Chronic Studies of Spinal Cord Stimulation for Restoration of Bladder Function
Abstract
Our objective is to conduct chronic in vivo studies of a novel approach to treat urinary incontinence and poor bladder emptying following spinal cord injury (SCI). We will measure changes in bladder storage and voiding function produced by epidural kilohertz-frequency spinal cord stimulation (KHF SCS) in preclinical experiments in rats. This novel mode of SCS is used successfully to treat chronic pain but has not been developed for treatment of bladder dysfunction. Our acute studies revealed that KFH SCS at four weeks after complete spinal transection reduced the very large bladder capacities that result from SCI, increased voiding efficiency, and reduce non-voiding contractions. While promising, these experiments were limited to terminal acute studies under anesthesia. To advance this novel therapeutic approach, we are conducting chronic studies of the effects of KHF SCS on bladder function in awake, behaving animals following either transection or contusion SCI. These studies take advantage of our established capacity to deliver on-demand electrical stimulation and continuously monitor bladder pressure, external urethral sphincter (EUS) activity, and voiding behavior in awake, behaving animals.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2023
- Accession Number
- AD1218058
Entities
People
- Em Abbott
- Warren M Grill
Organizations
- Duke University