Anal sphincter trauma and anal incontinence in urogynecological patients

Three-Dimensional Transperineal Ultrasound Assessment of the Anal Sphincter Immediately After Vaginal Birth: An Exploratory Study

OBJECTIVES

To assess the feasibility of acquiring adequate transperineal ultrasound (TPUS) volumes of the anal sphincter (AS) immediately after vaginal birth, the reproducibility of its measurements, and detecting defects therein.

METHODS

Secondary analysis of TPUS volumes of the AS, acquired immediately after vaginal birth with a transversely oriented convex probe. Two independent experts ranked off-line image quality as "inadequate," "adequate," or "ideal" using the Point-of-Care Ultrasound Image Quality scale. On "adequate" and "ideal" quality volumes, the length of the external AS at 6 and 12 o'clock, and the volume of the external and internal AS were measured. Additionally, volumes were screened for AS defects on tomographic ultrasound imaging. Subsequently, we rated the intra- and interrater agreement on those findings.

RESULTS

Of 183 volumes, 162 were considered "adequate" or of "ideal" quality (88.5%). Reasons for "inadequacy" were shadow artifacts (16/21), poor resolution (3/21), incomplete acquisition (1/21), or aberrant AS morphology (1/21). The intrarater reliability of two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) measurements was excellent, whereas interrater reliability was fair to good for 2D measurements and good for 3D measurements. In those tomographic ultrasound imaging (TUI) sequences including AS defects, the intra- and interrater reliability of the defect measurement were excellent [intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) = 0.92 (0.80-0.94)] and moderate [ICC = 0.72 (0.63-0.79)]. In this cohort, there were only few (4/48; 8.3%) AS defects. However, grading them was poorly reproducible between experts.

CONCLUSION

TPUS of the AS immediately after vaginal birth yields adequate image quality and allows for reproducible measurements. In the few patients with AS defects, there was good agreement on the presence, but it was poor for the extent of defects.

Automatic anal sphincter integrity detection from ultrasound images via convolutional neural networks

BACKGROUND

The anal sphincter complex comprises the anal sphincter and the U-shaped deep and superficial puborectalis muscle. As an important supporting structure of the posterior pelvic floor, together with its surrounding tissues and muscles, the anal sphincter complex maintains the normal physiological functions of defecation and continence.

OBJECTIVE

The plane required for diagnosing anal sphincter injury and the diagnosis of anal sphincter integrity through pelvic floor ultrasound are highly dependent on sonographers' experience. We developed a deep learning (DL) tool for the automatic diagnosis of anal sphincter integrity via pelvic floor ultrasound.

METHODS

A 2D detection network was trained to detect the bounding box of the anal sphincter. The pelvic floor ultrasound image and its corresponding oval mask were input into a 2D classification network to determine the integrity of the anal sphincter. The average precision (AP) and intersection over union (IoU) were used to evaluate the performance of anal sphincter detection. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to evaluate the performance of the classification model.

RESULTS

The Pearson correlation coefficients (r values) of the topmost and bottommost layers detected by the CNN and sonographers were 0.932 and 0.978, respectively. The best DL model yielded the highest area under the curve (AUC) of 0.808 (95% CI: 0.698-0.921) in the test cohort. The results from the CNN agreed well with the diagnostic results of experienced sonographers.

CONCLUSIONS

We proposed, for the first time, a CNN to obtain the plane required for diagnosing anal sphincter injury on the basis of pelvic floor ultrasound and for preliminarily diagnosing anal sphincter injury.

4D transperineal ultrasound: feedback for good obstetric anal sphincter injuries reparation

BACKGROUND

Obstetric anal injury is the main risk factor for traumatic anal, faecal and flatus, incontinence in women in reproductive age. Its recognition and good reparation are crucial for long term outcomes.

CASE REPORT

We report a case of a nulliparous woman who reported a fourth-degree perineal tear after delivery. The obstetric anal sphincter injury was repaired and a four-dimensional transperineal ultrasound was performed after reparation and then one and three months after discharge. The woman did not experience any incontinence and no points of discontinuity were observed at tomographic ultrasound imaging reconstruction. In this case, 4D-TPUS was a tool in the obstetrician's hands to evaluate the surgical success of OASIS repair, which requires some expertise.

CONCLUSIONS

4D-TPUS ultrasound is useful and reliable during immediate puerperium and in the subsequent follow-up, giving positive feedback on the correct positioning of the stiches and on a good healing process. Further studies are needed to demonstrate this usefulness in the operators training and for improving their surgical skills.

Changes in bowel symptoms after different pelvic organ prolapse surgeries among elderly women at the 1-year follow up

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the prevalence of bowel symptoms in patients with pelvic organ prolapse (POP), to evaluate the changes in bowel symptoms after different POP surgeries, and to identify risk factors for unrelieved bowel symptoms.

METHODS

This was an observational prospective cohort study conducted at Peking University First Hospital from 2020 to 2021. Demographic, clinical, and therapeutic data were collected. Participants underwent POP Quantification examination and completed the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory-20 questionnaire at baseline and 1 year postoperatively.

RESULTS

The prevalence of bowel symptoms and bothersome bowel symptoms in women with POP was 46.38% and 24.40%, respectively. Surgical correction of prolapse was associated with significant relief in bowel symptoms (P < 0.05). Colpocleisis may relieve bowel symptoms better than reconstructive surgeries (41% vs. 31%, P = 0.048). However, 35% of women had at least one bowel symptom at the 1-year follow up. A long perineal body (Pb) and levator ani muscle injury were found to be predictors of unrelieved bowel symptoms in patients undergoing colpocleisis and those undergoing reconstructive surgery, respectively (odds ratio [OR] 2.306, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.112-4.783, P = 0.025 and OR 3.245, 95% CI 1.266-8.317, P = 0.014, respectively), and perineoplasty was a protective factor for women who underwent colpocleisis (OR 0.102, 95% CI 0.025-0.417, P = 0.001) CONCLUSION: Women with POP have a high prevalence of bowel symptoms. Although bowel symptoms can be relieved after POP surgeries, one-third of women still experience bowel symptoms. A long Pb and levator ani muscle injury were associated with unrelieved bowel symptoms, while perineoplasty was a protective factor.

Assessing Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injuries: A Comparison of Exoanal and Endoanal Ultrasound

OBJECTIVES

To explore the differences in assessing obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASI) between transperineal ultrasound (TPUS) and endoanal ultrasound (EAUS) and test relationships between ultrasound findings and anal incontinence (AI) symptoms.

METHODS

A group of 196 women with a history of vaginal delivery was recruited. OASI was detected in a set of 5 slices by EAUS and 8 slices by TPUS. OASI grading was performed on TPUS rules and EAUS rules. A "significant sphincter defect" was diagnosed by TPUS and EAUS using "2/3 rules." Symptoms of AI were determined using the St Mark's Incontinence Score (SMIS). Ultrasound findings were compared between the two methods and correlated with symptoms.

RESULTS

Of 196 women, 29 (14.8%) suffered from AI with a mean SMIS of 12.1 ± 4.5, and 70 (35.7%) women with a mean age of 57 years had suspected OASI on imaging. Twenty-one (10.7%) "significant defects" were diagnosed by TPUS and 24 (12.2%) by EAUS. OASI Grades on TPUS had good agreement with EAUS rules (k = 0.70, P < .001). Logistic regression analysis showed that OASI Grade on imaging and "significant sphincter defects" seen on both forms of imaging were associated with AI symptoms. The odds ratio was 46 and 38 for "significant defects" on TPUS and EAUS, and 14 and 7 for OASI 3b+ on TPUS and EAUS in predicting AI, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

"Significant defects" diagnosed by EAUS or TPUS and OASI Grade 3b+ predict AI symptoms. The diagnostic performance of endoanal and exoanal ultrasound (EAUS and TPUS) appear to be very similar.

Is posterior compartment prolapse associated with anal incontinence?

OBJECTIVE

It has been claimed that manifestations of posterior compartment prolapse, such as rectocele, enterocele and intussusception, are associated with anal incontinence (AI), but this has not been studied while controlling for anal sphincter trauma. We aimed to investigate this association in women with intact anal sphincter presenting with pelvic floor dysfunction.

METHODS

This retrospective study analyzed 1133 women with intact anal sphincter presenting to a tertiary urogynecological center for pelvic floor dysfunction between 2014 and 2016. All women underwent a standardized interview, including assessment of symptoms of AI, clinical examination and three-/four-dimensional transperineal ultrasound. Descent of the rectal ampulla, true rectocele, enterocele, intussusception and anal sphincter trauma were diagnosed offline.

RESULTS

Mean age was 54.1 (range, 17.6-89.7) years and mean body mass index was 29.4 (range, 14.7-67.8) kg/m2 . AI was reported by 149 (13%) patients, with a median St Mark's anal incontinence score of 12 (interquartile range, 1-23). Significant posterior compartment prolapse was seen in 693 (61%) women on clinical examination. Overall, 638 (56%) women had posterior compartment prolapse on imaging: 527 (47%) had a true rectocele, 89 (7.9%) had an enterocele and 26 (2.3%) had an intussusception. Women with ultrasound-diagnosed enterocele had a significantly higher rate of AI (23.6% vs 12.3%; odds ratio (OR), 2.21 (95% CI, 1.31-3.72); P = 0.002), but when adjusted for potential confounders, this association was no longer significant (OR, 1.56 (95% CI, 0.82-2.77); P = 0.134).

CONCLUSION

In women without anal sphincter trauma, posterior compartment prolapse, whether diagnosed clinically or by imaging, was not shown to be associated with AI. © 2022 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Diagnosis of maternal birth trauma by pelvic floor ultrasound

BRIEF SUMMARY

Maternal somatic birth trauma due to vaginal delivery is more common than generally assumed and an important cause of future morbidity. Maternal birth trauma may involve both psychological and somatic morbidity, some of it long-term and permanent. Somatic birth trauma is now understood to encompass not just episiotomy, perineal tears and obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASI), but also trauma to the levator ani muscle, termed 'avulsion'. This review will focus on recent developments in the imaging diagnosis of maternal birth trauma, discuss the most important risk factors and strategies for primary and secondary prevention. Translabial and exo-anal ultrasound allow the assessment of maternal birth trauma in routine clinical practice and enable the use of levator avulsion and anal sphincter trauma as key performance indicators of maternity services. This is likely to lead to a greater awareness of maternal birth trauma amongst maternity caregivers and improved outcomes for patients, not the least due to an increasing emphasis on patient autonomy and informed consent in antenatal and intrapartum care.

Obstetric risk factors for anal sphincter trauma in a urogynecological population

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Obstetric anal sphincter tears are the single major modifiable risk factor for anal incontinence (AI) in women. We undertook a retrospective observational study in a tertiary urogynecology unit to describe the prevalence of sonographic anal sphincter defects in a urogynecological population and investigate obstetric risk factors.

METHODS

Files of women seen for investigation of pelvic floor disorders between January 2014 and May 2021 were reviewed. Sonographic defects of the external anal sphincter were analyzed using stored 4D ultrasound imaging data. Explanatory parameters were number of vaginal births, delivery mode, age at first vaginal birth, and birthweight of the first vaginally born baby.

RESULTS

Of 3,037 women seen during the inclusion period, data were missing in 219, leaving 2,818. AI was reported by 508 (18%), with a mean St Marks score of 11 (1-23) and a mean bother score of 5.9 (0-10). External sphincter defects were detected in 945 women (34%), with a "residual defect" in 343 (12%). The strongest risk factors for a residual defect were first vaginal birth and forceps, with higher-order multiparity adding risk. On multivariate analysis, forceps and vaginal parity >5 remained significant predictors, as opposed to age at first birth and birthweight of the firstborn.

CONCLUSIONS

In this observational study in urogynecological patients, 12% showed a residual EAS defect on imaging. The most obvious risk factors for the diagnosis of a residual defect on exo-anal imaging were the first vaginal birth and forceps, with higher-order vaginal parity conveying additional risk.

Validation of new ultrasound algorithm for estimating prevalence of anal sphincter trauma in a urogynecological population

OBJECTIVES

To estimate the prevalence of major perineal trauma in a urogynecological population, to test the predictive value of sonographic tear grading (Gillor algorithm) for anal incontinence (AI), AI bother score and St Mark's score, and to compare the predictive power of the Gillor algorithm with that of the residual-defect method.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of 721 women attending a tertiary urogynecology unit between February 2019 and May 2021. All women underwent a standardized interview, including determination of St Mark's score and visual analog scale (VAS) bother score for AI, as well as exoanal (translabial) ultrasound with later offline analysis. Results were reported as the presence of a residual defect of the external anal sphincter (EAS), i.e. a discontinuity of ≥ 30° in ≥ 4/6 tomographic slices, and according to the Gillor algorithm (normal, Grade 3a, Grade 3b or Grade 3c/4).

RESULTS

Mean age at assessment was 57 (range, 19-93) years and mean body mass index was 30 (range, 17-57) kg/m² . Six hundred and thirty-six (88.2%) women were vaginally parous and 161 (22.3%) had undergone at least one forceps delivery. AI was reported by 186/721 (25.8%) women, with a median St Mark's score of 10 (interquartile range (IQR), 6-14) and a median VAS score of 6.3 (IQR, 3.9-10). EAS defects were detected in 261 (36.2%) women, with a residual defect diagnosed in 88 (12.2%). On sonographic grading according to the Gillor algorithm, we identified 532 (73.8%) women with a normal sphincter, 66 (9.2%) with Grade-3a tear, 87 (12.1%) with Grade-3b tear and 36 (5.0%) with Grade-3c/4 tear. In total, the Gillor algorithm classified 189 (26.2%) women as having suffered a major perineal tear. The two grading systems were in moderate agreement (κ, 0.537 (95% CI, 0.49-0.56); P < 0.001). There were weak, albeit significant, associations between EAS defects and measures of AI (P = 0.009 to P = 0.047), both for residual defect as well as the Gillor algorithm.

CONCLUSION

Neither the Gillor algorithm nor the residual-defect method of quantifying sphincter trauma on imaging is clearly superior in terms of predicting AI. © 2022 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Are levator hiatal dimensions in mid-pregnancy associated with mode of delivery?

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Slow progress of labour is a risk for operative delivery. Smaller levator hiatal dimensions are possible risk factors for slow progress and operative delivery. Our aim was to explore associations between hiatal dimensions antenatally, duration of second stage of labour and mode of delivery.

METHODS

Prospective cohort study of 65 nullipara examined at 20 weeks gestation and 6 months postpartum. Levator hiatal anteroposterior diameter and area were measured using 2D/3D transperineal ultrasound and compared between women with normal vaginal delivery and operative delivery (vacuum or caesarean) using t-test and with Spearman's rank to explore correlations with duration of second stage. ROC analysis established a cut-off for high risk of operative delivery.

RESULTS

Two-dimensional anteroposterior diameter and 3D hiatal area at rest were smaller in women with operative delivery than with normal delivery, 5.0 cm vs. 5.7 cm, p = 0.007 and 18.5 cm² vs. 14.9 cm², p < 0.001. From the ROC curve for 2D anteroposterior diameter, a cut-off of 5.6 cm, (sensitivity = 0.94, specificity = 0.63) and for 3D hiatal area a cut-off of 17.6 cm² (sensitivity = 0.94, specificity = 0.65) predicted operative delivery. We found inverse correlations between second stage of labour and anteroposterior diameter at rest, r = -0.330, contraction, r = -0.365, area at rest, r = -0.324, and contraction, r = -0.521, all p < 0.05.

CONCLUSIONS

Smaller hiatal dimensions at 20 weeks gestation were associated with longer second stage of labour and increased risk of operative delivery in nullipara. A 2D anteroposterior hiatal diameter < 5.6 cm and 3D hiatal area < 17.6 cm² at rest imply increased risk of operative delivery.

Comparison of diagnostic criteria for significant anal sphincter defects between endoanal and transperineal ultrasound

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the agreement between three-dimensional endoanal ultrasound (EAUS) and four-dimensional transperineal ultrasound (TPUS) in measuring anal sphincter defect angle.

METHODS

This was a secondary analysis of the PERINEAL study, which evaluated the effect of perineal wound infection on anal sphincter integrity. Women were reviewed once a week, until their perineal wound had healed or for up to a maximum of 16 weeks. At each visit, both EAUS and TPUS (the latter at rest and on maximum pelvic floor muscle contraction (PFMC)) were performed to evaluate the presence of external (EAS) and internal (IAS) anal sphincter defect and measure the defect size. The largest angle size of a defect at the same sphincter level was analyzed. A defect was deemed significant if it was > 30°. Kappa coefficient (κ), intraclass correlation coefficient and standard error of measurement (SEM) were calculated, using EAUS as the reference standard.

RESULTS

In 73 women scanned at weekly intervals, a total of 250 EAUS and 250 TPUS scans were performed. An EAS defect was found in 55 (22.0%) EAUS images and 47 (18.8%) TPUS images. An IAS defect was found in 26 (10.4%) images on both modalities. There was excellent agreement (κ = 0.87) between TPUS and EAUS in diagnosing the presence of an EAS defect and perfect agreement (κ = 1.00) in diagnosing the presence of an IAS defect. TPUS performed at rest had poor and moderate agreement with EAUS in measuring EAS and IAS defect size, respectively, with respective SEMs of ± 16.1° and ± 27.9°. TPUS performed during maximum PFMC had poor and moderate agreement with EAUS in measuring EAS and IAS defect size, respectively, with respective SEMs of ± 16.5° and ± 26.4°. Based on the SEMs, if the diagnostic cut-off of 30° for defect size on TPUS was used, an incorrect diagnosis of significant EAS defect could occur in approximately 9-36% of women and an incorrect diagnosis of a significant IAS defect could occur in approximately 4-15% of women, using EAUS as the reference.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study to compare directly anal sphincter defect angle measurements obtained on EAUS and TPUS. A cut-off angle of 30° should not be used for the diagnosis of a significant residual anal sphincter defect during TPUS examination. Further research is required to determine the optimal defect cut-off angle for TPUS. © 2022 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Imaging Characteristics of Episiotomy Scars on Translabial Ultrasound: An Observational Study

INTRODUCTION

Episiotomy has been purported to protect the anal sphincter from injury; efficacy is, however, disputed. Correct execution of episiotomy may have substantial implications. We aimed to describe the characteristics of episiotomy scars on translabial ultrasound (TLUS).

METHODS

In this retrospective observational study involving women after repair of obstetric anal sphincter injuries, 76 women with a history of episiotomy were analyzed. Episiotomy scars were assessed on tomographic ultrasound in the transverse plane using volumes acquired on pelvic floor muscle contraction. We measured scar length, depth, and angle relative to a vertical reference line. Episiotomy scars were described as 1) ipsilateral if they started on the same side as the direction of the episiotomy, 2) contralateral if on the opposite side, and 3) mediolateral if the scar began in the midline.

RESULTS

The mean scar angle was 50.5° (SD 14°; range 14.4°-79.3°) while mean scar length was 14.2 mm (SD 4.5; range 5.7-27.5 mm) and depth was 8.4 mm (SD 2.8, range 3.1-18.2 mm). Sixteen (21%) scars were located mediolateral while 32 (42%) were ipsilateral. In 28 (37%) women, the starting point of the episiotomy was located contralateral to the direction of the episiotomy.

CONCLUSION

In this pilot series, the mean angle of episiotomy scars was within the safe zone of 40° to 60°, however, in one-third of cases the cut may have been initially directed toward the sphincter, not away from it. This observation suggests that not all episiotomies are performed optimally.

When to assess residual anal sphincter defect after OASI by ultrasound

OBJECTIVES

Obstetrical anal sphincter injuries (OASIS) are complications of vaginal delivery. Unrepaired anal sphincter after delivery increases the risk of anal incontinence. The aim of our study is to search for residual defect after OASI repair by 4D introital ultrasound (US). We hypothesised that imaging prior to hospital discharge would show the same number of defects as assessment at 3 months.

STUDY DESIGN

This is a retrospective analysis of 138 patients with immediate repair after OASIS. Since 2009, we have been routinely inviting all our patients with OASIS to the perineal clinic for postoperative follow-up. We scheduled the first visit before discharge from hospital and followed up with a second visit after three months. During both visits, patients underwent transperineal 4D ultrasound examination. We provided examination while at rest and during contraction; volumes were saved for further evaluation.

RESULTS

Eighty-one patients (58.7%) completed both exams and were included in the analysis. Residual external anal sphincter defect was found in 17.3% at the first visit versus 13.6% at the second (delayed) visit. We were not able to assess the sphincter in 9.9% at early versus none in the delayed examination. In 9.9%, the residual defect was not confirmed by the second examination, and in 4.9% the residual defect was missed by the first examination.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, we have found that a 3 month scan yields a smaller number of defects than a scan before discharge.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injuries: New Evidence and Perspectives

Perineal injury during childbirth is a common event with important morbidity associated in particular with third-and-fourth degree perineal tears (also referred to as obstetric anal sphincter injuries-OASIS). Early diagnosis of these damages is mandatory to define a prompt therapeutic strategy and thus avoid the development of late-onset consequences, such as faecal incontinence. For this purpose, various diagnostic exams can be performed after a thorough clinical examination. The management of OASIS includes several measures and should be individualized according to the timing and features of the clinical presentation.

Postpartum ultrasound for the diagnosis of obstetrical anal sphincter injury

This review presents the available data on the diagnosis of obstetrical anal sphincter injury by postnatal ultrasound imaging. There is increasing evidence that anal sphincter tears are often missed after childbirth and, even when diagnosed, often suboptimally repaired, with a high rate of residual defects after reconstruction. Even after postpartum diagnosis and primary repair, 25% to 50% of patients will have persistent anal incontinence. As clinical diagnosis may fail in the detection and classification of obstetrical anal sphincter injury, the use of imaging has been proposed to improve the detection and treatment of these lacerations. Notably, 3-dimensional endoanal ultrasound is considered the gold standard in the detection of obstetrical anal sphincter injury, and recently, 4-dimensional transperineal ultrasound, commonly available in obstetrical and gynecologic settings, has proven to be effective as well. Avoidance of forceps delivery when possible, performance of a rectal examination after vaginal delivery and before repair of any severe perineal tear, and offering sonographic follow-up at 10 to 12 weeks after vaginal delivery in high-risk women (maternal age of ≥35 years, vaginal birth after cesarean delivery, forceps, prolonged second stage of labor, overt obstetrical anal sphincter injury, shoulder dystocia, and macrosomia) may help reduce morbidity arising from anal sphincter tears.

Is pelvic floor muscle contractility an important factor in anal incontinence?

OBJECTIVE

Pelvic floor muscle contractility (PFMC) may contribute to anal continence. The aim of this study was to assess the association between clinical and sonographic measures of PFMC and anal incontinence (AI) symptoms, after controlling for anal sphincter and levator ani muscle (LAM) trauma.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of 1383 women assessed at a tertiary center between 2013 and 2016. All patients underwent an interview, including the St Mark's incontinence score (SMIS) in those who reported AI symptoms, a clinical examination, including assessment of PFMC using the modified Oxford scale (MOS), and four-dimensional translabial ultrasound (TLUS). Sonographic measures of PFMC, i.e. cranioventral shift of the bladder neck (BN) and reduction of anteroposterior (AP) diameter of the levator hiatus, were measured offline using ultrasound volumes obtained at rest and on maximum pelvic floor contraction. The reviewer was blinded to all clinical data.

RESULTS

Of the 1383 patients assessed during the study period, seven were excluded due to missing imaging data, leaving 1376 for analysis. Mean age of the participating women was 55 years and mean body mass index was 29 kg/m² . AI was reported by 221 (16.1%) women, with a mean SMIS of 11.8. Mean MOS grade was 2.3. On TLUS, mean BN cranioventral shift was 5.9 mm and mean AP diameter reduction was 8.1 mm. LAM avulsion and significant external anal sphincter (EAS) defect were diagnosed in 24.8% and 8.7% patients, respectively. On univariate analysis, sonographic measures of PFMC were not associated with AI. Lower MOS grade was associated with symptoms of AI; however, statistical significance was lost on multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSION

Clinical and sonographic measures of PFMC were not significantly associated with AI symptoms after controlling for EAS and LAM trauma. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

An International Continence Society (ICS) report on the terminology for pelvic floor muscle assessment

INTRODUCTION

The terminology for female and male pelvic floor muscle (PFM) assessment has expanded considerably since the first PFM function and dysfunction standardization of terminology document in 2005. New terms have entered assessment reports, and new investigations to measure PFM function and dysfunction have been developed. An update of this terminology was required to comprehensively document the terms and their definitions, and to describe the assessment method and interpretation of the finding, to standardize assessment procedures and aid diagnostic decision making.

METHODS

This report combines the input of members of the Standardisation Committee of the International Continence Society (ICS) Working Group 16, with contributions from recognized experts in the field and external referees. A logical, sequential, clinically directed assessment framework was created against which the assessment process was mapped. Within categories and subclassifications, each term was assigned a numeric coding. A transparent process of 12 rounds of full working group and external review was undertaken to exhaustively examine each definition, plus additional extensive internal development, with decision making by collective opinion (consensus).

RESULTS

A Terminology Report for the symptoms, signs, investigations, and diagnoses associated with PFM function and dysfunction, encompassing 185 separate definitions/descriptors, has been developed. It is clinically based with the most common assessment processes defined. Clarity and user-friendliness have been key aims to make it interpretable by clinicians and researchers of different disciplines.

CONCLUSION

A consensus-based Terminology Report for assessment of PFM function and dysfunction has been produced to aid clinical practice and be a stimulus for research.

Ultrasound imaging of maternal birth trauma

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The term 'maternal birth trauma' has undergone substantial changes in meaning over the last 2 decades. Leaving aside psychological morbidity, somatic trauma is now understood to encompass not just episiotomy, perineal tears and obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASI), but also trauma to the levator ani muscle. This review covers diagnosis of maternal birth trauma by translabial ultrasound imaging.

METHODS

Narrative review.

RESULTS

Tomographic imaging of pelvic structures with the help of 4D ultrasound, used since 2007, has allowed international standardization and seems to be highly reproducible and valid for the diagnosis of OASI and levator avulsion.

CONCLUSIONS

Translabial and exo-anal ultrasound allows the assessment of maternal birth trauma in routine clinical practice and the utilization of avulsion and sphincter trauma as key performance indicators of maternity services. It is hoped that this will lead to a greater awareness of maternal birth trauma among maternity caregivers and improved outcomes for patients, both in the short term and in the decades to come.

The effect of preoperative pelvic floor muscle training on urinary and colorectal-anal distress in women undergoing pelvic organ prolapse surgery-a randomized controlled trial

Introduction and hypothesis

Pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) improves urinary incontinence and mild pelvic organ prolapse (POP). We aimed to investigate the effect of preoperative PFMT on urinary and colorectal-anal distress and related quality of life (QoL) in women with severe POP scheduled for surgery.

Methods

Randomized controlled trial of 159 women scheduled for POP surgery (intervention = 81, controls = 78). Intervention consisted of daily PFMT from inclusion to the day of surgery. Symptoms and QoL were assessed at inclusion, day of surgery and 6 months postoperatively using the Urinary Distress Inventory (UDI-6), Colorectal-Anal Distress Inventory (CRADI-8), Urinary Impact Questionnaire (UIQ) and Colorectal-Anal Impact Questionnaire (CRAIQ) (range 0–100). Mixed model statistical analyses were used.

Results

One hundred fifty-one (95%) women completed the study (intervention = 75, controls = 76). Mean waiting times until surgery and follow-up were 22 and 28 weeks. There was no difference in mean postoperative symptom and QoL scores (95% CI) between the intervention and control group: UDI-6 16 (12–21) vs. 17 (13–22), CRADI-8 15 (11–18) vs. 13 (10–16), UIQ 11 (7–15) vs. 10 (6–13) and CRAIQ 5 (2–7) vs. 6 (4–9), all p > 0.05. Overall mean scores were reduced from baseline to postoperative follow-up: UDI-6 37 (33–41) vs. 17 (14–20), CRADI-8 22 (19–25) vs. 14 (11–16); UIQ 28 (24–32) vs. 10 (7–13) and CRAIQ 16 (12–19) vs. 5 (3–7), all p < 0.01.

Conclusions

We found no added effect of preoperative PFMT on symptoms or QoL related to urinary and colorectal-anal distress in women scheduled for POP surgery. They achieved symptomatic improvement postoperatively regardless of PFMT.

Clinical trial registration

The study was registered in clinicaltrials.gov: NCT 03,064,750.

Establishing a peripartum perineal trauma clinic: a narrative review

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI) is not rare, and its consequences are multiple and potentially severe, especially for young women. Some dedicated perineal clinics have been established to improve the management of OASI. Despite their obvious importance, these specific clinics are underrepresented and underdeveloped. The objectives of this review are to explore various options for developing a peripartum perineal clinic and to compare the different practices regarding the mode of delivery for subsequent pregnancies after an OASI.

METHODS

This narrative review covers information from patients' questionnaires specific to anal incontinence, anal physiology assessment, pelvic floor and anal sphincter imaging, and the arguments for choosing the mode of delivery after an OASI.

RESULTS

This review highlights the extensive range of practices regarding the delivery mode after an OASI throughout national professional organizations and experienced perineal clinics.

CONCLUSION

This review summarizes the different choices in developing a perineal clinic to facilitate their development in promoting health care and education specific for peripartum women concerning the perineal consequences of delivery for obstetrician-gynaecologists, family doctors, and residents.

Transperineal anal sphincter complex evaluation after obstetric anal sphincter injuries: With or without tomographic ultrasound imaging technique?

OBJECTIVES

"Significant" obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS) have been defined as visible defects of at least 30° in at least 4/6 slices using tomographic ultrasound imaging (TUI) with transperineal ultrasound (TPUS). The objective of this study was to assess if TUI is mandatory for the evaluation of OASIS.

METHODS

Patients with a history of OASIS were evaluated by performing 3D-endoanal ultrasound (EAUS) and 3D-TPUS with and without TUI. Any damage to the internal (IAS) or external (EAS) anal sphincters was recorded and scored using the Starck's and the Norderval's systems. Intraobserver and inter-techniques correlations were calculated.

RESULTS

From September 2012 to May 2015, 63 women, mean age 32.5 ± 4.6 years, with OASIS (3a: 26 pts., 41.3 %; 3b: 26 pts., 41.3 %; 3c: 6 pts., 9.5 %, 4: 4 pts., 6.3 %, "button hole" tear: 1 pt., 1.6 %). Inter-technique and intraobserver correlations were excellent (TUI: k = 0.9; sweeping technique: k = 0.85; EAUS: k = 0.9) in determining OASIS. Using the Starck's Score, excellent correlation was found for both TPUS modalities (TUI: k = 0.86; sweeping technique: k = 0.89). However, for the different individual parameters, the correlation was moderate for EAS depth (TUI: k = 0.44; sweeping technique: k = 0.5) and good for IAS depth (TUI: k = 0.7; sweeping technique: k = 0.78). Similar results were found using the Norderval's classification.

CONCLUSIONS

OASIS can be assessed by TPUS without TUI technique, dragging the rendered box and following the anal canal from the anal verge to the anorectal junction in the longitudinal plane and describing findings.

Obstetric anal sphincter injuries: strategies for prevention, diagnosis, and management

Obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS) are one of the most common causes of anal incontinence (AI) in women of reproductive age and can have a significant impact on quality of life. However, many women do not report symptoms to their physicians because of embarrassment and shame. Therefore, prevention and diagnosis of the tear is essential. Diagnostic strategies have evolved considerably in recent years, with an increase in prevalence of OASIS as a consequence. The use of 3D endoanal (3D-EAUS) and 4D transperineal ultrasound (4D-TPUS), in addition to standard clinical examination have enhanced the detection of OASIS. Once identified, adequate repair by a skilled practitioner and optimal postpartum management should be ensured in order to reduce the risk of anal incontinence. This review presents the available evidence on strategies for prevention, diagnosis, and management of OASIS.

How comparable is clinical grading of obstetric anal sphincter injury with that determined by four-dimensional translabial ultrasound?

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the agreement between grading of obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASI) on translabial ultrasound (TLUS), using a newly developed algorithm, and grading on postpartum examination. A secondary aim was to assess the correlation between tear severity, as defined on ultrasound, and symptoms of anal incontinence and/or fecal urgency.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of patients seen at a perineal clinic between 2012 and 2018, after recent primary repair of OASI. All patients underwent a standardized interview including the St Mark's anal incontinence test and four-dimensional TLUS. Post-processing of ultrasound volume data was performed blinded to all other data. Using tomographic ultrasound imaging, a set of eight slices was obtained, and the central six slices were evaluated for sphincter abnormalities. Slices with distortion, thinning or defects were rated as abnormal. The following algorithm was used to grade OASI: a Grade-3a tear was diagnosed if the external anal sphincter (EAS) was abnormal in < 4/6 slices; a Grade-3b tear was diagnosed if the EAS was abnormal in ≥ 4/6 slices; and a Grade-3c/4 tear was diagnosed if both the EAS and internal anal sphincter were abnormal in ≥ 4/6 slices. Clinical grading of OASI was determined according to the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists guidelines. Agreement between clinical and TLUS diagnosis of OASI was evaluated using weighted κ.

RESULTS

Of the 260 women seen during the study period, 45 (17%) were excluded owing to missing data or a repeat OASI, leaving 215 complete datasets for analysis. The average follow-up interval was 2.4 months (range, 1-11 months) after OASI and the mean age of the women was 29 years (range, 17-42 years). One hundred and seventy-five (81%) women were vaginally primiparous. OASI was graded clinically as Grade 3a in 87 women, Grade 3b in 80, Grade 3c in 29 and Grade 4 in 19. On imaging, full agreement between clinical and TLUS grading was noted in 107 (50%) women, with a weighted κ of 0.398. In 96 (45%) women, there was disagreement by one category, with a weighted κ of 0.74 and in 12 (6%) there was disagreement by two categories. Twenty-four (11%) women were found to have a normal anal sphincter on imaging. Overall, potential clinical over-diagnosis was noted in 72 (33%) women and potential under-diagnosis in 36 (17%). The seniority of the diagnosing obstetrician did not significantly alter agreement between clinical and sonographic OASI grading (κ 0.44, 0.43, and 0.34, for specialists and senior and junior residents, respectively). The association between symptoms of anal incontinence and/or fecal urgency and TLUS grading did not reach significance (P = 0.052).

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical and TLUS-based grading of OASI showed fair agreement. Clinical over-diagnosis may be increasingly common in our population, although under-diagnosis may still occur in a significant minority. Copyright © 2020 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Prevalence of anal sphincter defects and association with anal incontinence in women scheduled for pelvic organ prolapse surgery

AIMS

Some women with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) have concomitant symptoms of anal incontinence. Our aim was to assess the prevalence of anal sphincter defects and the association with incontinence in women undergoing POP surgery.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study of 200 women scheduled for POP surgery. They answered yes/no and graded any symptoms of fecal and flatal incontinence on a visual analog scale (0-100). 3D/4D transperineal ultrasound was used to assess internal (IAS) and external anal sphincter (EAS) defects. A defect of ≥30° in ≥4 of 6 slices on tomographic imaging was regarded significant. The association between incontinence and sphincter defects was tested with multivariable logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

The prevalence of any sphincter defect was 50/200 (25%). Combined IAS/EAS defect was found in 19/200 (9.5%) women, 8/200 (4.0%) had isolated IAS, and 23/200 (11.5%) had isolated EAS defects. In women with defect and intact IAS, 37% and 11% reported fecal incontinence, respectively, adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.3 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.7-7.0), p = .147 and in women with defect versus intact EAS, 36% and 9% had fecal incontinence, aOR 4.0 (95% CI, 1.5-10.8), p = .005. In women with defect and intact IAS, 85% versus 43% reported flatal incontinence, aOR 5.2 (95% CI, 1.6-17.2), p = .007 and in women with defect versus intact EAS, 71% versus 43% had flatal incontinence, aOR 1.9 (95% CI, 0.8-4.5), p = .131.

CONCLUSIONS

One of four women scheduled for POP surgery had an anal sphincter defect. EAS defects were associated with fecal incontinence and IAS defects were strongly associated with flatal incontinence.

The effect of replacing vacuum with forceps in operative vaginal delivery: an observational study

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

An increase in vaginal delivery with forceps may increase rates of pelvic floor trauma. This study was designed to predict trauma rates resulting from policies preferencing forceps.

METHODS

This is an observational cohort study utilizing data from 660 primiparae enrolled in an RCT in two tertiary obstetric units in Sydney, Australia. Participants were assessed clinically and with 4D translabial ultrasound in the late third trimester and again at 3-6 months postpartum. Incidence of trauma associated with mode of delivery was adjusted to reflect change associated with a conversion of vacuum to forceps delivery. Primary outcome measures were third-/fourth-degree tear, levator avulsion (LA) and external anal sphincter (EAS) trauma diagnosed sonographically.

RESULTS

Five hundred four women were seen at a mean of 5.1 (2.3-24.3) months postpartum. After exclusion of 21 because of missing data, 483 women were analysed: 112 (23%) had a CS, 268 (55%) a normal vaginal delivery (NVD), 69 (14%) a vacuum (VD) and 34 (7%) a forceps (FD). One hundred fifty-two women had EAS trauma and/or LA; 17 sustained both. After VD, 32/69 (46%) women suffered LA and/or EAS trauma; after FD, it was 33/34 (97%). Converting VD to FD was estimated to result in an increase in trauma from 152/483 (31%) to 187/483 (39%). A formula can be generated based on local obstetric and ultrasound data to estimate trauma incidence.

CONCLUSIONS

A change in obstetric practice resulting in the conversion of primary VD to primary FD would be expected to substantially increase the likelihood of pelvic floor trauma.

Correlations of obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASIS) grade, specific symptoms of anal incontinence, and measurements by endoanal and transperineal ultrasound

Purpose

The aim of the study was to investigate the association between the initial grade of obstetrical anal sphincter injury (OASIS), and Wexner score parameters, with ultrasonographic findings by endoanal ultrasound (EAUS, golden standard) and transperineal ultrasound (TPUS) 6 months post-partum.

Methods

Fifty-nine women after primary repair of OASIS were included at Helsingborg Hospital, Sweden, 2016–2017. Six months post-partum the women filled in a questionnaire regarding symptoms of anal incontinence by the Wexner score and were scanned with EAUS and TPUS (resting state and contracting state) for classification of the residual defect by a modified Starck score.

Results

Correlations were found between the OASIS grade and residual defects; length (r_s = 0.41, P = 0.003), depth (r_s = 0.38, P = 0.006) and angle (r_s = 0.40, P = 0.004) of the external anal sphincter (EAS) measured with TPUS in resting state. Using EAUS, correlation between OASIS grade and EAS depth (r_s = 0.35, P = 0.007) and angle (r_s = 0.37, P = 0.004) were similar, but there was no correlation with length (r_s = 0.20, P = 0.14). Between incontinence to gas and the angle of the residual defect in the IAS using TPUS in resting state, correlation was moderate (r_s = 0.42, P = 0.003). Regarding incontinence to liquid stool, measurements by TPUS in resting state of EAS residual defect depth (r_s = 0.46, P < 0.001) and angle (r_s = 0.44, P = 0.001) also correlated moderately. Both corresponding correlations using EAUS were weaker.

Conclusion

Defects measured with EAUS and TPUS six months post-partum correlated to initial OASIS grade and symptoms of anal incontinence. Specific symptoms correlated with specific anatomical defects, and TPUS was not an inferior method to EAUS.

Does exclusion of subcutaneous external anal sphincter on exoanal imaging matter?

OBJECTIVE

There is some speculation that an intact distal anal sphincter complex is of decisive importance for continence, although the external anal sphincter (EAS) is considered to be a single functional and anatomical entity. On tomographic translabial ultrasound (TLUS), the caudal slice at the level of the subcutaneous EAS is currently omitted from the diagnostic algorithm due to the prevalence of artifact at that level. The aim of this study was to determine the predictive value of assessment of the subcutaneous EAS on tomographic TLUS for anal incontinence (AI).

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of 463 women seen at our urogynecological service in 2015. All underwent a standardized questionnaire, including determination of St Mark's incontinence score (SMIS), clinical examination and three-/four-dimensional TLUS. On tomographic TLUS, EAS defect angles in slices one to seven were measured on maximum pelvic floor muscle contraction. A slice was defined as positive for a defect if the defect angle was ≥ 30°. The association between significant subcutaneous EAS trauma (i.e. defect angle of ≥ 30° in slice seven) and symptoms of AI, symptom bother score and SMIS was assessed. The performances of the standard six-slice model and the seven-slice model, including the subcutaneous EAS, in the prediction of AI were compared.

RESULTS

While there was a highly significant association between all measures of AI and significant EAS trauma in slice seven, addition of the seventh slice to the existing six-slice model did not improve the predictive value for AI.

CONCLUSION

As inclusion of the subcutaneous slice of the EAS on tomographic TLUS does not seem to improve the predictive value for AI, the current methodology for assessment of EAS trauma on tomographic TLUS can remain unchanged. Copyright © 2019 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Is endoanal, introital or transperineal ultrasound diagnosis of sphincter defects more strongly associated with anal incontinence?

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Our aim was to explore the association between anal incontinence (AI) and persistent anal sphincter defects diagnosed with 3D endoanal (EAUS), introital (IUS) and transperineal ultrasound (TPUS) in women after obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI) and study the association between sphincter defects and anal pressure.

METHODS

We carried out a cross-sectional study of 250 women with OASI recruited during the period 2013-2015. They were examined 6-12 weeks postpartum or in a subsequent pregnancy with 3D EAUS, IUS and TPUS and measurement of anal pressure. Prevalence of urgency/solid/liquid AI or flatal AI and anal pressure were compared in women with a defect and those with an intact sphincter (diagnosed off-line) using Chi-squared and Mann-Whitney U test.

RESULTS

At a mean of 23.6 (SD 30.1) months after OASI, more women with defect than those with intact sphincters on EAUS had AI; urgency/solid/liquid AI vs external defect: 36% vs 13% and flatal AI vs internal defect: 27% vs 13%, p < 0.05. On TPUS, more women with defect sphincters had flatal AI: 32% vs 13%, p = 0.03. No difference was found on IUS. Difference between defect and intact sphincters on EAUS, IUS and TPUS respectively was found for mean [SD] maximum anal resting pressure (48 [13] vs 55 [14] mmHg; 48 [12] vs 56 [13] mmHg; 50 [13] vs 54 [14] mmHg) and squeeze incremental pressure (33 [17] vs 49 [28] mmHg; 37 [23] vs 50 [28] mmHg; 36 [18] vs 50 [30] mmHg; p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Endoanal ultrasound had the strongest association with AI symptoms 2 years after OASI. Sphincter defects detected using all ultrasound methods were associated with lower anal pressure.

What is a significant defect of the anal sphincter on translabial ultrasound?

OBJECTIVE

The anal sphincter is commonly evaluated with endoanal ultrasound. Recently, translabial ultrasound imaging has been proposed for sphincter imaging, with moderate to good correlation between the methods. An endosonographic defect is defined as one with a radial extension of > 30° in at least two-thirds of the length of the anal sphincter. This is equivalent to defining significant anal sphincter trauma on translabial tomographic ultrasound imaging (TUI) as a defect in at least four of six slices, a definition which has been validated. This study was designed to validate a residual defect angle of > 30° for the definition of significant anal sphincter trauma on translabial ultrasound.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study involving 399 women attending a tertiary urogynecology unit in 2014. All underwent a standardized interview, including determination of St Mark's fecal incontinence score (SMIS), clinical examination and 3D/4D translabial ultrasound examination with the woman at rest and on pelvic floor muscle contraction (PFMC). External (EAS) and internal (IAS) anal sphincter defect angles were measured in individual TUI slices and associations with anal incontinence symptoms, bother score and SMIS were analyzed.

RESULTS

There were weak but significant correlations of anal incontinence symptoms, bother score and SMIS with EAS and IAS defect angle, measured on images acquired with the woman at rest and on PFMC. The predictive value of single-slice defect angle on TUI was low, and areas under the receiver-operating-characteristics curves were too low to determine a distinct cut-off value for defect angle.

CONCLUSIONS

Anal sphincter residual defects on single translabial TUI slices are weakly associated with measures of anal incontinence. Single-slice defect angle is too poor a predictor to allow validation of the 30° defect angle cut-off used in endoanal ultrasound. Larger studies in populations with a higher prevalence of anal incontinence are needed before we can disregard anal sphincter defects smaller than 30° on translabial ultrasound. Copyright © 2019 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Is levator trauma an independent risk factor for anal incontinence?

AIM

To determine the role of levator ani trauma in anal incontinence (AI), whilst controlling for anal sphincter injury.

METHODS

The records of 1273 patients who had attended a tertiary urogynaecology unit between 1st of January to 31st December 2016 were reviewed. AI was assessed using St Mark's score and visual analogue scale (VAS). Levator muscle and anal sphincter trauma were examined by translabial ultrasound using tomographic imaging, with archived data sets investigated blinded against all clinical data. A complete avulsion was diagnosed if at least three central tomographic slices showed an abnormal muscle insertion, rated separately for each side. A significant anal sphincter defect was diagnosed if at least four out of six slices showed a defect of ≥ 30°.

RESULTS

Avulsion was associated with St Mark's score (P = 0.005) and VAS bother of AI (P = 0.022) both on univariate analysis and when controlling for external anal sphincter (EAS) trauma on translabial imaging, forceps, body mass index (BMI) and age (P = 0.011 and P = 0.04, respectively). AI expressed as a binary variable was significantly associated with avulsion on univariate analysis (P = 0.011), although the association became nonsignificant after controlling for anal sphincter trauma, age, BMI and forceps delivery (P = 0.084).

CONCLUSION

In this retrospective observational study, we found a weak association between levator ani avulsion and measures of AI, which largely remained significant when controlling for anal sphincter trauma. However, given the large data set, any clinical effect of levator trauma on AI is likely to be minor.

Anal sphincter imaging: better done at rest or on pelvic floor muscle contraction?

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Exo-anal ultrasound imaging of the anal sphincter is usually undertaken on pelvic floor muscle contraction (PFMC) as this seems to enhance tissue discrimination. Some women are unable to achieve a satisfactory PFMC, and in this situation, the sphincter is assessed at rest. We aimed to determine whether sphincter imaging at rest is inferior to imaging on PFMC.

METHODS

We analysed 441 women in this retrospective study. All underwent a standardised interview, including St Mark's incontinence score, clinical examination and 4D trans-labial ultrasound (TLUS). On analysing volume data, tomographic imaging was used to obtain a standardised set of slices at rest and on PFMC to evaluate external anal sphincter (EAS) and internal anal sphincter (IAS) trauma as described previously.

RESULTS

When assessments obtained from volumes acquired at rest and on PFMC were tested against measures of anal incontinence (AI), all associations between the diagnosis of significant anal sphincter defects and AI were no stronger when imaging was performed on PFMC. On cross-tabulation, the percentage agreement for significant defects of the EAS and IAS at rest and on PFMC was 96.5% and 98.9% respectively, if discrepancy by one slice was allowed.

CONCLUSIONS

Exo-anal tomographic imaging of sphincter defects at rest seems sufficiently valid for clinical use and may not be inferior to sphincter assessment on pelvic floor muscle contraction.

Comparison of transperineal and endoanal ultrasound in detecting residual obstetric anal sphincter injury

INTRODUCTION

Endoanal ultrasound is considered the gold standard when assessing the obstetric anal sphincter complex. Due to its relative intrusiveness and economic cost, other ultrasound modalities are on the rise, such as transperineal ultrasound with a convex probe. The aim of our study was to evaluate the agreement between endoanal ultrasound scores (EAUS score) and transperineal ultrasound scores (TPUS score) in assessing residual obstetric anal sphincter defects.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Fifty-nine women were examined 6 months after primary suturing of obstetric anal sphincter injury with two ultrasound modalities. A standardized scoring system analyzing the length, depth and radial extent of both the external (EAS) and internal (IAS) sphincter was used. Wexner fecal incontinence score was used to assess the patients' symptoms.

RESULTS

Transperineal ultrasound scores score showed a strong significant correlation with EAUS score during both pelvic floor relaxation and contraction: Spearman's rho [r_s ] = 0.74, P < 0.001, and r_s  = 0.77, P < 0.001, respectively. For both EAS and IAS, significant correlations were found for all parameters, that is, length, depth and angle between both EAUS and TPUS. A statistically significant correlation was found between EAUS score and Wexner score (r_s  = 0.36, P = 0.005). A significant correlation between the EAS-EAUS score (r_s  = 0.36, P = 0.005) and Wexner score was found, but no significance was found between IAS-EAUS score and Wexner score (r_s  = 0.22, P = 0.097). Significant correlations were found for Wexner score and TPUS score in resting state (r_s  = 0.36, P = 0.01) and contracting state (r_s  = 0.28, P < 0.05), and between Wexner score and EAS-TPUS score in resting state (r_s  = 0.32, P = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicated a strong agreement between endoanal and transperineal ultrasound in assessing residual obstetric anal sphincter defects 6 months after primary suturing. Furthermore, a weak significant correlation was found between the ultrasound scores and the patients' Wexner fecal incontinence score.

Comparing the diagnostic accuracy of 3 ultrasound modalities for diagnosing obstetric anal sphincter injuries

BACKGROUND

The optimal imaging modality of obstetric anal sphincter injuries needs to take into consideration convenience, availability, and ability to assess the sphincter morphologic condition. Endoanal ultrasound imaging currently is regarded as the reference standard, but it is not widely available in obstetric units. Exoanal alternatives exist, such as 3-dimensional introital or transperineal ultrasound imaging, which are already readily available in most obstetrics and gynecology units.

OBJECTIVE

The primary objective was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of 3-dimensional introital and 3-dimensional transperineal ultrasound imaging compared with 3-dimensional endoanal ultrasound imaging as the reference standard for the detection of anal sphincter defects in women who sustained obstetric anal sphincter injuries. The secondary objective was to correlate a diagnosis of anal sphincter defect on imaging to symptoms of anal incontinence, and to assess patient discomfort that is experienced for each imaging modality.

STUDY DESIGN

A cross-sectional study was conducted of 250 women who sustained obstetric anal sphincter injuries, all of whom underwent 3-dimensional introital, transperineal, and endoanal ultrasound imaging. Introital and transperineal ultrasound imaging were assessed with tomographic ultrasound imaging. All of the women completed a validated modified St Mark's Score and Visual Analogue Score for discomfort. Optimal cut-off values for a significant defect on tomographic ultrasound imaging were defined as those with the greatest sensitivity and specificity based on receiver operating characteristic curves with endoanal ultrasound imaging as the reference standard. Diagnostic test characteristics of introital and transperineal ultrasound imaging were calculated with the use of these optimal cut-offs.

RESULTS

Optimal cut-off for a significant external anal sphincter defect was ≥3 of 7 slices; sensitivity and specificity were 0.65 and 0.75 on introital imaging and 0.70 and 0.69 on transperineal ultrasound imaging. Optimal cut-off for a significant internal anal sphincter defect was ≥2 of 5 slices; sensitivity and specificity were 0.59 and 0.84 on introital imaging and 0.43 and 0.97 on transperineal ultrasound imaging. The area under the curve for the diagnosis of external and internal anal sphincter defects ranged from 0.70-0.74 (P<.001) for introital and transperineal imaging. Positive predictive value for external and internal sphincter defects ranged from 0.37-0.63, and negative predictive value ranged from 0.85-0.93 for introital and transperineal ultrasound imaging. Endoanal ultrasound imaging was the only modality for a defect to correlate with symptoms; mean modified St. Mark's score for a defect sphincter was 2.4 (standard deviation, 4.1) and for an intact sphincter was 0.9 (standard deviation, 2.7; P<.01). Introital and transperineal ultrasound imaging were associated with less discomfort than endoanal ultrasound imaging.

CONCLUSION

Endoanal ultrasound imaging remains the most accurate diagnostic imaging modality. With low positive predictive values, introital and transperineal ultrasound imaging are not suitable for the identification of sphincter defects; however, high negative predictive values show a good ability to detect an intact sphincter. The optimal cut-off number of slices on tomographic ultrasound imaging for external and internal anal sphincters allows for standardization of a significant defect. In women with a history of obstetric anal sphincter injuries, introital and transperineal ultrasound imagings are suitable to screen for an intact sphincter if endoanal ultrasound imaging is not available. When defects are found, women should then have endoanal ultrasound imaging to verify the diagnosis.

How repeatable is assessment of external anal sphincter trauma by exoanal 4D ultrasound?

OBJECTIVE

Three-/four-dimensional translabial ultrasound (TLUS) is gaining popularity for the assessment of anal sphincter trauma, although repeatability data are lacking. This study aimed to determine the repeatability of tomographic ultrasound imaging (TUI) on TLUS for the diagnosis of external anal sphincter (EAS) trauma and compare the performance of a novice with that of an experienced investigator.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of archived ultrasound datasets of patients who presented with symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction and were examined twice between 2012 and 2016 at an average interval of 260 (range, 1-1100) days. All volumes were obtained using a GE Medical Systems Voluson 730 Expert or E8 ultrasound system. Post-processing of volumes was performed independently by two investigators, one with over 1 year's experience and another with no prior experience in using TUI, who were blinded to clinical data, each other's results and the results obtained at the first timepoint. Significant trauma on EAS was diagnosed if four of the six TUI slices showed a defect of ≥ 30°. Intra- and interobserver agreement were determined using Cohen's kappa (κ) and intraclass correlation coefficients.

RESULTS

During the study period, 105 women underwent two TLUS assessments of the anal sphincter. Of these, 103 patients with ultrasound volumes available for both timepoints were included in the analysis. The novice investigator demonstrated average repeatability for assessment of significant EAS trauma and single-slice defect (κ, 0.30 and 0.22, respectively) despite relatively high agreement between measurements obtained at the two timepoints (84.5% and 79.3%, respectively). The experienced investigator demonstrated good to very good repeatability for significant EAS trauma and single-slice defect (κ, 0.91 and 0.78, respectively) between the two assessments, which equates to 98.1% and 94.7% agreement, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The repeatability of TLUS measurements for diagnosis of EAS trauma seems to be very good when imaging is undertaken with state-of-the-art equipment and the analysis is performed by an experienced observer; however, the performance of a novice investigator is much poorer. Copyright © 2018 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

How Valid Is Tomographic Ultrasound Imaging in Diagnosing Levator and Anal Sphincter Trauma?

OBJECTIVES

Three-/four-dimensional translabial ultrasound (US) is increasingly used to image the levator ani and anal sphincters, especially in the form of tomographic US. The aim of the study was to evaluate the validity of these published methods.

METHODS

This work was a retrospective analysis of datasets of 172 nulliparous women who attended 2 tertiary urogynecologic centers for symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction between June 2012 and September 2016. All patients had a standardized interview, clinical examination, and 4-dimensional translabial US examination. An evaluation of volume data was performed by the first author, who was blinded against all clinical data, including parity. An assessment for levator avulsion and anal sphincter defects was performed using stored US volume data.

RESULTS

Data sets of 162 and 153 nulliparous women were available for levator and anal sphincter assessments, respectively. On the assessment by the first author, a complete avulsion was diagnosed in 3 nulliparas. On a review by 2 senior authors, 1 was judged as positive and the other 2 as normal. On the sphincter assessment, 2 significant external anal sphincter defects were detected. On the review, 1 was judged as false-positive. The second was judged as highly abnormal by all authors. Therefore, 1 nullipara each was diagnosed with avulsion and a significant external anal sphincter defect.

CONCLUSIONS

Published diagnostic criteria for levator avulsion and external anal sphincter trauma on tomographic US imaging are highly unlikely to result in false-positive findings. This finding supports the clinical validity of this method.

Does flatus incontinence matter?

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

This study aimed to determine whether incontinence to flatus is associated with women's bother in a symptomatic population and with sonographically diagnosed external anal sphincter (EAS) trauma.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study of women attending a tertiary urogynecological unit between May 2013 and November 2015. Baseline evaluation included a standardized interview with St. Mark's Incontinence Score (SMIS) and visual analog scale (VAS) assessment for bother, as well as a physical examination and translabial pelvic floor ultrasound. At least one volume obtained covered the entire length of the EAS. These volumes were analyzed with the reviewer blinded to all clinical data.

RESULTS

During the inclusion period, 1104 patients visited the unit. Fifty-three patients were excluded from the study for missing data, leaving 1051 for final analysis. Mean age was 57 years (56-58) and mean body mass index (BMI) 29.1 kg/m² (28.8-29.6). The prevalence of any anal incontinence (AI) and flatus incontinence were 16.4% (172/1051) and 13.9% (146/1051), respectively. In the group of patients with AI, mean SMIS was 11.8 (11.0-12.6), and mean VAS for AI bother was 5.4 (5.0-5.9). Significant EAS trauma was detected in 9.8% (103/1051) of patients and was associated with flatus incontinence (p = 0.002). Including a flatus incontinence question in the SMIS questionnaire improved the prediction of patient bother from AI (R² 87.8% versus R² 86.3%, p = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Flatus incontinence is associated with ultrasound findings of EAS trauma and with higher patient bother from AI.

Atraumatic normal vaginal delivery: how many women get what they want?

BACKGROUND

Trauma to the perineum, levator ani complex, and anal sphincter is common during vaginal childbirth, but often clinically underdiagnosed, and many women are unaware of the potential for long-term damage.

OBJECTIVE

In this study we use transperineal ultrasound to identify how many women will achieve a normal vaginal delivery without substantial damage to the levator ani or anal sphincter muscles, and to create a model to predict patient characteristics associated with successful atraumatic normal vaginal delivery.

STUDY DESIGN

This is a retrospective, secondary analysis of data sets gathered in the context of an interventional perinatal imaging study. A total of 660 primiparas, carrying an uncomplicated singleton pregnancy, underwent an antepartum and postpartum interview, vaginal exam (Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification), and 4-dimensional translabial ultrasound. Ultrasound data were analyzed for levator trauma and/or overdistention and residual sphincter defects. Postprocessing analysis of ultrasound volumes was performed blinded against clinical data and analyzed against obstetric data retrieved from the local maternity database. Levator avulsion was diagnosed if the muscle insertion at the inferior pubic ramus at the plane of minimal hiatal dimensions and within 5 mm above this plane on tomographic ultrasound imaging was abnormal, ie the muscle was disconnected from the inferior pubic ramus. Hiatal overdistensibility (microtrauma) was diagnosed if there was a peripartum increase in hiatal area on Valsalva by >20% with the resultant area ≥25 cm². A sphincter defect was diagnosed if a gap of >30 degrees was seen in ≥4 of 6 tomographic ultrasound imaging slices bracketing the external anal sphincter. Two models were tested: a first model that defines severe pelvic floor trauma as either obstetric anal sphincter injury or levator avulsion, and a second, more conservative model, that also included microtrauma.

RESULTS

A total of 504/660 women (76%) returned for postpartum follow-up as described previously. In all, 21 patients were excluded due to inadequate data or intercurrent pregnancy, leaving 483 women for analysis. Model 1 defined nontraumatic vaginal delivery as excluding operative delivery, obstetric anal sphincter injuries, and sonographic evidence of levator avulsion or residual sphincter defect. Model 2 also excluded microtrauma. Of 483 women, 112 (23%) had a cesarean delivery, 103 (21%) had an operative vaginal delivery, and 17 (4%) had a third-/fourth-degree tear, leaving 251 women who could be said to have had a normal vaginal delivery. On ultrasound, in model 1, 27 women (6%) had an avulsion and 31 (6%) had a residual defect, leaving 193/483 (40%) who met the criteria for atraumatic normal vaginal delivery. In model 2, an additional 33 women (7%) had microtrauma, leaving only 160/483 (33%) women who met the criteria for atraumatic normal vaginal delivery. On multivariate analysis, younger age and earlier gestation at time of delivery remained highly significant as predictors of atraumatic normal vaginal delivery in both models, with increased hiatal area on Valsalva also significant in model 2 (all P ≤ .035).

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of significant pelvic floor trauma after vaginal child birth is much higher than generally assumed. Rates of obstetric anal sphincter injury are often underestimated and levator avulsion is not included as a consequence of vaginal birth in most obstetric text books. In this study less than half (33-40%) of primiparous women achieved an atraumatic normal vaginal delivery.

Anal sphincter defects and fecal incontinence 15-24 years after first delivery: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

To establish the prevalence of external (EAS) and internal (IAS) anal sphincter defects present 15-24 years after childbirth according to mode of delivery, and their association with development of fecal incontinence (FI). The study additionally aimed to compare the proportion of women with obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS) reported at delivery with the proportion of women with sphincter defect detected on ultrasound 15-24 years later.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study including 563 women who delivered their first child between 1990 and 1997. Women responded to a validated questionnaire (Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory) in 2013-2014, from which the proportion of women with FI was recorded. Information about OASIS was obtained from the National Birth Registry. Study participants underwent four-dimensional transperineal ultrasound examination. Defect of EAS or IAS of ≥ 30° in at least four of six slices on tomographic ultrasound was considered a significant defect and was recorded. Four study groups were defined based on mode of delivery of the first child. Women who had delivered only by Cesarean section (CS) constituted the CS group. Women in the normal vaginal delivery (NVD) group had NVD of their first child and subsequent deliveries could be NVD or CS. The forceps delivery (FD) group included women who had FD, NVD or CS after FD of their first born. The vacuum delivery (VD) group included women who had VD, NVD or CS after VD of their first born. Multiple logistic regression was used to calculate adjusted odds ratios (aORs) for comparison of prevalence of an EAS defect following different modes of delivery and to test its association with FI. Fisher's exact test was used to calculate crude odds ratios (ORs) for IAS defects.

RESULTS

Defects of EAS and IAS were found after NVD (n = 201) in 10% and 1% of cases, respectively, after FD (n = 144) in 32% and 7% of cases and after VD (n = 120) in 15% and 4% of cases. No defects were found after CS (n = 98). FD was associated with increased risk of EAS defect compared with NVD (aOR = 3.6; 95% CI, 2.0-6.6) and VD (aOR = 3.0; 95% CI, 1.6-5.6) and with increased risk of IAS defect compared with NVD (OR = 7.4; 95% CI, 1.5-70.5). The difference between VD and NVD was not significant for EAS or IAS. FI was reported in 18% of women with an EAS defect, in 29% with an IAS defect and in 8% without a sphincter defect. EAS and IAS defects were associated with increased risk of FI (aOR = 2.5 (95% CI, 1.3-4.9) and OR = 4.2 (95% CI, 1.1-13.5), respectively). Of the ultrasonographic sphincter defects, 80% were not reported as OASIS at first or subsequent deliveries.

CONCLUSIONS

Anal sphincter defects visualized on transperineal ultrasound 15-24 years after first delivery were associated with FD and development of FI. Ultrasound revealed a high proportion of sphincter defects that were not recorded as OASIS at delivery. Copyright © 2017 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Prospective evaluation of the safety and feasibility of a pelvic floor dilator during active labor

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The objective was to assess the safety and feasibility of using a pelvic floor dilator during active labor to prevent injuries to the levator ani muscle (LAM) and perineum.

METHODS

In a prospective pilot study, a pelvic floor dilator using soft pads was introduced into the vaginal canal to gradually expand the vagina, in 30 nulliparous women and in 10 controls. The primary outcomes were adverse events related to the device. Secondary outcomes were perineal lacerations after delivery, sonographically defined levator ani injury, hiatal area dimensions, and anal sphincter disruption, all at 12-20 weeks postpartum, and maximum pelvic floor dilation, time to achieve maximum dilation, and device retention rate.

RESULTS

From October 2014 through November 2016, a total of 494 women were screened, and 61 consented to the study. Thirty women used the device and 27 returned for follow-up. No maternal or neonatal injuries were related to use of the dilator. The average maximum dilation of the vaginal canal was 7.4 cm (SD 0.7, range 5.5-8.0). Dilation time averaged 27 min (SD 13, range 5-60). Device insertion adjustment was needed in 13 out of 30 cases (43%). Similar rates of 3th-4th degree perineal lacerations were seen in both groups. Levator ani avulsion was diagnosed in 2 out of 27 (7%) in the device group and in 1 out of 9 (11%) in the control group (p = 0.2). The rate of partial injury in the device group was 2 out of 27 (7%) vs 2 out of 9 (22%) in the comparison group (p = 0.2).

CONCLUSION

The use of the pelvic floor dilator during active labor is feasible. No safety issues were identified.

Maternal birth trauma: why should it matter to urogynaecologists?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

There is increasing awareness of the importance of intrapartum events for future pelvic floor morbidity in women. In this review, we summarize recent evidence and potential consequences for clinical practice.

RECENT FINDINGS

Both epidemiological evidence and data from perinatal imaging studies have greatly improved our understanding of the link between childbirth and later morbidity. The main consequences of traumatic childbirth are pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and anal incontinence. In both instances the primary etiological pathways have been identified: levator trauma in the case of POP and anal sphincter tears in the case of anal incontinence. As most such trauma is occult, imaging is required for diagnosis.

SUMMARY

Childbirth-related major maternal trauma is much more common than generally assumed, and it is the primary etiological factor in POP and anal incontinence. Both sphincter and levator trauma can now be identified on imaging. This is crucial not only for clinical care and audit, but also for research. Postnatally diagnosed trauma can serve as intermediate outcome measure in intervention trials, opening up multiple opportunities for clinical research aimed at primary and secondary prevention.

Exoanal Imaging of the Anal Sphincters

Since its introduction in the early 1990s, endoanal sonography has become the mainstay of morphologic assessment of the anal canal and sphincter, especially for obstetric anal sphincter trauma. Lack of availability of suitable systems and the invasive nature of the method have limited uptake and clinical utility. More recently, exoanal or transperineal/translabial tomographic imaging has been developed as a noninvasive alternative. This pictorial overview aims to introduce the reader to this new diagnostic modality and to demonstrate common findings in asymptomatic and symptomatic women.

Three-dimensional/four-dimensional transperineal ultrasound: clinical utility and future prospects

During the last decade, there has been a huge advancement in the use of transperineal ultrasound (TPU) in the field of obstetrics and gynecology. Its main applications in obstetrics include the monitoring of fetal progression in labor and recently the assessment of maternal pelvic dimensions, whereas in gynecology, TPU is at present widely used for the evaluation of the female pelvic floor, opening new boundaries for the assessment of pelvic floor disorders. The association of volumetric three-dimensional techniques has largely contributed to the remarkable progress that has occurred in the use of TPU. The aim of this paper is to offer an overview of the advantages, challenges and future perspectives of the use of TPU for women’s imaging.

Postpartum two- and three-dimensional ultrasound evaluation of anal sphincter complex in women with obstetric anal sphincter injury

OBJECTIVE

To compare the sensitivity and specificity of two- (2D) and three- (3D) dimensional transperineal ultrasound (TPUS) and 3D endovaginal ultrasound (EVUS) with the gold standard 3D endoanal ultrasound (EAUS) in detecting residual defects after primary repair of obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS).

METHODS

External (EAS) and internal (IAS) anal sphincters were evaluated by the four ultrasound modalities in women with repaired OASIS. 2D-TPUS was evaluated in real-time, whereas 3D-TPUS, 3D-EVUS and 3D-EAUS volumes were evaluated offline by six blinded readers. The presence/absence of any tear in EAS or IAS was recorded and defects were scored according to the Starck system. Sensitivity, specificity and predictive values were calculated, using 3D-EAUS as reference standard. Inter- and intraobserver analyses were performed for all 3D imaging modalities. Association between patients' symptoms (Wexner score) and ultrasound findings (Starck score) was calculated.

RESULTS

Images from 55 patients were analyzed. Compared with findings on 3D-EAUS, the agreement for EAS evaluation was poor for 3D-EVUS (κ = 0.01), fair for 2D-TPUS (κ = 0.30) and good for 3D-TPUS (κ = 0.73). The agreement for IAS evaluation was moderate for both 3D-EVUS (κ = 0.41) and 2D-TPUS (κ = 0.52) and good for 3D-TPUS (κ = 0.66). Good intraobserver (3D-EAUS, κ = 0.73; 3D-TPUS, κ = 0.78) and interobserver (3D-EAUS, κ = 0.68; 3D-TPUS, κ = 0.60) agreement was reported. Significant association between Starck and Wexner scores was found only for 3D-EAUS (Spearman's rho = 0.277, P = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

2D-TPUS and 3D-EVUS are not accurate modalities for the assessment of anal sphincters after repair of OASIS. 3D-TPUS shows good agreement with the gold standard 3D-EAUS and a high sensitivity in detecting residual defects. It, thus, has potential as a screening tool after primary repair of OASIS. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.