Lin Li-sha, Song Yan-feng, Song Jian, Chen Mei-fang
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fuzhou General Hospital, Nanjing Military Command, Fuzhou 350025, China.
Zhonghua Fu Chan Ke Za Zhi. 2004 Dec;39(12):801-3.
To observe the efficacy of electrical stimulation in treatment of overactive bladder (OAB).
Patients (n = 60) with overactive bladder were randomly divided into 2 groups. Electrical stimulation group (n = 35) used an instrument for electrical stimulation through a special vagina or rectum probe transfer current (8-70 mA), for 20 min, qd, for 20-30 times. Medical group (n = 25) received oral tolterodine 2 mg, bid, for 2-4 weeks.
The total effective rate and cure rate were 74%, 37% in electrical stimulation group and 76%, 40% in medical group, respectively, showing no significant difference between two groups (P > 0.05). While patients' satisfactory rate was significantly higher in electrical stimulation group than in medical group (P < 0.05). Side effects were more commonly seen with tolterodine.
Electrical nerve stimulation is effective and safe for overactive bladder. Further studies are needed to show the long term efficacy and cost-effectiveness.
