Interstim for fecal incontinence

Bowel control problems are extremely common, but they are not normal. If you suffer from bowel control issues, you know how much they can interrupt your life. It’s time to speak up and get back to living your life.

Do the following sound familiar?

  • Frequent bowel accidents

  • Monitoring what and how much you eat

  • Using pads or protective garments

  • Planning activities around the bathroom

Fecal Incontinence (FI) Facts

  • 1 in 12 adults in the US has fecal incontinence (FI).1,2

  • 21 million adults in the US are affected by fecal incontinence (FI).1,2,3

THE SOLUTION

InterStim™

InterStim therapy, also known as sacral neuromodulation (SNM), is a medical treatment used for individuals who experience bladder or bowel control problems, such as overactive bladder, urinary retention, fecal incontinence, or non-obstructive urinary retention. It involves the use of a device called an InterStim™ system to regulate the signals sent between the brain, spinal cord, and the nerves that control the bladder and bowel function.

 

Proven Results

Medtronic bowel control therapy delivered by the InterStim™ systems provides life changing relief.

89% of people using it experienced long-term success3
Delivers significant and lasting improvement for people with FI
The most common adverse events were implant site pain, paresthesia, change in sensation of stimulation, implant site infection, urinary incontinence, neurostimulator battery depletion, diarrhea, pain in extremity, undesirable change in stimulation, buttock pain, and migration of implant.

Is InterStim™ Right for You?

You may be a good candidate for Medtronic Bowel Control Therapy delivered by the InterStim™ systems if:

  • You have significant chronic fecal incontinence symptoms

  • You’ve tried lifestyle changes and oral medications

  • These therapies haven’t given you the relief you want

See if it works for you

Unlike other bowel control treatments, this therapy lets you try it first with an evaluation — like a test run, not a long-term commitment.

  • The simple test starts at your doctor’s office or an outpatient center

  • A lead (thin wire) is inserted in the upper part of your buttock

  • The lead attached to a small external device worn discreetly under your clothes

  • Stop, start or adjust the therapy settings, with an easy-to-use programmer that resembles a smartphone

  • Go about most of your regular activities for 3-14 days

  • Track your symptoms to see if they improve

  • Talk with your doctor about your results and find out if it’s likely to help you

Complications can occur with the evaluation, including movement of the wire, technical problems with the device, and some temporary pain. Your doctor or nurse will show you how to use the system and inform you of any activity restrictions and other precautions related to the test.