Axonics

Living with bladder problems like overactive bladder (OAB) and urinary retention can be frustrating. Symptoms like urgency and leaks can make it difficult to enjoy a normal life.

If lifestyle changes and medications haven’t provided lasting relief, Axonics can help. Axonics is a long-term, drug-free solution to help you regain bladder control.

Axonics therapy is an advanced treatment that restores normal communication between your brain and the nerves that control your bladder. It works by gently stimulating the sacral nerves. These are the nerves that help regulate bladder and bowel function.

When the sacral nerves aren’t working properly, the bladder can become overactive or fail to empty completely.

Axionics is used to treat the following urologic conditions:

• Overactive bladder (OAB): the sudden, frequent urge to urinate, often with little warning
• Urge urinary incontinence (UUI): an involuntary urine leakage that happens when you feel a strong, immediate need to urinate
• Chronic urinary retention: a difficulty fully emptying the bladder, which can lead to discomfort and frequent trips to the bathroom

Symptoms treated by Axonics are:

• Constant or frequent urges to urinate, even if the bladder isn’t full
• Getting up multiple times at night to urinate, known as nocturia
• Urine leakage when you feel a sudden, intense urge to go
• Difficulty starting urination
• Feeling that the bladder doesn’t fully empty
• A need to plan your day around bathroom locations or restroom access

Each of these symptoms can be very disruptive. They may persist even after trying medications, pelvic floor exercises, and dietary changes.

The sacral nerves, located near the base of your spine, play a key role in controlling bladder and bowel function. When these nerves send faulty signals, it can lead to symptoms of OAB.

Axonics uses a small, implantable device to deliver gentle electrical stimulation to the sacral nerves. This helps correct misfiring nerve signals and restores better control of bladder and bowel function.

Unlike medications that only manage symptoms, Axonics addresses the root cause of nerve dysfunction.

You may benefit from Axonics if you:

• Struggle with overactive bladder or urge urinary incontinence
• Wake up frequently during the night to urinate
• Have difficulty fully emptying your bladder
• Experience accidental bowel leakage
• Tried medications, pelvic floor exercises, or lifestyle changes without lasting relief
• Want a medication-free, long-term solution to regain control

Step 1: Test Stimulation or Trial Period

Before receiving the permanent device, you’ll undergo a short trial period. A thin wire is placed near your sacral nerves through a minimally invasive procedure. The wire connects to an external device that delivers gentle nerve stimulation. You’ll try the system for one to two weeks and track symptom improvements. If you experience meaningful relief during the trial, you and your doctor can proceed with the long-term implant.

Step 2: The Implant Procedure

The permanent Axonics device is implanted through a simple outpatient procedure. The device is placed under the skin near the upper buttock area. It’s discreet and not visible through clothing. Your doctor will tailor your device settings to provide the best symptom relief.

Most people return to regular activities within a few days after the procedure. You may need to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for a short time to allow for proper healing.

Axonics offers a modern, long-term solution for managing bladder and bowel control issues. One of its key advantages is the rechargeable device, which features a battery designed to last over 15 years. This means fewer replacement procedures and greater peace of mind. The device is easy to recharge at home. It typically requires only occasional charging sessions and little maintenance.

Additional benefits include:

• Reduced urinary urgency and frequency
• Fewer accidents and less concern about urine leakage
• Improved bladder emptying
• Fewer nighttime bathroom trips
• MRI-compatible
• Discreet, allowing you to live comfortably

1. Will I still need bladder medications after starting Axonics?

Many people find they can reduce or stop bladder medications after starting Axonics therapy. The device works directly on the nerves controlling bladder function. It helps to improve symptoms without the side effects common with medications.

2. Can I have an MRI with the Axonics device implanted?

Yes, the Axonics device is MRI-compatible under specific conditions. Always inform your doctor about your implant device before undergoing any imaging tests.