Women who undergo a therapy called percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS) often benefit from long-term relief from overactive bladder and urinary incontinence, clinical studies have found.

Scientists will present two new trials at a meeting of the International Continence Society in Glasgow later this month (August 29th to September 2nd).

According to David Kaysen, president and chief executive officer of medical device company Uroplasty, the ongoing studies demonstrate the "long-term efficacy" of PTNS in the treatment of overactive bladder syndrome.

He revealed: "The studies build on a growing body of evidence that validates the treatment protocol, usefulness with both young and elderly patients, and the durability of the improvements with continued PTNS therapy."

During PTNS, a fine needle electrode is inserted into the leg near the tibial nerve.

An adjustable electrical pulse is then delivered through the nerve to the sacral plexus, which regulates bladder and pelvic floor function.

The technique can be used to treat symptoms of urgency, frequency and urge incontinence in patients with overactive bladder syndrome.