A new option for men and women living with urinary urgency, frequency, or leakage.
Understanding Bladder Control Problems
Urinary urgency, frequency, or leakage can happen when the bladder and the nerves that control it stop communicating properly.
This can lead to symptoms such as:
- Sudden, strong urges to urinate
- Frequent trips to the bathroom
- Urine leakage before reaching the restroom
- Difficulty fully emptying the bladder
- Interrupted sleep due to nighttime urination
These symptoms are common, especially with age — but they are not something you have to live with.
What Is Altaviva™?
Altaviva™ by Medtronic is an implantable neuromodulation device designed to help improve bladder control. It works by delivering gentle electrical stimulation through the tibial nerve in the leg to influence the sacral nerves, which play a key role in bladder function.
When these nerves misfire, bladder symptoms appear.
Altaviva™ helps restore the communication pathway between the brain and bladder.
What makes Altaviva™ different?
- It targets the root cause of bladder control problems — nerve communication
- It is minimally invasive
- It is adjustable and personalized
- It is designed for long-term symptom relief
How Altaviva™ Works
Altaviva™ delivers small, controlled electrical pulses to the sacral nerves.
These pulses help regulate bladder activity, reducing:
- Urgency
- Frequency
- Leakage
- Retention
This therapy does not require removing the bladder or taking daily medication.
See How Altaviva™ Works
This short video explains how the therapy helps restore bladder control through gentle nerve stimulation.
Step 1: Try the Therapy First
One of the most important advantages of Altaviva™ is the test phase.
Before receiving the long-term implant, you can try the therapy for several days to see how your body responds.
During the trial period, many patients notice:
- Fewer bathroom trips
- Better bladder control
- Less leakage
- Improved sleep
- More confidence in daily activities
If the trial is successful, you and your provider can move forward with the long-term implant.
Step 2: The Long-Term Implant
If you experience meaningful improvement during the trial, the long-term device is placed under the skin in a short outpatient procedure.
Most patients return to normal activities within a few days.
How Altaviva™ Compares to Other Treatments
Lifestyle changes
Helpful, but often not enough for moderate or severe symptoms.
Medications
Can reduce symptoms, but may cause side effects such as dry mouth, constipation, or dizziness — and don’t work for everyone.
Botox® for the bladder
Effective for some patients, but requires repeat injections every 6–12 months.
Altaviva™
Targets the nerve communication pathway, offering long-term symptom improvement without daily medication.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Altaviva™ may be appropriate for men and women who:
- Have overactive bladder symptoms
- Experience urinary leakage
- Have difficulty emptying the bladder
- Have tried medications without success
- Want a long-term, discreet solution
Your provider will evaluate your symptoms, medical history, and goals to determine if this therapy is right for you.
Safety & Considerations
Altaviva™ is FDA-approved and has been used in neuromodulation therapies for decades.
As with any medical procedure, there are risks, which your provider will discuss with you.
Common considerations include:
- Temporary soreness at the implant site
- Need for periodic device adjustments
- Rare device-related complications
Most patients tolerate the therapy well and appreciate the ability to test it before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I feel the stimulation?
Most men and women describe it as a mild tapping or fluttering sensation, if they feel it at all.
How long does the device last?
The battery is designed for long-term use. Your provider will review expected lifespan and replacement options.
Can I go through airport security?
Yes. You’ll receive a device identification card to show TSA if needed.
Can I still have MRIs?
Altaviva™ is MRI-conditional. Your provider will explain what types of MRIs are safe.
What if the therapy stops working?
Your provider can adjust the settings to optimize results.
Take the Next Step
Better bladder control is possible — and you don’t have to navigate this alone.
If you’re ready to explore whether Altaviva™ may help you, schedule a consultation today.