Intraoperative recording of ENG from human sacral nerve roots

Abstract

Intraoperative recoding of electroneurograms (ENG) from the S3 extradural sacral nerve roots was performed in 2 SCI patients. The goal of this work was to study the relation between mechanical stimulation of the urinary bladder, rectum and skin and the resulting ENC-signals. These signals could be used to detect the onset of a bladder contraction. This concept could be used in an implantable neuroprostheses to treat detrusor hyperreflexia. The recorded human signals are consistent with data from animal studies. However, more human studies are needed.