Urogynecology team successfully implants device to treat overactive bladder

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – Overactive bladder (OAB) is a common condition people are often embarrassed to discuss, even with their doctor. A WVU Medicine urogynecologist at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital has performed the hospital’s first implantation of a device that reduces urinary urge incontinence in many patients. 

The eCoin™ tibial nerve stimulator, a relatively new treatment option for OAB, is a nickel-sized device that is implanted in a patient’s leg through a quick, minimally invasive procedure. The device uses neuromodulation to help regulate bladder function in patients who have not seen improvement through other therapies.

“This milestone underscores our focus on bringing effective, less invasive treatment options to our patients,” Omar Duenas, M.D., the WVU Medicine urogynecologist and pelvic reconstructive surgeon who performed the first eCoin placement at Ruby Memorial Hospital, said. “For those living with refractory overactive bladder, eCoin provides a new option that can significantly improve quality of life.”

While similar neuromodulation technologies have been introduced at other WVU Medicine-affiliated sites, this milestone brings the latest in treatment for OAB through nerve stimulation to the WVU Health System’s primary academic medical center, improving the availability of advanced therapy for patients across North Central West Virginia. 

A key advantage of the eCoin implant is its simplicity. The device can be implanted in an office-based setting under local anesthesia, reducing the need for more invasive procedures and minimizing recovery time. 

As more conditions become treatable through neuromodulation, WVU Medicine has continued to position itself as a regional and national leader in this innovative field. 

“This successful first implantation highlights both the expertise of our clinical team and WVU Medicine’s commitment to advancing care for patients across the region,” Dr. Duenas said.

Patients interested in learning more about eCoin therapy or other treatment options for overactive bladder are encouraged to speak with their WVU Medicine provider.

To learn more about WVU Medicine, visit WVUMedicine.org.