Reynolds Memorial Hospital performs first tibial implant to manage bladder control symptoms

Reynolds Memorial Hospital today announced that Stanley Zaslau, MD, has implanted the hospital’s first Altaviva™ device, a new treatment option to manage bladder control symptoms. The device, which is implanted near the ankle above the tibial nerve, is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat urge urinary incontinence (UUI).

Over 16 million adults in the United States experience UUI, a symptom of overactive bladder (OAB) that is characterized by a sudden, intense urge to urinate, often followed by involuntary leaks before reaching the bathroom.3 The Altaviva device, developed by Medtronic, offers a minimally invasive4 treatment option with several key benefits:
• No sedation or radiation is required for the procedure
• Same-day therapy activation
• MRI compatibility from day one
• The device battery lasts up to15 years

The inaugural procedure was performed by Dr. Zaslau, who stated, “At WVU Medicine, we’re always looking for safe, effective options that improve quality of life for our patients. The addition of the Altaviva device gives individuals living with urge urinary incontinence a minimally invasive solution that can be delivered right here in our community. It’s another example of how we’re bringing advanced technology and compassionate care together to meet the needs of the people we serve.”

The leadless Altaviva™ device is approximately half the length of a stick of chewing gum. It is implanted near the ankle and sends electrical pulses to the tibial nerve to help restore the communication pathway between the bladder and brain. Recharging is needed once or twice a year under standard settings and will take up to 30 minutes for the device to go from zero to 100% charged, eliminating the need for daily at-home charging equipment. This treatment, called tibial neuromodulation, is a proven therapy for reducing bladder control symptoms.

Reynolds Memorial Hospital is committed to providing cutting-edge treatments to its patients and keeping quality care close to home. If you or someone you know is experiencing bladder control symptoms or would like to speak with the Reynolds Urology team, call 304-221-4543.

Pictured, from left to right, are: Kati Whipp, surgical technologist; Kimberly Johnson, RN PACU; Daniel Marshall, NP urology; Tony Martinelli, president and CEO; Dr. Stanley Zaslau, urological surgeon; Kelsey Gilbert, RN PACU; Jayme Garrison, RN OR; and Sarah Zirkle, RN nurse manager.