Objective: To explore the efficacy of neuromodulation (including sacral neuromodulation and dorsal penile/clitoral nerve neuromodulation) for the treatment to neurogenic bowel dysfunction due to spinal cord injury.
Methods: From January 2006 to April 2008, 9 patients with neurogenic constipation after spinal cord injury underwent the therapy of neuromodulation, 1 patient underwent the therapy of sacral neuromodulation, 8 patients underwent the therapy of dorsal penile/clitoral nerve neuromodulation. The therapeutic efficacy was evaluated and followed up by means of Wexner constipation score.
Results: One patient received permanent electrode and neurostimulator implantation and constipation were improved continuously. A significant improvement in the Wexner constipation score was observed compared with the preoperative baseline level (preoperative baseline: median 22; after implantation: median 9). Four patients were effective after the therapy of dorsal penile/clitoral nerve neuromodulation. Wexner constipation score decrease from 19 to 11 after 12 weeks dorsal penile/clitoral nerve neuromodulation. Patients also showed a significant improvement in their symptoms and quality of life during follow up.
Conclusions: Sacral neuromodulation and dorsal penile/clitoral nerve neuromodulation may be effective for some neurogenic constipation. However there are no methods successfully identify the candidate who will be beneficial before the procedure. Good quality research data are needed to evaluate the effects of sacral neuromodulation and dorsal penile/clitoral nerve neuromodulation for these conditions.