Electrical stimulation has been found to
help urinary incontinence in men after
radical prostatectomy in some trials.
Use the same programmes as for
vaginal stimulation. Increase intensity
in
STRES,
MIXED,
programmes to the highest tolerable.
13.2. HOW TO INSERT THE
ANAL PROBE
1) Before using Elise 2, you will need to
visit the toilet.
2) Lubricate
the
surfaces and probe tip with a water-
based lubricant, such as TensCare
Go Gel or water.
Caution: Do not use a silicone
based
lubricant
stimulation contacts as it may
decrease the effectiveness of the Elise
2's muscle stimulation.
3) Choose a comfortable position, such
as lying down on your bed on your
side with your knees raised.
Warning: Ensure the Elise 2 is
switched OFF before inserting
the probe.
4) After wires are securely connected,
insert the probe into the anus whilst
'bearing down' (as in the action of
passing stool) to a comfortable limit
until the base of the flange on the
probe touches the anus. The metal
parts conduct the electrical pulse
and should be in contact with the
main part of the muscle at all times.
The tissues close to the entrance are
or
TONE
metal
electrode
on
the
24
more sensitive, so you should avoid
stimulating them. It is recommended
that the probe is inserted past the
sphincter muscles of the anus,
unless directed otherwise by a
healthcare professional.
5) Anal probes with long electrodes (the
metal part) that run up and down the
length of the attachment should
always be inserted with the metal
parts facing hip-to-hip. Anal probes
with circular electrodes (the metal
part) should be inserted simply to the
desired depth.
Note: Sometimes the wearing
of tight fitting undergarments or
a tight pair of jeans will help to
keep the probe in place and maintain
correct contact during the programme.
For Faecal incontinence, the aim is to
stimulate the external sphincter and/or
pubo-rectal
muscle,
electrodes should be placed so that the
external ring is just inside the sphincter.
For Urinary Stress incontinence, the
aim is to stimulate the levator muscles
and the probe should be inserted
deeper.
14. CLEANING
It is important that the probe is cleaned
before using for the first time and after
each use. Clean with either an alcohol-
free
antibacterial
TensCare Wipes (see X-WIPES) or by
washing with warm soapy water. Rinse
in clean water and dry thoroughly and
return the unit to the storage pouch. Do
not immerse the probe in a liquid.
so
circular
wipe
such
as