To stage or not to stage?—A cost minimization analysis of sacral neuromodulation placement strategies

Abstract

Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) is a standard therapy for refractory overactive bladder (OAB). Traditionally, SNM placement involves placement of an S3 lead with 1–3 weeks of testing before considering a permanent implant. Given the potential risk of bacterial contamination during testing and high success rates published by some experts, we compared the costs of traditional 2‐stage against single‐stage SNM placement for OAB.