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  3. Interstim Battery Replacement, Revision and Removal

Interstim Battery Replacement, Revision and Removal

Interstim Removal and Replacement in NYC

If you have any questions, to schedule a consultation or if you need a second opinion, please contact us or call: 646-663-4151

Interstim Troubleshooting

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InterStim Removal and Replacement

Our board-certified urologists have extensive experience in treating men and women with InterStim devices. We see patients for InterStim lead revision and battery replacement as well as device removal.

Treatment Options When InterStim Stopped Working

If the InterStim device does not work or has stopped working, a number of options are available.

If the battery is fully charged, it may be possible to perform InterStim revision by moving the electrode leads to a better position.

The most common cause of sudden failure of the InterStim device is a drained, dead battery. InterStim battery replacement is a minor procedure that can be performed under IV sedation in less than 1 hour. Typically, patients are able to go back home the same day. Usually, InterStim will work immediately and provide the typical benefits that the patient experienced prior to battery failure.

InterStim Removal

Some patients find that the InterStim battery makes them uncomfortable and they want the device removed. While it is possible to remove InterStim, the benefit that it provides on urinary function will be lost if it is removed. Certainly, if the patient does not feel that he or she is getting adequate benefits from InterStim, device removal may be reasonable.

Another reasonable option is to move the InterStim battery to a different position where it may not cause discomfort when sitting or lying.

InterStim Removal in Cases of Infection

If the InterStim device gets infected, urgent removal of the device along with treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics is necessary. Typically, the patient will be treated for an infection. Once the patient is infection free and inflammation has subsided, it is possible to return to the operating room and put a new InterStim device in place.

If you have any questions, to schedule a consultation or if you need a second opinion, please contact us or call: 646-663-4151

Dr. Alex Shteynshlyuger is a board-certified urologist in NYC who specializes in treating men and women with urinary problems including frequent urination, difficulty emptying the bladder, urinary urgency and incontinence.