Interstim®

If you struggle with frequent bathroom trips, sudden urges, or bladder leakage that disrupts your day, InterStim™ therapy may offer lasting relief. At the Institute for Gynecology Minimally Invasive and Robotic Surgery in Englewood, New Jersey, Yitzhack Asulin, MD, FACS, FACOG, specializes in advanced treatments for bladder control, including InterStim therapy—a safe, FDA-approved neuromodulation procedure that helps restore normal bladder communication. Schedule a consultation by phone or online to learn how this innovative therapy can help you regain control, confidence, and comfort in daily life.

How does InterStim therapy help with bladder control?

InterStim therapy is a minimally invasive treatment that helps manage overactive bladder (OAB), urge incontinence, and urinary retention by restoring the communication between your brain and bladder.

In some people, the nerves that control bladder function misfire, causing unwanted urges or incomplete emptying. InterStim therapy utilizes mild electrical stimulation to gently modulate these nerves, allowing your bladder to function normally again.

This treatment is ideal for patients who haven’t responded to medication, bladder Botox, or behavioral therapies. Many people experience dramatic improvement in bladder control and quality of life after treatment.

When is InterStim therapy recommended?

Dr. Asulin may recommend InterStim therapy for individuals who experience:

• Frequent, strong urges to urinate (overactive bladder)
• Urge incontinence or leakage before reaching the bathroom
• Difficulty emptying the bladder completely
• Urinary retention caused by nerve dysfunction
• Incomplete relief from medications or lifestyle changes

InterStim therapy can also help patients with bowel incontinence, as the same nerve pathways often play a role in both bladder and bowel control.

What happens during InterStim therapy?

The treatment typically occurs in two phases: a test phase and a permanent implant phase.

During the test phase, a small temporary wire is placed near the sacral nerves (at the base of your spine) and connected to an external device that delivers gentle electrical pulses. This trial period usually lasts about one to two weeks, allowing you and Dr. Asulin to see how your body responds.

If you experience significant improvement in bladder control, Dr. Asulin moves forward with the permanent implant, a small, battery-powered device placed under the skin in the upper buttock. The system delivers continuous, adjustable stimulation to maintain normal bladder communication.

The procedure is performed using minimally invasive techniques, which allow for a quick recovery and minimal discomfort.

What are the benefits of InterStim therapy?

• Restores healthy communication between the brain and bladder
• Reduces urgency, frequency, and incontinence episodes
• Minimally invasive, reversible, and adjustable
• Provides long-term relief without daily medication
• Improves quality of life and confidence

What should I expect after treatment?

Most patients can return to normal activities within a few days after the procedure. You may notice a gradual improvement in symptoms as your body adjusts to the therapy. The device can be adjusted over time to ensure optimal results.

Dr. Asulin provides personalized care, from testing and implantation to follow-up and ongoing support. Schedule your consultation by phone or online.