Transcutaneous tibial nerve electrical stimulation versus vaginal electrical stimulation in women with overactive bladder syndrome: Is there a role for short‐term interventions?

• Published in: Neurourology and urodynamics 2023-06, Vol.42 (5), p.1101-1110
• Main Authors: Nunes, Janaina Mayer de Oliveira, Gregório, Emerson Pereira, Moreira, Eliane Cristina Hilberath, Hazime, Fuad Ahmad, Averbeck, Marcio Augusto, Almeida, Silvio Henrique Maia
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Bladder; electrical stimulation therapy; Electrical stimuli; lower urinary tract symptoms; overactive bladder; physiotherapy modalities; quality of life; Residual effects; Sensation; Tibial nerve; transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation; Vagina
• ISSN: 0733-2467; 1520-6777
• DOI: 10.1002/nau.25179

Objective To assess the efficacy of vaginal electrical stimulation (VS) versus transcutaneous tibial nerve electrical stimulation (TTNS) in women with overactive bladder syndrome (OAB). Material and Methods Sixty‐nine patients were randomized to receive 12 sessions of VS versus TTNS, or no treatment (control group—CG), over 6 weeks. OAB impact according to international consultation on incontinence questionnaire overactive bladder module (ICIQ‐OAB), symptoms discomfort scores and voiding diaries were evaluated at baseline, 6 weeks and 1‐month post‐treatment. Results Both TTNS (mean difference = −4.2; 95% confidence interval [CI] = −6.5 to −1.9) and VS (−3.8; −6.0 to −1.6) were associated with significant reduction of ICIQ‐OAB scores, as well as discomfort sensation (−3.9; −6.2 to −1,7; p