Intraspinal sacral root stimulation for controlled micturition.
The intraspinal extradural segments of the sacral nerves were stimulated in an effort to obtain the combination of maximal detrusor contraction and minimal outflow resistance essential for effective micturition. Each root was stimulated unilaterally and bilaterally. In addition, each was separated into its motor and sensory components and these components were then individually stimulated. It was found that the most effective result was obtained with stimulation of root S2. As in the experimental animal, sacral roots in the human have a long intraspinal course that makes them accessible for implantation of electrodes. It is hoped that ongoing experiments will lead to the development of a chronically implantable sacral root electrode--thus providing a tool for efficient emptying of the denervated bladder.
D000818:Animals; D004285:Dogs; D004599:Electric Stimulation Therapy; D005260:Female; D008160:Lumbosacral Plexus; D001743:Urinary Bladder / Q000503:physiopathology; D001750:Urinary Bladder, Neurogenic / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D014554:Urination