SA urologist becomes first in Australia to implant new sacral neuromodulation device

MedTech & Diagnostics News: Calvary North Adelaide Hospital has marked a milestone as the first in Australia to implant cutting-edge medical technology designed to manage overactive bladder.

The Axonics F15 recharge-free sacral neuromodulation (SNM) device, approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and distributed by Plexus RA locally, stimulates the sacral nerves to treat adults with overactive bladder and/or faecal incontinence.

Gill Gibbons, a patient at Calvary North Adelaide Hospital, received the pioneering implant from Urologist Dr Ailsa Wilson Edwards. Living with an overactive bladder had significantly impacted Gill’s daily life until now.

“I’d go out and I’d have to take another set of clothes because I didn’t know what was going to happen when I was out. In the week since the pacemaker was implanted, I haven’t had any problems,” Gill shared. “Even being able to get a full night’s sleep has been amazing. I used to be up five to six times a night.”

Dr Wilson Edwards performed the procedure in just 45 minutes. Reflecting on the technology’s benefits, she explained, “Previous models have not lasted long before the device needs to be changed and the patient has to undergo another operation.

“This new device doesn’t need any component to be recharged at all, and should last 15 years at normal settings. Apart from an appointment every one to two years, Gill can live her life without worrying about her condition.”

The device’s constant current stimulation allows for automatic adjustment of stimulation levels, ensuring sustained symptom relief with minimal need for reprogramming.

Dr Wilson Edwards highlighted the broader implications of bladder and bowel health, citing findings from a recent Continence Foundation of Australia survey.

“Having an overactive bladder is so common, but people don’t talk about it. Things like not making it to the bathroom in time, interrupted sleep and having to manage your whole day around trips to the toilet,” she said.

“Bladder and bowel conditions can be disabling, intrusive and embarrassing but the technology and treatments now available are incredible. To be able to free people from the worry and help them enjoy life through treatments such as sacral neuromodulation is tremendous,” she highlighted.

In addition to its SNM products, Axonics which was recently acquired by Boston Scientific, also markets Bulkamid, a unique hydrogel indicated for female stress urinary incontinence, further broadening treatment options available in Australia.

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