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Kadah S, Soh SE, Morin M, Schneider M, Heron E, Frawley H. Is there a difference in pelvic floor muscle tone between women with and without pelvic pain? A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Sex Med 2023; 20:65-96. [PMID: 36897234 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdac002] [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: 12/19/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alterations in pelvic floor muscle (PFM) function have been observed in women with persistent noncancer pelvic pain (PNCPP) as compared with women without PNCPP; however, the literature presents conflicting findings regarding differences in PFM tone between women with and without PNCPP. AIM To systematically review the literature comparing PFM tone in women with and without PNCPP. METHODS MEDLINE, Embase, Emcare, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Scopus were searched from inception to June 2021 for relevant studies. Studies were included that reported PFM tone data in women aged ≥18 years with and without PNCPP. The risk of bias was assessed with the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Quality Assessment Tool. Standardized mean differences (SMDs) for PFM tone measures were calculated via random effects models. OUTCOMES Resting PFM tone parameters, including myoelectrical activity, resistance, morphometry, stiffness, flexibility, relaxation, and intravaginal pressure, measured by any clinical examination method or tool. RESULTS Twenty-one studies met the inclusion criteria. Seven PFM tone parameters were measured. Meta-analyses were conducted for myoelectrical activity, resistance, and anterior-posterior diameter of the levator hiatus. Myoelectrical activity and resistance were higher in women with PNCPP than in women without (SMD = 1.32 [95% CI, 0.36-2.29] and SMD = 2.05 [95% CI, 1.03-3.06], respectively). Women with PNCPP also had a smaller anterior-posterior diameter of the levator hiatus as compared with women without (SMD = -0.34 [95% CI, -0.51 to -0.16]). Meta-analyses were not performed for the remaining PFM tone parameters due to an insufficient number of studies; however, results of these studies suggested greater PFM stiffness and reduced PFM flexibility in women with PNCPP than in women without. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Available evidence suggests that women with PNCPP have increased PFM tone, which could be targeted by treatments. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS A comprehensive search strategy was used with no restriction on language or date to review studies evaluating PFM tone parameters between women with and without PNCPP. However, meta-analyses were not undertaken for all parameters because few included studies measured the same PFM tone properties. There was variability in the methods used to assess PFM tone, all of which have some limitations. CONCLUSION Women with PNCPP have higher PFM tone than women without PNCPP; therefore, future research is required to understand the strength of the relationship between pelvic pain and PFM tone and to investigate the effect of treatment modalities to reduce PFM tone on pelvic pain in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaza Kadah
- Department of Physiotherapy, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3199, Australia.,Department of Physical Therapy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sze-Ee Soh
- Department of Physiotherapy, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3199, Australia
| | - Melanie Morin
- School of Rehabilitation Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec J1K 2R1, Canada
| | - Michal Schneider
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Emma Heron
- School of Allied Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia 6102, Australia
| | - Helena Frawley
- School of Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia.,Allied Health Research, Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria 3052, Australia.,Allied Health Research, Mercy Hospital for Women, Melbourne, Victoria 3084, Australia
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2
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Pereira GMV, Juliato CRT, de Almeida CM, Valente IS, de Andrade KC, Brito LGO. Measurement of the vaginal wall thickness by transabdominal and transvaginal ultrasound of women with vaginal laxity: a cross-sectional study. Int Urogynecol J 2022; 33:3563-3572. [PMID: 35384478 DOI: 10.1007/s00192-022-05184-8] [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: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS An objective diagnostic method to understand vaginal laxity (VL) is still missing. The aim of our study is to determine whether vaginal wall thickness (VWT) measured by ultrasound may differ according to the abdominal or vaginal techniques and to assess whether clinical variables are associated with vaginal measurements of women with VL. METHODS A cross-sectional study conducted at a tertiary hospital included 82 women aged ≥ 18 years with VL complaints assessed by the Vaginal Laxity Questionnaire. Women who reported severe comorbidities or vulvovaginal disorders, previous treatment for VL, and use of vaginal estrogen in the last 6 months were excluded. Participants reporting VL underwent transabdominal (TAUS) and transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) and physical examination and answered validated questionnaires. Descriptive data were given as mean and standard deviation, median (range), and absolute and relative frequency. The significance level adopted for this study was 5%. Sample size calculation was not performed for the present study. RESULTS Mean age was 41.20 ± 8.64 years, and most participants were multiparous, with previous vaginal delivery and having vaginal intercourse. A statistically significant difference (up to 3 mm) between TAUS and TVUS measurements of the VWT was found in the proximal, middle-third, and distal compartments. A significant correlation was found between VWT and TAUS or TVUS in the mid-third and distal compartments. CONCLUSION A significant correlation was found between the VWT measurements in TVUS and TAUS. Our findings might give the health professional more possibilities for investigating VWT according to patient characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glaucia Miranda Varella Pereira
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas-UNICAMP, Rua Alexander Fleming, 101-Cidade Universitária-Campinas, São Paulo, 13083-881, Brazil
| | - Cassia Raquel Teatin Juliato
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas-UNICAMP, Rua Alexander Fleming, 101-Cidade Universitária-Campinas, São Paulo, 13083-881, Brazil
| | - Cristiane Martins de Almeida
- Division of Imaging, Women's Hospital-Professor Doutor José Aristodemo Pinotti-CAISM-University of Campinas-UNICAMP, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Isabella Salvetti Valente
- Division of Imaging, Women's Hospital-Professor Doutor José Aristodemo Pinotti-CAISM-University of Campinas-UNICAMP, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Kleber Cursino de Andrade
- Division of Imaging, Women's Hospital-Professor Doutor José Aristodemo Pinotti-CAISM-University of Campinas-UNICAMP, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Luiz Gustavo Oliveira Brito
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas-UNICAMP, Rua Alexander Fleming, 101-Cidade Universitária-Campinas, São Paulo, 13083-881, Brazil.
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3
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Castellanos-López E, Castillo-Merino C, Abuín-Porras V, López-López D, Romero-Morales C. Ultrasonography Comparison of Pelvic Floor and Abdominal Wall Muscles in Women with and without Dyspareunia: A Cross-Sectional Study. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12081827. [PMID: 36010178 PMCID: PMC9406936 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12081827] [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: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pelvic floor hypertonicity and narrowing of the levator ani hiatus is traditionally assumed in women with dyspareunia and considered a therapeutical target by physical therapists. However, accurate pre-treatment assessment of pelvic floor muscles is difficult to perform in clinical sites. In addition, the abdominal musculature has not been evaluated in this population, despite its relationship with pelvic floor disfunctions. The purpose of this study was to determine the existence of differences in the length of the anteroposterior diameter of the levator ani hiatus (APDH), the thickness of the abdominal wall musculature and the interrecti distance (IRD) in subjects with dyspareunia compared to a control group. A cross-sectional observational study was designed using ultrasound imaging to measure the APH, the thickness of the abdominal musculature—rectus abdominis (RA), transverse abdominis (TrAb), internal oblique (IO), external oblique (EO)—and IRD at rest and during contraction. Thirty-two women were recruited through advertising and social webs and divided into two groups: dyspareunia (n = 16) and no dyspareunia (n = 16). There were no statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) in RA, TrAb, OI and OE muscle thickness. No differences in APH or in supraumbilical and infraumbilical IRD were found. The findings of this study suggest that the relationship between the abdominal structure/levator ani hypertonia and dyspareunia remains uncertain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Castellanos-López
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, C/Tajo s/n, Villaviciosa de Odón, 28670 Madrid, Spain; (E.C.-L.); (C.C.-M.); (C.R.-M.)
| | - Camila Castillo-Merino
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, C/Tajo s/n, Villaviciosa de Odón, 28670 Madrid, Spain; (E.C.-L.); (C.C.-M.); (C.R.-M.)
| | - Vanesa Abuín-Porras
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, C/Tajo s/n, Villaviciosa de Odón, 28670 Madrid, Spain; (E.C.-L.); (C.C.-M.); (C.R.-M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-912-115-268
| | - Daniel López-López
- Research, Health and Podiatry Group, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Nursing and Podiatry, Industrial Campus of Ferrol, Universidade da Coruña, 15403 Ferrol, Spain;
| | - Carlos Romero-Morales
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, C/Tajo s/n, Villaviciosa de Odón, 28670 Madrid, Spain; (E.C.-L.); (C.C.-M.); (C.R.-M.)
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4
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Khera AJ, Chase JW, Stillman BC, Salzberg M, Thompson AJV, Basnayake C, Wilson-O'Brien A, Kamm MA. Pelvic floor behavioral treatment for fecal incontinence and constipation in quiescent inflammatory bowel disease. Scand J Gastroenterol 2022; 57:807-813. [PMID: 35188055 DOI: 10.1080/00365521.2022.2039280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Refractory bowel symptoms in quiescent inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are common but evidence for effective management is limited. We aimed to determine whether behavioral treatment, including pelvic floor muscle training, decreases the severity of functional bowel symptoms in patients with quiescent IBD. Secondary aims were to evaluate the treatment effect on quality of life, psychological well-being and pelvic floor muscle function. METHODS This prospective study included IBD patients in remission with persistent symptoms of fecal incontinence or constipation who received up to six sessions of behavioral treatment at monthly intervals. The primary outcome was patient-rated symptom improvement on a 7-point Likert scale (1 = substantially worse, 7 = substantially better). Secondary outcomes included validated symptom scores, quality-of-life, psychological measures, and transperineal ultrasound assessment of pelvic floor muscle activity. RESULTS Thirty-four patients (median age 38 years; 24 females; 18 ulcerative colitis, 13 Crohn's disease, 3 ileo-anal pouch) were included. Twenty-one of the 29 (72%) patients who completed treatment, or 21 of all 34 (62%) patients, reported moderate or substantial improvement (patient rating of 6 or 7). Symptom scores (p < .001), IBD-specific quality of life (p = .008) and illness perception scores (p = .003) significantly improved. General quality of life, and anxiety and depression scores, did not change significantly. Transperineal ultrasound pelvic floor measures did not correlate with patient-rating of symptom improvement. CONCLUSION Significant symptomatic improvement occurred in a majority of patients with quiescent IBD. Behavioral treatment should be considered for patients with quiescent IBD and ongoing functional bowel symptoms of fecal incontinence, fecal urgency, or constipation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela J Khera
- Department of Gastroenterology, St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Janet W Chase
- Department of Gastroenterology, St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Barry C Stillman
- School of Physiotherapy, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Michael Salzberg
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Alexander J V Thompson
- Department of Gastroenterology, St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Chamara Basnayake
- Department of Gastroenterology, St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Amy Wilson-O'Brien
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Michael A Kamm
- Department of Gastroenterology, St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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Weinschenk S, Benrath J, Kessler E, Strowitzki T, Feisst M. Therapy With Local Anesthetics to Treat Vulvodynia. A Pilot Study. Sex Med 2022; 10:100482. [PMID: 35063914 PMCID: PMC9023246 DOI: 10.1016/j.esxm.2021.100482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Vulvodynia (chronic vulvar pain) is a sexually debilitating disorder with a prevalence of ∼10%. Aim To investigate the effectiveness of therapy with local anesthetics (TLA) in women with severe vulvodynia, we conducted a prospective, non-controlled observational study. Methods 45 patients with severe chronic vulvodynia (primary and secondary vulvodynia, 0–10 numeric analogue scale (NAS) ≥6, median 7.9, duration ≥6 months, median 65.2 months) in an outpatient practice in Germany were treated with TLA in 3–12 sessions using procaine 1% as local anesthetic. Effectiveness was analyzed with Wilcoxon signed rank tests and Wilcoxon rank sum tests. Outcomes Therapeutic success as a reduction of pain to ≤4 NAS lasting for ≥6 months after end of therapy. Results TLA successfully reduced vulvodynia in 36 of 45 patients (80 %, responders). The NAS reduction was from 7.9 to 2.4 (P < .001). Even patients denominated as non-responders experienced a significant reduction in NAS (P = .03). In responders, long-term success was observed for 6.8–125 months (median 24.1 months). No adverse events occurred. Clinical Translation A promising new treatment for a hard-to-treat chronic female pain disorder. Strengths and Limitations Limitation: Monocentric, non-controlled observational design; Strength: the high number of patients treated. Conclusion The high success rate of TLA in this investigation offers new perspectives on the etiology of vulvodynia as a complex pain syndrome affecting several nerves of the pelvic floor, and also provides early insight into the effectiveness of TLA in women with vulvodynia. Weinschenk S, Benrath J, Kessler E, et al. Therapy With Local Anesthetics to Treat Vulvodynia. A Pilot Study. Sex Med 2022;10:100482.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Weinschenk
- Outpatient practice Weinschenk & Scherer, Karlsruhe, Germany; Deprtment of Gynecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Women's Hospital, Heidelberg University, Germany; the Heidelberg University Neural Therapy Education and Research (HUNTER) Group (www.hunter-heidelberg.com.
| | - Justus Benrath
- Clinic of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Pain Centre, University Clinic, Mannheim, Germany; the Heidelberg University Neural Therapy Education and Research (HUNTER) Group (www.hunter-heidelberg.com
| | | | - Thomas Strowitzki
- Deprtment of Gynecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Women's Hospital, Heidelberg University, Germany
| | - Manuel Feisst
- Institute of Medical Biometry and Informatics; Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany; the Heidelberg University Neural Therapy Education and Research (HUNTER) Group (www.hunter-heidelberg.com
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6
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Roos AM, Speksnijder L, Steensma AB. Postpartum sexual function; the importance of the levator ani muscle. Int Urogynecol J 2020; 31:2261-2267. [PMID: 32095955 PMCID: PMC7561550 DOI: 10.1007/s00192-020-04250-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Introduction and hypothesis Pelvic floor muscle function plays an important role in female sexual functioning. Smaller genital hiatal dimensions have been associated with sexual dysfunction, mainly dyspareunia. On the other hand, trauma of the levator ani muscle sustained during childbirth is associated with increased genital hiatus, which potentially can affect sexual functioning by causing vaginal laxity. This study aims to determine the association between levator hiatal dimensions and female sexual dysfunction after first vaginal delivery. Methods This is a secondary analysis of a prospective observational study. Two hundred four women who had a first, spontaneous vaginal delivery at term between 2012 and 2015 were recruited at a minimum of 6 months postpartum. Thirteen pregnant women were excluded. We analyzed the association of total PISQ-12 score, as well as individual sexual complaints (desire, arousal, orgasm and dyspareunia), with levator hiatal dimensions at rest, with maximum Valsalva and during pelvic floor muscle contraction as measured by 4D transperineal ultrasound. Statistical analysis was performed using linear regression analysis and Mann-Whitney U test. Results One hundred ninety-one women were evaluated at a median of 11 months postpartum. There was no significant association between total PISQ-12 score and levator hiatal dimensions. Looking at individual sexual complaints, women with dyspareunia had significantly smaller levator hiatal area and anterior-posterior diameter on maximum Valsalva. By using multivariate logistic regression analysis however we found dyspareunia was not independently associated with levator hiatal dimensions. Conclusions After first vaginal delivery sexual dysfunction is not associated with levator hiatal dimensions as measured by 4D transperineal ultrasound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Marie Roos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Urogynaecology, Erasmus Medical Centre, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, 3015, GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Leonie Speksnijder
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, division of Urogynaecology, Amphia Hospital, Breda, The Netherlands
| | - Anneke B Steensma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Urogynaecology, Erasmus Medical Centre, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, 3015, GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Hurt K, Zahalka F, Halaska M, Rakovicova I, Krajcova A. Extracorporeal shock wave therapy for treatment of vulvodynia: a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Eur J Phys Rehabil Med 2020; 56:169-174. [PMID: 31939265 DOI: 10.23736/s1973-9087.20.05903-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Currently, there are no effective therapy strategies for idiopathic, non-organic vulvodynia in women. ESWT (extracorporeal shock wave therapy) is a nonsurgical/noninvasive technique widely used to treat musculoskeletal diseases, muscle spasticity and hypertonia, renal and biliary calculi and urological disorders. AIM We examined the effects of ESWT on vulvodynia in women. DESIGN A prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted between 2015 and 2018 following a feasibility study. SETTING Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital departments. POPULATION The study included 62 women with vulvodynia for at least 3 months. METHODS The women were randomly assigned to either a treatment group (N.=31) or a placebo group (N.=31). The patients in the treatment group received perineally applied ESWT weekly (3000 pulses each for four consecutive weeks). The energy flux density was 0.25 mJ/mm2, frequency 4 Hz, focus zone 0-30 mm, therapeutic efficacy 0-90 mm, stand-off II. The device used was a standard electromagnetic shock wave unit with a focused shock wave handpiece. The position of the shock wave transducer was changed six times after every 500 pulses. Patients in the placebo group underwent the same treatment procedure, but the handpiece was provided with a placebo stand-off that disabled energy transmission. Subjective pain was self-evaluated by each patient using two tools before and after treatment: a 10 cm linear visual analogue scale (VAS, 0-10) and a cotton-swab test (CST, Goetsch scale 0-4). Follow-ups were done 1, 4, and 12 weeks post-ESWT. RESULTS In all, 61 women completed the study. We tested for differences in the VAS and CST within and between the treatment and placebo groups. The testing was between before treatment and particular follow-up. We found significant changes in the treatment group. Reductions in VAS (P<0.01) and CST (P<0.01) were observed at all three follow-ups. At all assessments, pain reduction was always >30%. In the placebo group there were no statistically significant changes between before and after treatment. There were no differences between the treatment and placebo groups before treatment but statistically significant differences at all three follow-ups (VAS P<0.01); CST P<0.01). CONCLUSIONS ESWT seems to reduce pain perception in our treatment group. Thus, we are encouraged to explore this technique further. CLINICAL REHABILITATION IMPACT The method is easily replicable, inexpensive, and without known side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karel Hurt
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic -
| | - Frantisek Zahalka
- Sports Motoric Laboratory, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Michael Halaska
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | | | - Aneta Krajcova
- Department of Plastic Surgery, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
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Persistent Genitopelvic Pain: Classification, Comorbidities, Chronicity, and Interpersonal Factors. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s11930-020-00239-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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9
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Asensio Romero L, Asensio Gómez M, Prats-Galino A, Juanes Méndez JA. Computer Application of Ultrasound and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Images for the Anatomical Learning of the Pelvis and the Female Pelvic Floor. J Med Syst 2019; 43:110. [DOI: 10.1007/s10916-019-1240-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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10
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Nesbitt-Hawes EM, Dietz HP, Abbott JA. Morphometry of the nulliparous pelvic floor. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2018; 52:672-676. [PMID: 29700879 DOI: 10.1002/uog.19075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Revised: 04/08/2018] [Accepted: 04/19/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe morphometry of the pelvic floor in a large population of nulliparous women, comparing those with and those without pelvic pain. We also aimed to assess its association with characteristics such as age and body mass index (BMI). METHODS This was a prospective study performed between January 2013 and November 2015 in non-pregnant nulliparous women attending a general gynecology clinic. Following collection of demographic data, women were examined using translabial four-dimensional (4D) ultrasound. Dynamic volumes of pelvic floor muscle were obtained at rest, on maximal contraction and on Valsalva maneuver, and analyzed at a later date by an assessor blinded to demographic details. Standard measurements for each volume included levator hiatal area and anteroposterior and transverse diameters, and pubovisceral muscle length and width. Subanalysis was performed comparing women with and those without pelvic pain. Linear regression analysis was performed to assess the association between characteristics, including age and BMI, and levator hiatal area at rest. RESULTS Three hundred and sixty eight nulliparous women were examined using translabial 4D ultrasound. Median levator hiatal area was 10.62 cm2 at rest, 11.95 cm2 on Valsalva maneuver and 8.18 cm2 on maximal contraction. There was no difference between women with and those without pelvic pain when comparing biometric measurements of the pelvic floor musculature, except for in pubovisceral muscle width during the contraction phase. Regression analysis demonstrated that higher age and BMI were associated with increased levator hiatal area measurement. CONCLUSIONS Pelvic floor morphometry in nulliparous women is unchanged by pelvic pain, but levator hiatal area is increased in women with higher BMI and age. Copyright © 2018 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- E M Nesbitt-Hawes
- School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Royal Hospital for Women, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - H P Dietz
- Sydney University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Sydney Medical School Nepean, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - J A Abbott
- School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Royal Hospital for Women, Randwick, NSW, Australia
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11
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Wang X, Ren M, Liu Y, Zhang T, Tian J. Perineal Ultrasound Versus Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Detection for Evaluation of Pelvic Diaphragm in Resting State. Med Sci Monit 2018; 24:4449-4454. [PMID: 29952373 PMCID: PMC6054773 DOI: 10.12659/msm.906648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to compare the consistency differences between ultrasound and MRI detection methods and the reliability between 2 independent observers. MATERIAL AND METHODS Under 2 kinds of states - the resting state and muscle contractions state - intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated and the consistency of 2 diagnostic methods was evaluated by 2 independent observers. We also assessed the interscorer reliability of the 2 observers. RESULTS In terms of the evaluation of biological parameters of the pelvic diaphragm, the consistency of the 2 diagnostic methods was moderate. The ICC of pelvic diaphragm area was 0.55 (95% CI 0.35-0.71), anteroposterior diameter was 0.48 (95% CI 0.28-0.64), and transverse diameter was 0.43 (95% CI 0.25-0.63). The ultrasound detection values of the perineal ultrasound were significantly smaller than those of the MRI. In addition, these differences were increased with the rise of the pelvic diaphragm area. CONCLUSIONS By evaluating the pelvic diaphragm in patients with pelvic organ prolapse in the resting state, it was preliminarily confirmed that the consistency of ultrasound and MRI was only moderate. The comparison of these 2 diagnostic methods under the dynamic muscle contraction state needs to be further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xudong Wang
- Department of Ultrasound, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China (mainland)
| | - Min Ren
- Department of Ultrasound, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China (mainland)
| | - Yujie Liu
- Department of Ultrasound, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China (mainland)
| | - Tiecheng Zhang
- Department of Magnetic Resonance Imaging, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China (mainland)
| | - Jiawei Tian
- Department of Ultrasound, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China (mainland)
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12
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Thibault-Gagnon S, Auchincloss C, Graham R, McLean L. The temporal relationship between activity of the pelvic floor muscles and motion of selected urogenital landmarks in healthy nulliparous women. J Electromyogr Kinesiol 2018; 38:126-135. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jelekin.2017.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2017] [Revised: 11/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
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Raimondo D, Youssef A, Mabrouk M, Del Forno S, Martelli V, Pilu G, Rizzo N, Zannoni L, Paradisi R, Seracchioli R. Pelvic floor muscle dysfunction on 3D/4D transperineal ultrasound in patients with deep infiltrating endometriosis: a pilot study. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2017; 50:527-532. [PMID: 27718502 DOI: 10.1002/uog.17323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2016] [Revised: 08/27/2016] [Accepted: 09/12/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Pelvic floor muscle (PFM) dysfunction seems to play an important role in the pathophysiology of pelvic pain, including that associated with deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE). The aim of this study was to evaluate the static and dynamic morphometry of the PFM using three-dimensional (3D) and four-dimensional (4D) transperineal ultrasound in women with DIE compared with asymptomatic healthy women. METHODS This was a pilot, prospective study conducted at our tertiary center between March and November 2015. Fifty nulliparous women with DIE (study group) and 35 nulliparous asymptomatic healthy women (control group) were included. 3D/4D transperineal ultrasound examination of the PFM was performed in both groups. Levator hiatal area (LHA) and anteroposterior and left-right transverse diameters were evaluated at rest, on maximum PFM contraction and on maximum Valsalva maneuver. Persistent levator ani muscle (LAM) coactivation during Valsalva maneuver was investigated. RESULTS Compared with the control group, women with DIE had a smaller LHA at rest (P = 0.03) and during Valsalva maneuver (P < 0.01). Furthermore, reduction in LHA during PFM contraction (P < 0.001) and enlargement in LHA during Valsalva maneuver (P = 0.01) were significantly less marked. In comparison with controls, women with DIE presented a higher frequency of LAM coactivation during Valsalva maneuver, although this difference did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.05). CONCLUSIONS 3D and 4D transperineal ultrasound is an objective and non-invasive method for PFM morphometry and may have a role in detecting PFM dysfunction in women with DIE. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Raimondo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, DIMEC, S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - A Youssef
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, DIMEC, S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - M Mabrouk
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, DIMEC, S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Alexandria, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - S Del Forno
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, DIMEC, S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - V Martelli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, DIMEC, S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - G Pilu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, DIMEC, S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - N Rizzo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, DIMEC, S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - L Zannoni
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, DIMEC, S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - R Paradisi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, DIMEC, S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - R Seracchioli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, DIMEC, S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Abstract
Vulvodynia refers to pain in the vulva of at least 3 months’ duration in the absence of a recognized underlying cause. Provoked, localized vestibulodynia is the term used to describe superficial pain confined to the vulvar vestibule, provoked by touch. This review will focus on provoked vestibulodynia with regard to its suggested causative factors and will discuss the role of inflammation, vulvovaginal infections, mucosal nerve fiber proliferation, hormonal associations, central pain mechanisms, pelvic floor muscle dysfunction, and genetic factors. Clinical observations, epidemiological studies, and data from basic research emphasize the heterogeneity of vulvar pain syndromes. There is a critical need to perform prospective, longitudinal studies that will allow better diagnostic criteria and subgrouping of patients that would lead to improvements in our understanding of provoked vestibulodynia and its treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahinoam Lev-Sagie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Steven S Witkin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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McLean L, Thibault-Gagnon S, Brooks K, Goldfinger C, Pukall C, Chamberlain S. Differences in Pelvic Morphology Between Women With and Without Provoked Vestibulodynia. J Sex Med 2016; 13:963-71. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2016.04.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2015] [Revised: 03/21/2016] [Accepted: 04/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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