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Dietz HP, Shek KL, Descallar J. Levator-urethra gap: is there a need for individualization of cut-offs? ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2024; 64:253-258. [PMID: 38776010 DOI: 10.1002/uog.27706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine whether height, weight and body mass index (BMI) are associated with the levator-urethra gap (LUG) measurement, and whether these factors confound the relationship between LUG and symptoms and signs of pelvic organ prolapse (POP). METHODS This was a retrospective study of women seen at a tertiary urogynecology unit between January 2020 and December 2021. Postprocessing of saved ultrasound volume data was used to measure the LUG, blinded against all other data. This measurement was tested for its association with organ descent and hiatal area, and height, weight and BMI were investigated for any potential confounding effect. RESULTS The 624 women seen during the inclusion period presented mostly with stress urinary incontinence (448/624 (72%)), urgency urinary incontinence (469/624 (75%)) and/or prolapse (338/624 (54%)). Mean age at assessment was 58 (range, 20-94) years, mean height was 163 (range, 142-182) cm, mean weight was 80 (range, 41-153) kg and mean BMI was 30 (range, 17-65) kg/m2. LUG measurements could be obtained in 613 women, resulting in 7356 (12 × 613) measurements. The average LUG in individual women measured 2.35 cm on the right and 2.32 cm on the left side (difference not significant), with a mean ± SD of 2.34 ± 0.63 cm overall. Mean LUG was associated with symptoms and signs of prolapse, both on clinical examination (POP quantification system) and on imaging, but not with height (P = 0.36), weight (P = 0.20) or BMI (P = 0.09). CONCLUSIONS Levator-urethra gap measurements do not seem to be significantly associated with height, weight or BMI in our population, obviating the need for individualization of LUG. However, this does not exclude interethnic variability of this biometric measure. © 2024 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- H P Dietz
- Sydney Urodynamic Centres, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - K L Shek
- Western Sydney University, Liverpool, NSW, Australia
| | - J Descallar
- South Western Sydney Local Health District, Liverpool, NSW, Australia
- Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, NSW, Australia
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Zhong C, Hu P, Ran S. Authors' Reply to "Comments on 'Association Between Urinary Stress Incontinence and Levator Avulsion Detected by 3D Transperineal Ultrasound'". ULTRASCHALL IN DER MEDIZIN (STUTTGART, GERMANY : 1980) 2023; 44:554-555. [PMID: 36257332 DOI: 10.1055/a-1866-7729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Chunyan Zhong
- Ultrasound, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Pan Hu
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Suzhen Ran
- Ultrasound, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Dietz HP. Diagnosis of maternal birth trauma by pelvic floor ultrasound. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2023; 285:86-96. [PMID: 37087835 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2023.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
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.
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Zhong C, Hu P, Ran S, Tang J, Xiao C, Lin Y, Zhang X, Rong Y, Liu M. Association Between Urinary Stress Incontinence and Levator Avulsion Detected by 3D Transperineal Ultrasound. ULTRASCHALL IN DER MEDIZIN (STUTTGART, GERMANY : 1980) 2023; 44:e39-e46. [PMID: 34015837 DOI: 10.1055/a-1497-1838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the association between levator avulsion and urinary stress incontinence (USI) by 3/4D transperineal ultrasound. MATERIALS AND METHODS 842 patients who were admitted to our hospital from 2016 to 2019 were recruited for our study. 3D/4D transperineal ultrasound was performed. After standard interview and clinical evaluation, general conditions and levator hiatus data were collected and measured to compare with each group. The odds ratio (OR) of USI symptoms or ultrasound features with levator avulsion were calculated. RESULTS A total of 593 women were studied: 204 suffered from levator avulsion (96 cases of left-side avulsion, 80 cases of right-side avulsion and 28 cases of bilateral avulsion) and 389 women had no avulsion. The gravidity and episiotomy conditions of the avulsion groups were significantly different from the no-avulsion group. Significant differences were found in the transverse diameters and anteroposterior diameters between the levator avulsion group and the no-avulsion group, but there was no difference among the avulsion groups, regardless of whether the patient was at rest or performing the Valsalva maneuver. Interestingly, a significant difference was found in the presence of USI symptoms between the uni-avulsion group and the no-avulsion group. The odds ratio (OR) of USI symptoms in the uni-avulsion group is 2.786 (95 %CI, 1.663-4.669), but 0.939 (95 %CI, 0.276-3.199) for the bilateral avulsion and no-avulsion groups. CONCLUSION Unilateral levator avulsion may be a risk factor for urinary stress incontinence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyan Zhong
- Ultrasound, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Pan Hu
- Gynecological pelvic floor and oncology, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Suzhen Ran
- Ultrasound, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Tang
- Ultrasound, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Chunmei Xiao
- Ultrasound, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Yun Lin
- Ultrasound, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaohang Zhang
- Ultrasound, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Yao Rong
- Ultrasound, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Mingbo Liu
- Gynecological pelvic floor and oncology, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
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Wang Y, Wang H. Transvaginal Two-Dimensional Ultrasound Evaluation as a Screening Tool for Levator ani Muscle Avulsion in Postpartum Women. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2023; 42:161-169. [PMID: 35670590 DOI: 10.1002/jum.16037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the agreement between two-dimensional transvaginal ultrasound (2D-TVUS) and transperineal tomographic ultrasound imaging on three-dimensional (3D) volume in diagnosing levator ani muscle (LAM) avulsion of postpartum women. Furthermore, we tested the repeatability of the 2D-TVUS in measuring the LAM thickness. METHODS A retrospective study was performed using the data sets from postpartum women. One doctor measured the thickness of the LAM on the images at the attachment to the arcus tendinous levator ani and the middle part using the 2D-TVUS ultrasound data sets of postpartum women. These women were examined twice, at 42-56 days and 3-6 months postpartum. Intra-observer repeatability was expressed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). The other doctor judged whether there was avulsion in the LAM on the 2D-TVUS and transperineal tomography imaging on the 3D volume. The inter-method agreement was determined using Cohen's kappa coefficient (k). RESULTS Thickness measurements of the middle part and attachment of the LAM by 2D-TVUS showed excellent and good intra-observer repeatability (ICC 0.84; 95% CI, 0.76-0.88, and ICC 0.74; 95% CI, 0.67-0.84, respectively). The overall agreement was 92% (Cohen's kappa was 0.79) between 2D-TVUS and transperineal tomographic imaging. Compared to transperineal tomographic imaging in the diagnosis of LAM avulsion, the diagnostic sensitivity of 2D-TVUS was 91.7%, the specificity was 92.1%. CONCLUSIONS The 2D-TVUS technique, a simple and reproducible method for assessing LAM avulsion, may be helpful as a screening tool for LAM avulsion of postpartum women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Wang
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - HuiFang Wang
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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García-Mejido JA, González-Diaz E, Ortega I, Martín-Martinez A, Fernández-Palacín A, Sainz-Bueno JA. Multicenter study of the evolution of different types of avulsion over the 12 months after delivery. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2023; 160:93-97. [PMID: 35373338 PMCID: PMC10083999 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.14208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To perform a multicenter study of muscle recovery in levator ani muscle (LAM) avulsion during the first 12 months postpartum according to the type of LAM avulsion suffered. METHODS This was a multicenter prospective observational study including 242 primiparas. Transperineal ultrasound was performed at 6 months and 12 months after delivery. Type I LAM avulsion was present when most of the lateral fibers of the pubovisceral muscle were observed at the muscle's insertion at the pubic level. Type II LAM avulsion was defined as complete detachment of the pubovisceral muscle from its insertion at the pubic level. RESULTS Among the 56 patients who completed the study (with ultrasound at 6 and 12 months after delivery), 76 avulsions (10 cases of bilateral avulsion) were identified at 6 months after delivery, and the total number of avulsions had decreased to 58 at 12 months after delivery (P < 0.001; 95% confidence interval [CI] 13.9%-33.5%). This decrease was due to the disappearance of 69.2% of the cases of Type I LAM avulsions (P < 0.001; 95% CI: 50.2%-88.2%). However, the number of Type II LAM avulsions remained constant at 6 months and 12 months after delivery. CONCLUSION The spontaneous resolution of LAM avulsion during the first 12 months postpartum occurs in cases of Type I LAM avulsion but is not observed in Type II LAM avulsion.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Antonio García-Mejido
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Valme University Hospital, Seville, Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - Enrique González-Diaz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Leon (CAULE), León, Spain
| | - Ismael Ortega
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Gran Canarias, Gran Canarias, Spain
| | - Alicia Martín-Martinez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Gran Canarias, Gran Canarias, Spain
| | - Ana Fernández-Palacín
- Biostatistics Unit, Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - José Antonio Sainz-Bueno
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Valme University Hospital, Seville, Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
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García-Mejido JA, Blasco-Hernandez P, Fernandez-Conde C, García-Pombo S, Fernández-Palacín A, Borrero C, Sainz-Bueno JA. Are Transperineal Ultrasound Parameters Useful to Predict Incontinence in Patients with Single-Incision Mini-Slings? Tomography 2022; 8:2556-2564. [PMID: 36287812 PMCID: PMC9609347 DOI: 10.3390/tomography8050213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
It would be logical to think that single-incision mini-slings (SIMS) should behave like the rest of the tension-free vaginal tape and, therefore, to believe that they present a similar ultrasound appearance, but there are no studies on this matter. Therefore, the main aim of our research is to determine which ultrasound parameters are associated with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in patients carrying SIMS. A prospective observational study was carried out including 94 patients who were candidates for SUI corrective surgery with SIMS between 1 January 2021 to 31 December 2021 at the Universitary Hospital of Valme (Seville, Spain). A transperineal ultrasound evaluation was performed (six months after surgery) in order to study: the bladder neck–symphyseal distance, the posterior urethro–vesical angle, the pubic symphysis–tape gap, the tape–urethral lumen distance, the sagittal tape angle, the tape position, the concordance of movement between the tape and the urethra, and the axial tape angle. A total of 92 patients completed the study (63 asymptomatic and 29 symptomatic). Statistical differences were observed in the concordance of movement between the tape and the urethra (84.1% vs. 25.0%; p: 0.001) and in the axial tape angle at rest (139.3 ± 19.0 vs. 118.3 ± 15.4; p: 0.003) and at Valsalva (145.1 ± 20.2 vs. 159.1 ± 9.0; p: 0.034). Sagittal tape angle at rest was higher in urge urinary incontinence (UUI) patients (132.5 ± 35.7 vs. 143.3 ± 29.8; p: 0.001) and mixed urinary incontinence (MUI) patients (132.5 ± 35.7 vs. 157.8 ± 23.6; p: 0.025) compared to asymptomatic patients. In conclusion, the concordance between the movement of the tape and the urethra is the most useful ultrasound parameter to define continence in patients with SIMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Antonio García-Mejido
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Seville, CP 41004 Seville, Spain
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Valme University Hospital, CP 41014 Seville, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | | | | | - Sara García-Pombo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Valme University Hospital, CP 41014 Seville, Spain
| | - Ana Fernández-Palacín
- Biostatistics Unit, Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Seville, CP 41004 Seville, Spain
| | - Carlota Borrero
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Seville, CP 41004 Seville, Spain
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Valme University Hospital, CP 41014 Seville, Spain
| | - José Antonio Sainz-Bueno
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Seville, CP 41004 Seville, Spain
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Valme University Hospital, CP 41014 Seville, Spain
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García-Mejido JA, Ramos-Vega Z, Fernández-Palacín A, Borrero C, Valdivia M, Pelayo-Delgado I, Sainz-Bueno JA. Predictive Model for the Diagnosis of Uterine Prolapse Based on Transperineal Ultrasound. Tomography 2022; 8:1716-1725. [PMID: 35894009 PMCID: PMC9326672 DOI: 10.3390/tomography8040144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
We want to describe a model that allows the use of transperineal ultrasound to define the probability of experiencing uterine prolapse (UP). This was a prospective observational study involving 107 patients with UP or cervical elongation (CE) without UP. The ultrasound study was performed using transperineal ultrasound and evaluated the differences in the pubis−uterine fundus distance at rest and with the Valsalva maneuver. We generated different multivariate binary logistic regression models using nonautomated methods to predict UP, including the difference in the pubis−uterine fundus distance at rest and with the Valsalva maneuver. The parameters were added progressively according to their simplicity of use and their predictive capacity for identifying UP. We used two binary logistic regression models to predict UP. Model 1 was based on the difference in the pubis−uterine fundus distance at rest and with the Valsalva maneuver and the age of the patient [AUC: 0.967 (95% CI, 0.939−0.995; p < 0.0005)]. Model 2 used the difference in the pubis−uterine fundus distance at rest and with the Valsalva maneuver, age, avulsion and ballooning (AUC: 0.971 (95% CI, 0.945−0.997; p < 0.0005)). In conclusion, the model based on the difference in the pubis−uterine fundus distance at rest and with the Valsalva maneuver and the age of the patient could predict 96.7% of patients with UP.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Antonio García-Mejido
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Valme University Hospital, 41014 Seville, Spain; (C.B.); (M.V.); (J.A.S.-B.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Seville, 41009 Seville, Spain
- Correspondence: (J.A.G.-M.); (A.F.-P.)
| | - Zenaida Ramos-Vega
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nuestra Señora de la Merced Hospital, 41640 Seville, Spain;
| | - Ana Fernández-Palacín
- Biostatistics Unit, Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Seville, 41009 Seville, Spain
- Correspondence: (J.A.G.-M.); (A.F.-P.)
| | - Carlota Borrero
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Valme University Hospital, 41014 Seville, Spain; (C.B.); (M.V.); (J.A.S.-B.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Seville, 41009 Seville, Spain
| | - Maribel Valdivia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Valme University Hospital, 41014 Seville, Spain; (C.B.); (M.V.); (J.A.S.-B.)
| | - Irene Pelayo-Delgado
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ramón y Cajal University Hospital, 28034 Madrid, Spain;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Alcalá de Henares, 28871 Madrid, Spain
| | - José Antonio Sainz-Bueno
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Valme University Hospital, 41014 Seville, Spain; (C.B.); (M.V.); (J.A.S.-B.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Seville, 41009 Seville, Spain
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García-Mejido JA, García-Pombo S, Fernández-Conde C, Borrero C, Fernández-Palacín A, Sainz-Bueno JA. The Role of Transperineal Ultrasound for the Assessment of the Anorectal Angle and Its Relationship with Levator Ani Muscle Avulsion. Tomography 2022; 8:1270-1276. [PMID: 35645391 PMCID: PMC9149989 DOI: 10.3390/tomography8030105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The relationship between the anorectal angle (ARA) and the levator ani muscle (LAM) is well known. In this study, we aimed to demonstrate that the ARA changes when LAM avulsion occurs after vaginal delivery. This was a secondary, observational retrospective study with data obtained from three previous studies. Using transperineal ultrasound, the presence of avulsion was assessed when abnormal insertion of the LAM was observed in three central slices. In addition, the ARA was assessed in the midsagittal plane (at rest, in Valsalva and at maximum contraction) as the angle between the posterior border of the distal part of the rectum and the central axis of the anal canal. The ARA was higher in patients with bilateral LAM avulsion than in patients without LAM avulsion at rest (131.8 ± 14.1 vs. 136.2 ± 13.8), in Valsalva (129.4 ± 15.5 vs. 136.5 ± 14.4) and at maximum contraction (125.7 ± 15.5 vs. 132.3 ± 13.2). The differences between both groups expressed as the odds ratio (OR) adjusted for maternal age were 1.031 (95% confidence interval (CI), 1.001–1.061; p = 0.041) at rest, 1.036 (95% CI, 1.008–1.064; p = 0.012) in Valsalva and 1.031 (95% CI, 1.003–1.059; p = 0.027) at maximum contraction. In conclusion, LAM avulsion produces an increase in the ARA at rest, during contraction and in Valsalva, especially in cases of bilateral LAM avulsion.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Antonio García-Mejido
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Valme University Hospital, 41014 Seville, Spain; (S.G.-P.); (C.F.-C.); (C.B.); (J.A.S.-B.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Seville, 41014 Seville, Spain
- Correspondence: (J.A.G.-M.); (A.F.-P.)
| | - Sara García-Pombo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Valme University Hospital, 41014 Seville, Spain; (S.G.-P.); (C.F.-C.); (C.B.); (J.A.S.-B.)
| | - Cristina Fernández-Conde
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Valme University Hospital, 41014 Seville, Spain; (S.G.-P.); (C.F.-C.); (C.B.); (J.A.S.-B.)
| | - Carlota Borrero
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Valme University Hospital, 41014 Seville, Spain; (S.G.-P.); (C.F.-C.); (C.B.); (J.A.S.-B.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Seville, 41014 Seville, Spain
| | - Ana Fernández-Palacín
- Biostatistics Unit, Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Seville, 41014 Seville, Spain
- Correspondence: (J.A.G.-M.); (A.F.-P.)
| | - José Antonio Sainz-Bueno
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Valme University Hospital, 41014 Seville, Spain; (S.G.-P.); (C.F.-C.); (C.B.); (J.A.S.-B.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Seville, 41014 Seville, Spain
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Kreft M, Cai P, Furrer E, Richter A, Zimmermann R, Kimmich N. 2D pelvic floor ultrasound imaging in identifying levator ani muscle trauma agrees highly with 4D ultrasound imaging. Int Urogynecol J 2022; 33:2781-2790. [PMID: 35503120 DOI: 10.1007/s00192-022-05198-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS The objective was to evaluate the agreement between 2D and 4D translabial ultrasound (TLUS) technique in showing levator ani muscle (LAM) states after vaginal birth. METHODS In a prospective observational cohort study between March 2017 and April 2019 we evaluated LAM states (intact, hematoma, partial, complete avulsion) of primiparous women having given birth vaginally with singletons in vertex presentation ≥ 36+0 gestational weeks by using 2D and 4D TLUS within 1-4 days postpartum (assessment A1) and again 6-10 weeks postpartum (assessment A2). Cohen's Kappa analysis was performed for each side separately to evaluate the test agreement between the two ultrasound techniques at every assessment period. RESULTS A total of 224 women participated at A1 and 213 at A2. The agreement between the two ultrasound techniques was good to very good at A1 (Cohen`s kappa right-sided 0.78, left-sided 0.82) and very good at A2 (Cohen`s kappa both sides 0.88). The agreement was best when assessing an intact LAM or a complete avulsion (Cohen`s kappa between 0.78-0.92 for complete avulsions). CONCLUSIONS The comparison between 2D and 4D TLUS showed a good to very good agreement in LAM trauma immediately after birth as well as 6-10 weeks postpartum. Therefore, 2D ultrasound could also be a valuable method for demonstrating a LAM abnormality and could be used in settings where 3D/4D ultrasound equipment is not available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Kreft
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Triemli Hospital, Birmensdorferstrasse 497, 8063, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Peiying Cai
- Master Program in Biostatistics, University of Zurich, Am Hirschengraben 84, 8001, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Eva Furrer
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Am Hirschengraben 84, 8001, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Anne Richter
- Division of Obstetrics, University Hospital of Zurich, Frauenklinikstrasse 10, 8091, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Roland Zimmermann
- Division of Obstetrics, University Hospital of Zurich, Frauenklinikstrasse 10, 8091, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nina Kimmich
- Division of Obstetrics, University Hospital of Zurich, Frauenklinikstrasse 10, 8091, Zurich, Switzerland
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Youssef A, Brunelli E, Fiorentini M, Pilu G, El-Balat A. The correlation between levator ani co-activation and fetal head regression on maternal pushing at term. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2022; 35:9654-9660. [PMID: 35282757 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2022.2050363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the correlation between fetal head regression and levator ani muscle (LAM) co-activation under Valsalva maneuver. STUDY DESIGN This study was a secondary analysis of a prospective cohort study on the association between the angle of progression (AoP) and labor outcome. We scanned a group of nulliparous women at term before the onset of labor at rest and under maximum Valsalva maneuver. In addition to the previously calculated AoP, in the present study, we measured the anteroposterior diameter of LAM hiatus (APD) on each ultrasound image. LAM co-activation was defined as APD at Valsalva less than that at rest, whereas fetal head regression was defined as AoP at Valsalva less than that at rest. We calculated the correlation between the two phenomena. Finally, we examined various labor outcomes according to the presence, absence, or co-existence of these two phenomena. RESULTS We included 469 women. A total of 129 (27.5%) women presented LAM co-activation while 50 (10.7%) showed head regression. Only 15 (3.2%) women showed simultaneous head regression and LAM co-activation. Women with coexisting LAM co-activation and head regression had the narrowest AoP at Valsalva in comparison with other study groups (p < .001). In addition, they had the highest risk of Cesarean delivery (40%) and longest first, second, and active second stage durations, although none of these reached statistical significance. CONCLUSION In nulliparous women at term before the onset of labor fetal head regression and LAM co-activation at Valsalva are two distinct phenomena that uncommonly coexist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aly Youssef
- Obstetric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, IRCCS Sant'Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elena Brunelli
- Obstetric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, IRCCS Sant'Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marta Fiorentini
- Obstetric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, IRCCS Sant'Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Pilu
- Obstetric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, IRCCS Sant'Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Ahmed El-Balat
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
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Kreft M, Cai P, Furrer E, Richter A, Zimmermann R, Kimmich N. The evolution of levator ani muscle trauma over the first 9 months after vaginal birth. Int Urogynecol J 2022; 33:2445-2453. [PMID: 35034163 DOI: 10.1007/s00192-021-05034-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS The objective was to investigate the evolution of levator ani muscle (LAM) trauma over the first 9 months after birth and to evaluate their agreement between different assessment periods. METHODS From March 2017 to April 2019 we prospectively evaluated LAM states (intact, hematoma, partial or complete avulsion) of primiparous women after vaginal birth by using 4D translabial ultrasound (TLUS) at three different assessment periods. All women were examined 1-4 days (A1) and 6-10 weeks (A2) postpartum, and women with a trauma additionally 6-9 months postpartum (A3). Cohen's Kappa analysis was performed to evaluate the test agreement between the assessment periods. RESULTS Thirty-two percent of the women at A1 had a LAM trauma and 24% at A2. The higher number of LAM injuries at A1 can be explained by hematomas (14%), of which 51% spontaneously resolved at A2, 35% revealed themselves as partial, and 12% as complete avulsions. At A3, we observed anatomical improvement from complete to partial avulsions (23%) and few partial avulsions changed into an intact LAM (3%); none of the complete avulsions changed into an intact LAM. The agreement of 4D TLUS between A1 and A2 was moderate to good (0.64 for the right-sided LAM/0.60 for the left-sided LAM) and between A2 and A3 good to very good (0.76 right-sided/0.84 left-sided). CONCLUSIONS Levator ani muscle trauma can reliably be diagnosed during all assessment periods. However, the agreement between A1 and A2 was only moderate to good. This can be explained by hematomas inside the LAM that were only observed early postpartum. We observed some anatomical improvement at A3, but no complete avulsion improved to an intact LAM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Kreft
- Division of Obstetrics, University Hospital of Zurich, Frauenklinikstrasse 10, 8091, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Peiying Cai
- Master Program in Biostatistics, University of Zurich, Am Hirschengraben 84, 8001, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Eva Furrer
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Am Hirschengraben 84, 8001, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Anne Richter
- Division of Obstetrics, University Hospital of Zurich, Frauenklinikstrasse 10, 8091, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Roland Zimmermann
- Division of Obstetrics, University Hospital of Zurich, Frauenklinikstrasse 10, 8091, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nina Kimmich
- Division of Obstetrics, University Hospital of Zurich, Frauenklinikstrasse 10, 8091, Zurich, Switzerland
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13
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Li Q, Zhang X. Effects of yoga on the intervention of levator ani hiatus in postpartum women: a prospective study. J Phys Ther Sci 2021; 33:862-869. [PMID: 34776624 PMCID: PMC8575480 DOI: 10.1589/jpts.33.862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
[Purpose] This study aimed to explore the application value of yoga intervention in
early postpartum recovery of the levator ani muscle hiatus (LAH) area. [Participants and
Methods] Females in natural labor from May 2020 to November 2020 in the Third People’s
Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University Ultrasound Research Center were prospectively included
for a pelvic ultrasound examination. The control group received no intervention. The
experimental group received 60-min yoga once a week from week 1 to week 12 postpartum. A
pelvic ultrasound examination was performed on the week 6 and week 12 postpartum. The LAH
area was measured at rest, during contraction and Valsalva maneuver. [Results] A total of
128 participants who met the inclusion criteria were selected and randomly assigned to the
control group (n=66) and the experimental group (n=62)
in pre and post intervention design. No significant differences were found in age, parity,
body mass index, and fetal weight between the control and experimental groups. Further, no
significant difference was observed in the LAH area between the control and experimental
groups at rest, during contraction and Valsalva maneuver on the week 6 postpartum.
However, the LAH area in experimental group significantly reduced at rest, during
contraction and Valsalva maneuver on the week 12 postpartum. The differences of LAH area
(date week 6 minus date week 12) in the control group at rest, during contraction and
Valsalva maneuver were 0.12 ± 3.12 cm2, 0.80 ± 2.29 cm2, and 0.80 ±
4.22 cm2, while in the control these were 1.95 ± 3.41 cm2, 1.39 ±
1.91 cm2, and 3.81 ± 5.49 cm2, respectively. Compared with control
group, the differences of LAH area significantly increased in experimental group at rest
and during Valsalva maneuver. [Conclusion] Yoga intervention can help in the recovery of
LAH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qunfeng Li
- Macau University of Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, China.,Guangdong Vocational College of Science and Technology, China
| | - Xinling Zhang
- Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University: No. 600, Tianhe Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou 510630, China
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García-Mejido J, Bonomi-Barby M, Armijo-Sánchez A, Borrero-Fernández C, Castro-Portillo L, Vargas-Broquetas M, Cañadas-Granados M, Sainz-Bueno J. Metodología para el estudio ecográfico transperineal del suelo pélvico. CLINICA E INVESTIGACION EN GINECOLOGIA Y OBSTETRICIA 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gine.2020.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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15
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Dietz HP. Ultrasound imaging of maternal birth trauma. Int Urogynecol J 2021; 32:1953-1962. [PMID: 33595672 DOI: 10.1007/s00192-020-04669-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans Peter Dietz
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Neonatology, Sydney Medical School Nepean, The University of Sydney, 62 Derby Street, Kingswood, NSW, 2747, Australia.
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16
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García-Mejido JA, Sainz JA. Type of levator ani muscle avulsion as predictor for the disappearance of avulsion. Neurourol Urodyn 2020; 39:2293-2300. [PMID: 32827224 DOI: 10.1002/nau.24484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objective of our study was to establish whether the type of levator ani muscle (LAM) avulsion diagnosed 6 months after delivery influences the integrity of the LAM at 1 year after delivery and determine its influence on the levator hiatus area. STUDY DESIGN This observational prospective cohort study included 192 primiparous women with vaginal delivery. Transperineal ultrasound examinations were performed at 6 months and 1 year postpartum. Levator hiatus measurements (anteroposterior diameter, transverse diameter, and area) were performed in the plane of minimal dimensions. Complete avulsion was defined based on maximum contraction in multislice mode. Type I LAM avulsion was present when most lateral fibers of the pubovisceral muscle were observed at its insertion at the pubic level (the arch of the elevator remained intact). Type II LAM avulsion was defined as a complete detachment of the pubovisceral muscle from its insertion at the pubic level. RESULTS In total, 192 patients were recruited after delivery; 48 patients were diagnosed with complete LAM avulsion, and 13 patients with avulsion did not attend the second ultrasound follow-up at 1 year after delivery. Thirty-five patients with complete LAM avulsion were included in the study. At 6 months after delivery, 51 LAM avulsions were observed in 35 patients (including bilateral LAM avulsion in 16 cases), of which 54.9% were right avulsions and 45.1% left avulsions. Furthermore, 11 (five right and six left) were type I LAM avulsions at the 6-month assessment, and all of these had disappeared 1 year after delivery. However, none of the type II LAM avulsions (23 right and 17 left) observed at 6 months had disappeared at the second ultrasound examination. There were no differences between the LAM areas detected at the first and second ultrasound examinations (10.2 ± 3.3 vs 9.3 ± 1.8; P = .404). CONCLUSIONS The type of LAM avulsion observed at 6 months after childbirth predicts LAM persistence at 1 year postpartum.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Antonio García-Mejido
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Valme University Hospital, Seville, Spain
| | - José Antonio Sainz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Valme University Hospital, Seville, Spain
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18
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García-Mejido JA, Idoia-Valero I, Aguilar-Gálvez IM, Borrero González C, Fernández-Palacín A, Sainz JA. Association between sexual dysfunction and avulsion of the levator ani muscle after instrumental vaginal delivery. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2020; 99:1246-1252. [PMID: 32198764 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.13852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Revised: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The effects of levator ani muscle (LAM) avulsion after instrumental delivery on the sexual function of patients are currently unknown. Therefore, the objective of our study was to use a validated questionnaire, namely, the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), to compare the sexual function in patients with and without LAM avulsion after instrumental vaginal delivery. MATERIAL AND METHODS This was a prospective observational study of 112 primiparous women after instrumental (vacuum or forceps) vaginal delivery. The obstetric and general characteristics of the population were studied. At 6 months postpartum, the contraceptive method used and the occurrence of LAM avulsion (using four-dimensional transperineal ultrasound) were determined, and the FSFI was administered. RESULTS A total of 100 patients (62 without avulsion and 38 with avulsion) completed the study. Thirty-eight (38%) were diagnosed with avulsion (42.1% after Kielland forceps delivery, 57.9% after Malmström vacuum delivery; P = .837). Women with LAM avulsion had significantly lower scores for desire (2.9 ± 1.2 vs 3.4 ± 1.1; P = .049), arousal (2.8 ± 1.7 vs 3.6 ± 1.4; P = .014), lubrication (2.3 ± 1.4 vs 3.0 ± 1.2; P = .011), orgasm (2.6 ± 1.6 vs 3.3 ± 1.2; P = .006) and satisfaction (3.1 ± 1.8 vs 3.9 ± 1.5; P = .051) than did women without LAM avulsion. The overall FSFI score was lower in patients with avulsion (16.7 ± 8.9 vs 20.7 ± 6.9, P = .033). These results were obtained after controlling for confounders (delivery mode, induced labor, birthweight, perineal tears, avulsion degree, contraceptive method and group assignment for the parent study) in the multivariate analysis (F = 4.974, P = .001). CONCLUSIONS Patients with LAM avulsion present a higher degree of sexual dysfunction compared wiith patients without avulsion at 6 months after instrumental vaginal delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- José A García-Mejido
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Valme University Hospital, Seville, Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - Irene Idoia-Valero
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Valme University Hospital, Seville, Spain
| | | | - Carlota Borrero González
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Valme University Hospital, Seville, Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - Ana Fernández-Palacín
- Biostatistics Unit, Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - José A Sainz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Valme University Hospital, Seville, Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
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19
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García-Mejido JA, Martín-Martínez A, González-Diaz E, Fernández-Fernández C, Ortega I, Medina M, Fernández-Corona A, Fernández-Palacín A, Sainz JA. Malmström vacuum or Kielland forceps: which causes more damage to pelvic floor? ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2020; 55:257-263. [PMID: 31332857 DOI: 10.1002/uog.20404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2019] [Revised: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 07/03/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether differences exist in the rate of levator ani muscle (LAM) avulsion between women who had undergone either Malmström vacuum delivery (MVD) or Kielland forceps delivery (KFD), allowing for potential confounding factors. METHODS This was a prospective observational study of nulliparous women undergoing instrumental delivery using Malmström vacuum extractor or Kielland forceps, at two hospital centers in Spain. Fetal head position (anterior, posterior or transverse) and fetal head station (low or mid) were assessed by ultrasound and digital examination, respectively. Avulsion was defined on tomographic ultrasound imaging as an abnormal insertion of the LAM in the three central slices from the plane of minimal hiatal dimensions. RESULTS In total, 414 patients were included in the study (212 MVD and 202 KFD). We observed a higher rate of LAM avulsion in the KFD group (KFD 49.5% vs MVD 32.5%; P = 0.001). When the results were evaluated according to fetal head position and station, we observed no differences in LAM avulsion. The crude odds ratio (OR) for the difference in avulsion between women in the KFD and MVD groups was 2.03 (95% CI, 1.36-3.03). However, when adjusted for duration of second stage of labor, fetal head circumference and fetal head station, the OR was no longer statistically significant (OR, 2.14 (95% CI, 0.95-4.85); P = 0.068). CONCLUSION When potential confounding factors are taken into account, the rate of LAM avulsion does not differ between women according to whether they have undergone KFD or MVD. Copyright © 2019 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A García-Mejido
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Valme University Hospital, Seville, Spain
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - A Martín-Martínez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Gran Canarias, Gran Canarias, Spain
| | - E González-Diaz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Leon (CAULE), Leon, Spain
| | - C Fernández-Fernández
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Leon (CAULE), Leon, Spain
| | - I Ortega
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Gran Canarias, Gran Canarias, Spain
| | - M Medina
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Gran Canarias, Gran Canarias, Spain
| | - A Fernández-Corona
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Leon (CAULE), Leon, Spain
| | - A Fernández-Palacín
- Biostatistics Unit, Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - J A Sainz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Valme University Hospital, Seville, Spain
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
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20
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Anal sphincter imaging: better done at rest or on pelvic floor muscle contraction? Int Urogynecol J 2019; 31:1191-1196. [PMID: 31813034 DOI: 10.1007/s00192-019-04130-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
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.
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22
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Montaguti E, Cariello L, Dodaro MG, Rizzo N, Pilu G, Youssef A. The role of a new three‐dimensional ultrasound technique in the diagnosis of levator ani muscle avulsion. Neurourol Urodyn 2019; 39:455-463. [DOI: 10.1002/nau.24236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Montaguti
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sant'Orsola Malpighi University Hospital University of Bologna Bologna Italy
| | - Luisa Cariello
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sant'Orsola Malpighi University Hospital University of Bologna Bologna Italy
| | - Maria Gaia Dodaro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sant'Orsola Malpighi University Hospital University of Bologna Bologna Italy
| | - Nicola Rizzo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sant'Orsola Malpighi University Hospital University of Bologna Bologna Italy
| | - Gianluigi Pilu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sant'Orsola Malpighi University Hospital University of Bologna Bologna Italy
| | - Aly Youssef
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sant'Orsola Malpighi University Hospital University of Bologna Bologna Italy
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23
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Sainz JA, Martín-Martínez A, González-Diaz E, Fernández-Fernández C, Ortega I, Medina M, Fernández-Corona A, Fernández-Palacín A, García-Mejido JA. Influence of the disengagement of the forceps on levator ani muscle injuries in instrumental delivery: A multicenter study. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2019; 98:1413-1419. [PMID: 31243757 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.13682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2019] [Revised: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Forceps use is the main risk factor for levator ani muscle (LAM) injuries. We believe that the disengagement of the forceps branches before delivery of the fetal head could influence LAM injuries, so we aimed to determine the influence of the disengagement of the forceps on the occurrence of LAM avulsion during forceps delivery. MATERIAL AND METHODS A prospective, observational, multicenter study was conducted with 261 women who underwent forceps delivery. The women were classified according to whether the branches of the forceps had been disengaged before delivery of the fetal head. LAM avulsion was defined using a multislice mode (3 central slices). RESULTS In all, 255 women completed the study (160 without disengagement and 95 with disengagement). LAM avulsions were observed in 37.9% of women in the group with disengagement and in 41.9% of women in the group without disengagement. The crude OR (without disengagement vs with disengagement) for avulsion was 0.90 (95% CI 0.49-1.67, P = 0.757) and an adjusted OR of 0.82 (95% CI 0.40-1.69, P = 0.603). CONCLUSIONS We did not observe a statistically significant reduction in the LAM avulsion rate with disengagement of the forceps branches before delivery of the fetal head.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Antonio Sainz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Valme University Hospital, Seville, Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - Alicia Martín-Martínez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Gran Canarias, Gran Canarias, Spain
| | - Enrique González-Diaz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Leon (CAULE), Leon, Spain
| | - Camino Fernández-Fernández
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Leon (CAULE), Leon, Spain
| | - Ismael Ortega
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Gran Canarias, Gran Canarias, Spain
| | - Margarita Medina
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Gran Canarias, Gran Canarias, Spain
| | - Alfonso Fernández-Corona
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Leon (CAULE), Leon, Spain
| | - Ana Fernández-Palacín
- Biostatistics Unit, Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - José Antonio García-Mejido
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Valme University Hospital, Seville, Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
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Kozma B, Larson K, Scott L, Cunningham TD, Abuhamad A, Poka R, Takacs P. Association between pelvic organ prolapse types and levator-urethra gap as measured by 3D transperineal ultrasound. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2018; 37:2849-2854. [PMID: 29672905 DOI: 10.1002/jum.14644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2018] [Revised: 02/26/2018] [Accepted: 02/28/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the association between pelvic organ prolapse (POP) types and levator-urethra gap (LUG) as measured by 3-dimensional transperineal tomographic ultrasound. METHODS A retrospective study was carried out on 98 women with symptomatic POP. Three-dimensional transperineal tomographic ultrasound images and POP quantification coordinates were reviewed. Each vaginal compartment was staged for the degree of prolapse, and total number of involved compartments identified. LUG was measured on 3-dimensional tomographic sonograms as the distance between the center of the urethra and the levator insertion bilaterally. Based on prior studies, an abnormal LUG of 25 mm or greater indicated levator avulsion. The LUG and the presence or absence of unilateral/bilateral avulsions was analyzed with reference to the clinical diagnosis of prolapse (single versus multicompartment, and mild [stage II] versus severe [stage III-IV]). Generalized logit models were used to evaluate the association between avulsion and prolapse type and stage. RESULTS The LUG was substantially larger in women with multicompartment compared to single-compartment POP (28.9 ± 4.1 mm versus 22.7 ± 4.1 mm, P < .01). Similarly, LUG was substantially larger in women with severe (stage III-IV) compared to mild (stage II) POP (28.8 ± 4.7 mm versus 23.3 ± 4.5 mm, P < .01). Women with severe prolapse were 32 times more likely than women with mild prolapse to have bilateral levator avulsion. Those with POP involving all 3 vaginal compartments were 76 times more likely than single-compartment POP to have bilateral levator avulsions. CONCLUSIONS Bilateral levator ani avulsion as diagnosed by LUG measurements of 25 mm or greater at rest is associated with multicompartment, severe prolapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bence Kozma
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Kindra Larson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Lauren Scott
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Tina D Cunningham
- The Center for Health Analytics and Discovery, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Alfred Abuhamad
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Robert Poka
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Peter Takacs
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
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Dietz HP. Ultrasound in the assessment of pelvic organ prolapse. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2018; 54:12-30. [PMID: 30082146 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2018.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2018] [Revised: 05/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Imaging is increasingly being used in urogynaecology. Because of low cost and universal availability, ultrasound (US) is the most commonly used diagnostic modality, which allows the observation of manoeuvres such as Valsalva and pelvic floor muscle contraction in real time. The ability to see beyond surface anatomy is particularly important in the posterior compartment and in obstructed defecation where this method may replace defecation proctography. Imaging is especially useful in the form of 3D/4D multiplanar and tomographic translabial US, as these modalities give access to the axial plane and the levator ani. This allows assessment of both avulsion, i.e. major maternal birth trauma, and hiatal overdistension, i.e. ballooning. Both are major risk factors for both prolapse and prolapse recurrence. This review will outline current clinical utility, introduce recent research in the respective field and provide an overview of likely future utility of imaging in the investigation of pelvic organ prolapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans Peter Dietz
- Sydney Medical School Nepean, University of Sydney, 62 Derby St, Kingswood, NSW, 2747, Australia.
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Value of transperineal ultrasound on the observation of paravaginal support. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2018; 297:943-949. [DOI: 10.1007/s00404-018-4659-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2017] [Accepted: 01/09/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Abdool Z, Dietz HP, Lindeque BG. Interethnic variation in pelvic floor morphology in women with symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse. Int Urogynecol J 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s00192-017-3391-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Abdool Z, Dietz HP, Lindeque BG. Prolapse symptoms are associated with abnormal functional anatomy of the pelvic floor. Int Urogynecol J 2017; 28:1387-1391. [DOI: 10.1007/s00192-017-3280-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 01/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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