Anal electrostimulation in urinary incontinence. Technical description of a new device.

A new electrical anal stimulator has been developed to treat urinary incontinence. The device is automatic and fully integrated with both battery and electronics in the plug. Shape, plastic material, electrodes, electrical parameters and electronic circuits have been carefully selected for optimal acceptability and therapeutic effect. A pilot study was performed in 24 women with stress, motor urge and mixed stress and motor urge incontinence where traditional incontinence therapy had failed. When the stimulator had been used for an average of 3.5 months, 25% were continent, 54% much improved and 21% without any effect of the treatment. Improved incontinence status was verified by positive changes in the urodynamic parameters in some of the patients after the treatment. No serious side effects have been observed. The present device is simple to handle for the patient and has satisfactory technical and mechanical properties. The preliminary clinical results are promising.