Noninvasive Neuroprosthesis for Autonomic Recovery After SCI

This research study is being conducted to help explore the effects of non-invasive (non-surgical) spinal cord stimulation via sticky electrodes over the skin (transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation; TCSCS) on bowel, bladder and sexual function following spinal cord injury. Our primary aim is to determine the specific location and timing of TCSCS at various spinal cord levels in order to target bladder and bowel control (Study 1 and 2), and to assess the safety and effectiveness of TCSCS during bladder and bowel function assessments (Study 2 only). Participants may choose to participate in either Study 1 or 2.


Eligibility Criteria:
Inclusion Criteria:

* Resident of British Columbia, Canada with active provincial medical services plan
* Male or female, 18-65 years of age
* Chronic traumatic SCI (non-progressive, with complete motor paralysis) at or above the T10 spinal segment.
* \>1-year post injury, at least 6 months from any spinal surgery.
* American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale (AIS) A, B.
* Willing and able to comply with all clinic visits and study-related procedures.
* Able to understand and complete study-related questionnaires (must be able to understand and speak English or have access to an appropriate interpreter as judged by the investigator).
* No painful musculoskeletal dysfunction, unhealed fracture, pressure sore, or active infection that may interfere with testing activities.
* Stable management of spinal cord related clinical issues (i.e., spasticity management).
* Women of childbearing potential must not be intending to become pregnant, currently pregnant, or lactating. The following conditions apply:

  1. Women of childbearing potential must have a confirmed negative pregnancy test prior to the baseline visit. During the trial, all women of childbearing potential will undergo urine pregnancy tests at their monthly clinic visits as outlined in the schedule of events.
  2. Women of childbearing potential must agree to use adequate contraception during the period of the trial and for at least 28 days after completion of treatment. Effective contraception includes abstinence.
* Sexually active males with female partners of childbearing potential must agree to use effective contraception during the period of the trial and for at least 28 days after completion of treatment.
* Must provide informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Presence of severe acute medical issue that in the investigator's judgement would adversely affect the participant's participation in the study. Examples include, but are not limited to clinically significant renal or hepatic disease; acute urinary tract infections; pressure sores; active heterotopic ossification; newly changed antidepressant medications \[tricyclics\]; or unstable diabetes.
* Recent treatment with OnabotulinumtoxinA into the detrusor muscle (relative contraindication).
* Ventilator dependent
* Use of any medication or treatment that in the opinion of the investigator indicates that it is not in the best interest of the participant to participate in this study.
* Intrathecal baclofen pump.
* Cardiovascular, respiratory, bladder, or renal disease unrelated to SCI or presence of hydronephrosis or presence of obstructive renal stones.
* Any implanted metal in trunk or spinal cord under the sites of application of electrodes (between anode and cathode).
* Participant is a member of the investigational team or his /her immediate family.
* Participant has undergone electrode implantation surgery.