Using targeted nerve stimulation to improve bladder control in patients with neurogenic detrusor overactivity.

Triggered sacral neuromodulation to treat neurogenic detrusor overactivity based on algorithmic classification of bladder filling status from wireless pressure data.

NIH-funded research Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center · NIH-11175468

This study is exploring a new way to help people with spinal cord injuries or certain nerve-related conditions who struggle with bladder control, by using a special technique that stimulates nerves at the right times to improve bladder function and make life easier, especially for veterans.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionLouis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cleveland, United States)
Project IDNIH-11175468 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a new approach to treating neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO), a condition that causes urinary incontinence in individuals with spinal cord injuries or certain neurodegenerative diseases. The study aims to use triggered sacral neuromodulation, a technique that applies nerve stimulation only during specific phases of bladder filling, to enhance bladder capacity and reduce pressure. By utilizing advanced technologies like the UroMonitor and a specialized algorithm, the research seeks to demonstrate the feasibility of this treatment in improving the quality of life for affected patients, particularly veterans. Participants will be monitored to assess the effectiveness of this innovative approach.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with neurogenic detrusor overactivity due to spinal cord injury or neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have neurogenic detrusor overactivity or those with conditions unrelated to bladder dysfunction may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve bladder control and quality of life for patients suffering from neurogenic detrusor overactivity.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar nerve stimulation techniques in animal models, but this approach has not yet been tested in humans with neurogenic detrusor overactivity.

Where this research is happening

Cleveland, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.