Trinity Health First in Michigan to Offer New Implant to Treat Urge Urinary Incontinence
February 2, 2026
Photo: (L to R) Jannah Thompson, M.D., James Ross, M.D.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Von Lozon
Pager: (248) 725-2400
von.lozon@trinity-health.org
GRAND RAPIDS and PONTIAC, Mich. (Feb. 3, 2026) – Trinity Health Michigan successfully completed the state’s first implant of a device that helps treat urge urinary incontinence, a common symptom of an overactive bladder marked by a sudden, intense, and uncontrollable urge to urinate, often leading to leaks.
The minimally invasive procedure, which is performed in an outpatient setting, involves implanting the FDA-approved Altaviva™ device under the skin near the patient’s ankle. The device, which is smaller than a stick of gum, is placed with local anesthetic. It transmits comfortable electrical pulses to the tibial nerve that extends into the sacral plexus, the location of the bladder nerve, helping regulate communication between the bladder and the brain to help restore proper bladder function.
The device, which is activated the same day as the procedure, is expected to last 15 years before requiring a battery replacement. Patients are able to return home the same day the procedure is completed. The device provides stimulation at times and dates set up by the physician and does not require the patient to interact with the technology.
“This device provides another low-risk option for treatment and increases patient access,” said Jannah Thompson, M.D., a urogynecologist and reconstructive pelvic surgeon at Trinity Health Muskegon and Trintiy Heath Grand Rapids. “We believe in being at the forefront of health care innovation and bringing these solutions to the communities we serve. Urinary incontinence can significantly diminish quality of life, and this solution will help people return to living fully.”
Urge urinary incontinence is unpredictable and often involves large volume leaks. People living with the condition suffer from the impact it has on work, social interactions, and intimacy. Approximately 40 percent of females and 30 percent of males experience urge urinary incontinence at some point in their lives, and nearly 16 million adults in the United States currently live with urge urinary incontinence.
James Ross, M.D., a urogynecologist and reconstructive pelvic surgeon at Trinity Health Oakland, performed the procedure in mid-January.
“Access to this new device represents an exciting step forward for my patients whose lives are negatively affected by a lack of bladder control,” said Dr. Ross. “Because this procedure is minimally invasive and this device begins working the same day as the procedure, we can offer patients a meaningful and immediate improvement. Innovations like this are helping restore lives in a real and meaningful way.”
Trinity Health Michigan continues to lead the state in bringing innovative new medical technology to the communities it serves. With a commitment to early adoption and clinical excellence, the health system continues to invest in advanced tools and minimally invasive technologies that elevate both patient outcomes and the overall care experience. By equipping physicians like Dr. Thompson and Dr. Ross with the latest innovations, like the Altaviva™ device, Trinity Health Michigan patients are receiving world class treatment close to home, reinforcing the health system’s mission to provide high quality, compassionate care for every individual it serves.