Sacral neuromodulation for intractable urge incontinence: are there factors associated with cure?

Objectives: To determine the variables that affect the cure rate in patients with urge incontinence treated with sacral neuromodulation.

Methods: This prospective analysis of patients with refractory urinary urge incontinence who underwent placement of a neuromodulator lead and generator was undertaken between October 2000 and December 2003. Quantitative assessment of the severity of their urinary leakage was assessed by preoperative and postoperative 3-day bladder diaries documenting leakage episodes, number of pads used per day, and a 24-hour pad weight assessment. Cure was defined as no daily leakage episodes after permanent implantation. Subjective outcome was assessed using the Incontinence Impact Questionnaire. Two-sample independent t tests, two-way chi-square tests, and tests of two proportions were performed when appropriate, with P < 0.05 considered significant.

Results: The mean postimplantation follow-up was 29 months, and the average age was 60 years (range 29 to 83). The cure rate was associated with age, with individuals younger than 55 years having a statistically significant greater cure rate (65% versus 37% for older individuals; P < 0.05). Having three or more chronic conditions was associated with a lower cure rate in both younger and older individuals. Patients with a neurologic condition also had a lower cure rate, but no specific neurologic condition was associated.

Conclusions: Age older than 55 years and more than three chronic conditions were independent factors associated with a lower cure rate in patients implanted with a sacral neuromodulator for refractory urge incontinence. A neurologic condition may be associated with a decrease in the cure rate.