Nerve stimulation (InterStim)
InterStim for Urinary Retention: who is a candidate?
By Advanced Urology · November 10, 2026
Who is a candidate for InterStim for urinary retention?
At a glance
InterStim may help people who can't fully empty their bladder because the nerve signals aren't working right, not because of a blockage. It's often for those who use a catheter.
Details
A trial comes first. Testing must rule out blockages like an enlarged prostate. Using a catheter for retention?
When to call
Book a visit if you rely on a catheter to empty; a trial period shows whether InterStim lets you cut back.
Care in Paulding County
In Paulding County, Daniel Roberson, PA-C, welcomes you at our Dallas Clinic on Charles Hardy Parkway. Any procedure is performed by our urologists at our Marietta surgery center.
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Advanced Urology on Nerve stimulation (InterStim)
An evaluation in Dallas
Paulding County patients who can't empty fully can begin with Daniel Roberson, PA-C, at our Dallas Clinic. A bladder scan after voiding, a urine test and a review of medicines and health history come first, and urodynamic testing may follow.
Who may benefit
InterStim can help some people whose bladder doesn't squeeze well without a blockage, a pattern called non-obstructive retention. It's less suited to retention caused by an enlarged prostate, where prostate treatment comes first. A trial period shows how well it works, and the permanent device is placed by our urologists in Marietta.
Seek care quickly if
- You can't pass any urine
- Fever or chills develop
- Leg weakness or numbness appears along with back pain
Common questions
Common questions
Will I still need to catheterize?
Many people cut back or stop, though some still catheterize now and then. The trial period shows what to expect before the permanent device is placed.
Is it MRI-compatible?
Many newer InterStim systems allow MRI scans under specific conditions. Bring your device ID card so the imaging team can confirm the model and settings before the scan.
Residents of Dallas, Hiram and Powder Springs can phone (678) 344-8900 to arrange an evaluation, and many follow-up checks can happen back in Dallas.
Keeping a diary of catheter volumes and voids during the trial helps everyone see how much the device is helping before the decision to move ahead.
We'll review that diary with you at the end of the trial and decide together on the next step.
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