Current evidence on the safety and efficacy of sacral nerve stimulation for idiopathic chronic non‑obstructive urinary retention is adequate to support the use of this procedure provided that normal arrangements are in place for clinical governance, consent and audit.
During the consent process, clinicians should ensure that patients understand the risk of complications, the likely need for further surgery and the possible need for device removal, and provide them with clear written information. In addition, the use of the information for the public is recommended.
Patient selection and treatment should be done in specialist units by clinical teams who are experienced in the assessment, treatment and long‑term care of patients with bladder dysfunction, and in the use of sacral nerve stimulation.
NICE encourages audit and reporting of long‑term safety outcomes.