Page 1 — Understanding Fecal Incontinence & InterStim

What is Fecal Incontinence (FI)?

FI is the involuntary loss of stool or gas, ranging from occasional leakage to loss of control. It’s common but often under-reported due to embarrassment.

  • Unexpected leakage during daily activities
  • Urgency — sudden, hard-to-control need to have a bowel movement
  • Difficulty reaching the bathroom in time
  • Fear of leaving home without bathroom access

Why It Happens

Bowel control depends on muscles (anal sphincter), nerves (brain–bowel signaling), and rectal capacity. FI can result from muscle injury (e.g., childbirth), nerve damage (diabetes, surgeries), or disrupted nerve signaling.

Addressing the nerve-signal problem is key for many patients — which is where InterStim can help.

InterStim® Therapy Overview

InterStim is an FDA-approved therapy called Sacral Neuromodulation (SNM). It restores normal nerve communication between the bowel, sphincter muscles, and brain to reduce leakage and urgency.

  • Helps reduce or stop accidents
  • Improves warning time and control
  • Supports confidence and daily independence

Page 2 — How InterStim Works & What to Expect

How It Works

The sacral nerves near the tailbone help control bowel function. If these signals are off, muscles may relax or contract at the wrong time. InterStim delivers gentle electrical pulses to these nerves, helping “retrain” communication so bowel movements happen when you intend.

Step 1 — Evaluation (“Test Run”)

  • A thin temporary wire is placed near the sacral nerves in a brief outpatient procedure.
  • It connects to a small external device worn discreetly for 3–14 days.
  • You track leakage and urgency. If improvement is 50% or more, you may choose a long-term implant.

Step 2 — Long-Term Implant

  • A small device is placed under the skin in the upper buttock.
  • It continually sends signals to help regulate bowel function.
  • Adjustable and reversible without damaging tissue.
  • Most patients resume normal activity quickly.

Why Patients Choose InterStim

  • Proven results: many see dramatic reduction or elimination of accidents
  • Try before you commit: evaluation helps predict success
  • Lasting solution: benefits documented at 5+ years
  • No daily meds: avoids drug side effects and routines
  • Minimal downtime: quick return to daily life

Page 3 — Is It Right for You & Life After Treatment

Who’s a Good Candidate?

  • Persistent leakage despite diet changes, pelvic floor therapy, or meds
  • Medically fit for a minor outpatient procedure
  • No specific nerve/spinal disorders that prevent proper function

Long-Term Reliability

  • InterStim™ Micro (rechargeable): up to ~15 years; smaller size; weekly charging
  • InterStim™ X (recharge-free): 10–15 years; no charging needed
  • Both offer full-body MRI under specific conditions

Life After InterStim

  • Days or weeks with no accidents for many patients
  • Less urgency and more warning time
  • Comfort to travel, dine out, and exercise
  • Better sleep and stronger social confidence

Next Steps with Advanced Urology

We’ll review your symptoms, explain the trial process, and guide you from evaluation through long-term care. You don’t have to live life around bathrooms — InterStim can help you take back control.

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