Transcutaneous electrical neuromuscular stimulation for urinary incontinence

NICE did a rapid review of the published literature on the efficacy and safety of this procedure. This comprised a comprehensive literature search and detailed review of the evidence from 8 sources, which was discussed by the committee. The evidence included 6 randomised controlled trials, 1 non-randomised comparative study and 1 cohort study. It is presented in the summary of key evidence section in the interventional procedures overview. Other relevant literature is in the appendix of the overview.

The professional experts and the committee considered the key efficacy outcomes to be: improved quality of life, reduced stress incontinence and reduced pad use.

The professional experts and the committee considered the key safety outcomes to be: pain or discomfort, skin irritation or burns at electrode sites.

Patient commentary was sought but none was received.

Most of the evidence was from studies of women with stress urinary incontinence, which is the primary indication for this procedure.

There are several devices available, but most of the evidence came from a single device.

The committee noted that transcutaneous electrical neuromuscular stimulation is an adjunct to pelvic floor muscle exercises.