Sustained effectiveness of percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation for overactive bladder syndrome: 2-year follow-up of positive responders

Introduction and hypothesis

The aim of the study was to describe effectiveness and safety of percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS) at 2 years in women with overactive bladder (OAB) syndrome unresponsive to pharmacotherapy.

Methods

Of 30 women who had initial positive response to PTNS, 23 continued to receive maintenance treatment and were reassessed at 2 years using bladder symptom diaries and the Incontinence Impact Questionnaire (IIQ-7). They were also questioned on acceptability and any adverse effects of long-term peripheral neuromodulative treatment.

Results

Data from 23 women were available and 7 had been lost to follow-up. With maintenance treatment, the median nocturnal frequency at 2 years had decreased by 57 % (3.5 to 1.5 times/night), while the median IIQ-7 had reduced from 30.4 to 21.5 (both p?p?Conclusions Women receiving PTNS for intractable OAB syndrome reported significant symptom relief at 2 years. This remains a safe mode of second-line treatment with excellent durability.