New screening technique for sacral nerve stimulation under local anaesthesia

Abstract Background The purpose of this study was to assess the influence of the type of anaesthesia (local vs. general) and of the electrode used (test electrode vs. tined lead) on a successful screening period. Methods Between May 2001 and January 2004, we performed 25 percutaneous nerve evaluation (PNE) tests in 20 patients (11 women). The first 15 PNE tests were followed by introducing a conventional electrode, and since 2003 by a tined lead electrode. Success was defined as reduction of symptoms by more than 50%. Results A stimulator was implanted in 13 (68%) patients, including 4 of 14 screened with the conventional electrode and 9 of 10 screened with tined lead electrode (p=0.005). Eleven (44%) of the PNE tests were done under local anaesthesia, but the success rate was not influenced by the type of anaesthesia (local 46% vs. general 61%, p=0.682). Conclusions PNE testing and implantation of the tined lead electrode can be easily performed at the same time under local anaesthesia. The use of the new tined lead electrode significantly increased the success rate for the screening phase.