Maximal electrostimulation of the pelvic floor in female idiopathic detrusor instability and urge incontinence

Abstract

Abstract A new device for in‐clinic acute maximal electric stimulation of the pelvic floor has been developed to treat motor and sensory dysfunction of the lower urinary tract. Forty‐eight women suffering from idiopathic detrusor instability and urge urinary incontinence received an average of seven treatments, each lasting for 20 minutes. A mean current intensity of 86 mA using monophasic square pulses with a frequency of 5–10 Hz and a pulse width of 1 msec was delivered simultaneously through a vaginal and an anal plug electrode. Initially, clinical and urodynamic cures were obtained in about 50% of the patients. In addition, a significant improvement was observed in approximately 33%. At 1‐year follow‐up, a persisting positive therapeutic effect was found in 77% of the study group, and no serious side effects were registered. The stimulation device used, the “Medicon MS‐103,” which is commercially available, was easy to handle, safe for the patients, and technically reliable. Disposable plugs satisfied hygienic requirements. Low‐frequency, repetitive, short‐term maximal electrostimulation of the pelvic floor is a simple, effective, low‐cost therapeutic method in female idiopathic motor urge incontinence.