A groundbreaking batteryless neurostimulation system has demonstrated strong clinical efficacy in treating overactive bladder symptoms, according to 6-month data presented at the Society of Urodynamics, Female Pelvic Medicine & Urogenital Reconstruction 2025 Winter Meeting.
The SANS-UUI phase II study evaluated Neuspera's ultra-miniaturized sacral neuromodulation system, which achieved an 84% response rate among patients with urgency urinary incontinence. Response was defined as at least a 50% reduction in urgency incontinence episodes.
Revolutionary Battery-Free Design
Unlike conventional sacral neuromodulators that require both a stimulation lead and an implanted battery pack, Neuspera's system operates without an internal power source. The device consists solely of an implanted lead containing integrated stimulation components, powered externally through a wearable disc placed over the skin.
"The ultimate in making the battery really, really small is, well, what if we didn't have a battery at all?" explains Dr. Colin Goudelocke, a urologist at Ochsner Health Center in Covington, Louisiana. "It's very innovative in that way."
Simplified Surgical Approach
The battery-free design significantly simplifies the implantation procedure. Traditional systems require two incisions – one for the lead and another for the battery generator typically placed in the upper buttocks or lower waist area. The new device needs only a single incision for the lead placement, potentially reducing surgical complexity and recovery time.
Patient-Friendly Operation
The system's external power source is incorporated into a wearable garment containing the transmission disc, allowing patients to maintain normal daily activities while receiving therapy. "You can walk around with it. You can clean the house or read a book or watch television or do whatever you want to do," notes Dr. Goudelocke.
Clinical Implications
The 6-month efficacy data aligns with historical response rates seen with traditional sacral neuromodulation devices, suggesting the batteryless system could provide a less invasive alternative without compromising treatment effectiveness.
"Those of us who do this a lot, we always feel like the more tools that we have in our toolbox, the better we're able to service our patients," Dr. Goudelocke adds. "If I have different options for different people, I think I can do a lot more good for a lot more people."
The positive results from this phase II study mark an important advancement in neuromodulation therapy, potentially offering patients and clinicians a new option that combines proven efficacy with reduced surgical burden.
