Sacral neuromodulation: No more skiing?

Abstract

Patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) commonly suffer from neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD). Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) offers an alternative in the treatment of detrusor overactivity in patients with NLUTD. We report the cases of three patients with NLUTD due to SCI who received SNM. Due to treatment success, all patients could resume skiing. All suffered from skiing accidents, leading to a decreased effectiveness of SNM. Subsequent evaluation revealed a defect of the impulse generator (IPG) and/or dislocation of the electrodes. Reprogramming or replacement of the IPG or the electrodes resulted in restoration of SNM function. Trauma due to skiing is a potential risk factor for the integrity of SNM. Patients with SNM should be informed about the potential risk of SNM damage by falls and accidents.

Keywords:

• Neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction
• sacral neuromodulation
• spinal cord injury
• sports