A University of Pittsburgh scientist has developed a neuromodulation device to treat underactive bladder (UAB). UAB is linked to underactivity of the detrusor muscle in the bladder and can lead to problems in completely emptying the bladder. With no available pharmaceutical therapies, this novel neuromodulation approach could dramatically improve the lives of patients and remove the need for invasive self-catheterization.
Description
UAB impacts around 25–40% of the population, rising to nearly 50% in the elderly population. It can result in prolonged urination time, lack of awareness of bladder fullness leading to incontinence, and difficulty in completely emptying the bladder. There can be a substantial impact on quality of life requiring patients to self-catheterize or have a suprapubic catheter surgically inserted to fully empty the bladder. Traditionally research has focused more on overactive bladder syndrome (OAB) and non-invasive therapies for UAB remains an unmet need. Neuromodulation could offer hope to patients, controlling release of urine from the bladder and improving quality of life.
Applications
1. Underactive bladder
2. Bladder function restoration
3. Constipation
Advantages
Current approaches to managing UAB involve self-catheterization or a suprapubic catheter. Both approaches are invasive, can be uncomfortable, and carry a risk of frequent infections. Tibial neuromodulation is currently approved by the FDA as a treatment approach for OAB. While an implantable sacral neuromodulation device exists for OAB, no similar non-invasive and peripheral device or strategy exists for treatment of UAB.
Development of a medical device suitable for UAB using electrical stimulation of nerves could lead to controlled bladder or even bowel release. This novel system whereby peripheral, and therefore accessible neuromodulation through surface electrodes or an implanted stimulator is possible, could lead to bladder or bowel contractions to treat UAB.
Invention Readiness
In animal studies using cats, superficial peroneal nerve stimulation (PRS) at 1–3 Hz triggered large bladder contractions leading to significantly reduced bladder capacity. No post-stimulation effect was observed suggesting PRS could act as a bladder switch. Studies are now required to investigate the impact of PRS in urinary voiding. This peroneal-to-bladder reflex provides hope for a non-invasive medical device to treat UAB and non-obstructive urinary retention.
IP Status
https://patents.google.com/patent/US11925802B2
