Using targeted nerve stimulation to improve bladder control in patients with neurogenic detrusor overactivity.
Official title: Triggered sacral neuromodulation to treat neurogenic detrusor overactivity based on algorithmic classification of bladder filling status from wireless pressure data.
Funded at Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center · NIH-11175468 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | November 1, 2021 |
| Project end | September 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01RX003687-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11175468 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
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.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have neurogenic detrusor overactivity or those with conditions unrelated to bladder dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Majerus, Steve — Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Majerus, Steve
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.