once we know the wires are in a good spot, our nurses tape the little wires to your backside. Since the wires are temporary, that tape is the only thing holding them in place. After the nurses finish taping, they’ll walk you back to your exam room and you’ll get dressed. Our InterStim® technician will then connect the little wires to a temporary stimulator you’ll wear on an elastic belt underneath your clothing and give you some instructions.
This temporary stimulator will be connected to the wires and will help to stimulate the nerves that control your bladder or bowel function. During the test trial, it’s important to keep a daily diary of your symptoms and communicate with your technician each day. If we notice a 50% or greater improvement in your symptoms, there’s a high probability that you’ll respond well to the long-term therapy.
We understand that any medical procedure can cause apprehension, and we are here to alleviate any concerns you may have. Please know that some minor discomfort is normal, similar to a mild burn from the numbing medication, or a bit of tenderness when we get close to the nerves. Rest assured, this is temporary and part of the process of giving you the best chance at significantly improving your symptoms.
Remember, we are with you at every step of this journey. Your well-being is our priority, and we are committed to helping you reclaim your life from bladder or bowel control issues.
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