A temporary trial of a therapy that may help manage bowel or bladder incontinence.

InterStim Basic Evaluation allows patients to try the InterStim neuromodulation system before deciding whether permanent implantation may be right for them. The therapy gently stimulates the sacral nerves, which helps control bowel and bladder function.

What is InterStim Basic Evaluation?

InterStim Basic Evaluation is a temporary trial in which small wire leads are placed near the sacral nerves for up to seven days. You will wear an external device and track your symptoms during the trial to see whether the therapy helps.

Bowel control problems may occur when signals between the brain and the sacral nerves do not work as they should. InterStim therapy helps improve this communication through gentle nerve stimulation.

Why might I need an InterStim Evaluation?

Your healthcare provider may recommend an InterStim Evaluation if you experience bowel or bladder incontinence. The trial helps determine whether this therapy may improve your symptoms before considering permanent implantation.

What should I expect during the evaluation?

The procedure takes about 30 minutes, and you should plan to spend up to 1½ hours at the endoscopy center.

  • Before the procedure: Your care team will review your medical history and explain the process. A Medtronic representative will provide information about the device.
  • During the procedure: You will lie on your stomach while your provider places temporary wire leads near the sacral nerves. A numbing medication is used, and pain medication or sedatives are generally not needed.
  • During the trial: You will wear a belt with an external device and record your symptoms for up to seven days. You will need to limit certain activities to help keep the leads in place. Follow your care team's instructions about activity, bathing, and returning to work.
  • After the trial: You will return to the MNGI clinic to have the temporary leads removed. You and your healthcare provider will review your results and discuss the next steps.

What are the benefits of InterStim therapy?

If the therapy works well for you, it may help reduce bowel or bladder accidents, decrease urgent trips to the bathroom, and improve confidence in daily activities.

InterStim therapy helps manage symptoms but does not cure the underlying condition. Possible risks include pain, infection, movement of the leads, device problems, changes in bowel or urinary function, and uncomfortable stimulation.

Where is InterStim Basic Evaluation offered?

InterStim Basic Evaluation is available at two MNGI locations:

Schedule an Appointment

Talk with your MNGI healthcare provider to learn whether InterStim Basic Evaluation may be right for you. Call 612-871-1145 to schedule an appointment.