Sacral anterior root stimulation for bladder control in patients with a complete lesion of the spinal cord.

A Finetech-Brindley bladder controller was implanted in 17 patients with a complete lesion of the spinal cord. During a microscopic procedure in the cauda equina, the sacral roots were identified and the posterior components of the S2, S3 and S4 roots were cut. The stimulator was placed intradurally around the anterior components of the S2, S3, S4 roots and the S5 root. Our patients have now been followed-up for periods varying between 1 and 6 years. In all 17 patients, the bladder capacity has been increased; 16 patients have a residual volume of less than 30 ml, urinary tract infection is rare; 12 patients are fully continent. All male patients can achieve a full sustained erection by means of the implant and 13 patients are using the implant for bowel function. The method has no significant harmful effects or complications.