[What to do if percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS) works? A pilot study on home-based transcutaneous tibial nerve stimulation.]

Introduction: Aim of this pilot study was to assess the feasibility of a home-based transcutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (TTNS) protocol in patients responding to percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS ). Materials and methods: 16 overactive bladder syndrome (OAB) patients, responding to PTNS, were included. Patients performed a flexible home protocol of TTNS. Satisfied patients were considered "subjective responders"; patients not showing a =10% increase of urgency/urgency incontinence episodes/day were considered "objective responders". Results: 14/16 patients were followed up for a mean of 19.7 months. All patients were considered subjective responders; 13 were considered objective responders. The mean number of stimulations/week was 1.6 (1-3). Conclusions: After this pilot study, it is possible to conclude that home-based TTNS is feasible. Nevertheless, further randomized trials are needed before drawing any conclusions.