TRMC makes history with South Georgia’s first Altaviva bladder control procedure

TIFTON, Ga. – Urogynecologist Judy Yeh, MD, FACOG and the Tift Regional Medical Center (TRMC) operating room team conducted the first Altaviva procedure in the region on Dec. 23. Approved by the FDA in September, Medtronic’s Altaviva is an implantable tibial neurostimulator device that treats urge urinary incontinence (UUI).

“Unlike medications or injections that target bladder muscles, the Altaviva implant is a small device that is placed under the skin near the ankle and sends electrical pulses to the tibial nerve, which helps regulate bladder function,” said Dr. Yeh.

UUI causes frequent urges to urinate with sudden leaks. In many cases, it is connected to an overactive bladder. UUI affects millions of all ages and genders but is more common in women.

“The Altavivia procedure offers a simple, hopeful next step for managing UUI,” said Dr. Yeh. “It’s designed to fit easily into daily life, automatically delivering therapy to restore bladder control and allowing patients to stay active and confident.  I am pleased we can offer this cutting-edge procedure here in South Georgia, close to home, work, and family for area women.”

Dr. Yeh, who practices with Southland Uro+Gynecology, LLC, is a board-certified subspecialist in urogynecology and reconstructive pelvic surgery. She sees patients at six office locations, including Albany, Americus, Cordele, Thomasville, Warner Robins, and Valdosta.  Dr. Yeh is an independent member of the TRMC Medical Staff and not an employee of Southwell or Tift Regional Health System, Inc.

For more information, visit www.MySouthwell.com/providers or https://southlandug.com/altaviva.

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