Borland Groover, a leading gastroenterology practice serving Northeast Florida for nearly eight decades, has announced the availability of InterStim therapy, an FDA-approved treatment for chronic fecal incontinence (FI).
The therapy is now offered to new and existing Borland Groover patients. The InterStim program is led by board-certified gastroenterologist Donevan Westerveld, M.D., at the Durbin Crossing Endoscopy Center in Jacksonville.
InterStim therapy addresses the symptoms of FI, such as sudden bowel urgency and accidental leakage, and provides a new treatment option for patients with bowel control disorders.
“Living with fecal incontinence can be incredibly isolating,” said Westerveld, who leads the InterStim program at Borland Groover. “InterStim therapy allows us to offer patients real hope. It helps them restore control, regain confidence and live without constant worry.”
InterStim is an implantable device that works much like a pacemaker for the bowel. It sends mild electrical impulses to the sacral nerves, which regulate bowel function, restoring communication between the brain and the colon. This gentle neuromodulation helps reduce accidents and sudden bowel urgency, often improving symptoms that persist despite medications or lifestyle changes.
The therapy has been FDA-approved for bowel control since 2011 and is supported by long-term clinical data. In studies of Medtronic’s InterStim bowel control system, 89% of treated patients reported sustained relief from their symptoms. Patients also noted significant improvements in emotional well-being and day-to-day quality of life.
Fecal incontinence affects roughly one in 12 U.S. adults, or more than 21 million people nationwide. Despite its prevalence, the condition often remains undiagnosed and untreated, largely due to embarrassment and limited public awareness. Borland Groover is among the first gastroenterology groups in North Florida to offer InterStim therapy, helping close that gap by making this advanced solution accessible within the community.
“Borland Groover is leading the way in bringing this proven therapy to the region,” said Westerveld. “We are proud to expand our treatment options and provide patients with a safe, effective solution that can truly change their lives.”
Patients seeking more information or wondering if InterStim therapy may be right for them can schedule a consultation by going to borlandgroover.com or calling 904-398-7205.
