Interstim® Therapy

InterStim® therapy uses gentle nerve stimulation to help restore normal communication between the brain and bladder for patients with certain bladder control conditions.

What It Treats

InterStim® therapy is used to treat overactive bladder, urge incontinence, and urinary retention when other treatments haven’t worked.

How the Therapy Works

A small device delivers mild electrical stimulation to the nerves that control bladder function. Many patients try a temporary trial period before committing to a permanent implant.

Recovery and Follow-Up

Recovery from the implant procedure is typically brief, and your care team will schedule follow-up visits to monitor your results.

Who May Be a Candidate

This option may be considered for patients with overactive bladder, urge incontinence, and non-obstructive urinary retention. Candidacy depends on the diagnosis, prior treatments, anatomy, overall health, and personal goals. A consultation with a urologist is necessary because the same symptom can have different causes, and another treatment may be more appropriate for some patients.

How the Procedure Works

In simple terms, a small device delivers mild stimulation to the sacral nerves that influence bladder function, usually after a temporary test phase. Your care team will explain where the procedure takes place, what type of anesthesia or sedation may be used, how long it generally takes, and whether you should adjust food, fluids, or medications beforehand. Never stop a prescription medicine unless the treating clinician instructs you to do so.

Preparing for Treatment

Before the procedure, the team may review bloodwork, urine testing, imaging, allergies, medications, and relevant medical conditions. Patients should arrange transportation when sedation or anesthesia is planned and follow the written preparation instructions closely. Asking questions in advance can make the day of treatment feel more predictable.

Recovery and Possible Side Effects

Recovery differs from person to person. activity restrictions around the implant site are common during early healing. Your physician will provide instructions for activity, bathing, hydration, pain control, catheter or incision care when applicable, and signs that should prompt a call. Severe pain, fever, heavy bleeding, inability to urinate, or rapidly worsening symptoms should be reported promptly.

Results and Follow-Up

the device can be adjusted during follow-up visits to improve symptom control. Follow-up is an important part of treatment because it allows the urologist to monitor healing, review symptom improvement, and decide whether any additional care is needed. Some treatments provide immediate improvement, while others work gradually over days or weeks.

Making an Informed Decision

Premier Urology explains the expected benefits, limitations, alternatives, and possible risks in clear language. Patients are encouraged to discuss how treatment could affect work, caregiving, exercise, travel, urinary function, and sexual health. The goal is to select an option that is medically appropriate and aligned with the patient’s priorities.

Schedule an Appointment

Ask our team whether InterStim® therapy is the right option for you. Schedule an appointment with Premier Urology to get started.

Comprehensive Care at Premier Urology

Premier Urology’s approach to interstim® therapy reflects the practice’s broader commitment to comprehensive, compassionate urologic care. The team includes two board-certified urologists with surgical privileges at HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood. Patients receive explanations in plain language, opportunities to ask questions, and recommendations based on their health history and goals. Because urologic symptoms can be personal, the practice emphasizes privacy, professionalism, and trust from the first call through follow-up. Adult men and women throughout the greater Houston area are encouraged to seek evaluation when symptoms are persistent, worsening, or affecting everyday life. Early attention can help identify the cause, rule out more serious concerns, and provide a clearer range of treatment choices. The care team also coordinates testing, procedures, surgical planning, and recovery guidance when those services are needed.

At every stage, the patient remains part of the decision-making process. Your urologist will discuss what is known, what additional information may be needed, and the benefits and limitations of available options. Instructions are provided for preparation, medication use, recovery, and follow-up as appropriate. Patients should contact the office with questions and seek urgent care for severe or rapidly worsening symptoms. This practical, individualized approach supports both informed choices and a more comfortable healthcare experience.