Effect of Sacral Neuromodulation for Neurogenic Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction in Spinal Dysraphism: A Prospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Although plenty of evidence supports the effectiveness of sacral neuromodulation (SNM) in improving urination and defecation, few studies concerned its effect on the patients with spinal dysraphism (SD). This study aimed to evaluate the effects of SNM on SD-induced neurogenic bladder and bowel dysfunction. METHODS: We prospectively followed the patients with SD who underwent SNM in our department from May 2019 to June 2024. Fusion images of sacrococcygeal computed tomography and magnetic resonance sacral plexus nerve images were used as essential references for preoperative evaluation and intraoperative implantation. Patient's subjective improvement by ≥50% from baseline was defined as implantation procedure success. Among the included patients, urodynamics, urinary ultrasonography, daily urination frequency, daily urine leakage, and neurogenic bowel dysfunction score were compared before and after SNM and between unilateral and bilateral SNM. RESULTS: A total of 44 patients were included, of whom 97.73% reported improved symptoms and 47.73% achieved implantation procedure success. SNM significantly improved the average postvoid residual volume, maximum cystometric capacity, bladder compliance, daily urination frequency, daily urine leakage, and neurogenic bowel dysfunction score. We found a significantly higher success rate in the patients stimulated bilaterally compared with those stimulated unilaterally but no intergroup differences against age (between minors and adults), sex, lower urinary tract symptoms, and intestinal symptoms. Bilateral SNM performed significantly better in improving postvoid residual volume, daily urination frequency, and daily urine leakage than unilateral SNM. No SNM-related complications were reported during follow-up. CONCLUSION: SNM can improve urination and defecation in the patients with SD safely and effectively. We strongly recommend fusion imaging of sacrococcygeal computed tomography and magnetic resonance sacral plexus imaging as a valuable and promising technique for preoperative evaluation and intraoperative implantation. A flexible implantation strategy involving electrode location and number helps achieve ideal modulation effects in the patients with SD.