If you’ve been living with urge urinary incontinence (UUI) you know how frustrating it can be to constantly plan your day around the nearest restroom or worry about unexpected leaks. For some people, lifestyle changes and medications provide adequate relief. For others, additional measures are necessary. Fortunately, new minimally-invasive procedures are emerging all the time, giving patients new ways to regain bladder health.
The Altaviva™ System is a minimally-invasive therapy designed for adults with UUI who have not found adequate relief with conservative treatments. Bhalani Urology is proud to offer this innovative treatment as part of our commitment to offering advanced, personalized treatment that helps patients regain confidence and control.
What Is Urge Urinary Incontinence?
Urge urinary incontinence is a type of bladder control problem that causes a sudden, intense urge to urinate followed by involuntary leakage. It’s often associated with overactive bladder (OAB), but not everyone with OAB experiences leakage.
Symptoms may include:
- A sudden, difficult-to-control urge to urinate
- Urine leakage before reaching the bathroom
- Frequent urination throughout the day
- Waking multiple times at night to urinate
If these symptoms interfere with your daily life despite conservative treatment, it may be time to discuss additional options with our urologist.
What Is the Altaviva System?
The Altaviva System is an FDA-approved implantable tibial neuromodulation device that helps treat urge urinary incontinence. It is a single, minimally-invasive procedure that’s streamlined and does not involve imaging or sedation. Therapy is activated the same day, and the device is usable for up to 15 years.
Instead of treating the bladder directly, the Altaviva System gently stimulates the tibial nerve near the ankle, which is connected to the nerves that help regulate bladder function. This therapy may help improve communication between the bladder and the brain, reducing urgency and leakage episodes.
What Happens During the Procedure?
One of the things patients appreciate most about Altaviva is its simplicity. A small device is implanted just under the skin near the ankle in a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that typically takes 15 to 20 minutes. The procedure is performed using local anesthesia, meaning patients can return home the same day.
The device delivers therapy automatically and doesn’t require frequent office visits for ongoing treatments. Perhaps best of all, it’s designed to provide therapy for 15 years or longer before replacement may be needed.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Altaviva?
Altaviva may be a good option for adults who experience urge urinary incontinence and:
- Experience bothersome symptoms despite lifestyle changes
- Have not found relief with medications
- Cannot tolerate medication side effects
- Are looking for a minimally invasive, long-term treatment option
Our urologist will review your medical history and symptoms to determine whether Altaviva is appropriate for you.
Why Are Patients Interested in Altaviva?
Patients are often drawn to Altaviva because it offers several potential benefits:
- Minimally invasive outpatient procedure
- Performed under local anesthesia
- No weekly treatment appointments
- Long-lasting battery life designed for 15+ years
- May significantly reduce urgency and leakage episodes
- MRI compatibility
Take the Next Step Toward Better Bladder Control
You don’t have to accept urinary incontinence that interferes with your quality of life. If medications or conservative treatments haven’t offered the relief you’d hoped for, newer therapies like the Altaviva System may provide a better path forward. At The Bhalani Urology Institute, our team offers advanced treatment options tailored to each patient’s needs.
If you’re interested in learning whether Altaviva is right for you, schedule an appointment to discuss your symptoms and explore your treatment options.