Shana Black, University of Utah
Engineering
Goals: The pudendal nerve (PN) was targeted in attempt to create controlled micturition via intrafascicular electrical stimulation (IES) following the onset of surgically induced incontinence. We investigated both the effectiveness of unilateral and bilateral transection of the PN in creating a model of urinary incontinence and the ability of IES of efferent fibers to excite the external urethral sphincter (EUS) in order to restore a controlled voiding pattern. High Density Utah Electrode Arrays (HD-USEAs) were used to provide IES in these studies.
Methods: Three to five voiding trials consisting of the infusion of saline (≤20mL) into the bladder using a suprapubic catheter connected to a syringe pump were completed in four felines, anesthetized with alphachoralose, to determine normal voiding patterns. During these trials, voiding patterns were observed and internal bladder pressure was monitored using a pressure transducer. These trials were repeated following unilateral and bilateral transection of the PN to determine whether or not a model of incontinence had been achieved. In one feline, non-selective IES was administered at 0.7V with a frequency of 30Hz, a pulse width of 200μs and reversed polarity during voiding trials. Both continuous and intermittent stimulation was examined.
Results: A model of urinary incontinence was achieved in all felines only following bilateral PN transection. An intermittent voiding pattern was evident with IES, however it cannot be concluded that continence was restored due to inconsistent voiding patterns observed in the control trials.
Future: Further investigation may help to determine the effectiveness of IES in restoring normal voiding patterns. Future experiments will be aimed at establishing a reliable model of normal voiding patterns in felines and administering more selective IES to optimize control of the EUS and restore controlled micturition following surgically induced incontinence.