The effect of sacral neuromodulation on cortical processing of anal canal inputs in patients with faecal incontinence.
Dr James FX Jones, Senior Lecturer
University College Dublin
Co-researchers: Prof Ronan O'Connell, Sean Connolly
Project summary
The nerves which supply the pelvic floor can be injured during childbirth, and this can subsequently cause the distressing condition of faecal incontinence. Recently, electrical nerve root stimulation (sacral neuromodulation or SNM) has been applied successfully to such patients.
This is a clinical study of women with faecal incontinence. Patients deemed suitable candidates for SNM will be enrolled. The effect of SNM on the cortical awareness of the pelvic floor will be measured.
The hypothesis is that SNM will significantly decrease the time taken for signals to reach the brain and increase the amplitude of evoked electrical brain waves.
We anticipate the findings of this research will deliver a direct and immediate benefit to patients suffering from incontinence and, through development of a useful biomarker of the sensitivity of patients to SNM, act as an independent predictor of therapeutic success.
This page was last updated on 12-11-2010