From the Guidelines
Axonics is the customer-preferred option over InterStim for sacral neuromodulation therapy due to its longer battery life, full-body MRI compatibility, smaller size, rechargeable system, and user-friendly remote control. When considering sacral nerve stimulation options, several factors come into play, including the device's features, patient comfort, and long-term cost-effectiveness. Some key advantages of Axonics include:
- Longer battery life: Up to 15 years compared to InterStim's 3-5 years, reducing the need for replacement surgeries 1.
- Full-body MRI compatibility: Patients can undergo MRI scans without removing the device, which is a significant advantage for those who may require frequent MRI scans.
- Smaller size: The Axonics device is about 60% smaller than InterStim, making it more comfortable for patients.
- Rechargeable system: Allows for easy at-home charging, typically once a month for about an hour.
- User-friendly remote control: Simpler interface for adjusting stimulation levels. These features contribute to improved patient comfort, convenience, and long-term cost-effectiveness, making Axonics the preferred choice for sacral neuromodulation therapy. It's essential for patients to discuss their options with their healthcare provider to determine the best choice for their particular situation, considering their specific needs and medical history. In the context of real-life clinical medicine, prioritizing patient comfort, convenience, and long-term cost-effectiveness is crucial, and Axonics appears to offer significant advantages in these areas 1.
From the Research
Customer Preference for Sacral Nerve Stimulation Devices
There are no direct comparisons between InterStim and Axonics Sacral Nerve Stimulation devices in the provided studies. However, the studies do provide information on patient preferences for sacral neuromodulation (SNM) in general:
- A study from 2 found that 16.3% of patients chose SNM as their first choice for treating overactive bladder, with the most attractive feature being its potential for long-term relief without frequent office visits.
- Another study from 3 found that 34% of patients preferred SNM, with patients preferring SNM favoring the attribute of having an implanted device in the upper buttock.
- A systematic review from 4 found that patients with overactive bladder prefer treatments that are cheap, have no risk of cognitive function impairment, and can reduce daytime urinary frequency and incontinence episodes, but does not specifically compare InterStim and Axonics.
Key Factors Influencing Patient Preference
Some key factors that influence patient preference for SNM include:
- Potential for long-term relief without frequent office visits 2
- Having an implanted device in the upper buttock 3
- Minimizing risks of side effects, such as dry mouth, constipation, and increased heart rate 5
- Reducing symptoms of overactive bladder, such as urinary frequency, urgency, and incontinence 5
Limitations of the Studies
The studies provided do not directly compare InterStim and Axonics Sacral Nerve Stimulation devices, and therefore do not provide a clear answer to the question of which device is preferred by customers. Additionally, the studies may have limitations in their methodology and sample size, which could affect the generalizability of the results.