Electrical stimulation of the bladder and gravidity

Abstract

Following experimental investigations, the authors have performed bladder stimulator implantation for paralyzed bladder patients since 1969. Up to 1983 altogether 32 operations were carried out for bladder paralysis following 21 peripheral and 11 central neural lesions. The patients urinated without residue after the operation. The observations showed that regular use of the stimulator led to the elimination of reflux in patients who had vesicoureteral reflux before the operation. It was found that, if the stimulator had to be removed for any reason after a period of 1 or 2 years, the urinating ability was maintained. Of the 7 female patients operated, 2 became pregnant. During pregnancy and delivery, the patients did not experience any problem with the implanted stimulator, and the children were born healthy and at term.