Neuromodulation for Reducing Neurogenic Detrusor Overactivity in SCI
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Investigating Transcutaneous Neuromodulation for Reduction of Bladder, Bowel and Spasticity in SCI as an Alternative to Pharmacological Treatment: Towards Wearable Devices
IRAS ID
193811
Contact name
Sean P T J Doherty
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital NHS trust
ISRCTN Number
ISRCTN99373118
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 10 months, 30 days
Research summary
Neuromodulation (a type of electrical stimulation) is a treatment which can alter nerve activity including those affecting the bladder. The purpose of this pilot study is to determine to what extent neuromodulation can reduce unwanted bladder contractions and incontinence when delivered using skin surface electrodes over 3 different nerves in the body in people with spinal cord injury.\n\nSpinal cord injury disrupts signals between the brain and the rest of the body, this includes the signals needed to voluntarily control the bladder and bowels. Following this loss in control people often experience bladder over-activity and incontinence. Currently the main treatment for this is medication which can have side effects.\n\nNeuromodulation (using electrical stimulation) of nerves in the lower leg, genitals or spinal cord has been shown to reduce this bladder over-activity and improve continence. However, they have not all been researched thoroughly in people with spinal cord injury and have never been directly compared to assess the most effective solution. This information is important as we intend to use it to help design a device people with spinal injuries can use to reduce bladder over-activity and improve continence. \n\nThe aim of this pilot study is to compare the effect of neuromodulation at different sites on bladder function including bladder capacity and pressure. This will enable us to find the optimal site for development of a novel wearable device that can provide alternatives to medication for bladder control in spinal cord injury.
REC name
London - Queen Square Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/LO/0164
Date of REC Opinion
28 Jan 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion