The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a new type of sacral neuromodulator for patients suffering from overactive bladder, urinary retention and fecal incontinence. The device  is surgically placed in the pelvic area and restores nerve signals communicating between the brain, bladder and bowel.

Incontinence can lead to the breakdown of skin, which can result in pressure ulcers. The Axonics r-SNM System provides gentle electrical stimulation to the nerves that control the bladder and bowel, restoring normal communication and resulting in an improvement in symptoms. 

The Axonics device, which is about the size of a quarter, represents the first sacral neuromodulator that does not have to be surgically removed if a patient needs an MRI. It also has a longer battery life than previous devices. It is qualified to last 15 or more years in the body, eliminating the need for repeat surgeries.

“We are always looking for innovative and effective ways to help our patients suffering from incontinence, and we are seeing great results with this device,” said Margaret Mueller, M.D., urogynecologist at Northwestern Memorial Hospital.