Pad-weighing tests in the diagnosis and quantification of incontinence

The Effectiveness of Pelvic Floor Muscle Training in Men after Radical Prostatectomy Measured with the Insert Test

A commonly used physiotherapeutic method for the treatment of urinary incontinence (UI) after radical prostatectomy (RP) is pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT). The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of PFMT by enhanced biofeedback using the 1h pad-weighing test. The following factors were taken into consideration in the analysis of PFMT effectiveness: the relevance of the patients’ age, time from RP, BMI, mental health, functional state, and depression. A total of 60 post-RP patients who underwent 10-week PFMT were studied. They were divided into groups: A (n = 20) and B (n = 20) (random division, time from RP: 2−6 weeks) and group C (time from RP > 6 weeks). Group B had enhanced training using EMG biofeedback. UI improved in all groups: A, p = 0.0000; B, p = 0.0000; and C, p = 0.0001. After the completion of PFMT, complete control over miction was achieved by 60% of the patients in group A, 85% in group B, and 45% in group C. There was no correlation between the results of PFMT efficacy and patients’ age, BMI, time from RP, mental health, functional state, and depression. PFMT is highly effective in UI treatment. The enhancement of PFMT by EMG biofeedback seems to increase the effectiveness of the therapy.

Effect of radical prostatectomy on involuntary pelvic floor muscle contraction

AIMS

Radical prostatectomy may cause stress urinary incontinence (SUI). We compared continent and incontinent men after radical prostatectomy, in regard to the change of the temporal pattern of pelvic floor activation during cough.

METHODS

Twenty-two patients were included in this prospective, multicentric study. All patients gave their informed consent. Simultaneous recordings of electromyographic activity of external anal sphincter (EAS EMG) and external intercostal muscle (EIC EMG) during cough were performed with a pair of pregelled surface electrodes. Cough effort caused an involuntary pelvic contraction. Intercostal muscles recording was chosen because they are one of the muscular components of cough initiation with diaphragm muscle. Twenty-four-hour pad-weighing test was used to quantify urinary incontinence. The primary endpoint was the latency between the onset of EIC EMG and EAS EMG (RT3), during a cough effort. We also measured the contraction time, the maximum EAS EMG activity, and the area under the curve.

RESULTS

All the patients were analyzed: 12 continent and 10 with SUI. The median age was 66 years old. Both groups were similar except in term of follow-up. Median latency was increased by -1.7 ms (-47.9; +34.2) to 55.8 ms (+47.5; +80) in patients with SUI (P = 0.0033; Table 2). The duration of the contraction, the maximum EAS EMG activity and the area under the curve were not different.

CONCLUSIONS

The latency between the onset of EIC EMG and EAS EMG is increased in patients with SUI after radical prostatectomy. It may be one of the reasons for SUI in these patients.

Efficacy of Boswellia serrata L. and Cyperus scariosus L. plus pelvic floor muscle training in stress incontinence in women of reproductive age

INTRODUCTION

To determine the efficacy of combining of Boswellia serrata L. resin and the root of Cyperus scariosus L. plus PFMT in reproductive age women with stress urinary incontinence.

METHODS

A prospective, single-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial was conducted. The patients were randomized to receive orally either combination of equal quantity of B. serrata and C. scariosus (2g) (n = 30) or placebo (n = 30) respectively twice daily for 8 weeks in addition to pelvic floor muscle training in both groups. The outcome was one hour pad test. The results were analyzed using parametric and nonparametric test.

RESULTS

The improvement in the test and control group was 60% and 37% respectively. Between the group comparison was statistically significant (P = 0.035). The intra group comparison of one hour pad test was statistically significant in both groups (P < 0.001). No adverse effects were noted.

CONCLUSION

The test group was more effective than control group in women with SUI.

Pelvic floor muscle training is effective in women with urinary incontinence after stroke: a randomised, controlled and blinded study

AIMS

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Pelvic Floor Muscle Training (PFMT) in women with urinary incontinence (UI) after ischemic stroke.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Three hundred and thirty-nine medical records of stroke patients were searched. Twenty-six subjects were randomised to a Treatment Group (14 subjects) or a Control Group (12 subjects) in a single blinded, randomised study. The intervention included 12 weeks of standardised PFMT. The outcome measures were: (1) diary recording the frequency of voiding, the number of incontinence episodes and used pads; (2) 24-hr home pad test; and (3) vaginal palpation of pelvic floor muscle evaluating function, strength, static and dynamic endurance.

RESULTS

Twenty-four subjects with urge, stress and mixed stress/urge incontinence, completed the study, 12 in each group. A significant improvement in frequency of voiding in daytime (Treatment Group/Control Group: 7/8 at pre-test, 6/9 at post-test (median values), P=0.018), 24-hr pad test (Treatment Group/Control Group: 8/12 to 2/8 g P=0.013) and dynamic endurance of pelvic floor muscle (Treatment Group/Control Group: 11/20 to 20/8 contractions of Pelvic Floor Muscle, P=0.028) was demonstrated in the Treatment Group compared to the Control Group. A significant improvement in frequency of voiding in daytime (decreased from seven to six, P=0.036), pelvic floor muscle function (P=0.034), strength (P=0.046), static endurance increased from 9 to 30 sec (P=0.028) and dynamic endurance increased from 11 to 20 contractions (P=0.020) was also demonstrated within the Treatment Group, but not in the Control Group.

CONCLUSION

PFMT had a significant effect in women with UI after stroke measured by diaries, pad tests and vaginal palpation.

Randomized clinical trial of total vs. subtotal hysterectomy: validity of the trial questionnaire

BACKGROUND

To ensure the internal validity of a trial it is recommended to undertake a validation study of the method measuring the outcome.

AIMS

To validate a self-administered, postal questionnaire (http://www.gyncph.suite.dk/praes/gimbel/gihtm) used for measuring the outcomes of a randomized clinical trial of total vs. subtotal abdominal hysterectomy.

METHODS

A study of the content validity (10 patients) and a combined qualitative and quantitative validation study (20 patients) were performed.

RESULTS

The median kappa of the 74 questions was 0.71 (range 0.22-1.00) and the median overall agreement was 0.76 (range 0.25-1.00). Five questions (7%) had kappa values below 0.40, 11 questions (15%) between 0.40 and 0.60, and 58 questions (78%) above 0.61. Three questions with a kappa value below 0.40 had an overall agreement of 0.75 or more. Significant logical inconsistencies were found in five questions, where the operation method was expected to be known. The qualitative validation resulted in a total of 80 comments. The number of comments for any given subject ranged from 0 to 12. The comments could be grouped and processed into four categories.

CONCLUSIONS

The agreement was high. Inconsistencies regarding questions on the operation methods were found. Potential problems were identified in five questions (7%). The validation studies resulted in some changes to the questionnaire and we became aware of areas in which caution should be taken in the interpretation of the results of the randomized trial.

The risk of lower urinary tract symptoms five years after the first delivery

AIM OF THE STUDY

To estimate the prevalence and 5-year incidence of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) after the first delivery and to evaluate the impact of pregnancy per se and delivery per se on long-lasting symptoms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A longitudinal cohort study of 305 primiparae questioned a few days, 3 months, and 5 years after their delivery. The questionnaire used was tested and validated, and the questions were formulated according to the definitions of the International Continence Society (ICS). Maternal, obstetric, and neonatal data concerning every delivery and objective data concerning surgeries during the observation period were obtained from the records. From the sample of 278 women (91%) who responded 5 years after their first delivery, three subpopulations were defined: 1) women without initial LUTS before or during the first pregnancy or during the puerperal period, 2) women with onset of LUTS during the first pregnancy, and 3) women with onset of LUTS during the first puerperium. The risk of LUTS 5 years after the first delivery was examined using bivariate analyses. The obstetric variables in the bivariate tests with a significant association with long-lasting urinary incontinence were entered into a multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS

The prevalence of stress and urge incontinence 5 years after first delivery was 30% and 15%, respectively, whereas the 5-year incidence was 19% and 11%, respectively. The prevalence of urgency, diurnal frequency, and nocturia 5 years after the first delivery was 18%, 24%, and 2%, respectively, whereas the 5-year incidence was 15%, 20%, and 0.5%, respectively. The prevalence of all LUTS except nocturia increased significantly during the 5 years of observation. The risk of long-lasting stress and urge incontinence was related to the onset and duration of the symptom after the first pregnancy and delivery in a dose-response-like manner. Vacuum extraction at the first delivery was used significantly more often in the group of women with onset of stress incontinence during the first puerperium, whereas an episiotomy at the first delivery was performed significantly more often in the group of women with onset of stress incontinence in the 5 years of observation. The prevalence of urgency and diurnal frequency 5 years after the first delivery was not increased in women with symptom onset during the first pregnancy or puerperium compared with those without such symptoms. The frequency of nocturia 5 years after the first delivery was too low for statistical analysis.

CONCLUSION

The first pregnancy and delivery may result in stress and urge incontinence 5 years later. Women with stress and urge incontinence 3 months after the first delivery have a very high risk of long-lasting symptoms. An episiotomy or a vacuum extraction at the first delivery seems to increase the risk. Subsequent childbearing or surgery seems without significant contribution. Long-lasting urgency, diurnal frequency, or nocturia cannot be predicted from onset during the first pregnancy or puerperium.

Evaluation of a simple, non-surgical concept for management of urinary incontinence (minimal care) in an open-access, interdisciplinary incontinence clinic

Our objective was to evaluate a new concept for assessment and treatment of urinary incontinence in an open-access, interdisciplinary incontinence clinic. A standardized program for investigation and treatment of incontinence was based on minimal relevant investigations, primarily non-surgical treatment with a limited consumption of resources ("minimal care"). This was a prospective observational study of 408 consecutive women examined and treated in the clinic. The main characteristics of the women were a high median age and a high prevalence of severe concomitant diseases with possible influence on lower urinary tract function. More than half of the patients had urge or mixed incontinence. Most of the patients were managed with conservative treatment. Fifteen percent were referred to in-hospital treatment, with 5% to incontinence surgery. In total 44% felt cured or very much improved. Before and after treatment one third of the women completed quality-of-life questions and voiding charts, while 43% completed the pad tests. Quality of life improved significantly. Objectively leakage on pad test and voiding charts was significantly improved. The patients were in general very satisfied with clinic's program. Almost one fourth of the women were followed up for 6 months after discharge. No significant deterioration in the subjective results were found compared to status at discharge. In conclusion, the results highlight the need for advice and treatment of patients with incontinence. The minimal care program and interdisciplinary structure in the incontinence clinic offer effective and low cost treatment for urinary incontinence. The open-access, interdisciplinary incontinence clinic model is recommended. Neurourol. Urodynam. 18:9-17, 2000.

Outcome measures for urinary incontinence

OBJECTIVES; To discuss the rudiments of data that need to be collected in order to develop validated, reproducible, well-accepted efficacy instruments for assessing treatment outcomes in urinary incontinence (UI).

METHODS

Information is presented from two reports issued by the Urodynamics Society: "Definition and Classification of Urinary Incontinence" and "Standards of Efficacy for Evaluation of Treatment Outcomes in Urinary Incontinence."

RESULTS

Instruments to assess the efficacy of treatment should be reliable and valid. Such instruments include structured histories, questionnaires, structured physical examinations, urodynamics, voiding diaries, and pad tests. Recommended primary outcome variables include the number of incontinent episodes, volume of urinary loss, and type of incontinence. Secondary measures include patient satisfaction, quality of life, bladder symptoms, uroflow, postvoid residual urine, and other urodynamic variables. General considerations for the development of clinical trials include 1) using a standard lexicon, 2) consistent timing of follow-up, 3) proper outcome assessment at each follow-up, 4) proper data collection, 5) proper data analysis, and 6) formulating conclusions that are supported by the data.

CONCLUSIONS

At the present time, there are no validated, reproducible, well-accepted efficacy instruments for assessing treatment outcomes in UI. Further work directed toward the development of such instruments is warranted.

Evaluation of the home pad test in the investigation of female urinary incontinence

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the use of the home pad test in the management of patients with urinary dysfunction with reference to feasibility, normal data, reproducibility, compliance and accuracy when compared to video urodynamics.

DESIGN

A prospective study to determine 1. the accuracy of weighing pads by healthcare workers compared to weighing by patients with a spring balance; 2. the effects of evaporation; 3. the pad weight increase in continent women; 4. the compliance over 194 tests in terms of acceptability and feasibility; 5. the reproducibility in 112 women for the 24 h and 48 h tests, 6. the comparison with video urodynamic studies in 149 patients.

SETTING

A London teaching hospital.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Coefficient of variation and mean deviation analysis were employed to determine the accuracy of measurement. Percentage changes in standardised wet pad weights over a period of 8 weeks were used to determine the rate of weight loss due to evaporation. The percentage of patients completing the test satisfactorily was documented. The increase in the weights of all pads worn during the test period was measured in continent volunteers and incontinent patients. Video urodynamic diagnoses were used as the Gold Standard for comparison.

RESULTS

Twelve perineal pads were weighed by 15 healthcare workers with a resulting coefficient of variation equal to 1.55% (standard error = 0.09%). The mean deviation between patient-measured pad weights and staff-measured weights was 49% (SD = 132%). Pads wetted with saline showed no difference in weight after 1 week and less than 5% change in weight after 8 weeks, with the upper 95% confidence limit of less than 10% loss. The mean pad weight increase over 48 h in continent women was 7.13 g (SD = 4.32 g) giving a 95% upper confidence level of less than 15 g. Compliance was reasonably high with 161 (83%) carrying out the test perfectly. Test-retest analysis of the 24 h and 48 h tests showed a strong relationship with correlation coefficients of 0.90 and 0.94 respectively. The reproducibility was also good, with differences as a percentage of the mean between the first and second test being 6.9% and 1.6% for the 24 h and 48 h tests respectively. There was good concordance when the urodynamic study data was compared with pad weight data in terms of incontinence compared with no incontinence (kappa = 0.65), but a high false positive rate was detected for the pads. When eight of these patients with a false positive pad test had repeat video urodynamic studies, six were found to have detrusor instability on the second study.

CONCLUSIONS

The home pad test combined with frequency volume chart documentation is an easy test to perform. It is quite robust and reasonably reproducible. This test should be added to complement the routine urodynamic tests and may have a role in detecting occult detrusor instability.

Intravaginal slingplasty (IVS): an ambulatory surgical procedure for treatment of female urinary incontinence

A new ambulatory procedure for treatment of female urinary incontinence (intravaginal slingplasty, IVS) was performed on 50 patients. In all patients the surgical procedure was carried out under local anaesthesia and without postoperative urinary catheterization. The technique has been elaborated from previous experimental and clinical studies and aims at restoration of the pubourethral ligament and the suburethral vaginal hammock. Thirty-eight patients suffered from genuine stress incontinence as objectively verified and 12 patients had symptoms and signs of both urge and stress incontinence. Thirty-nine (78%) patients were completely cured from their stress incontinence symptoms. Another six patients (12%) reported a considerable improvement of their urinary incontinence leaking only occasionally. Concerning urge incontinence symptoms a significant relief of the symptoms was obtained in 6 of 12 patients. No intra- or post-operative complications occurred.