Frequently Asked Questions — Overactive Bladder & SNM Treatment
What is sacral neuromodulation (SNM) and how does it work?
Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small implanted device to send gentle electrical pulses to the sacral nerve, which controls bladder and bowel function. When the sacral nerve is misfiring and causing overactive bladder symptoms, SNM recalibrates the nerve signals. The device — about the size of a USB drive — is implanted just under the skin near the tailbone during an outpatient procedure. Most patients see significant improvement within weeks.
Is sacral neuromodulation covered by Medicare?
Yes. Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) is covered by Medicare and most major insurance plans including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, United Healthcare, and Humana when medically necessary. Many Medicare patients pay little to nothing out of pocket for the procedure. Our team at Bladder Centers of America will verify your specific coverage before your consultation.
How long does the SNM trial period last?
The SNM trial period typically lasts 3 to 14 days. During this phase, a temporary wire is placed near the sacral nerve and connected to an external stimulator that you wear on your belt or waistband. You track your bladder symptoms in a voiding diary. If you experience 50% or greater improvement in symptoms, you are considered a good candidate and can move forward with the permanent implant.
What is the difference between overactive bladder and a urinary tract infection (UTI)?
Both overactive bladder (OAB) and urinary tract infections (UTIs) cause urinary urgency and frequent urination, but they are very different conditions. A UTI is caused by bacteria and typically includes burning with urination, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, and sometimes fever. OAB is a chronic neurological condition with no infection — it involves sudden, uncontrollable urges to urinate due to bladder nerve misfiring. UTIs are treated with antibiotics; OAB requires long-term management including SNM for persistent cases.
What conditions does Dr. McJunkin treat at Bladder Centers of America?
Dr. Tory McJunkin specializes in overactive bladder (OAB), urinary urge incontinence, urinary retention, fecal incontinence, nocturia (waking at night to urinate), and non-obstructive urinary retention. He offers the full spectrum of treatment including lifestyle modification, medication management, Bladder Botox injections, and Sacral Neuromodulation (SNM) with both InterStim and Axonics devices.
How is SNM different from Botox for the bladder?
Bladder Botox and Sacral Neuromodulation (SNM) are both effective treatments for overactive bladder, but they work differently. Bladder Botox is injected directly into the bladder wall and typically lasts 6–12 months before requiring repeat injections. SNM is a one-time outpatient implant that provides continuous stimulation and can last 5–15 years. Botox is typically tried before SNM in most treatment protocols, but both are covered by Medicare and major insurance.
Can overactive bladder be cured permanently?
While OAB cannot always be ‘cured’ in every case, Sacral Neuromodulation (SNM) provides long-term remission for 80%+ of patients. Many SNM patients experience sustained relief for 5 years or more without daily medication. The device can be adjusted, reprogrammed, or removed if needed. Lifestyle factors including weight management, dietary changes, and pelvic floor exercises also contribute to long-term improvement.
How painful is the SNM implant procedure?
The SNM permanent implant is an outpatient procedure performed under mild sedation or local anesthesia. Most patients describe minimal discomfort during recovery — typically manageable with over-the-counter pain medication for 1–3 days. You will have a small incision (about 1 inch) near the tailbone. Most patients return to normal light activities within a week. Dr. McJunkin uses ultra-minimally invasive techniques refined over his 15+ years of SNM experience.
Does overactive bladder get worse with age?
OAB tends to worsen without treatment, and its prevalence increases with age — particularly in women after menopause and men with prostate issues. Hormonal changes, pelvic floor weakening, and changes in bladder elasticity all contribute. However, age alone is not a barrier to treatment. Dr. McJunkin regularly treats patients in their 60s, 70s, and 80s with excellent SNM outcomes. Early intervention typically leads to better long-term results.
Where is Bladder Centers of America located and who do you serve?
Bladder Centers of America is located at 7877 E Princess Dr, Suite 9400, Scottsdale, AZ 85255. We serve patients throughout the Phoenix metropolitan area including Chandler, Mesa, Tempe, Gilbert, Glendale, Peoria, and Scottsdale. Our office is easily accessible from the Loop 101 and Loop 202. To schedule a consultation, call (480) 634-8800 or book online at bladdercenter.com/book.