Definition
Percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS) uses a gentle electrical pulse to stimulate a nerve. This nerve leaves the low back and passes down the leg. It splits near the knee. One part passes down the knee and ends just inside the heel. This is the part that is treated.
Reasons for Procedure
PTNS is used to treat an overactive bladder in women. The signal starts near the heel. It travels up the nerve to a patch of nerves near the spine. The signal stimulates nerves in this patch including nerves that control the bladder. The signals then help the bladder muscles relax.
Over time these signals can retrain the bladder to relax on its own. It will stop or lessen the symptoms of overactive bladder. PTNS may be used if other treatments have not been helpful.
Possible Complications
Problems from the procedure are rare. All procedures have some risk. The care team will discuss possible problems such as:
- Muscle cramps in the leg, foot, or toes
- Tingling in the leg
- Lightheadedness or fainting when needle is inserted
- Treatment does not work as expected
PTNS is not recommended in people with:
- Pacemaker or implanted defibrillator
- Bleeding problems
- Nerve damage that may get worse with treatment
- Pregnancy or plan to be pregnant
What to Expect
Prior to Procedure
The doctor will need to know about any medicine or supplements you are taking.
Description of Procedure
The sessions can be done in a doctor’s office. You will be sitting with at least one leg raised. A small needle is inserted through the skin by the ankle. A small sticky pad will be placed near the bottom of the foot. Both the needle and the pad are attached by wires to a device. Gentle electrical pulses are sent through the needle while you rest.
When the treatment is done, the needle and pad will be removed. The process will need to be repeated. It is often done once a week for 12 weeks. It may take up to 6 sessions before symptoms start to improve. Sessions may be needed to keep up the benefits after improvements start.
How Long Will It Take?
Sessions last for about 30 minutes.
How Much Will It Hurt?
You will feel a pinch as the needle is placed. You may also feel tingling or muscle jump in your ankle, foot, or toes.
Post-procedure Care
You can leave after the session if you do not have any problems.
There are no changes to daily activity. It may take a few sessions before you have a change in your symptoms.
Call Your Doctor
Call your doctor if any of these occur:
- Urinary symptoms worsen
- Cramping, tingling, or other symptoms that last longer than you expect
- Fall or injury due to nerve problems
- Signs of infection at the needle site, such as bleeding, warmth, redness, or leaking fluid
- General signs of infection, including fever and chills
If you think you have an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away.
RESOURCES
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases https://www.niddk.nih.gov
Urology Care Foundation https://www.urologyhealth.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES
Canadian Urological Association http://www.cua.org
Women's Health Matters https://www.womenshealthmatters.ca
References
Percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS). The Simon Foundation for Incontinence website. Available at: http://simonfoundation.org/ptns. Accessed February 5, 2019.
Treating an overactive bladder by stimulating a nerve near the ankle. NICE—National Institute for Health Care and Excellence website Available at: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ipg362/resources/treating-an-overactive-bladder-by-stimulating-a-nerve-near-the-ankle-315919405. Updated October 2010. Accessed February 5, 2019.
Urinary incontinence in women. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T900573/Urinary-incontinence-in-women. Updated January 23, 2017. Accessed February 5, 2019.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Adrienne Carmack, MD
- Review Date: 02/2019
- Update Date: 00/30/2019