A common mineral may provide protection against bladder cancer. According to results of a study published in the September issue of Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, a journal of the American Association for Cancer Research, selenium intake is associated with decreased risk of bladder cancer. Selenium is an essential micronutrient that is incorporated into about 25 proteins, called selenoproteins. Most of these selenoproteins are enzymes with antioxidant properties that prevent cellular damage.

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Uroplasty, Inc.  has announced that Noridian Administrative Services, LLC and Palmetto GBA, South Carolina, both regional Medicare  carriers, now cover percutaneous, posterior tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS) using the Urgent® PC Neuromodulation System for the treatment of the symptoms of overactive bladder. Noridian administers benefits for Medicare beneficiaries in North and South Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, Utah and Arizona. The Palmetto GBA policy covers Medicare beneficiaries in South Carolina.

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American Medical Systems has announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the company’s MiniArc Precise single-incision sling system for the treatment of female stress urinary incontinence (SUI). MiniArc Precise is the successor to American Medical’s original MiniArc sling system (launched in 2007), the largest selling single-incision sling in the U.S. having been implanted in more than 75,000 patients.

A recent study conducted by the Department of Urogynaecology at King’s College Hospital in London to measure the efficacy of solifenacin in treating patients suffering from overactive bladders has concluded that the drug shows positive results in as little time as three days. A 70 per cent reduction was reported in urgency in patients receiving solifenacin as compared to 50 per cent for those taking the placebo.

The Blackpool Victoria Hospital has brought botox in use for the treatment of bladder problems. The cosmetic drug used to produce a smooth brow and wrinkle-free face is now being put to use in treating patients with overactive bladders. The response from patients has been good too. The procedure lasts for about 18 months and the effects are completely reversible. Botox has been given NICE approval to be used for this technique. A neuro-toxin that paralyzes the nerve endings which tell muscles to relax, botox can be injected directly into the bladder to treat an over-active bladder. It is a less invasive option.