Unilateral and Bilateral Transcutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation in Women With Overactive Bladder Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Study (UBTTNS-OAB Study)

• Published in: Neurourology and urodynamics 2024-10
• Main Authors: Galhardo, Letícia Martinelli, Giorgenon, Geovanna Volta, Rótoli, Marina, de Araújo, Camila Carvalho, Brito, Luiz G O, Juliato, Cássia R T
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0733-2467; 1520-6777; 1520-6777
• DOI: 10.1002/nau.25608

The efficacy of unilateral versus bilateral Transcutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation (TTNS) for women with Overactive Bladder Syndrome (OAB) remains uncertain. To compare the efficacy of unilateral and bilateral TTNS in the tibial region in women with OAB. This randomized, controlled, triple-blind clinical trial included women with OAB or urgency-predominant urinary incontinence (UUI). Participants were randomized (1:1) into the Unilateral Tibial Group or Bilateral Tibial Group. Before treatment, they underwent a pre-assessment including peripheral sensitivity examination and completion of sociodemographic data and seven validated questionnaires on urinary symptoms, quality of life, sleep, and psycho-emotional aspects. TTNS interventions were administered twice weekly (12 sessions, 30 min each). Posttreatment, participants underwent another physical examination and completed the same questionnaires, with a 30-day follow-up. Categorical variables were analyzed using Chi-square or Fisher's Exact Test, while numerical variables were assessed with the Mann-Whitney test. Group comparisons over time utilized intention-to-treat ANOVA (p