Interstim Therapy

What Is It?

The InterStim System, is a therapy that targets the communication problem between the brain and the nerves that control bowel function. The therapy uses an external neuro stimulator during an evaluation period. For long-term therapy, the neuro stimulator is inside your body.

Definition

Bowel incontinence prevents you from controlling your bowel movements. You may experience unexpected leaks, or use the bathroom very frequently. Some people experience a combination of these symptoms.

Causes

Bowel incontinence is usually an acquired disorder. It may be caused by:

• Obstetrical injury from pregnancy or childbirth
• Stroke or advanced age
• Nerve or muscular damage caused by surgery or injury
• Conditions that affect the nerves, such as diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis
• Inflammatory bowel disease and irritable bowel syndrome
• Congenital disorders

Some people may suffer from bowel incontinence due to not being able to sense a bowel movement, while others are able to sense a bowel movement but can’t hold it until they get to a bathroom.

InterStim therapy may help you resume normal activities and help you avoid frustrating experiences associated with bowel incontinence.