Digitized neuroanatomical map of the human saphenous nerve

Overactive bladder (OAB) is an incurable, chronic medical condition that is characterized by symptoms of urgency, frequency, nocturia and urinary incontinence. It affects approximately 18% of adults and over 30% of the elderly population. Saphenous nerve stimulation is a novel therapy aimed at treating OAB patients. It offers an alternative to bladder medication, which can have severe side effects such as dry mouth, cognitive impairments and hypertension. And, unlike sacral nerve stimulation, this novel treatment can be delivered to patients in a noninvasive manner. Recent clinical trials show that saphenous nerve stimulation can effectively reduce OAB symptoms in patients (e.g., 75% response rate), but the findings suggest that more effective and consistent activation of the SAFN can further improve clinical outcomes. To this end, the goal of this project is to create a high-resolution digital map of the human SAFN that will, in turn, be used to implement highly realistic computational (finite element) models aimed at simulating innovative forms of peripheral nerve stimulation in humans.

Faculty Supervisor:

Anne Agur

Student:

Michael Peng

Partner:

EBT Medical

Discipline:

Other

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Toronto