First in Israel: Pacemaker for Urinary Problems Implanted Without General Anesthesia

For the first time in Israel, a sacral pacemaker for treating urinary disorders was implanted using only local anesthesia at Laniado Hospital in Netanya, with the participation of an expert from France. The innovation lies in avoiding general anesthesia, but the article notes there is no evidence that the type of anesthesia improves outcomes.

For the first time in Israel, a sacral pacemaker for treating urinary disorders was implanted using only local anesthesia, without general anesthesia or sedation. The procedure was performed at Laniado Hospital in Netanya, led by Dr. Matan Makaytan, director of the urology department, and with the participation of Prof. Jean-Nicolas Cornu from the University of Rouen-Normandy in France, a urology specialist. The sacral pacemaker is a small device implanted in the body that delivers electrical stimuli to nerves in the sacral area, aiming to regulate bladder activity. The innovation is not the pacemaker itself, but the ability to perform the implantation without general anesthesia, thereby reducing risks and easing recovery. However, the article notes that local anesthesia is not new worldwide in this field, and there is insufficient evidence that the type of anesthesia improves treatment outcomes. Dr. Makaytan said the procedure demonstrates the professional capabilities of the department, and Prof. Shimoni welcomed the international cooperation. The article emphasizes that the procedure is not suitable for every patient and requires individual medical evaluation.