Posterior tibial nerve stimulation in the treatment of voiding dysfunction: urodynamic data

OBJECTIVES: To determine urodynamic changes and predictive factors in patients with voiding dysfunction who underwent 12 percutaneous tibial nerve stimulations. METHODS: Thirty nine patients with chronic voiding dysfunction were enrolled in a prospective multicenter trial in the Netherlands (n = 19) and in Italy (n = 20). A 50% reduction in total catheterised volume per 24 hr was taken as a primary objective outcome measure. Patients' request for continuation of treatment was regarded as subjective success. Objective urodynamic parameters and bladder indices were determined. Odds ratios and their 95% confidence interval were computed as a measure for predictive power in order to reveal predictive factors (Pdet at Qmax, Qmax, BVE, and BCI). RESULTS: Primary outcome measure was obtained in 41%, an additional 26% reduced their 24 hr residuals with more than 25%. Fifty nine percent of patients chose to continue treatment. Detrusor pressure at maximal flow, cystometric residuals, and bladder indices improved significantly for all patients (P < 0.05). Patients with minor voiding dysfunction were more prone to notice success (Odds ratio: 0.73; 95% CI: 0.51-0.94). CONCLUSIONS: PTNS is a young treatment modality, minimally invasive, and easily accessible. It might be an attractive first line option for patients with (minor) voiding dysfunction.