The use of a nerve stimulation technique is a safe and effective treatment for urinary “urge” incontinence, researchers say.

Investigators at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor found that 90% of the patients treated with a technique known as sacral neuromodulation experienced at least 50% improvement in symptoms and quality of life. Sacral neuromodulation also was linked to reductions in the average number of leaking episodes and in the number of pads used per day.

With the technique, a battery-powered pulse generator provides nerve stimulation via implanted electrodes. Exactly how this therapy works is unclear. But researchers say it could be an effective alternative to drugs or surgery.

Study findings appeared in the publication Urology.