Axonics ™
Intro / Problem Statement: What Is Sacral Neuromodulation
Living with bladder or bowel dysfunction can feel isolating and disruptive. Conditions like overactive bladder, urinary urgency incontinence, fecal incontinence, or urinary retention are more than inconvenient—they can affect daily routines, social interactions, work productivity, and self-confidence. Patients may plan their days around bathroom access, avoid social outings, and experience anxiety or embarrassment due to unpredictable symptoms.
For many, medications or behavioral therapies provide limited relief. When symptoms persist, they not only impact physical health but also emotional well-being. The nervous system plays a central role: when communication between the brain and the pelvic organs is disrupted, normal bladder and bowel function can no longer occur reliably. For individuals facing these challenges, a different approach is needed—one that targets the root of the problem by restoring proper nerve signaling rather than just treating symptoms. This is where neuromodulation, specifically Sacral Neuromodulation (SNM), offers a transformative solution.
How It Works / Trial
Solution:
What Is Sacral Neuromodulation
Sacral Neuromodulation (SNM) is a therapy that delivers gentle electrical stimulation to the sacral nerves, located near the lower back, which control bladder and bowel function. By sending mild pulses, SNM helps restore proper communication between the brain and pelvic organs, improving bladder control, reducing urgency, and decreasing incontinence episodes.
Unlike medications that may have systemic side effects or behavioral therapies that require constant effort, SNM addresses the underlying nerve dysfunction, helping patients regain normal urinary and bowel function. The therapy is reversible, adjustable, and designed to adapt to the patient’s unique needs over time.
What Is Different About Axonics Therapy
Axonics SNM systems offer a fully implantable, rechargeable, and long-lasting solution for patients with bladder and bowel disorders. The devices are designed for convenience and reliability:
- Rechargeable and long-lasting: The device provides years of therapy with minimal maintenance.
- Customizable programming: Therapy can be adjusted by your clinician to optimize symptom relief.
- MRI-safe: Most Axonics devices are safe for full-body MRI, allowing ongoing monitoring of health conditions.
- Trial-first approach: Patients can test the therapy temporarily before committing to permanent implantation.
This combination of flexibility, comfort, and clinical reliability ensures that therapy can evolve as the patient’s condition changes, giving them confidence in long-term symptom management.
Who Can Benefit
Benefits of Sacral Neuromodulation
Patients receiving SNM often experience more than symptom control alone. Benefits include:
- Improved daily function: Fewer incontinence episodes and better bladder control allow patients to return to work, social activities, and exercise.
- Enhanced emotional well-being: Reduced anxiety and embarrassment, greater confidence, and better sleep.
- Reduced reliance on medications: Patients often require fewer pharmacologic interventions, minimizing side effects.
Conditions Treated
Axonics SNM therapy is indicated for individuals with:
- Overactive bladder (OAB), including urinary urgency and incontinence
- Fecal (bowel) incontinence
Urinary retention or non-obstructive difficulty emptying the bladder
Patient Testimonial
SNM Journey
Trial Phase
The process begins with a thorough evaluation by a urologist or specialist. Temporary leads are placed near the sacral nerves, and patients experience how the therapy impacts their symptoms. This trial allows clinicians to measure improvement in daily life before proceeding with a permanent implant.
Implant Phase
If the trial demonstrates meaningful symptom relief, a minimally invasive procedure is performed to implant the permanent Axonics device. The system is positioned under the skin and programmed to deliver personalized stimulation, optimized for the patient’s condition. Most patients return home the same day.
Post-Implant Care
Axonics SNM is not “set and forget.” Follow-up visits ensure therapy is optimized over time. Patients gradually regain control over bladder and bowel function, returning to normal routines with confidence and independence.
SNM Implant Overview
Resources
Early Education Patient Brochure
Axonics provides educational resources that explain SNM therapy, the trial-to-implant process, device care, and safety considerations. These tools empower patients to make informed decisions and engage confidently with their care team.
Sacral Neuromodulation with Axonics offers patients a path to reclaim control, independence, and quality of life. With this therapy, bladder and bowel dysfunction no longer have to dictate daily living—patients can experience restored function, emotional relief, and renewed confidence.