Reversal of sensory deficit through sacral neuromodulation in an animal model of fecal incontinence
Abstract
Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) is a treatment option for intractable fecal incontinence. The mechanism of action is unclear, however, increasing evidence for afferent somatosensory effects exists. This study's aim was to elucidate effects of acute SNM on the cerebral cortex in a rodent model of pudendal nerve injury. The effects of 14 Hz and 2 Hz SNM on sensory cortical activation were studied. In 32 anesthetized rats, anal canal evoked potentials (EPs) were recorded over the primary somatosensory cortex. Pudendal nerve injury was produced by 1-hour inflation of two intra-pelvic balloons. Four groups were studied: balloon injury, balloon injury plus either 14 Hz or 2 Hz SNM, sham operation. Immunohistochemistry for the neural plasticity marker polysialylated neural cell adhesion molecule (PSA-NCAM) positive cells (numerical density and location) in the somatosensory cortex was performed. Anal EP amplitudes diminished during balloon inflation; 14 Hz SNM restored diminished anal EPs to initial levels and 2 Hz SNM to above initial levels. Evoked potential latencies were prolonged during balloon inflation. The numerical density of PSA-NCAM positive cells increased in the SNM groups, but not in sham or balloon injury without SNM. Stim...Continue Reading
References
Patterns of projections from area 2 of the sensory cortex to area 3a and to the motor cortex in cats
Citations
Related Concepts
Related Feeds
Barrel cortex
Here is the latest research on barrel cortex, a region of somatosensory and motor corticies in the brain, which are used by animals that rely on whiskers for world exploration.
Cell Adhesion Molecules in the Brain
Cell adhesion molecules found on cell surface help cells bind with other cells or the extracellular matrix to maintain structure and function. Here is the latest research on their role in the brain.