Therapy

Drug therapy

The drugs predominantly used for overactive bladder belong to the class of anticholinergics and β3-adrenoreceptor agonists.  Although some patients respond to these medications, up to 70% discontinue them on their own within 6 months due to side effects (ranging from constipation to dementia) and/or limited efficacy. In contrast, studies show that 90% of patients report satisfactory symptom reduction with implanted sacral neuromodulation.

Neuromodulation

Neuromodulation uses gentle electrical impulses to bring certain nerve structures back into the right balance. By modulating these nerves, the transmission of nerve impulses is influenced – thus, for example, overactivity of the bladder can be specifically treated. Neuromodulation is also frequently used in pain therapy. Technically, this therapy is comparable to a pacemaker: A generator stimulates the corresponding nerve roots via attached electrodes.

The portable FemPulse System was developed to provide women with a much more patient-friendly neuromodulation option that does not require invasive surgery at all. The primary focus of development was to increase treatment acceptance among the millions of untreated and inadequately treated women suffering from OAB.   Research presented at the Society of Urodynamics (SUFU) meeting in February 2021 confirmed that patients would prefer wearable OAB treatment over behavior modification, physical therapy, medications and all other forms of neuromodulation. The FemPulse System provides continuous and discreet therapy without surgery or implants: FemPulse’s pre-programmed software gives the patient immediate control over a personal handheld device and therefore offers the affected person and the treating physicians unlimited flexibility. The option of different programming combinations allows the therapy to be customized – tailored to the individual needs of the affected person.

 

Advantages of the FemPulse system at a glance:

  • Less systemic side effects and contraindications due to targeted therapy
  • Individual therapy adapted to the patient’s needs
  • Discreet, non-invasive and therefore reversible treatment at any time
  • Dosage control and flexibility of use
  • Can positively influence the nerves