Jannah Thompson, MD, highlights battery free device for UUI management

In a recent interview with Contemporary OB/GYN, Jannah Thompson, MD, FPMRS, from Trinity Health Urogynecology, discussed a study evaluating the efficacy of the new Spera sacral neuromodulation (pSNM) system in treating women with urgency urinary incontinence (UUI).

UUI is a condition where individuals experience sudden, uncontrollable urges to urinate, often resulting in leakage before reaching the bathroom. This condition significantly affects quality of life, leading to issues such as depression, anxiety, and social isolation. In the United States, approximately 1 in 5 women suffer from UUI, making it a widespread health concern.

Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) has been used as a treatment since 1997, with continuous technological advancements. The Spera pSNM system was designed to improve patient experience by offering a battery-free alternative to traditional SNM devices. This system consists of a mini percutaneous lead implanted near the sacral nerve, which stimulates the bladder nerve to reduce leakage episodes. Unlike conventional devices with batteries, this system requires external stimulation for 2 hours a day using a small, hands-free, and discreet wearable disc.

The study demonstrated promising results, showing that 84% of patients experienced at least a 50% reduction in leakage episodes. Among those who responded to the treatment, a significant proportion had even greater symptom improvement. Additionally, 42% of participants were completely dry, which exceeded the success rates of existing SNM systems. Furthermore, patients showed substantial improvements in quality of life, surpassing the minimum threshold by 3.5 times.

According to Thompson, the significance of these findings lies in the ability of this minimally invasive, battery-free device to deliver results comparable to or better than current SNM devices. This new system eliminates complications associated with battery-powered implants, such as movement, infection, discomfort, and visible bulging under the skin, which often require corrective surgery. By addressing these challenges, the Spera pSNM system represents a major advancement in treating UUI while enhancing patient comfort and convenience.

This video is part 1 of a 2-part series. Check back tomorrow for part 2.

Reference

Padron O. Treatment of OAB symptoms using Neuspera's ultra-minaturized system: 6-month results of the sans-UUI phase 2 study. Presented at: Society of Urodynamics Female Pelvic Medicine & Urogenital Reconstruction. Rancho Mirage, California. February 26-March 1, 2025.