Siobhán Hartigan, M.D. Named InterStim™ Center of Excellence

Siobhán Hartigan, M.D., FPMRS, FACS, Urologist, Director of Reconstructive Urology and Pelvic Health, Hunterdon Urological Associates, has had the honor of being named an InterStim™ Center of Excellence by Medtronic (NYSE: MDT), the world’s largest medical device manufacturer. This distinction is awarded to caregivers who have demonstrated particular expertise in the use of the InterStim™ system to treat overactive bladder (also known as OAB), as well as non-obstructive urinary retention and chronic fecal incontinence.  There are only five Centers of Excellence in New Jersey and Dr. Hartigan is the only one in Central New Jersey.

According to the National Association for Continence, more than 42 million Americans live with incontinence, and a great many of them do not realize that their condition may be treatable. Over 21 million Americans suffer from fecal incontinence and 13.3 million experience both.

Of those patients who do seek treatment, many choose the InterStim™ system. This technology delivers relief by gently stimulating the patient’s sacral nerves through a small device implanted in the lower back.  Research suggests that bladder and bowel control problems may be caused by miscommunication between the brain and the sacral nerves that are responsible for controlling bladder and bowel function.  With this therapy, patients may experience improved symptom relief allowing fewer trips to the bathroom, fewer accidents and more confidence. In the 25 years since its introduction, it has been used by more than 400,000 patients worldwide.

Bloomsbury resident, Mary Lou Deak, is one of those patients who has benefitted from InterStim by Dr. Hartigan.  Nearly five years ago, Mary Lou experienced a mild stroke which impacted her nerves that helped control her bowels.  At the same time, she was suffering from frequent urinary tract infections.  “I went to see Dr. Hartigan to go over my concerns and symptoms and she thought I would be a perfect candidate for InterStim.  It has been a year since the device was implanted and I have gained my freedom back. I can now do the things I enjoy like my long walks and strength training classes at the gym,” explained Mrs. Deak.  

Receiving the Center of Excellence designation is a noteworthy accomplishment in the field. Through a highly selective process, Medtronic identifies those practices that are particularly proficient in the placement of the InterStim™ system, reviewing such factors as the number of procedures performed, patient satisfaction, outcomes and more. Notably, physicians with greater experience with device placement can have better clinical outcomes for their patients.

“I am incredibly proud to have been selected by Medtronic for this recognition,” said Dr. Hartigan. “This technology is something that I believe in and I see every day how a simple procedure can reshape the daily lives of my patients.  It is really an honor to be able to provide top-notch care to women and men with incontinence right here in Hunterdon County.  I will continue to dedicate myself to providing the highest level of patient care possible. The fact that Medtronic has taken note of these efforts is remarkably rewarding.”

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Hartigan in either Flemington or Bridgewater and to learn more about this procedure, please call Hunterdon Urological Associates at 908-237-4105.  Hunterdon Urological Associates is a specialty practice of Hunterdon Health.