✦ BOWEL PACEMAKER THERAPY

Sacral Neuromodulation (SNM)

Q: How does sacral neuromodulation work?

Gentle electrical impulses delivered to the sacral nerves modulate the signals between the brain, rectum, and pelvic floor — improving bowel control, reducing urgency, and supporting normal evacuation.

Q: Will I feel the device working?

Most patients feel a mild tingling or pulsing sensation initially that settles into a comfortable background sensation. Settings can be adjusted for optimal comfort.

Q: Is the device permanent?

The device is designed for long-term use, typically lasting several years before battery replacement. It can be turned off or removed if needed at any time.

Q: Can I have an MRI with the device?

Modern SNM devices are MRI-compatible under specific conditions. Detailed information is provided to your radiologist before any MRI scan.

Bowel pacemaker therapy — a tiny implantable device delivers gentle electrical impulses to nerves controlling bowel function, dramatically improving fecal incontinence and select constipation.

60–90 min PROCEDURE

Day Care – 1 Day HOSPITAL STAY

>80% SUCCESS RATE

3–5 Days RETURN TO WORK

What is Sacral Neuromodulation (SNM)?

Sacral Neuromodulation (SNM) is a modern, life-changing therapy for moderate to severe fecal incontinence and select forms of constipation that have not responded to medical and pelvic floor treatments. A tiny pacemaker-like device is implanted to deliver gentle, continuous electrical impulses to the sacral nerves that control the rectum, anal sphincter, and pelvic floor. The therapy is started with a test phase before permanent implantation, allowing patients to experience the benefit before committing. As an experienced female proctologist in Hyderabad, Dr. Tejasree Vengala offers SNM at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad, with sensitive, expert care.

Suitable for adults with moderate to severe fecal incontinence not responding to conservative treatment, select cases of slow-transit constipation, and certain chronic pelvic floor disorders.

How the Procedure Works

Detailed Assessment

A comprehensive pelvic floor evaluation, including manometry and imaging, confirms suitability for sacral neuromodulation.

Test Phase Implant

Under anaesthesia, a thin lead is placed near the sacral nerves through a small skin puncture, connected to an external pacemaker for a 2–3 week test phase.

Symptom Evaluation

Patients keep a bowel diary during the test phase to assess improvement. SNM is approved for permanent implant if symptoms improve significantly.

Permanent Pacemaker Implant

If the test is successful, a small permanent pacemaker is implanted under the skin in the upper buttock, connected to the lead.

Programming & Follow-Up

The device is programmed for optimal symptom control. Settings are adjusted as needed during follow-up visits, and the device lasts many years.

Outcomes

60–90 minDURATION

Day Care – 1 DayHOSPITAL STAY

>80%SUCCESS RATE

1–2 WeeksFULL RECOVERY

Who Needs This Treatment?

→Highly effective for severe fecal incontinence
→Test phase allows symptom improvement before permanent commitment
→Significantly improves quality of life and confidence
→Discreet implant — not visible externally
→Long battery life — several years per device
→Reversible — device can be turned off or removed if needed

Sacral neuromodulation has been transformative for my patients with severe incontinence — many have lived with shame and isolation for years. To see them regain confidence and dignity after the device is on is one of the most rewarding moments in proctology.

— — Dr. Tejasree Vengala, Consultant Proctologist & Laparoscopic Surgeon, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How does sacral neuromodulation work?+

Will I feel the device working?+

Is the device permanent?+

Can I have an MRI with the device?+

Not sure which treatment is right for you?

Book a consultation with Dr. Tejasree Vengala and get a personalised treatment plan.

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