Enhancing Pelvic Floor Function With Transcranial Magnetic and Tibial Nerve Stimulation for Neurogenic Bladder in MS

August 27, 2024 updated by: Sierra Varona SL

Improvement of Pelvic Floor Function Using Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and Posterior Tibial Nerve Stimulation in Treating Neurogenic Overactive Bladder in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, autoimmune, inflammatory, and degenerative neurological disorder that affects the central nervous system. Symptoms vary widely depending on the areas impacted and may include fatigue, vision issues, speech difficulties, tremors, limb weakness, loss of sensation, vertigo, coordination problems, and bladder and bowel dysfunction. Among these, lower urinary tract symptoms are particularly common and significantly impact the quality of life for MS patients.

Neurogenic overactive bladder (NOAB) is a prevalent urinary issue in individuals with MS. Treatment options for NOAB include behavioral therapy, β-3 agonists, anticholinergic agents, posterior tibial nerve neuromodulation (PTNM), botulinum toxin injections, sacral root neurostimulation, and surgical interventions.

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that may improve bladder function by modulating neural activity through an electromagnetic coil placed on the scalp. In contrast, posterior tibial nerve neuromodulation (PTNM) involves electrical stimulation of the spinal cord roots, primarily the S3 segment, to enhance bladder function.

Despite promising evidence, rTMS and PTNM are not yet widely recommended in global guidelines due to the limited number of studies, many of which are case reports. The growing prevalence of overactive bladder underscores the need for effective, non-invasive treatments to improve management and optimize current protocols.

This study aims to evaluate and compare the efficacy of rTMS and tibial nerve stimulation in managing neurogenic overactive bladder in MS patients at Hospital Universitario de la Princesa. The primary objective is to determine whether rTMS is superior, equivalent, or inferior to tibial nerve stimulation in treating NOAB.

The study's hypothesis is that the efficacy of transcranial magnetic stimulation will differ from that of tibial nerve stimulation in managing NOAB in MS patients at Hospital Universitario de la Princesa, with a focus on assessing whether rTMS offers superior, equivalent, or inferior outcomes compared to tibial nerve stimulation. This investigation seeks to provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of these treatment modalities.

Study Overview

Status

Not yet recruiting

Conditions

Intervention / Treatment

Detailed Description

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, autoimmune, inflammatory, demyelinating, and degenerative neurological disease that affects the central nervous system. Symptoms vary widely depending on the areas involved and may include fatigue, blurred vision, speech disturbances, limb weakness, tremors, loss of sensation, vertigo, coordination difficulties, and bladder and bowel dysfunctions. Among these, lower urinary tract symptoms are particularly common and significantly impact the quality of life in MS patients.

Neurogenic overactive bladder (NOAB) is the most prevalent urinary complaint in individuals with MS. Current therapeutic options for NOAB in MS include behavioral therapy, β-3 agonists, anticholinergic agents, posterior tibial nerve neuromodulation (PTNM), botulinum toxin injections, sacral root neurostimulation, and surgical interventions.

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that may improve bladder function by modulating neural activity through an electromagnetic coil placed on the scalp. Similarly, posterior tibial nerve neuromodulation (PTNM) involves electrical stimulation of the spinal cord roots, mainly the S3 segment, to enhance bladder function.

Although current literature suggests the potential efficacy of both neuromodulation techniques for NOAB, they are not yet widely recommended in global guidelines, largely due to the limited number of studies, many of which are case reports.

The increasing incidence of overactive bladder highlights the urgent need for effective therapeutic interventions. Non-invasive neuromodulation techniques offer promising avenues to enhance treatment outcomes and optimize existing protocols.

This study aims to compare the efficacy of rTMS and tibial nerve stimulation in managing neurogenic overactive bladder in MS patients at Hospital Universitario de la Princesa. The objective is to determine whether rTMS is superior, equivalent, or inferior to tibial nerve stimulation in treating this condition.

The hypothesis posits that the efficacy of transcranial magnetic stimulation will differ from that of tibial nerve stimulation in managing NOAB in MS patients at Hospital Universitario de la Princesa, with the goal of determining whether rTMS is more effective, equally effective, or less effective than tibial nerve stimulation.

Secondary objectives include:

Assessing the efficacy of rTMS in reducing urinary symptoms associated with NOAB in MS patients.

Evaluating the combined effects of transcranial magnetic stimulation and tibial nerve stimulation on urinary symptoms.

Examining the short- and medium-term effects of the treatments on urinary symptoms.

Analyzing the impact of the treatments on the quality of life in MS patients, using the Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life-54 Questionnaire (MsQoL-54).

Evaluating the applicability of the treatment protocols and analyzing clinical data for future neuromodulation research.

Safety and Adverse Events Monitoring

The study will adhere to current regulatory frameworks governing TMS and PTNS protocols to ensure safety and monitor adverse events. TMS is considered a well-tolerated procedure with minimal adverse effects, even in long-term studies. Commonly observed side effects, which typically resolve within a few days, include headaches, paresthesia, limb pain, restless legs syndrome, increased bladder spasticity, and nonspecific discomfort.

A review of the literature indicates no significant complications associated with percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS). However, potential adverse events include skin irritation, increased pain at the stimulation site, rare skin lesions, allergic reactions, and general discomfort.

Any adverse events will be reported to the Ethics Committee and managed according to current safety standards, with monthly documentation. Serious adverse events will be reported immediately.

Safety Protocol

To mitigate potential risks associated with TMS and PTNS, the following safety measures will be implemented:

Proper selection of stimulation intensity and frequency. Precise location of stimulation. Application of aseptic and antiseptic techniques. Monitoring of vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation) during and after procedures to detect cardiovascular complications.

Informed consent will be obtained from participants, including comprehensive information about potential risks and the voluntary nature of participation. All personnel involved will be adequately trained in administering the techniques and identifying potential safety issues. All relevant ethical and legal regulations will be observed.

Sample Recruitment

Participants will be recruited through the Rehabilitation Physician, who will inform potential participants about the study during consultations, providing them with a Patient Information Sheet and Informed Consent Form.

Study Design

This study employs a single-blind, randomized clinical trial design. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups:

Group A: rTMS combined with PTNS. Group B: rTMS alone. Group C: PTNS alone. Sealed, opaque, and numbered envelopes will be used to ensure unbiased group assignments. The anticipated start date is one month after receiving Ethics Committee approval.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Protocol

The study will use high-frequency TMS at 10 Hz, with a total of 2,000 pulses per session. The treatment duration is 30 minutes, with 12 sessions conducted over 4 weeks (3 sessions per week).

Percutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation (PTNS) Protocol

PTNS will involve needle placement 5-6 cm from the medial malleolus, with a pulse duration of 200 µs and a frequency of 20 Hz. Each session will last 30 minutes, with 12 sessions conducted over 4 weeks (3 sessions per week).

Randomization and Blinding

The principal investigator will conduct randomization, while the collaborating investigator will remain unaware of group assignments. The principal investigator will administer the treatments, maintaining single-blind conditions.

Study Type

Interventional

Enrollment (Estimated)

60

Phase

  • Not Applicable

Contacts and Locations

This section provides the contact details for those conducting the study, and information on where this study is being conducted.

Study Contact

Study Contact Backup

Participation Criteria

Researchers look for people who fit a certain description, called eligibility criteria. Some examples of these criteria are a person's general health condition or prior treatments.

Eligibility Criteria

Ages Eligible for Study

  • Adult
  • Older Adult

Accepts Healthy Volunteers

No

Description

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Volunteer Adults (Age 18-65)
  • Diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis
  • Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) 0-7
  • Diagnosis of overactive bladder disfunction secondary to multiple sclerosis

Exclusion Criteria:

  • Active urinary tract infection at the time of selection.
  • Individuals with a history of urological conditions other than overactive bladder secondary to multiple sclerosis.
  • Contraindications for electrical stimulation:
  • Presence of metal in the skull
  • Intracardiac lines
  • History of increased intracranial pressure
  • Significant heart disease
  • Pacemaker or implantable desfibrillator usage
  • Use of implanted medication pumps
  • Treatment with tricyclic antidepressants or neuroleptics
  • Personal or family history of epilepsy
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women

Study Plan

This section provides details of the study plan, including how the study is designed and what the study is measuring.

How is the study designed?

Design Details

  • Primary Purpose: Treatment
  • Allocation: Randomized
  • Interventional Model: Parallel Assignment
  • Masking: Single

Arms and Interventions

Participant Group / Arm
Intervention / Treatment
Experimental: Group 1
Combination of transcranial magnetic stimulation and percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation.
Device: Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and Percutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation

Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS): rTMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses a magnetic coil placed on the scalp to deliver magnetic pulses to the motor cortex, with the aim of improving bladder function by modulating brain activity associated with bladder control. The MagRex magnetic stimulator with an 8-shaped coil will be used at a frequency of 10 Hz, delivering 2000 pulses per session (6 seconds on, 24 seconds rest protocol) at 90% of the motor threshold. The treatment will consist of 3 sessions per week over a period of 4 weeks.

Percutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation (PTNM): PTNM involves the use of electrical stimulation applied to the posterior tibial nerve to enhance bladder function by modulating neural pathways. A needle will be placed 5-6 cm proximal to the tibial malleolus, with the following parameters: 200 μs pulse duration, 20 Hz frequency, 30 minutes per session, 3 times per week for 12 weeks. The Neurotrac Pelvitone device will be used.
Experimental: Group 2
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS):
Device: Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS): rTMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses a magnetic coil placed on the scalp to deliver magnetic pulses to the motor cortex, with the aim of improving bladder function by modulating brain activity associated with bladder control. The MagRex magnetic stimulator with an 8-shaped coil will be used at a frequency of 10 Hz, delivering 2000 pulses per session (6 seconds on, 24 seconds rest protocol) at 90% of the motor threshold. The treatment will consist of 3 sessions per week over a period of 4 weeks.
Experimental: Group 3
Percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation.
Device: Percutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation
Percutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation (PTNM): PTNM involves the use of electrical stimulation applied to the posterior tibial nerve to enhance bladder function by modulating neural pathways. A needle will be placed 5-6 cm proximal to the tibial malleolus, with the following parameters: 200 μs pulse duration, 20 Hz frequency, 30 minutes per session, 3 times per week for 12 weeks. The Neurotrac Pelvitone device will be used.

What is the study measuring?

Primary Outcome Measures

Outcome Measure
Measure Description
Time Frame
Reduction in Frequency of Urinary Urgency Episodes
Time Frame: Participants will complete questionnaires at four time points: 2 weeks before the start of treatment, immediately at the end of treatment, and 4 and 24 weeks post-treatment..
Urgency urinary incontinence is marked by a sudden, intense urge to urinate, often leading to involuntary leakage. This clinical trial focuses on assessing both the presence and severity of urinary urgency in participants.It will be measured using a voiding diary. Participants will receive clear instructions on how to complete the diary, where they will record their daily voiding episodes
Participants will complete questionnaires at four time points: 2 weeks before the start of treatment, immediately at the end of treatment, and 4 and 24 weeks post-treatment..

Secondary Outcome Measures

Outcome Measure
Measure Description
Time Frame
Frequency of Urination
Time Frame: Participants will complete questionnaires at four time points: 2 weeks before the start of treatment, immediately at the end of treatment, and 4 and 24 weeks post-treatment.t.

The term "frequency of urination" is defined as the number of times a person urinates within a specified time period. The frequency of urination exhibited by a participant over the course of a day is a key indicator of overall hydration status.

The measurement of this variable is as follows: A bladder diary will be employed for the purpose of data collection. The participants will be provided with explicit instructions regarding the completion of the diary, which they will utilize to record their daily instances of urination.
Participants will complete questionnaires at four time points: 2 weeks before the start of treatment, immediately at the end of treatment, and 4 and 24 weeks post-treatment.t.
Urinary Incontinence
Time Frame: Participants will complete questionnaires at four time points: 2 weeks before the start of treatment, immediately at the end of treatment, and 4 and 24 weeks post-treatment.
Involuntary micturation of urine, which may manifest as dribbling, minor incontinence episodes, or significant leakage.It will be measured using a validated questionnaire, the Overactive Bladder Symptom Score (OABSS), which assesses the frequency and intensity of urinary urgency, as well as its impact on the participants' quality of life
Participants will complete questionnaires at four time points: 2 weeks before the start of treatment, immediately at the end of treatment, and 4 and 24 weeks post-treatment.
Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS)
Time Frame: Participants will complete questionnaires at four time points: 2 weeks before the start of treatment, immediately at the end of treatment, and 4 and 24 weeks post-treatment.
The assessment tool evaluates visual, motor, sensory, sphincteric, and cerebellar functions. The EDSS will be used to measure the effectiveness of a treatment in reducing disease progression and disability across these systems.
Participants will complete questionnaires at four time points: 2 weeks before the start of treatment, immediately at the end of treatment, and 4 and 24 weeks post-treatment.
The Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life-54 (MSQoL-54) Questionnaire
Time Frame: Participants will complete questionnaires at four time points: 2 weeks before the start of treatment, immediately at the end of treatment, and 4 and 24 weeks post-treatment.
The 54-item questionnaire assesses multiple dimensions of quality of life, including physical function, emotional well-being, mental health, vitality, and social function. The domains deemed pertinent to this study encompass physical function, social function, and emotional well-being.
Participants will complete questionnaires at four time points: 2 weeks before the start of treatment, immediately at the end of treatment, and 4 and 24 weeks post-treatment.
The semi-open question to assess the impact of overactive bladder on daily life.
Time Frame: Participants will complete questionnaires at four time points: 2 weeks before the start of treatment, immediately at the end of treatment, and 4 and 24 weeks post-treatment.
Describe how overactive bladder symptoms affected your daily life and well-being in the past day. Include any specific instances where these symptoms significantly impacted your routine or activities.
Participants will complete questionnaires at four time points: 2 weeks before the start of treatment, immediately at the end of treatment, and 4 and 24 weeks post-treatment.

Collaborators and Investigators

This is where you will find people and organizations involved with this study.

Sponsor

Sierra Varona SL

Collaborators

Universidad Complutense de Madrid

Investigators

  • Principal Investigator: Elena Fernández, Physiotherapist, Fundación de Investigación Biomédica - Hospital Universitario de La Princesa

Publications and helpful links

The person responsible for entering information about the study voluntarily provides these publications. These may be about anything related to the study.

General Publications

Helpful Links

Study record dates

These dates track the progress of study record and summary results submissions to ClinicalTrials.gov. Study records and reported results are reviewed by the National Library of Medicine (NLM) to make sure they meet specific quality control standards before being posted on the public website.

Study Major Dates

Study Start (Estimated)

October 1, 2024

Primary Completion (Estimated)

January 27, 2025

Study Completion (Estimated)

September 22, 2025

Study Registration Dates

First Submitted

August 24, 2024

First Submitted That Met QC Criteria

August 27, 2024

First Posted (Actual)

September 3, 2024

Study Record Updates

Last Update Posted (Actual)

September 3, 2024

Last Update Submitted That Met QC Criteria

August 27, 2024

Last Verified

August 1, 2024

More Information

Terms related to this study

Keywords

Additional Relevant MeSH Terms

Other Study ID Numbers

  • 0013
  • 5465 (Registry Identifier: CEIm Hospital Universitario La Princesa)

Drug and device information, study documents

Studies a U.S. FDA-regulated drug product

No

Studies a U.S. FDA-regulated device product

No

This information was retrieved directly from the website clinicaltrials.gov without any changes. If you have any requests to change, remove or update your study details, please contact register@clinicaltrials.gov. As soon as a change is implemented on clinicaltrials.gov, this will be updated automatically on our website as well.

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