Published on: 21st November 2024
The ImPRESS research team launched their research trial earlier this week in Horatio’s Garden at the London Spinal Cord Injury Centre.
In this trial, the main aim is to investigate whether eSCS (epidural spinal cord stimulation ) can be used to improve bladder and bowel function in people living with SCI (spinal cord injury). The trial will use eSCS to target specific nerves that control the bladder and bowel. Research focused on bladder, bowel and sexual function has been highlighted as a priority among the SCI population, however research in this field remains particularly limited.
After a SCI, signals between the brain and the pelvic organs (bladder and bowel) are disrupted. As a result, the bladder often becomes overactive which can lead to frequent trips to the toilet, regular incontinence episodes and a decreased quality-of-life.
eSCS has been used to treat chronic pain for over 50 years. Electrode leads or paddles are implanted in the epidural space of the spinal cord. A small device is attached to the electrode cable, and is also implanted, most commonly in the upper buttock area. It delivers small electrical pulses to specific nerves where they join the spinal cord. This stimulation can alter the signals travelling from the spinal cord to the body and can be programmed to directly target a specific area
The launch event was well attended by members of staff, members of the community, and funders/collaborators on the project – Spinal Research, Injured Jockey’s Fund, Nevro, and UCL.
Thank you to all that attended this event – we look forward to providing more updates as we progress through the trial.
If you have any questions about the trial, or would like to find out more, please email: rnoh.
L to R: David Baxter, Natalia Vasquez, Michael Foy, Charlie Gosling, Louisa McGinn, Lynsey Duffell, Sarah Knight, Hannah Houliston, Evangeline Martinez