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Hagovská M, Dudič R, Švihra J, Urdzík P. Relationships of diastasis recti abdominis with stress urinary incontinence and pelvic floor muscle dysfunction in postpartum women. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2024; 301:222-226. [PMID: 39154519 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2024.08.006] [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: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 08/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine whether diastasis of the rectus abdominis muscles was related to stress urinary incontinence, dysfunction of pelvic floor muscles, and of hiatal area size in postpartum women. STUDY DESIGN This observational prospective study included 150 women from 6 weeks to 6 months postpartum, with a mean age of 33.1 years. Diastasis Recti Abdominis is a condition in which the abdominal muscles are separated by an increased inter-rectus distance due to widening of the linea alba, measured using 2D ultrasound. Pelvic floor muscle function was examined using manometry, and the size of the hiatal area was examined using 3D/4D ultrasonography. Stress urinary incontinence symptoms were assessed using the International Incontinence Consultation Questionnaire (ICIQ-UI SF). RESULTS We identified a significant weak correlation between diastasis of the rectus abdominis and symptoms of stress urinary incontinence (r = 0.283). We also found weak significant correlations of diastasis of the rectus abdominis with the maximum voluntary contraction (r = -0.278) and with the duration voluntary contraction (r = -0.274). No correlation was found between diastasis of the rectus abdominis and size of the hiatal area. CONCLUSIONS Diastasis of the rectus abdominis was weakly related to stress urinary incontinence and also to pelvic floor muscle dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdaléna Hagovská
- Department of Physiatry, Balneology, and Medical Rehabilitation, Institution - Faculty of Medicine, PJ Safarik University, Kosice, Slovakia
| | - Rastislav Dudič
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Institution - Faculty of Medicine, PJ Safarik University, Kosice, Slovakia.
| | - Ján Švihra
- Department of Urology, Institution - Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Martin, Comenius University Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Peter Urdzík
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Institution - Faculty of Medicine, PJ Safarik University, Kosice, Slovakia
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Swedenhammar E, Wahlström O, Brandt JD, Strigård K, Häger C, Stark B, Nyberg A. Reliability and validity of surface EMG assessments combined with isometric muscle strength testing in patients with abdominal rectus diastasis and asymptomatic controls. Hernia 2024; 28:1413-1426. [PMID: 38850377 PMCID: PMC11297106 DOI: 10.1007/s10029-024-03076-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Patients with abdominal rectus diastasis (ARD) may have muscular functional impairments, but clinics lack appropriate objective assessment tools. The aim was to establish the relative and absolute reliability, and convergent validity, of muscular activity using Surface Electromyography (SEMG) during isometric abdominal muscle strength testing in patients with ARD and controls without ARD. METHODS Twenty-six patients with ARD were matched for age, sex and BMI with controls without ARD. Participants were tested twice during isometric muscular contractions using SEMG located on six abdominal sites. Mean amplitude, fatigue, and recruitment order were analyzed. Relative reliability was evaluated with Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC), while absolute reliability was estimated by calculating the Standard Error of Measurement and Minimal Detectable Change. Convergent validity was addressed in relation to participant characteristics, functional ability, and symptoms. RESULTS Mean SEMG amplitude for all abdominal wall muscle contractions showed moderate to excellent relative test-retest reliability, with ICC values ranging from 0.46 to 0.97. In contrast, fatigue and recruitment order displayed poor to moderate relative reliability in both groups. Absolute reliability measures were generally high. A moderate to high convergent validity (ARD: rho-value 0.41-0.70; Controls: rho-value 0.41-0.75) was observed for mean amplitude in relation to a functional sit-to-stand test, abdominal circumference, BMI, back pain, and quality-of-life. CONCLUSIONS The results of applying SEMG during isometric abdominal muscle support practicing the method in clinics, although additional development is needed with further standardization and more functional testing. Furthermore, the method demonstrates construct validity in patients with ARD and in age- and sex-matched controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Swedenhammar
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - O Wahlström
- Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - J D Brandt
- Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - K Strigård
- Department of Surgical and Perioperative Sciences. Units: Surgery, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - C Häger
- Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - B Stark
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - A Nyberg
- Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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Theodorsen NM, Bø K, Fersum KV, Haukenes I, Moe-Nilssen R. Pregnant women may exercise both abdominal and pelvic floor muscles during pregnancy without increasing the diastasis recti abdominis: a randomised trial. J Physiother 2024; 70:142-148. [PMID: 38472049 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphys.2024.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
QUESTION What is the effect of a 12-week abdominal and pelvic floor muscle exercise program during pregnancy on the inter-recti distance (IRD) in women with diastasis recti abdominis immediately after the 12-week intervention period and at follow-up 6 weeks postpartum? DESIGN An exploratory, parallel-group, randomised controlled trial with concealed allocation, assessor blinding and intention-to-treat analysis. PARTICIPANTS Ninety-six pregnant women aged ≥ 18 years, either primigravida or multigravida, in gestation week 24 with an IRD of ≥ 28 mm measured at rest and/or a protrusion on initial assessment. INTERVENTION The experimental group participated in a 12-week abdominal and pelvic floor muscle exercise program during pregnancy. The control group received no intervention. OUTCOME MEASURES Change (mm) in IRD 2 cm above and below the umbilicus at rest from pre-intervention to immediately post-intervention and to 6 weeks follow-up measured with ultrasonography. RESULTS The IRD increased for both groups from baseline to immediately after the intervention and decreased from after the intervention to the follow-up at 6 weeks postpartum. The IRD was smallest for both groups at the follow-up. At 2 cm above the umbilicus, the intervention effect was 2 mm (95% CI -2 to 7) immediately after the intervention and -1 mm (95% CI -4 to 3) at follow-up. At 2 cm below the umbilicus, the intervention effect was -5 mm (95% CI -10 to 0) immediately after the intervention and 0 mm (95% CI -4 to 4) at follow-up. CONCLUSION Abdominal and pelvic floor muscle training during pregnancy have a negligible effect on the IRD immediately after 12 weeks of intervention and at 6 weeks post-partum. REGISTRATION NCT04960800.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kari Bø
- Department of Sports Medicine, Norwegian School of Sport Sciences, Oslo, Norway; Akershus University Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lørenskog, Norway
| | - Kjartan Vibe Fersum
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Inger Haukenes
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Rolf Moe-Nilssen
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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Zhu Y, Jiang L, Ye T, Liu Y, Sun L, Xiao L, Chen J, Wang T, Ren Y, Xu H, Zhao H, Mao X, Shen T. Risk Factors and Patient-Reported Outcomes in Chinese Women with Postpartum Diastasis Recti Abdominis: An Observational Study. Int J Womens Health 2024; 16:179-192. [PMID: 38313599 PMCID: PMC10838504 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s437088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) is a condition in which the linea alba is stretched and widened, and the abdominal muscles are separated from each other. DRA typically occurs in pregnant and postpartum women. We aimed to determine the risk factors and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) of DRA in Chinese postpartum women. Methods This observational study was conducted in Hangzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and involved 534 women who filled out the following risk-factor and PRO questionnaires: SF-MPQ-2, SF-ICIQ, LDQ, EPDS, MBIS, HerQles, and SF-36 (all Chinese versions). The inter-recti distance was measured by palpation. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS v25.0 software and the Mann-Whitney U-test, chi-square test, binary logistic regression analysis (for risk factors of DRA), and the Kendall and Spearman tests (for correlation analysis). Results After childbirth, 78.1% (417/534) of the enrolled women had DRA. Abdominal surgery (P = 0.002), number of pregnancies (P = 0.035), parity (P = 0.012), number of births (P = 0.02), fetal birth weight (P = 0.014), and waist-to-hip ratio in the supine position (P = 0.045) significantly differed between the DRA and non-DRA groups. Caesarean delivery was an independent risk factor for DRA. The PROs were significantly worse in the DRA group than in the non-DRA group. Conclusion Caesarean delivery was an independent risk factor for DRA. Women with DRA are more likely to have limited physical activity or function after childbirth, lower self-confidence, and a decreased quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, People’s Republic of China
| | - Liyuan Jiang
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Hangzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, 310005, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tiantian Ye
- The 1st Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yan Liu
- The 2nd Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, People’s Republic of China
| | - Li Sun
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Hangzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, 310005, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lijuan Xiao
- Department of Rehabilitation, Chun’an County Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chun’an, 311799, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiayu Chen
- Department of Rehabilitation, Huzhou Central Hospital, Huzhou, 313099, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ting Wang
- The 3rd Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yinghua Ren
- Department of Acupuncture and Tuina, Community Health Service Center of Zhuantang Street, Hangzhou, 310024, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hongjun Xu
- Department of Acupuncture and Tuina, Community Health Service Center of Zhuantang Street, Hangzhou, 310024, People’s Republic of China
| | - Huihui Zhao
- Department of Acupuncture and Tuina, Community Health Service Center of Zhuantang Street, Hangzhou, 310024, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaozhen Mao
- Department of Acupuncture and Tuina, Community Health Service Center of Zhuantang Street, Hangzhou, 310024, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tiantian Shen
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Shengzhou Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, 312499, People’s Republic of China
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Yalfani A, Bigdeli N, Gandomi F. Comparing the effects of suspension and isometric-isotonic training on postural stability, lumbopelvic control, and proprioception in women with diastasis recti abdominis: a randomized, single-blinded, controlled trial. Physiother Theory Pract 2023; 39:2596-2608. [PMID: 35819090 DOI: 10.1080/09593985.2022.2100300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/02/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) affects a significant number of women in the postpartum period. OBJECTIVE This study compared the effectiveness of suspension training system (STS) with that of isometric-isotonic (ISoM-ISoT) exercises in the treatment of DRA and its secondary complications. METHODS Thirty-six women with DRA participated in this study. They were divided into the three groups of STS, ISoM-ISoT, and control. Inter-recti distance (IRD), proprioception, lumbopelvic control, postural stability, low back pain, and disability were assessed using a digital caliper, a goniometer, a lateral step-down test, a Biodex balance system, a visual analogue scale (VAS), and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), respectively. Two intervention groups underwent training for 8-week and the control group resumed their normal lives. RESULTS Positive effects were observed in the STS and ISoM-ISoT groups compared with the control group in: IRD (P = .001); lumbopelvic proprioception (P = .001); lumbopelvic control (P = .001); overall static balance (P = .010); overall dynamic balance (P = .012); low back pain (P = .001); and disability (P = .001). However, there was no significant difference between the training groups in: IRD (P = .12, MD = -2.76); lumbopelvic proprioception (P = .48, MD = -0.50); lumbopelvic control (P = .14, MD = 1.53); static balance (P = .62, MD = 0.07); dynamic balance (P = .27, MD = 0.33); pain (P = .25, MD = -0.52); and disability (P = .48, MD = -1.74). The results of the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) and minimal detectable change (MDC) suggested that the STS exercises outperformed ISoM-ISoT training regarding IRD, pain, disability, and proprioception, whereas ISoM-ISoT training had a better effect in lumbopelvic control and balance. CONCLUSION The results of our study showed that the STS had a positive effect on women with DRA and like the ISoM-ISoT exercises can be used to treat this dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Yalfani
- Department of Sport Rehabilitation and Corrective Exercises, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran
| | - Nahid Bigdeli
- Department of Sport Rehabilitation and Corrective Exercises, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Gandomi
- Department of Sport Injuries and Corrective Exercises, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran
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Theodorsen NM, Moe-Nilssen R, Bø K, Haukenes I. Effect of exercise on the inter-rectus distance in pregnant women with diastasis recti abdominis: an experimental longitudinal study. Physiotherapy 2023; 121:13-20. [PMID: 37812848 DOI: 10.1016/j.physio.2023.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of acute contraction of the pelvic floor muscles (PFM) and abdominal exercises on the inter-rectus distance (IRD) compared to resting values, and differences between gestation weeks 27 and 37, in pregnant women with diastasis recti abdominis (DRA). DESIGN Experimental longitudinal design. SETTING Physiotherapy clinic, primary health care. PARTICIPANTS Thirty-eight pregnant women with DRA ≥ 2.8 cm. INTERVENTIONS Two-dimensional ultrasound images of IRD 2 cm above and below the umbilicus were taken at rest and during PFM and abdominal exercises at gestation week 27 and 37. Repeated measures analyses of variance (ANOVAs) with post hoc tests was performed for each exercise for both locations and timepoints. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Change in IRD. RESULTS There was a mean increase of the IRD from rest during a PFM contraction (2 mm, 95% CI: 2, 3), drawing-in (4 mm, 95% CI: 3, 5) and a combination of these (5 mm, 95% CI: 4, 6) There was a mean decrease of the IRD from rest during the headlift (-3 mm, 95% CI: -4, -2), the curl-up (-3 mm, 95% CI: -4, -2) and the diagonal curl up (-4 mm, 95% CI: -5, -3). Effect of time from gestation week 27-37 was a mean increase of 8 mm (95% CI: 6, 9). CONCLUSION Pelvic floor and drawing-in exercise increased the IRD, whilst headlift, curl up and diagonal curl up decreased the IRD in pregnant women with DRA at gestation week 27 and 37. CONTRIBUTION OF THE PAPER.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina-Margrethe Theodorsen
- University of Bergen, Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, PO Box 7804, 5020 Bergen, Norway.
| | - Rolf Moe-Nilssen
- University of Bergen, Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, PO Box 7804, 5020 Bergen, Norway
| | - Kari Bø
- Norwegian School of Sport Sciences, Department of Sports Medicine, Postboks 4014 Ullevål stadion, 0806 Oslo, Norway
| | - Inger Haukenes
- University of Bergen, Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, PO Box 7804, 5020 Bergen, Norway
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Simpson E, Hahne A. Effectiveness of Early Postpartum Rectus Abdominis versus Transversus Abdominis Training in Patients with Diastasis of the Rectus Abdominis Muscles: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. Physiother Can 2023; 75:368-376. [PMID: 38037580 PMCID: PMC10686295 DOI: 10.3138/ptc-2021-0111] [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: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Purpose To determine feasibility of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) comparing postpartum rectus abdominis training with transversus abdominis training in reducing the inter-recti distance in patients with diastasis of the rectus abdominis muscles (DRAM). Method A pilot, randomized controlled trial with longitudinal assessment following vaginal delivery at 6 and 12 weeks postpartum was completed. Forty-four women with DRAM (inter-recti distance of ≥ 30mm as measured by digital calipers) were recruited from a regional public hospital in Australia. The standard treatment group (n = 21) was provided with a 5-second transversus abdominis activation exercise in crook lying. The experimental group (n = 23) was provided with a 1-second rectus abdominis crunch exercise. Dosage was between 1-10 repetitions at baseline and between 1-20 at 6 weeks, twice a day, at least 5 days per week, prescribed depending on individual participant ability. The primary outcome measure was inter-recti distance. Feasibility measures were recruitment rate, loss to follow-up, adverse events, and exercise adherence. Results The rectus abdominis group achieved greater reduction of the inter-recti distance at 6 weeks (at and below the umbilicus) and 12 weeks (above, below, and at the umbilicus). Recruitment rate was acceptable (45%) and there were no adverse events, but loss to follow-up was high due to COVID-19 impacts and participants did not return exercise adherence diaries. Conclusion Prescription of rectus abdominis exercise during the early postpartum period following vaginal delivery resulted in a greater reduction of the inter-recti distance at 6 and 12 weeks when compared with transversus abdominis exercise. This pilot trial was impacted by high loss to follow up due to COVID-19 restrictions, but feasibility was otherwise acceptable. The findings of the study will inform future fully powered trials comparing these two exercise types in postpartum women with DRAM.
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Du J, Ye J, Fei H, Li M, He J, Liu Y, Liu L, Ye Y, Li J, Hou L, Xu Y, Zhang H, Zhang C, Li T. Relationship Between Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and Postpartum Diastasis Recti Abdominis in Women in the First Year Postdelivery. Phys Ther 2023; 103:pzad102. [PMID: 37774365 PMCID: PMC10661657 DOI: 10.1093/ptj/pzad102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Postpartum diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) influences women's appearance and health. Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) can affect the structure of the rectus abdominis muscles. However, the relationship between GDM and postpartum DRA is unknown. The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between GDM and postpartum DRA. METHODS This retrospective cohort study included 241 women in the first year postdelivery. Women with GDM were matched with those without GDM using propensity score matching. They underwent an oral glucose tolerance test during pregnancy and a random blood glucose test before delivery. At follow-up, DRA was diagnosed by palpation, and interrectus distance was measured using ultrasound to evaluate the severity of DRA. The strength of the rectus abdominis was evaluated using the manual muscle testing method. RESULTS Among the 241 participants, 174 (72.2%) had postpartum DRA, and 46 women with GDM were matched with 46 women without GDM on the basis of propensity scores. Women with GDM had higher odds of experiencing postpartum DRA (adjusted odds ratio = 4.792; 95% CI = 1.672 to 13.736) and larger interrectus distance values at the upper part of the rectus abdominis than those without GDM. There was a weak and positive correlation between the fasting oral glucose tolerance test level and the interrectus distance values (0.267 ≤ r ≤ 0.367). CONCLUSION GDM was associated with postpartum DRA in women in the first year of delivery. Women with GDM had larger interrectus distance values at the upper part of the rectus abdominis than those without GDM. The fasting oral glucose tolerance test level showed a positive and weak correlation with the severity of postpartum DRA. IMPACT Women with GDM have higher odds of experiencing postpartum DRA than those without GDM. The upper part of the rectus abdominis deserves increased focus during and after rehabilitation. Controlling the fasting oral glucose tolerance test level may help reduce the severity of postpartum DRA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingran Du
- Pelvic Floor Disorder Center, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Juntong Ye
- Pelvic Floor Disorder Center, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hui Fei
- Pelvic Floor Disorder Center, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Mengxiong Li
- Pelvic Floor Disorder Center, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Juan He
- Pelvic Floor Disorder Center, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yun Liu
- Pelvic Floor Disorder Center, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lixiang Liu
- Pelvic Floor Disorder Center, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yangliu Ye
- Pelvic Floor Disorder Center, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Juanhua Li
- Pelvic Floor Disorder Center, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lili Hou
- Pelvic Floor Disorder Center, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yang Xu
- Pelvic Floor Disorder Center, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Haixia Zhang
- Pelvic Floor Disorder Center, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Changlin Zhang
- Pelvic Floor Disorder Center, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Tian Li
- Pelvic Floor Disorder Center, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
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Chmielewska D, Cebula M, Gnat R, Rudek-Zeprzałka M, Gruszczyńska K, Baron J, Opala-Berdzik A. Reliability of inter-recti distance measurement on ultrasound images captured by novice examiners. Physiother Theory Pract 2023:1-9. [PMID: 37695024 DOI: 10.1080/09593985.2023.2255897] [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: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the increased interest in inter-recti distance measurement using ultrasound imaging in physiotherapy, there is a question of measurement reliability, and the importance of the examiner's experience. PURPOSE The study aimed to investigate the reliability of inter-recti distance measurement in a DICOM viewer software by an experienced radiologist. For the measurement, the radiologist used linea alba images captured by two physiotherapists who were novice examiners. METHODS Ultrasound images were acquired by two novice examiners on repeated occasions 7 days apart (sessions A and B) in 28 nulliparous women at supraumbilical, umbilical, and infraumbilical locations along linea alba. RESULTS Excellent intra-examiner reliability of inter-recti distance measurements was shown at the supraumbilical and umbilical levels (ICC2,k = 0.941-0.983) with minimal detectable change (MDC95) ranging from 1.31 mm to 2.29 mm. Infraumbilical measurements had good to excellent reliability (ICC2,k = 0.894-0.972) with MDC95 ranging from 0.33 mm to 0.72 mm. Session A inter-examiner reliability was excellent for the mean measurements of two, three, four, and five images taken at each location (ICC2,k = 0.913-0.954) with MDC95 ranging from 0.47 mm to 2.96 mm. Session B inter-examiner reliability was excellent for the mean measurements of two, three, four, and five images taken at the supraumbilical and umbilical (ICC2,k = 0.94-0.98), MDC95 ranging from 1.38 mm to 2.58 mm and good (ICC2,k ≥ 0.81) with MDC95 ranging from 0.72 mm to 0.80 mm at the infraumbilical locations. CONCLUSION Novice examiners were able to capture good-quality ultrasound images of the linea alba that allowed for good to excellent intra- and inter-examiner reliability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria Chmielewska
- Institute of Physiotherapy and Health Sciences, Electromyography and Pelvic Floor Muscles Laboratory, Department of Physical Medicine, Academy of Physical Education in Katowice, Katowice, Poland
| | - Maciej Cebula
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
- Individual Specialist Medical Practice Maciej Cebula, Katowice, Poland
| | - Rafał Gnat
- Institute of Physiotherapy and Health Sciences, Academy of Physical Education in Katowice, Katowice, Poland
| | | | - Katarzyna Gruszczyńska
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Jan Baron
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Opala-Berdzik
- Institute of Physiotherapy and Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy in Internal Diseases, Academy of Physical Education in Katowice, Katowice, Poland
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Wang F, Mao R, Yan L, Ling S, Cai Z. A deep learning-based approach for rectus abdominis segmentation and distance measurement in ultrasonography. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1246994. [PMID: 37736487 PMCID: PMC10509763 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1246994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) is a common condition in postpartum women. Measuring the distance between separated rectus abdominis (RA) in ultrasound images is a reliable method for the diagnosis of this disease. In clinical practice, the RA distance in multiple ultrasound images of a patient is measured by experienced sonographers, which is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and highly dependent on experience of operators. Therefore, an objective and fully automatic technique is highly desired to improve the DRA diagnostic efficiency. This study aimed to demonstrate the deep learning-based methods on the performance of RA segmentation and distance measurement in ultrasound images. Methods: A total of 675 RA ultrasound images were collected from 94 postpartum women, and were split into training (448 images), validation (86 images), and test (141 images) datasets. Three segmentation models including U-Net, UNet++ and Res-UNet were evaluated on their performance of RA segmentation and distance measurement. Results: Res-UNet model outperformed the other two models with the highest Dice score (85.93% ± 0.26%), the highest MIoU score (76.00% ± 0.39%) and the lowest Hausdorff distance (21.80 ± 0.76 mm). The average physical distance between RAs measured from the segmentation masks generated by Res-UNet and that measured by experienced sonographers was only 3.44 ± 0.16 mm. In addition, these two measurements were highly correlated with each other (r = 0.944), with no systematic difference. Conclusion: Deep learning model Res-UNet has good reliability in RA segmentation and distance measurement in ultrasound images, with great potential in the clinical diagnosis of DRA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Wang
- Center of Four-Dimensional Ultrasound, Affiliated Xiaoshan Hospital, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Rongsong Mao
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Laifa Yan
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shan Ling
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhenyu Cai
- Department of Ultrasound, Zhejiang Medical and Health Group Hangzhou Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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11
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Gluppe SB, Ellström Engh M, Bø K. Curl-up exercises improve abdominal muscle strength without worsening inter-recti distance in women with diastasis recti abdominis postpartum: a randomised controlled trial. J Physiother 2023; 69:160-167. [PMID: 37286390 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphys.2023.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
QUESTION What is the effect of a 12-week, home-based, abdominal exercise program containing head lifts and abdominal curl-ups on inter-recti distance (IRD) in women with diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) 6 to 12 months postpartum? What is the effect of the program on: observed abdominal movement during a curl-up; global perceived change; rectus abdominis thickness; abdominal muscle strength and endurance; pelvic floor disorders; and low back, pelvic girdle and abdominal pain? DESIGN This was a two-arm, parallel-group, randomised controlled trial with concealed allocation, assessor blinding and intention-to-treat analysis. PARTICIPANTS Seventy primiparous or multiparous women 6 to 12 months postpartum, having a single or multiple pregnancy following any mode of delivery, with a diagnosis of DRA (IRD > 28 mm at rest or > 25 mm during a curl-up). INTERVENTION The experimental group was prescribed a 12-week standardised exercise program including head lifts, abdominal curl-ups and twisted abdominal curl-ups 5 days a week. The control group received no intervention. OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome measure was change in IRD measured with ultrasonography. Secondary outcomes were: observed abdominal movement during a curl-up; global perceived change; rectus abdominis thickness; abdominal muscle strength and endurance; pelvic floor disorders; and low back, pelvic girdle and abdominal pain. RESULTS The exercise program did not improve or worsen IRD (eg, MD 1 mm at rest 2 cm above the umbilicus, 95% CI -1 to 4). The program improved rectus abdominis thickness (MD 0.7 mm, 95% CI 0.1 to 1.3) and strength (MD 9 Nm, 95% CI 3 to 16) at 10 deg; its effects on other secondary outcomes were trivial or unclear. CONCLUSION An exercise program containing curl-ups for women with DRA did not worsen IRD or change the severity of pelvic floor disorders or low back, pelvic girdle or abdominal pain, but it did increase abdominal muscle strength and thickness. REGISTRATION NCT04122924.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra B Gluppe
- Department of Sports Medicine, Norwegian School of Sports Sciences, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Marie Ellström Engh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway; Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kari Bø
- Department of Sports Medicine, Norwegian School of Sports Sciences, Oslo, Norway; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
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12
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Opala-Berdzik A, Rudek-Zeprzałka M, Niesporek J, Cebula M, Baron J, Gruszczyńska K, Pascoal AG, Mota P, Chmielewska D. Technical aspects of inter-recti distance measurement with ultrasonographic imaging for physiotherapy purposes: the scoping review. Insights Imaging 2023; 14:92. [PMID: 37202551 PMCID: PMC10195962 DOI: 10.1186/s13244-023-01443-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inter-recti distance (IRD) measurement using musculoskeletal USI has been used in physiotherapy research, in particular, to investigate pregnancy-related diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) and to seek its effective treatment methods. Severe and untreated diastasis may result in the formation of umbilical or epigastric hernias. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to systematically map physiotherapy-related research articles that included descriptions of IRD measurement procedures using USI to present their similarities and differences, and formulate recommendations on the procedure. DESIGN A scoping review was conducted according to PRISMA-ScR guidelines, including 49 of 511 publications from three major databases. Publications were selected and screened by two independent reviewers whose decisions were consulted with a third reviewer. The main synthesized data items were: the examinees' body position, breathing phase, measurement sites, and DRA screening methods. The final conclusions and recommendations were the result of a consensus between seven reviewers from four research centers. RESULTS Studies used 1-5 measurement sites that were differently determined. IRD was measured at the umbilicus (n = 3), at its superior (n = 16) and/or inferior border (n = 9), and at different levels: between 2 and 12 cm above the umbilicus, or a third of the distance and halfway between the umbilicus and xiphoid (n = 37); between 2 and 4.5 cm below the umbilicus or halfway between the umbilicus and pubis (n = 27). Different approaches were used to screen subjects for DRA. CONCLUSIONS The discrepancies between the measurement procedures prevent between-study comparisons. The DRA screening method should be standardized. IRD measurement protocol standardization has been proposed. CRITICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT This scoping review indicates that the inter-recti distance measurement procedures using ultrasound imaging differ between studies, preventing between-study comparisons. Based on the results synthesis, the measurement protocol standardization has been proposed. KEY POINTS The inter-recti distance measurement procedures using USI differ between studies. Proposed standardization concerns body position, breathing phase, measurements number per location. Determination of measurement locations considering individual linea alba length is suggested. Recommended locations: umbilical top, ½ of umbilical top-xiphoid, ¼ of umbilical top-xiphoid/pubis distances. Diastasis recti abdominis diagnostic criteria are needed for proposed measurement locations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Opala-Berdzik
- Institute of Physiotherapy and Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy in Internal Diseases, The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education, Katowice, Poland.
| | | | - Justyna Niesporek
- Institute of Physiotherapy and Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy in Internal Diseases, The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education, Katowice, Poland
| | - Maciej Cebula
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
- Individual Specialist Medical Practice Maciej Cebula, Katowice, Poland
| | - Jan Baron
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Gruszczyńska
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Augusto Gil Pascoal
- Faculty of Human Kinetics, Interdisciplinary Centre of Human Performance (CIPER), Biomechanics and Functional Morphology Laboratory (LBMF), University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Mota
- Faculty of Human Kinetics, Interdisciplinary Centre of Human Performance (CIPER), Biomechanics and Functional Morphology Laboratory (LBMF), University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- H&TRC - Centro de Investigação em Saúde e Tecnologia, Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Lisboa (ESTeSL) - Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Daria Chmielewska
- Institute of Physiotherapy and Health Sciences, Electromyography and Pelvic Floor Muscles Assessment Laboratory, Department of Physical Medicine, The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education, Katowice, Poland
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13
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Benjamin DR, Frawley HC, Shields N, Peiris CL, van de Water ATM, Bruder AM, Taylor NF. Conservative interventions may have little effect on reducing diastasis of the rectus abdominis in postnatal women - A systematic review and meta-analysis. Physiotherapy 2023; 119:54-71. [PMID: 36934466 DOI: 10.1016/j.physio.2023.02.002] [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: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diastasis of the rectus abdominis muscle (DRAM) commonly occurs in pregnancy and postnatally. Physiotherapists routinely guide women in its management, although the effectiveness of these treatments is unknown. OBJECTIVES To determine the effectiveness of conservative interventions to reduce the presence and width of DRAM in pregnant and postnatal women. DATA SOURCES EMBASE, Medline, CINAHL, PUBMED, AMED and PEDro searched until August 2021. STUDY SELECTION/ELIGIBILITY Randomised control trials examining any conservative interventions to manage DRAM during the ante- and postnatal periods were included. STUDY APPRAISAL AND SYNTHESIS METHODS Methodological quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 tool. Meta-analyses were performed using a random effects model to calculate mean differences (MD) and odds ratios (OR). A GRADE approach determined the certainty of evidence for each meta-analysis. RESULTS Sixteen trials with 698 women during the postnatal period were included. No trials evaluated interventions during the antenatal period. All interventions included some form of abdominal exercise. Other interventions included abdominal binding, kinesiotape and electrical stimulation. There was moderate certainty evidence from six trials (n = 161) that abdominal exercise led to a small reduction in inter-recti distance (MD -0.43 cm, 95% CI -0.82 to -0.05) in postnatal women compared to usual care. LIMITATIONS Three of the 16 trials had a low risk of bias. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Conservative interventions do not lead to clinically significant reductions in inter-recti distance in women postnatally but abdominal exercises may have other physical and psychosocial benefits in the management of DRAM. Systematic Review Registration Number PROSPERO (CRD42020172529).
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Affiliation(s)
- Deenika R Benjamin
- Physiotherapy, School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Kingsbury Drive, Bundoora 3086, Australia.
| | - Helena C Frawley
- Melbourne School of Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Allied Health Research, Royal Women's Hospital, Australia; Allied Health Research, Mercy Hospital for Women, Australia.
| | - Nora Shields
- Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Victoria 3086, Australia.
| | - Casey L Peiris
- Physiotherapy, School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Kingsbury Drive, Bundoora 3086, Australia.
| | - Alexander T M van de Water
- Physiotherapy, School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Kingsbury Drive, Bundoora 3086, Australia.
| | - Andrea M Bruder
- Physiotherapy, School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Kingsbury Drive, Bundoora 3086, Australia.
| | - Nicholas F Taylor
- Physiotherapy, School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Kingsbury Drive, Bundoora 3086, Australia; Allied Health Clinical Research Office, Eastern Health 5 Arnold Street, Box Hill 3128, Australia.
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14
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Ngo P, Cossa JP, Gueroult S, Blum D, Pélissier E. Some Additional Data That Might Be Useful for Diastasis Recti Assessment. JOURNAL OF ABDOMINAL WALL SURGERY : JAWS 2023; 2:10923. [PMID: 38312411 PMCID: PMC10831680 DOI: 10.3389/jaws.2023.10923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
Background: Diastasis recti (DR) is characterized by separation of both rectus muscles and protrusion of the median bulging, but besides median bulging DR can also entail global abdominal bulging. On other note, DR classification is based on the width of divarication, but measurement values are different at rest and at effort due to muscle contraction. Aim of the study is to provide additional features concerning the type of bulging and the width of divarication. Methods: Findings were retrospectively drawn from the data prospectively collected in the records of a continuous cohort of 105 patients (89 females, 16 males) referred for diastasis and concomitant ventral hernia repair. Results: There was a median bulging alone in 45 (42.9%) cases, a global bulging alone in 18 (17.1%) cases, both types combined in 37 (35.2%) cases and no bulging in 5 (4.8%). On 55 patients with a global bulging, 51 were females. Tape measurements values of DR width were closer to the values measured on the CT scan at leg raise than at rest. The differences were significant at rest as well as at leg raise. Though the difference at rest was highly significant (p = 0.000), the difference at effort was not far from being not significant (p = 0.049). Conclusion: Besides median bulging, presence or absence of the global bulging should be included in DR assessment. The difference between width of divarication at rest and on exertion raises the question of which value should be used for DR classification. The question is worth being debated.
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Affiliation(s)
- P. Ngo
- Institut de la Hernie, Paris, France
| | | | | | - D. Blum
- Établissement Français du Sang de Franche Comté, Besançon, France
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15
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Diggles A. The "Mother Load" and Return to Sport: A Case Report of Returning to Professional Netball Following Cesarean Section. Int J Sports Phys Ther 2023; 18:228-239. [PMID: 36793569 PMCID: PMC9897013 DOI: 10.26603/001c.65894] [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: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Increasing numbers of elite female athletes are competing in professional sport, and many wish to become pregnant and return to competitive sport after childbirth. Athletes have a higher risk of pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) than non-athletes (54% versus 7%) and there is also an increased prevalence in post-partum women compared to nulliparous women (35% versus 2.8-7.9%). Additionally, PFD has been shown to influence athletic performance. High quality evidence for elite athletes is lacking, and there are no exercise guidelines specifically for these women to prepare or effectively guide their safe return to sport (RTS). The purpose of this case report is to detail the management of an elite athlete who presented following cesarean section (CS) with the goal of RTS within 16 weeks. Case Description A 27-year-old primiparous Caucasian professional netballer presented at four weeks post- caesarean section (CS) for RTS screening and assessment of pelvic floor muscle (PFM) function. Assessment included readiness and fear of movement screening, dynamic pelvic floor muscle function, structural integrity of the CS wound, levator hiatal dimensions, bladder neck descent, and early global neuromuscular screening. Measures were collected at four weeks, eight weeks, and six months post-partum. The post-partum athlete demonstrated alterations in pelvic floor muscle function, reduced lower limb power and psychological readiness. A functionally staged dynamic and sport specific pelvic floor muscle training program was implemented and adapted to the patient for her early post-partum timeline. Results Rehabilitation strategies were effective in achieving the primary outcome of RTS at 16 weeks post-partum with no adverse events reported at 6 months follow-up. Discussion This case highlights the need for a holistic and individualised RTS management approach that includes women's and pelvic health risk factors in a professional athlete. Level of Evidence 5.
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16
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Wang Y, Wang H. Systematic review and meta-analysis of the inter-recti distance on ultrasound measurement in nulliparas. J Plast Surg Hand Surg 2023; 57:22-28. [PMID: 35001809 DOI: 10.1080/2000656x.2021.2024555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The objective is to evaluate the inter-recti distance on ultrasound measurement at different locations in healthy nulliparas. Electronic databases were searched for studies describing the inter-recti distance measured by ultrasound in healthy nulliparas. We excluded studies without descriptions of the measurement position or the condition of the abdominal wall. A meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the inter-recti distance on ultrasound measurement. Seven eligible studies with 295 healthy nulliparas were included. The location of the inter-recti distance measurement by ultrasound was not uniform. The pooled data divided the measurement locations into three areas. The meta-analytic summary values of the umbilical inter-recti distance of the nulliparas was 8.77 mm (6.56-10.99 mm), the distance at the epigastric area was 7.22 mm (2.76-11.68 mm), and that at the infraumbilical area was 4.09 mm (1.55-6.64 mm). The maximal reported inter-recti distance in healthy nulliparous women is smaller than 10 mm on ultrasound measurement at all locations and the range in the umbilical area is larger than that in the epigastric, infraumbilical areas. The values for the inter-recti distance reported in this systematic review can be used as the reference of feasible and desirable distance of the rectus muscles after rectus fascia plication. The limitation was that the methodological quality of the assessment in most studies was unclear or low.
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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.,Department of Ultrasound, Shenzhen Luohu People's Hospital, Third Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
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17
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Muacevic A, Adler JR. Immediate Effect of Kinesio Taping on Lumbopelvic Stability in Postpartum Women With Diastasis Recti: A Review. Cureus 2023; 15:e33347. [PMID: 36751171 PMCID: PMC9897678 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.33347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Diastasis of abdominal muscles is defined as a gap of more than two finger breadths between two rectal abdominal muscle bellies, above or below the umbilicus. According to the literature, female diastasis recti is more common in women who have recently given birth although it also occurs in the male population. Lower back pain is the most prevalent reason for postpartum women to restrict their everyday activities. Women's mobility, discomfort, and typical activities are all concerns for postpartum women, all of which change a person's quality of life. During pregnancy, diastasis of the rectus abdominal muscles is very common to occur. It is linked to instability of lumbar pelvic region and pelvic floor improper function. Recently, the use of Kinesio taping is gaining popularity as a technique to reduce the separation and increase stability. The review of studies revealed that Kinesio taping is highly effective for diastasis recti and in improving the stability of lumbo-pelvic spine which was evaluated by an active straight leg raise test. There are just a few studies accessible that show the need for further research.
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18
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Vesting S, Gutke A, Fagevik Olsén M, Praetorius Björk M, Rembeck G, Larsson MEH. Can Clinical Postpartum Muscle Assessment Help Predict the Severity of Postpartum Pelvic Girdle Pain? A Prospective Cohort Study. Phys Ther 2022; 103:pzac152. [PMID: 36326139 PMCID: PMC10071582 DOI: 10.1093/ptj/pzac152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether the clinical assessment of pelvic floor muscles and the diastasis recti abdominis could predict the severity of pelvic girdle pain during the first year postpartum. METHODS Between 2018 and 2020, 504 women were recruited to this prospective longitudinal cohort study. At 2 to 3 months postpartum, their pelvic floor muscles and diastasis recti abdominis were assessed using vaginal palpation, observation, and caliper measurement. The participants completed the Pelvic Girdle Questionnaire (PGQ) at 2 to 3, 6, 9, and 12 months postpartum. Mixed-effect models were used to determine how the results of pelvic floor muscle and diastasis recti abdominis assessments predicted the PGQ score. A sub-analysis for middle to high PGQ scores was conducted. RESULTS Maximal voluntary pelvic floor muscle contractions ≥3 (Modified Oxford Scale, scored from 0 to 5) predicted a decreased PGQ score (β = -3.13 [95% CI = -5.77 to -0.48]) at 2 to 3 months postpartum, with a higher prediction of a middle to high PGQ score (β = -6.39). Diastasis recti abdominis width did not have any significant correlation with the PGQ score. A sub-analysis showed that a diastasis recti abdominis width ≥35 mm predicted an increased PGQ score (β = 5.38 [95% CI = 1.21 to 9.55]) in women with pelvic girdle pain. CONCLUSION The distinction between weak and strong maximal voluntary pelvic floor muscle contractions is an important clinical assessment in women with postpartum pelvic girdle pain. The exact diastasis recti abdominis width, measured in millimeters, showed no clinical relevance. However, a diastasis recti abdominis width ≥35 mm was associated with a higher PGQ score, and further research about this cutoff point in relation to pain is needed. IMPACT This study highlights the importance of clinical assessment of pelvic floor muscles in patients with postpartum pelvic girdle pain. A better understanding of the role of this muscle group will enable more effective physical therapist treatment of pelvic girdle pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Vesting
- Närhälsan Gibraltar Rehabilitation, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation, Unit of Physiotherapy, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Annelie Gutke
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation, Unit of Physiotherapy, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Monika Fagevik Olsén
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation, Unit of Physiotherapy, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Marcus Praetorius Björk
- Region Västra Götaland, Research, Education, Development and Innovation, Primary Health Care, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Research, Education and Innovation, Region Västra Götaland, South Älvsborg Hospital, Borås, Sweden
| | - Gun Rembeck
- Region Västra Götaland, Research, Education, Development and Innovation, Primary Health Care, Borås, Sweden
- Region Västra Götaland, Regional Health, Borås Youth Guidance Center, Borås, Sweden
- Primary Health Care, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Maria E H Larsson
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation, Unit of Physiotherapy, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Region Västra Götaland, Research, Education, Development and Innovation, Primary Health Care, Gothenburg, Sweden
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19
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Park C, Cho HY, Kang CK. Investigation of Structural Changes in Rectus Abdominis Muscle According to Curl-Up Angle Using Ultrasound with an Extended Field of View. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14525. [PMID: 36361406 PMCID: PMC9656726 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192114525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The rectus abdominis (RA) muscle is related to abdominal muscle contraction and is divided into three sub-sections. In this study, changes in each section according to the curl-up angles were measured using ultrasound with an extended field of view (EFOV) scan and compared with the conventional scan. The results showed that the locations of the measurement position center were consistently detected only with the EFOV scan and that the change ratios in thickness and length between sections at the same angles were not significantly different, suggesting that each section was selectively activated. Furthermore, the ratios of the thickness and length changes in each section were significantly different between the rest position and curl-up angles. Specifically, in the section 2 there was a significant difference in the thickness and length changes between different angles, reflecting the characteristics of RA during contraction, and their variations were less than in the section 3. Therefore, the results suggest that changes in only a section of RA cannot be representative of overall RA activation, EFOV scan method can be useful for investigating the structural characteristics of RA in detail, and the proposed method can obtain various information about muscle contraction for efficient muscle treatment and muscle strengthening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chansol Park
- Department of Health Science, Gachon University Graduate School, Incheon 21936, Korea
| | - Hwi-Young Cho
- Department of Health Science, Gachon University Graduate School, Incheon 21936, Korea
- Department of Physical Therapy, College of Health Science, Gachon University, Incheon 21936, Korea
| | - Chang-Ki Kang
- Department of Health Science, Gachon University Graduate School, Incheon 21936, Korea
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Gachon University, Incheon 21565, Korea
- Department of Radiological Science, College of Health Science, Gachon University, Incheon 21936, Korea
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20
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Gluppe S, Ellström Engh M, Bø K. Primiparous women's knowledge of diastasis recti abdominis, concerns about abdominal appearance, treatments, and perceived abdominal muscle strength 6-8 months postpartum. A cross sectional comparison study. BMC Womens Health 2022; 22:428. [PMID: 36324105 PMCID: PMC9632123 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-022-02009-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) is a prevalent condition in the postpartum period. To date, there is scant knowledge on how DRA influences physical, mental, and emotional health. This study investigates primiparous women`s knowledge about DRA, concerns about abdominal appearance, and perceived abdominal muscle strength, comparing women with and without reported DRA. METHODS This was a cross-sectional comparison study. Data were collected by a web-based questionnaire, mainly through social media in Norway. To be included in the study women had to be primiparous 6-8 months postpartum. The questionnaire contained questions regarding women`s knowledge about DRA, perceived protrusion, received treatment, concerns with abdominal appearance and muscle strength. Abdominal body image was measured through the shape concern questions from The Eating Disorder Examination questionnaire (EDE-Q 6.0). Demographic and other descriptive variables are presented as means with standard deviations (SD) or as frequencies with percentages. Chi-square test of independence and independent sample t-tests were used to compare differences between women with and without abdominal protrusion for categorical and continuous variables, respectively. RESULTS Our sample consisted of 460 women. Knowledge about DRA was reported by 415/440 (94.3%) women. A total of 73.3% reported to have been worried during pregnancy about abdominal appearance postpartum. Mean degree of concern about present abdominal appearance was 5.5/10 (SD 2.4). Almost 80% experienced weaker abdominal muscles than pre-pregnancy. Ninety-six women (20.9%) reported a protrusion along the midline of their abdomen. Significantly more women with protrusion reported weaker abdominal muscles than women without protrusion. The most frequent treatment women with protrusion reported were exercises for the abdominal muscles (92.6%). Mean score on the EDE-Q, shape concern questions, was higher in women with reported protrusion (mean score: 2.37 (SD 1.6) than women without protrusion (mean score: 2.14 (SD 1.4), p = 0.175. CONCLUSION Primiparous women are concerned about abdominal appearance both during pregnancy and after birth. Those reporting abdominal protrusion are less satisfied with their abdominal appearance and they report weaker abdominal muscles than women without protrusion. This study may contribute to improved knowledge about women`s health concerns, and assessment of DRA should be part of routine follow-up of postpartum women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Gluppe
- Department of Sports Medicine, Norwegian School of Sports Sciences, Sognsveien 220, 0806 Oslo, Norway
| | - Marie Ellström Engh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Akershus University Hospital, Sykehusveien 25, 1478 Lørenskog, Norway
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kari Bø
- Department of Sports Medicine, Norwegian School of Sports Sciences, Sognsveien 220, 0806 Oslo, Norway
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Akershus University Hospital, Sykehusveien 25, 1478 Lørenskog, Norway
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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PUELLES Á, GONZÁLEZ J, PIZARRO A, GALLEGUILLOS F, TORRES C, FABREGA A. Ultrasound analysis of morphological changes in the abdominal wall in postpartum women with diastasis recti: a cross-sectional study. GAZZETTA MEDICA ITALIANA ARCHIVIO PER LE SCIENZE MEDICHE 2022. [DOI: 10.23736/s0393-3660.21.04664-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Dynamic Evaluation of the Rectus Abdominis Muscle before and after Delivery by Ultrasonography. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:9751136. [PMID: 36062170 PMCID: PMC9439921 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9751136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Objective. To evaluate the changes of rectus abdominis thickness and inter-rectus distance before and after delivery with high-frequency ultrasound. Methods. A total of 148 pregnant women at 12 weeks of gestation who underwent prenatal examination in our hospital from January 2019 to March 2020 were selected, and 140 of them cooperated with rectus abdominis examination. According to the results of rectus abdominis examination 42 days after delivery, 97 patients were divided into the DRA group with rectus abdominis isolated and 43 patients were divided into the normal group with rectus abdominis not isolated. At 12 weeks, 24 weeks, and 37 weeks of pregnancy, 3 days and 42 days after delivery, the thickness and spacing of the left and right rectus abdominis muscle were measured by high-frequency ultrasound along the white linea at three positions: 5 cm above the navel, 3 cm below the umbilical edge, and 3 cm below the navel. Results. The thickness of rectus abdominis at 5 cm above the navel, 3 cm below the navel, and at the navel margin of the abdominal white line in the pregnant women of the two groups was gradually decreased with the increase of the pregnancy cycle and gradually recovered after delivery. At 42 days after delivery, the thickness of rectus abdominis in the DRA group was significantly lower than that in the normal group, which was 5 cm above the umbilicus, 3 cm below the umbilicus, and the umbilical margin of the abdominal white line (
). The space between rectus abdominis 5 cm above the navel, 3 cm below the navel, and the navel margin of the abdominal white line in the pregnant women of the two groups was gradually increased with the increase of the pregnancy cycle and gradually recovered after delivery. At 37 weeks of pregnancy, 3 days after delivery, and 42 days after delivery, the space of rectus abdominis along the umbilicus 5 cm above, 3 cm below the umbilicus, and the umbilicus border of the abdominal white line in the DRA group was significantly larger than that of the normal group (
). Conclusion. Ultrasound can accurately measure the inter-rectus distance and rectus thickness, accurately evaluate the degree of DRA, and realize the one-stop evaluation from prenatal diagnosis and prediction to postpartum rehabilitation monitoring, so as to intervene during pregnancy and reduce the risk of postpartum DRA.
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Arranz-Martín B, Navarro-Brazález B, Sánchez-Sánchez B, McLean L, Carazo-Díaz C, Torres-Lacomba M. The Impact of Hypopressive Abdominal Exercise on Linea Alba Morphology in Women Who Are Postpartum: A Short-Term Cross-Sectional Study. Phys Ther 2022; 102:6652576. [PMID: 35908286 DOI: 10.1093/ptj/pzac086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to determine the acute effect of an abdominal hypopressive exercise (AHE) on linea alba morphology among women who are primiparous and to compare this effect with that of other common abdominal exercise modalities. METHODS A cross-sectional study of 46 women 3 months after first delivery was conducted. B-mode ultrasound imaging of the interrectus distance (IRD) and linea alba distortion was performed 2 cm below (I-point) and above (S-point) the umbilicus and at the mid-point between the umbilicus and xiphoid process (X-point). Images were recorded at rest and during an AHE performed in a supine position, a semi curl-up (SCU), an abdominal drawing-in maneuver (ADIM), and a SCU performed after an initial ADIM (ADIM+SCU). RESULTS The SCU exercise narrowed the IRD at the X- and S-points. Compared with SCU, AHE and ADIM widened the IRD at the S- and X-points. No significant differences were found when comparing the IRD at rest, during AHE and during ADIM, but AHE tended to narrow I-point IRD more than ADIM but to widen S-point IRD more than ADIM+SCU. No participant showed linea alba distortion during the AHE or ADIM. When compared, SCU increased the occurrence of distortion with respect to AHE and ADIM. The isolated hypopressive posture did not change the IRD or linea alba distortion. CONCLUSION Among women who were postpartum, AHE seemed to narrow IRD below the umbilicus compared with ADIM without either of these 2 modalities generating linea alba distortion, as SCU or ADIM+SCU does. Thus, although no significant differences were found when comparing the IRD at rest and during AHE, the AHE could improve the tensile response of the linea alba without increasing the IRD. IMPACT This is believed to be the first study to describe linea alba changes during AHE in women who are postpartum. AHE and ADIM seem to show different effects on infraumbilical IRD. The lack of distortion suggests that linea alba may undergo tensile loading at all levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Arranz-Martín
- Physiotherapy in Women's Health Research Group (FPSM), Physiotherapy Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Beatriz Navarro-Brazález
- Physiotherapy in Women's Health Research Group (FPSM), Physiotherapy Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Beatriz Sánchez-Sánchez
- Physiotherapy in Women's Health Research Group (FPSM), Physiotherapy Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Linda McLean
- School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Carmen Carazo-Díaz
- Applied Statistical Methods in Medical Research Group, Catholic University of Murcia (UCAM), Murcia, Spain
| | - María Torres-Lacomba
- Physiotherapy in Women's Health Research Group (FPSM), Physiotherapy Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
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Djivoh Y, De Jaeger D. Acute effect of Sit-up versus Curl-up on the interrecti distance: A cross-sectional study in parous women. Prog Urol 2022; 32:776-783. [DOI: 10.1016/j.purol.2022.07.140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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The Association between Postpartum Pelvic Girdle Pain and Pelvic Floor Muscle Function, Diastasis Recti and Psychological Factors-A Matched Case-Control Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19106236. [PMID: 35627771 PMCID: PMC9141269 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19106236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
There is uncertainty regarding the association between abdominal morphology, pelvic floor function, and psychological factors in women with postpartum pelvic girdle pain (PGP). The aim of this case-control study was to evaluate the differences between women with and without persistent PGP regarding pelvic floor function, diastasis recti, and psychological factors 6−24 weeks postpartum. Pelvic floor manometry, palpation examination of abdominal muscles, the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Short Form, The Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale—21, and the Pain Catastrophizing Scale were used. The PGP group presented with lower vaginal resting pressure (p < 0.001), more tenderness (p = 0.018) and impaired voluntary activation of pelvic floor muscles (p ≤ 0.001). Women with pain also had more distortion on the level of the anterior abdominal wall (p = 0.001) and more severe diastasis recti (p = 0.046) when compared to pain-free controls. Lower vaginal resting pressure was the strongest factor explaining PGP (OR 0.702, 95%CI 0.502−0.981). There were no differences in terms of the pelvic floor strength, endurance, severity of urinary incontinence and reported distress between the groups. Women with PGP 6−24 weeks postpartum differ in pelvic floor and abdominal muscle function from the pain-free controls. Vaginal resting pressure may be an important factor in pelvic girdle pain shortly postpartum. Further studies are needed to see a trend in changes over time.
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Claus CMP, Cavalieiri M, Malcher F, Trippia C, Eiras-Araujo AL, Pauli E, Cavazzola LT. DECOMP Report: Answers surgeons expect from an abdominal wall imaging exam. Rev Col Bras Cir 2022; 49:e20223172. [PMID: 35588534 PMCID: PMC10578831 DOI: 10.1590/0100-6991e-20223172en] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Abdominal wall (AW) hernias are a common problem faced by general surgeons. With an essentially clinical diagnosis, abdominal hernias have been considered a simple problem to be repaired. However, long-term follow-up of patients has shown disappointing results, both in terms of complications and recurrence. In this context, preoperative planning with control of comorbidities and full knowledge of the hernia and its anatomical relationships with the AW has gained increasing attention. Computed tomography (CT) appears to be the best option to determine the precise size and location of abdominal hernias, presence of rectus diastase and/or associated muscle atrophy, as well as the proportion of the hernia in relation to the AW itself. This information might help the surgeon to choose the best surgical technique (open vs MIS), positioning and fixation of the meshes, and eventual need for application of botulinum toxin, preoperative pneumoperitoneum or component separation techniques. Despite the relevance of the findings, they are rarely described in CT scans as radiologists are not used to report findings of the AW as well as to know what information is really needed. For these reasons, we gathered a group of surgeons and radiologists to establish which information about the AW is important in a CT. Finally, a structured report is proposed to facilitate the description of the findings and their interpretation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marcio Cavalieiri
- - Hospital Municipal Lourenço Jorge, Clínica Cirúrgica - Rio de Janeiro - RJ - Brasil
| | - Flávio Malcher
- - New York University Grossman School of Medicine, Abdominal Core Health - New York - NY - Estados Unidos
| | - Carlos Trippia
- - Hospital Nossa Senhora das Graças, Radiologia - Curitiba - PR - Brasil
| | - Antonio Luis Eiras-Araujo
- - Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro e Instituto D'Or de Ensino e Pesquisa, Radiologia - Rio de Janeiro - RJ - Brasil
| | - Eric Pauli
- - Penn State Hershey Medical Center, Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery - Hershey - PA - Estados Unidos
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Starzec-Proserpio M, Lipa D, Szymański J, Szymańska A, Kajdy A, Baranowska B. Association Among Pelvic Girdle Pain, Diastasis Recti Abdominis, Pubic Symphysis Width, and Pain Catastrophizing: A Matched Case-Control Study. Phys Ther 2022; 102:6497843. [PMID: 35079827 PMCID: PMC9046967 DOI: 10.1093/ptj/pzab311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain (PGP) may persist or occur postpartum and negatively affects women's lives. There is uncertainty regarding the association between the structures of the bony pelvis, diastasis recti abdominis (DRA), pain processing, and PGP and to what extent these factors should be considered during physical therapy. This study aimed to evaluate the differences between women with and without PGP shortly after delivery regarding the separation of a pubic symphysis, DRA, and pain catastrophizing. METHODS Women diagnosed with PGP 24 to 72 hours after vaginal delivery were matched to pain-free controls according to age and parity. Ultrasound evaluations of diastasis recti (interrecti distance [IRD]) during rest and curl-up task and pubic symphysis (interpubic width) were performed. The Pain Catastrophizing Scale was used to assess the level of catastrophizing. A special Cox regression model was used to fit a conditional logistic regression for a 1:2 matched case-control study. RESULTS Thirty-five women with clinically diagnosed PGP and 70 matched controls were included in the study. The PGP group had a significantly higher pre-pregnancy body mass index than the control group. After adjusting for body mass index in multiple conditional logistic regression, the interpubic distance (odds ratio = 1.64; 95% CI = 1.22 to 2.20) and IRD during curl-up (odds ratio = 2.01; 95% CI = 1.08 to 3.74) were significantly associated with PGP. Pain catastrophizing and IRD at rest were not associated with PGP in univariable or multivariable analysis. CONCLUSIONS Pain catastrophizing is similar for women with and without PGP early postpartum. However, the degree of the pubic symphysis and rectus abdominis separation during the curl-up task are positively associated with PGP shortly after delivery. IMPACT This study indicates that a reconsideration of the way we look at DRA is warranted. The development of a more comprehensive assessment including objective measurements and a biopsychosocial understanding is needed to inform directions for further postpartum physical therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daria Lipa
- St. Sophia Specialist Hospital, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jacek Szymański
- First Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Agata Szymańska
- Department of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Kajdy
- Department of Reproductive Health, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Barbara Baranowska
- Department of Midwifery, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
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Tuominen R, Jahkola T, Saisto T, Arokoski J, Vironen J. The prevalence and consequences of abdominal rectus muscle diastasis among Finnish women: an epidemiological cohort study. Hernia 2022; 26:599-608. [PMID: 34432175 PMCID: PMC9012726 DOI: 10.1007/s10029-021-02484-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Post-pregnancy abdominal rectus diastasis (ARD) has raised attention in the field of surgery in recent years, but there is no consensus about when to consider surgery. Our aim was to find out what is the normal inter-rectus distance in fertile aged, female population in Finland and to examine whether there is a linea alba width that would predispose to diastasis-related problems after pregnancy. METHODS For this prospective cohort study, women participating early pregnancy ultrasound in Helsinki University Hospital Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology during 1.1.2018-8.3.2019, were recruited. The width of linea alba was measured by ultrasound during the early pregnancy ultrasound. Symptoms were measured by questionnaire including Health-Related Quality of Life (RAND-36) and Oswestry Disability Index for back symptoms and disability. RESULTS Linea alba width was measured in total of 933 women. The average inter-rectus distance (IRD) among nulliparous women was 1.81 ± 0.72 cm. After one previous pregnancy, the average linea alba width was 2.36 cm ± 0.83 cm and after more pregnancies 2.55 ± 1.09 cm. There was a positive correlation between previous pregnancies and the increased linea alba width (p = 0.00004). We did not perceive any threshold value of linea alba width that would predispose to back pain or movement control problems in this cohort, in which severe diastasis (over 5 cm) was rare. CONCLUSION Mean inter-rectus distance in parous population exceeds stated normative values. Moderate ARD (3.0-5.0 cm) alone does not seem to explain low back pain or functional disability in population level. Severe post-pregnancy diastasis (over 5.0 cm) is rare.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Tuominen
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, PL 266, 00029 HUS, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - T Jahkola
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, PL 266, 00029 HUS, Helsinki, Finland
| | - T Saisto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - J Arokoski
- Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - J Vironen
- Abdominal Center, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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Keramidas E, Rodopoulou S, Gavala MI. A Proposed Classification and Treatment Algorithm for Rectus Diastasis: A Prospective Study. Aesthetic Plast Surg 2022; 46:2323-2332. [PMID: 35043248 PMCID: PMC9592666 DOI: 10.1007/s00266-021-02739-w] [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: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Background This study presents a classification system and treatment method to correct Rectus diastasis (RD) during abdominoplasty. Materials and methods One hundred and sixty seven patients undergoing abdominoplasty were enrolled between April 2014 and January 2018. Forty-three patients did not present with RD and were excluded from the analysis. Mean age was 40.32 years, mean BMI was 23.84, and minimum follow-up was 24 months. A four-type (A: mild 2–3cm, B: moderate 3–5cm, C: severe 5–7cm, and D: very severe 7–9cm) classification system is described. A different treatment method is performed in each category using continuous and interrupted absorbable sutures. Postoperatively patients filled up a questionnaire that involved the level of pain, the postoperative day they performed specific indoor/outdoor activities, and the evaluation of the aesthetic result. Results No statistically significant differences were observed between the four RD types regarding pain, complications, and return to specific activities. All types of RD had the same low rate complication profile. The seroma rate was 0.81%. The infection rate was 0.81%, and the thromboembolism and the pneumonic embolism rate was 0%. After 2–6 years of follow-up no clinical recurrence of rectus diastasis was observed. All reoperations (14.52%) were performed due to scar deformities. Mean pain score levels were very low (<1.5) and within a week most patients returned to specific indoor and outdoor activities. Most patients were extremely satisfied with the results. Conclusions In this article, we present an updated classification system and treatment protocol to provide surgeons a safe and standardized method that produces high-quality aesthetic results. Level of evidence IV This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00266-021-02739-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evangelos Keramidas
- Kosmesis Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Center, Central Clinic of Athens, Ethnikis Antistaseos 9-11, Chalandri, 15232, Athens, Greece.
| | - Stavroula Rodopoulou
- Kosmesis Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Center, Central Clinic of Athens, Ethnikis Antistaseos 9-11, Chalandri, 15232, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria-Ioanna Gavala
- Kosmesis Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Center, Central Clinic of Athens, Ethnikis Antistaseos 9-11, Chalandri, 15232, Athens, Greece
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Occurrence of Diastasis of the Rectus Abdominis Muscles in Patients with Medial Pectus Excavatum. PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY-GLOBAL OPEN 2022; 10:e4028. [PMID: 35028253 PMCID: PMC8747596 DOI: 10.1097/gox.0000000000004028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Since 1994, we have used soft silicone blocks sculpted intraoperatively to correct pectus excavatum in male patients. This technique involves a horizontal access incision in the region of the lower edge of the sternum. During the dissection to expose the sternum, we observed a constant diastasis of the rectus abdominis muscle and changes of the anatomy at its superior insertion. There is no report on this association. Methods Male patients with untreated medial pectus excavatum with indication for silicone block correction were enrolled. Age, weight, height, and the presence of other associated conditions were noted. Ultrasound examination was performed. During the surgery, the width of the linea alba was evaluated and the anatomical positioning of the insertion of rectus abdominis muscle was noted. Results From 2017 to 2019, 10 patients were submitted to surgery. The mean age was 27 years. All patients presented diastasis at the preoperative physical examination. Imaging examination reports showed diastasis of the rectus abdominis muscle: seven partial epigastric separations and three total separations, two of which were associated with umbilical hernia. The intraoperative findings showed the line alba with a minimum of 23 mm and a maximum of 45 mm width at 4 cm from the xiphoid process edge. The muscle borders presented a curved lateral deviation up to the insertion in the costal arches with a distance ranging from 35 mm to 60 mm. Conclusions This study confirms the anatomical alterations of the superior portion of the rectus abdominis muscle. The authors discuss the surgical consequences and suggest that the semiology of rectus abdominis muscle is an important preoperative action in pectus excavatum patients.
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CLAUS CHRISTIANOMARLOPAGGI, CAVALIEIRI MARCIO, MALCHER FLÁVIO, TRIPPIA CARLOS, EIRAS-ARAUJO ANTONIOLUIS, PAULI ERIC, CAVAZZOLA LEANDROTOTTI. Relatório DECOMP: Respostas que os cirurgiões esperam de um exame de imagem da parede abdominal. Rev Col Bras Cir 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/0100-6991e-20223172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
RESUMO Hérnias da parede abdominal são um problema bastante comum enfrentado pelo cirurgiões gerais. De diagnóstico essencialmente clínico, as hérnias abdominais durante muito tempo têm sido consideradas um problema de simples reparo. Entretanto, o acompanhamento de longo prazo dos pacientes têm demonstrado resultados desapontadores, tanto em termos de complicações quanto risco de recidiva da hérnia. Neste contexto, o planejamento pré-operatório com controle de comorbidades e pleno conhecimento da hérnia e suas relações anatômicas com a parede abdominal têm ganho cada vez mais atenção. A tomografia de abdome parece ser a melhor opção para determinar o tamanho e localização precisos das hérnias abdominais, presença de diastase de músculo reto e/ou atrofia da parede associada, assim como proporção da hérnia em relação a parede abdominal. Essas informações podem auxiliar o cirurgião na escolha da melhor técnica cirúrgica (aberta vs. MIS), posicionamento e fixação das telas, e eventual necessidade de aplicação de toxina botulínica, pneumoperitônio pré-operatório ou técnicas de separação de componentes. Apesar da relevância dos achados, eles são raramente descritos em exames de tomografia uma vez que os radiologistas não estão acostumados a olhar para a parede abdominal assim como não sabem quais as informações são realmente necessárias. Por estes motivos, nós reunimos um grupo de cirurgiões e radiologistas visando estabelecer quais são as informações da parede abdominal mais importantes em um exame de tomografia assim como propor um laudo estruturado para facilitar a descrição dos achados e sua interpretação.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - ERIC PAULI
- Penn State Hershey Medical Center, Estados Unidos
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Hu J, Gu J, Yu Z, Yang X, Fan J, You L, Hua Q, Zhao Y, Yan Y, Bai W, Xu Z, You L, Chen C. Efficacy of Standardized Rehabilitation in the Treatment of Diastasis Rectus Abdominis in Postpartum Women. Int J Gen Med 2021; 14:10373-10383. [PMID: 35002294 PMCID: PMC8721020 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s348135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Methods Results Conclusion
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Hu
- Department of Postpartum Rehabilitation Center, Xishan People’s Hospital of Wuxi City, Wuxi, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Juanfen Gu
- Department of Postpartum Rehabilitation Center, Xishan People’s Hospital of Wuxi City, Wuxi, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhiyan Yu
- Department of Postpartum Rehabilitation Center, Xishan People’s Hospital of Wuxi City, Wuxi, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xianxu Yang
- Department of Postpartum Rehabilitation Center, Xishan People’s Hospital of Wuxi City, Wuxi, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jian Fan
- Department of Postpartum Rehabilitation Center, Xishan People’s Hospital of Wuxi City, Wuxi, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lingying You
- Department of Postpartum Rehabilitation Center, Xishan People’s Hospital of Wuxi City, Wuxi, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qinyan Hua
- Department of Postpartum Rehabilitation Center, Xishan People’s Hospital of Wuxi City, Wuxi, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuting Zhao
- Department of Postpartum Rehabilitation Center, Xishan People’s Hospital of Wuxi City, Wuxi, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuerong Yan
- Department of Postpartum Rehabilitation Center, Xishan People’s Hospital of Wuxi City, Wuxi, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Weiwei Bai
- Department of Ultrasound, Xishan People’s Hospital of Wuxi City, Wuxi, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zipeng Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Xishan People’s Hospital of Wuxi City, Wuxi, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lina You
- Department of Postpartum Rehabilitation Center, Xishan People’s Hospital of Wuxi City, Wuxi, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Lina You; Chaobo Chen Tel +86 13812052853; +86 13585000831 Email ;
| | - Chaobo Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Xishan People’s Hospital of Wuxi City, Wuxi, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and ORL, Complutense University School of Medicine, Madrid, 28040, Spain
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Balasch-Bernat M, Pérez-Alenda S, Carrasco JJ, Valls-Donderis B, Dueñas L, Fuentes-Aparicio L. Differences in Inter-Rectus Distance and Abdominopelvic Function between Nulliparous, Primiparous and Multiparous Women. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:12396. [PMID: 34886122 PMCID: PMC8656862 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182312396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Widening of the inter-rectus distance (IRD) is highly prevalent among postpartum women and can lead to dysfunction of abdominopelvic muscles. The aim of this study was to evaluate the differences in IRD and abdominopelvic function between nulliparous, primiparous and multiparous women. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 75 women (25 nulliparous, 25 primiparous and 25 multiparous at 6 months postpartum). The participants underwent ultrasound assessment under three conditions (at rest, abdominal draw-in maneuver (ADIM) and curl-up) at two locations (2 cm above and 2 cm below the umbilicus). Furthermore, abdominopelvic muscle function was determined by prone, supine and side bridge tests. In all conditions and locations, the IRD were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the primiparous and multiparous women than in the nulliparous. The multiparous women presented greater (p > 0.05) IRD at rest and during ADIM compared to the primiparous women. Regarding abdominopelvic muscle function, differences were only significant (p < 0.05) between the nulliparous with primiparous women in prone and supine conditions. These findings suggest that parity influences IRD: women at 6 months postpartum present greater IRD compared to nulliparous women; multiparous women present greater IRD at rest and during the activation of deep abdominal muscles than primiparous women; and primiparous women exhibit worse abdominopelvic muscle function than nulliparous women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercè Balasch-Bernat
- Physiotherapy in Motion, Multi Speciality Research Group (PTinMOTION), Department of Physiotherapy, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (M.B.-B.); (J.J.C.); (L.D.); (L.F.-A.)
| | - Sofía Pérez-Alenda
- Physiotherapy in Motion, Multi Speciality Research Group (PTinMOTION), Department of Physiotherapy, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (M.B.-B.); (J.J.C.); (L.D.); (L.F.-A.)
| | - Juan J. Carrasco
- Physiotherapy in Motion, Multi Speciality Research Group (PTinMOTION), Department of Physiotherapy, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (M.B.-B.); (J.J.C.); (L.D.); (L.F.-A.)
| | - Begoña Valls-Donderis
- Department of Physical Education and Sports, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Lirios Dueñas
- Physiotherapy in Motion, Multi Speciality Research Group (PTinMOTION), Department of Physiotherapy, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (M.B.-B.); (J.J.C.); (L.D.); (L.F.-A.)
| | - Laura Fuentes-Aparicio
- Physiotherapy in Motion, Multi Speciality Research Group (PTinMOTION), Department of Physiotherapy, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (M.B.-B.); (J.J.C.); (L.D.); (L.F.-A.)
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Saleem Z, Khan AA, Farooqui SI, Yasmeen R, Rizvi J. Effect of Exercise on Inter-Recti Distance and Associated Low Back Pain Among Post-Partum Females: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Family Reprod Health 2021; 15:202-209. [PMID: 34721612 PMCID: PMC8536823 DOI: 10.18502/jfrh.v15i3.7139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to emphasize facilitation training and strengthening of abdominal and core muscles in improving the inter-recti distance (IRD) and associated low back pain (LBP) among young postpartum females. Materials and methods: A single-blinded randomized controlled trial, among forty young postpartum females, was conducted at a community health center. The females were divided into two equal groups through the envelope method where Group A received abdominal crunch training protocol whereas group B received double straight leg raise (DSLR) exercise protocol for 6 weeks and pre and post IRD and Oswestry disability index (ODI) scores were recorded. Results: Group A showed improvement in IRD with a mean difference of 1.95±0.4 whereas in group B it was found to be 2.85±0.35 when assessed through finger palpation method. The mean difference of IRD, when measured through digital nylon caliper method in abdominal crunch and DSLR exercise group was 4.06±0.74 and 1.2±0.49 respectively. Moreover, ODI scores of group A were 2.70±1.05 whereas, group B scores were found to be 1.1±0.06 showing that LBP reduced in participants who performed abdominal crunch exercise. Conclusion: This study reveals that 6 weeks of exercise protocol was observed to be effective in the management of DRA. Thus, abdominal crunch exercise seemed to produce promising results in a reduction of IRD and associated LBP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zulekha Saleem
- Ziauddin College of Rehabilitation Sciences, Ziauddin University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Amna Aamir Khan
- Ziauddin College of Rehabilitation Sciences, Ziauddin University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | - Rehana Yasmeen
- Ziauddin College of Rehabilitation Sciences, Ziauddin University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Jaza Rizvi
- Ziauddin College of Rehabilitation Sciences, Ziauddin University, Karachi, Pakistan
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Kaufmann RL, Reiner CS, Dietz UA, Clavien PA, Vonlanthen R, Käser SA. Normal width of the linea alba, prevalence, and risk factors for diastasis recti abdominis in adults, a cross-sectional study. Hernia 2021; 26:609-618. [PMID: 34609664 PMCID: PMC9012734 DOI: 10.1007/s10029-021-02493-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Aim The prevalence and definition of diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) is under debate. This retrospective cross-sectional study evaluated the interrectal distance and the prevalence of DRA in computed tomography (CT) in an asymptomatic population. Materials and methods Patients undergoing CT scans for suspected appendicitis or kidney stones from 01/2016 to 12/2018 were screened retrospectively to participate. A study population with equal distribution according to gender and age (18–90 years) was generated (n = 329 patients) and the interrectal distance was measured at six reference points. Results DRA (defined as > 2 cm at 3 cm above the umbilicus) was present in 57% of the population. The 80th percentile of the interrectal distance was 10 mm at the xiphoid (median 3 mm, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0–19 mm), 27 mm halfway from xiphoid to umbilicus (median 17 mm, 95% CI 0–39 mm), 34 mm at 3 cm above the umbilicus (median 22 mm, 95% CI 0–50 mm), 32 mm at the umbilicus (median 25 mm, 95% CI 0–45 mm), 25 mm at 2 cm below the umbilicus (median 14 mm, 95% CI 0–39 mm), and 4 mm halfway from umbilicus to pubic symphysis (median 0 mm, 95% CI 0–19 mm). In the multivariate analysis, higher age (p = 0.001), increased body mass index (p < 0.001), and parity (p < 0.037) were independent risk factors for DRA, while split xiphoid, tobacco abuse, and umbilical hernia were not. Conclusion The prevalence of DRA is much higher than commonly estimated (57%). The IRD 3 cm above the umbilicus may be considered normal up to 34 mm. To avoid over-treatment, the definition of DRA should be revised.
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Affiliation(s)
- R L Kaufmann
- Department of Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - C S Reiner
- Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - U A Dietz
- Department of General, Visceral and Plastic Surgery, Cantonal Hospital of Olten, Olten, Switzerland
| | - P A Clavien
- Department of Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - R Vonlanthen
- Department of Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - S A Käser
- Department of Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland. .,Department of General, Visceral, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Buergerspital Solothurn, Schöngrünstrasse 42, 4500, Solothurn, Switzerland. .,Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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Olsson A, Kiwanuka O, Wilhelmsson S, Sandblom G, Stackelberg O. Surgical repair of diastasis recti abdominis provides long-term improvement of abdominal core function and quality of life: a 3-year follow-up. BJS Open 2021; 5:6369782. [PMID: 34518875 PMCID: PMC8438255 DOI: 10.1093/bjsopen/zrab085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) is a condition affecting many post-partum women. The aim of this study was to evaluate long-term results of surgical repair of DRA in a cohort of post-partum women. Methods Sixty post-partum women with DRA and training-resistant core dysfunctions were included. Surgical repair was performed with suture plication of the linea alba. Abdominal core function was evaluated with the abdominal trunk function protocol (ATFP) including a self-report questionnaire and seven functional tests. Urinary incontinence and quality of life were evaluated with the Urogenital Distress Inventory (UDI-6), the Incontinence Impact Questionnaire (IIQ-7) and the SF-36 questionnaire. Follow-up was performed at 1 and 3 years after surgery. Results Response rate at the 3-year follow-up was 86.7 per cent for the disability rating index (DRI) questionnaire; and 71.7 per cent for the ATFP, UDI-6, IIQ-7 and SF-36 questionnaires. All DRI parameters were improved (P < 0.001) after 3 years of follow-up compared with preoperative values. The functional tests in the ATFP showed an improvement in core muscle strength and stability (P < 0.001), back muscle strength (P < 0.001) and abdominal muscle strength (P = 0.002) compared to preoperative values as well as an improvement of core muscle strength and stability compared with the 1-year follow-up values (P = 0.003). UDI-6 and IIQ-7 results were improved (P < 0.001 and P = 0.004) compared with preoperative values and showed consistent values compared with the 1-year follow-up (P = 0.09 and P = 1.0). Quality of life measured with SF-36 was improved compared with preoperative values and showed consistent values compared with the 1-year follow-up. Conclusion The functional improvement of surgical reconstruction of the DRA persisted for 3 years in this series of post-partum women with DRA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anders Olsson
- Department of Clinical Science and Education, Karolinska Institutet, Södersjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Surgery, Södersjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Olivia Kiwanuka
- Department of Clinical Science and Education, Karolinska Institutet, Södersjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Surgery, Södersjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sofia Wilhelmsson
- Functional Area Occupational Therapy & Physiotherapy, Allied Health Professionals Function, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gabriel Sandblom
- Department of Clinical Science and Education, Karolinska Institutet, Södersjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Surgery, Södersjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Otto Stackelberg
- Department of Clinical Science and Education, Karolinska Institutet, Södersjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Surgery, Södersjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden.,Unit of Cardiovascular and Nutritional Epidemiology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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37
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Vesting S, Olsen MF, Gutke A, Rembeck G, Larsson MEH. Clinical assessment of pelvic floor and abdominal muscles 3 months post partum: an inter-rater reliability study. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e049082. [PMID: 34475166 PMCID: PMC8413957 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-049082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Evaluation of the inter-rater reliability of clinical assessment methods for pelvic floor muscles and diastasis recti abdominis post partum. DESIGN A multicentre inter-rater reliability study. SETTING Three primary care rehabilitation centres in Sweden. PARTICIPANTS A total of 222 participants were recruited via advertising at Swedish maternity care units and social media. Eligibility for participation included female gender, ≥18 years, at maximum 3 months after childbirth. Exclusion criteria were chronic pelvic girdle pain and/or low back pain and/or pelvic floor tear grade III/IV. At each centre, 2 physiotherapists, with training and experience in pelvic floor assessment, assessed the 222 women according to a standardised protocol in random order. OUTCOME MEASURES Inter-rater reliability of the assessment of pelvic floor muscle function (involuntary and voluntary contraction and voluntary relaxation) and diastasis recti abdominis (width, depth and bulging). RESULTS Vaginal palpation of maximal voluntary contraction revealed a kappa value of 0.69 (95% CI 0.62 to 0.76). Assessments of involuntary contraction and voluntary relaxation yielded inconsistent results, with slight-to-moderate weighted kappa values ranging from 0.10 to 0.51. After 2 months of training in applying this method, diastasis recti abdominis width measured at the umbilicus by calliper yielded an intraclass correlation coefficient value of 0.83 (95% CI 0.76 to 0.87). Assessments of diastasis recti abdominis depth and bulging showed moderate kappa values, with reservation for some inconsistency between the centres. CONCLUSIONS Vaginal palpation of pelvic floor muscle strength is a reliable method for the postpartum muscle assessment. Additional research is needed to identify reliable assessment method for other pelvic floor muscle functions like involuntary contraction and voluntary relaxation. With some training, a calliper is a reliable instrument for measuring the postpartum diastasis recti abdominis width. This study provides novel thoughts about how to measure diastasis recti abdominis depth and bulging. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03703804.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Vesting
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation, Unit of Physiotherapy, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Närhälsan Gibraltar Rehabilitation, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Monika Fagevik Olsen
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation, Unit of Physiotherapy, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Gastrosurgical Research & Education, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Annelie Gutke
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation, Unit of Physiotherapy, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Gun Rembeck
- Region Västra Götaland, Research and Development Centre Södra Älvsborg, Borås, Sweden
- Region Västra Götaland, Regionhälsan Borås Youth Centre, Borås, Sweden
- Primary Health Care, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Maria E H Larsson
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation, Unit of Physiotherapy, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Region Västra Götaland Education, Research and Development Primary Health Care, Gothenburg, Sweden
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38
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Contemporary imaging of rectus diastasis and the abdominal wall. Hernia 2021; 25:921-927. [PMID: 34338936 DOI: 10.1007/s10029-021-02463-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Diastasis of the rectus abdominis muscles (rectus diastasis, RD) is common, particularly in postpartum women. Although imaging is not always mandatory for assessment, several cross-sectional imaging techniques, in particular ultrasound (US), computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can depict the abdominal wall in exquisite detail. They permit simultaneous assessment of the degree and craniocaudal extent of RD, evaluation for co-existent hernia and subjective judgement of muscle quality. Increasingly, dynamic imaging techniques show both static anatomy and muscle movement and function. In this review, we highlight the imaging findings of RD, associated hernia, and potential mimics.
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Köckerling F, Lorenz R, Stechemesser B, Conze J, Kuthe A, Reinpold W, Niebuhr H, Lammers B, Zarras K, Fortelny R, Mayer F, Hoffmann H, Kukleta JF, Weyhe D. Comparison of outcomes in rectus abdominis diastasis repair-which data do we need in a hernia registry? Hernia 2021; 25:891-903. [PMID: 34319466 DOI: 10.1007/s10029-021-02466-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Rectus abdominis diastasis (RAD) ± concomitant hernia is a complex hernia entity of growing significance in everyday clinical practice. Due to a multitude of described surgical techniques, a so far missing universally accepted classification and hardly existing comparative studies, there are no clear recommendations in guidelines. Therefore, "RAD ± concomitant hernia" will be documented as a separate hernia entity in the Herniamed Registry in the future. For this purpose, an appropriate case report form will be developed on the basis of the existing literature. METHODS A systematic search of the available literature was performed in March 2021 using Medline, PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Embase, Springer Link, and the Cochrane Library. 93 publications were identified as relevant for this topic. RESULTS In total 45 different surgical techniques for the repair of RAD ± concomitant hernia were identified in the surgical literature. RAD ± concomitant hernia is predominantly repaired by plastic but also by general surgeons. Classification of RAD ± concomitant hernia is based on a proposal of the German Hernia Society and the International Endohernia Society. Surgical techniques are summarized as groups subject to certain aspects: Techniques with abdominoplasty, open techniques, mini-less-open and endoscopic sublay techniques, mini-less-open and endoscopic subcutaneous/preaponeurotic techniques and laparoscopic techniques. Additional data impacting the outcome are also recorded as is the case for other hernia entities. Despite the complexity of this topic, documentation of RAD ± concomitant hernia has not proved to be any more cumbersome than for any of the other hernia entities when using this classification. CONCLUSION Using the case report form described here, the complex hernia entity RAD ± concomitant hernia can be recorded in a registry for proper analysis of comparative treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Köckerling
- Department of Surgery and Center for Minimally Invasive Surgery, Academic Teaching Hospital of Charité Medical School, Vivantes Hospital, Neue Bergstrasse 6, 13585, Berlin, Germany.
| | - R Lorenz
- Hernia Center 3+CHIRURGEN, Klosterstrasse 34/35, 13581, Berlin, Germany
| | - B Stechemesser
- Pan Hospital, Hernia Center, Zeppelinstraße 1, 50667, Köln, Germany
| | - J Conze
- UM Hernia Center, Arabellastr. 17, 81925, München, Germany
| | - A Kuthe
- DRK-Krankenhaus Clementinenhaus, Lützerodestr. 1, 30161, Hannover, Germany
| | - W Reinpold
- Hernia Center Hamburg, Helios Mariahilf Klinik, Stader Str. 203C, 21075, Hamburg, Germany
| | - H Niebuhr
- Hanse Hernia Center, Alte Holstenstr. 16, 21031, Hamburg, Germany
| | - B Lammers
- Department of Surgery I-Section Coloproctology and Hernia Surgery, Lukas Hospital, Preussenstr. 84, 41464, Neuss, Germany
| | - K Zarras
- Marien Hospital Düsseldorf, Rochusstraße 2, 40479, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - R Fortelny
- Medical Faculty Austria, Private Hospital Confraternitaet, Sigmund Freud Private University Vienna, 1080, Vienna, Austria
| | - F Mayer
- Department of General, Visceral and Thoracic Surgery, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Müllner Hauptstraße 48, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - H Hoffmann
- ZweiChirurgen GmbH-Center for Hernia Surgery and Proctology, St. Johanns-Vorstadt 44, 4056, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Petersplatz 1, 4001, Basel, Switzerland
| | - J F Kukleta
- Klinik Im Park Zurich (Hirslanden Group), Grossmuensterplatz 9, 8001, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - D Weyhe
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, Pius Hospital, University Hospital of Visceral Surgery, Georgstrasse 12, 26121, Oldenburg, Germany
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Gluppe S, Engh ME, Bø K. What is the evidence for abdominal and pelvic floor muscle training to treat diastasis recti abdominis postpartum? A systematic review with meta-analysis. Braz J Phys Ther 2021; 25:664-675. [PMID: 34391661 PMCID: PMC8721086 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjpt.2021.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) affects a significant number of women in the postpartum period. Objective To systematically review whether abdominal and pelvic floor muscle (PFM) exercise programs are effective in the treatment of DRA postpartum. Methods Electronic search was conducted from inception to March 2020. Randomized controlled trials (RCT) or pilot RCTs that compared abdominal training, PFM training, or a combination of both in at least one arm of the trial were included. The primary outcome was presence of DRA (numbers/percentage) or inter-recti distance (IRD) change. GRADE was used to rate the overall quality of evidence. Pooled effect sizes were expressed as mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results Seven RCTs totaling 381 women were included. Two studies comparing transversus abdominis (TrA) training with minimal intervention provided data to be included in a meta-analysis. The results provided very low level quality evidence that TrA training reduced IRD (MD = -0.63 cm, 95% confidence interval: -1.25, -0.01, I2 = 0%). Two studies included curl-up exercises as part of their intervention. Level of evidence based on single trials of high risk of bias show very low evidence that curl-up training is more effective than minimal intervention for treating DRA. Similarly, analyses based on single trials provided low to very low quality evidence that PFM training is not more effective than minimal intervention for treating DRA. Conclusion There is currently very low-quality scientific evidence to recommend specific exercise programs in the treatment of DRA postpartum. Trials investigating abdominal and PFM exercises on DRA have mostly been performed on women with mild DRA. The abdominal and PFM exercise programs identified were heterogenous in terms of type of exercises and training dose. We found low quality evidence that TrA and curl-up training are more effective than minimal intervention for treating DRA. There is low to very low evidence that PFM training is not more effective than minimal intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Gluppe
- Department of Sports Medicine, Norwegian School of Sports Sciences, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Marie Ellström Engh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway; Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kari Bø
- Department of Sports Medicine, Norwegian School of Sports Sciences, Oslo, Norway; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway; Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Tian P, Liu DM, Wang C, Gu Y, Du GQ, Tian JW. An ultrasound observation study on the levator hiatus with or without diastasis recti abdominis in postpartum women. Int Urogynecol J 2021; 32:1839-1846. [PMID: 33864477 PMCID: PMC8295084 DOI: 10.1007/s00192-021-04783-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS We hypothesized that differences in post-partum levator hiatus (LH) measurements, as well as the area of urethra and bladder (AUB), viewed under ultrasound, correlate with diastasis rectus abdominis (DRA) occurrence. The primary objective of this study is to determine ultrasound parameters available for diagnosing DRA in post-partum women. We compared LH and AUB measurements under ultrasound in primiparous women, with and without DRA, at 24-26 weeks postpartum. METHODS One hundred ninety-four women underwent routine examination, including a self-made clinical symptoms questionnaire, DRA evaluation, and LH and AUB measurements. Independent samples t- and chi-squared tests were used to compare the differences between women with and without DRA. RESULTS DRA incidence was significantly higher among those who underwent cesarean section (CS) than for vaginal delivery (VD) (P = 0.038). DRA patients could potentially have urinary urgency, frequency, pain, dysuria, and perineal tears. Additionally, statistically significant differences were found between VD patients, with or without DRA, in the resting LH transverse diameter (TrD) (P = 0.032) and the area of the levator hiatus (ALH) (P = 0.048) as well as AUB at Valsalva (P = 0.049). No differences, however, were found between the DRA and no DRA groups for all those measurements among women who had cesarean deliveries. CONCLUSIONS DRA was more likely in post-CS women. Furthermore, the results showed a plausible association between DRA occurrence and LH expansion, especially in women with VD under rest and Valsalva. This could be useful for developing therapeutic plans based on these parameters for post-partum rehabilitation of women with DRA to avoid long-term complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Tian
- Department of Ultrasonography, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, No. 246, Xuefu Road, Nanggang District, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.,Department of Ultrasonography, The Daqing Oilfield General Hospital, Daqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Dong Mei Liu
- Department of Ultrasonography, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, No. 246, Xuefu Road, Nanggang District, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Wang
- Department of Ultrasonography, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, No. 246, Xuefu Road, Nanggang District, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Gu
- Department of Ultrasonography, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, No. 246, Xuefu Road, Nanggang District, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China
| | - Guo Qing Du
- Department of Ultrasonography, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, No. 246, Xuefu Road, Nanggang District, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jia Wei Tian
- Department of Ultrasonography, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, No. 246, Xuefu Road, Nanggang District, Harbin, 150081, People's Republic of China.
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Gluppe S, Ellström Engh M, Kari B. Women with diastasis recti abdominis might have weaker abdominal muscles and more abdominal pain, but no higher prevalence of pelvic floor disorders, low back and pelvic girdle pain than women without diastasis recti abdominis. Physiotherapy 2021; 111:57-65. [PMID: 33691943 DOI: 10.1016/j.physio.2021.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether women with diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) have weaker abdominal muscles and higher prevalence of pelvic floor disorders (PFD), low back, pelvic girdle and abdominal pain than women without DRA. DESIGN Cross sectional study of women with and without DRA. SETTING University study. PARTICIPANTS Seventy-two parity and age matched women with and without DRA. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Maximal abdominal muscle strength and endurance were assessed with a dynamometer and with a curl-up test. Women reported whether they experienced PFD, low back pain, pelvic girdle pain or abdominal pain. Those experiencing PFD or pain completed the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory-short form 20 (PFDI-20), the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), the Pelvic Girdle Questionnaire (PGQ) or questions about abdominal pain, respectively. RESULTS Maximal abdominal strength standing with 30° hip flexion was significantly lower in women with DRA (mean difference -12.9Nm, 95%CI: -24.4 to -1.5; P=0.028), but adjusted analyses showed no significant difference (mean difference -11.9Nm, 95%CI: -26.5 to 2.6; P=0.106). Adjusted analyses showed significant higher prevalence of abdominal pain in women with DRA (OR: 0.02, 95%CI: 0.00 to 0.61, P=0.026). There was no difference between the groups in PFD, low back and pelvic girdle pain. CONCLUSION Women with DRA tend to have weaker abdominal muscles and higher prevalence of abdominal pain, but no higher prevalence of PFD, low back or pelvic girdle pain than women without DRA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Gluppe
- Department of Sports Medicine, Norwegian School of Sports Sciences, Sognsveien 220, 0806 Oslo, Norway.
| | - Marie Ellström Engh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Akershus University Hospital, Sykehusveien 25, 1478 Lørenskog, Norway; Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Bø Kari
- Department of Sports Medicine, Norwegian School of Sports Sciences, Sognsveien 220, 0806 Oslo, Norway; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Akershus University Hospital, Sykehusveien 25, 1478 Lørenskog, Norway; Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
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Autologous Dermal Mesh in Severe Postpregnancy Recti Muscles Diastasis. Aesthetic Plast Surg 2021; 45:198-211. [PMID: 33108500 DOI: 10.1007/s00266-020-01991-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The severe postpregnancy diastasis of recti muscles causes a biomechanical alteration of the statics of the trunk and an unaesthetic bulging of the abdominal wall. This is always combined with cutaneous and subcutaneous excess, which is different on a case-by-case basis. There is not a consensus on the best way to treat it. The anterior sheath plication is the mostly used surgical technique, and many surgeons believe that the use of mesh is necessary in the cases of severe diastasis. The authors here report the outcomes of the use of dermal automesh in the retromuscular layer. MATERIALS AND METHODS Between January 2015 and December 2019, a retrospective study on 101 patients was conducted. All patients underwent the repairment of the diastasis recti with transversalis sheath plication and dermal automesh reinforcement in the sublay fashion. In addition, all the patients had an abdominal wall ultrasound before the operation and an ultrasound after 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year and every year afterward. The median follow-up was 32.5 months RESULTS: No major complications, such as infections, extrusions, respiratory diseases or thrombosis, were reported. The follow-up abdominal wall ultrasound reported the absence of muscle recti diastasis in all patients. All patients were completely satisfied with the final result. CONCLUSION In postpregnancy women, the severe recti muscles diastasis dermal automesh repair is safe and effective. The dermal graft is easy to handle, has demonstrated comparable tensile strength to alloplastic mesh and is available in abdominoplasty or miniabdominoplasty from the excised skin. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .
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Qu E, Wu J, Zhang M, Wu L, Zhang T, Xu J, Zhang X. The ultrasound diagnostic criteria for diastasis recti and its correlation with pelvic floor dysfunction in early postpartum women. Quant Imaging Med Surg 2021; 11:706-713. [PMID: 33532270 DOI: 10.21037/qims-20-596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Background There has been a long-standing controversy about diastasis recti diagnostic criteria and its relation to pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD). This study aimed to establish ultrasound diagnostic criteria for diastasis recti and investigate the correlation between it and PFD in early postpartum females. Methods The inter-rectus distance (IRD) was measured at 3 locations in 116 healthy nulliparous females and 108 postpartum females. At the same time, they remained relaxed and then maintained a head-lift posture. The measurement for the 90th percentile was used to define the normal IRD in the nulliparous group. Afterward, the 108 postpartum females underwent an ultrasonographic examination of pelvic floor function. The correlations of these values with the IRD were then examined. Results We established the following ultrasonographic diagnostic criteria for diastasis recti: an IRD of >2 mm at 3 cm below the umbilicus, >20 mm at the umbilicus, and >14 mm at 3 cm above the umbilicus. The IRD was positively correlated with body mass index (BMI) in the nulliparous group (r=0.286, P<0.01) and with age in the postpartum group (r=0.230, P<0.05). The IRD was not relative to either the PFD ultrasound results or the clinical symptoms. Conclusions We established a set of ultrasonographic diagnostic criteria for diastasis recti at 3 locations along the umbilicus. There is no clear correlation between diastasis recti and PFD in early postpartum females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enze Qu
- Department of Ultrasound, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiawei Wu
- Department of Ultrasound, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Man Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lili Wu
- Department of Ultrasound, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing Xu
- Department of Ultrasound, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xinling Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Da Cuña-Carrera I, Soto-González M, Alonso-Calvete A, González-González Y, Lantarón-Caeiro EM. Immediate effects of different types of abdominal exercises on the inter-rectus distance. ISOKINET EXERC SCI 2021. [DOI: 10.3233/ies-203161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The effects of abdominal exercises on the inter-rectus distance are unclear. OBJECTIVE: To compare the inter-rectus distance at rest and during different abdominal exercises: abdominal crunch, abdominal crunch with transversus abdominis pre-activation and hypopressive exercise. METHODS: A transversal experimental study was carried out in 98 healthy adults without diastasis recti abdominis were recruited. Measurements were assessed using ultrasound imaging, and two points were evaluated: just above the umbilicus (U point) and halfway between the U point and the xiphoid (UX point). The inter-rectus distance was measured at rest and during the abdominal exercises. RESULTS: The abdominal crunch with transversus abdominis pre-activation increases the inter-rectus distance in comparison with rest and with abdominal crunch in the U point. CONCLUSION: These results increase the knowledge about the behaviour of the linea alba and inter-rectus distance during abdominal exercises, with practical applications in the rehabilitation of the abdominal wall and low back.
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Mazzarino M, Morris ME, Kerr D. Pilates for low risk pregnant women: Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. J Bodyw Mov Ther 2020; 25:240-247. [PMID: 33714503 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2020.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Revised: 10/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pilates has growing appeal to pregnant women, as a form of exercise and relaxation. It is purported to benefit lumbo-pelvic stability, as well as motor control, strength and endurance. Some suggest that modified Pilates exercises may assist low risk pregnant women to enjoy a healthier pregnancy and prepare for the physical demands of labour and birth. The feasibility and safety of Pilates during pregnancy is poorly understood. We describe the protocol for a feasibility study designed to compare a midwife-led 6-week community-based Pilates intervention with standard antenatal care. METHODS A convenience sample of 30 low-risk pregnant women will be recruited from private obstetric clinics in Melbourne, Australia. Participants shall be randomly allocated to a six-week, 1-h weekly Pilates exercises group session or to usual care. The Pilates exercise class will have a warm-up phase, Pilates exercises, breathing exercises, and a cool down phase. Exercises have been designed to prepare for active birth. The primary outcome will be feasibility of implementation, determined by recruitment, retention, adherence and safety. Secondary outcomes include women's health (quality of life, pain, mobility for daily activities, lower extremity performance, abdominal separation, continence) and labour and birth outcomes (duration of first stage and second stage labour, analgesia used, mode of birth). Validated questionnaires will include the Quality of life 12-item short form survey; Pregnancy Mobility Index, and International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire. Lower extremity performance and abdominal separation will also be measured. DISCUSSION This trial will provide preliminary data regarding the feasibility and safety of Pilates exercise in healthy pregnant women. It will also provide preliminary outcome data used to inform the design of a future large scale, multi-centre RCT. TRIAL REGISTRATION This clinical trial has been registered with the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry 2016 (ACTRN12616000809437).
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Mazzarino
- La Trobe Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine Research, La Trobe University, Kingsbury Drive, Bundoora, VIC, 3086, Australia.
| | - Meg E Morris
- Healthscope ARCH, Victorian Rehabilitation Centre, Glen Waverly, VIC, 3150, Australia.
| | - Debra Kerr
- Deakin University, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia.
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Belo M, Melo A, Delgado A, Costa A, Anísio V, Lemos A. The Digital Caliper's Interrater Reliability in Measuring the Interrecti Distance and Its Accuracy in Diagnosing the Diastasis of Rectus Abdominis Muscle in the Third Trimester of Pregnancy. J Chiropr Med 2020; 19:136-144. [PMID: 33318732 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcm.2020.02.002] [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: 05/09/2019] [Revised: 12/28/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The purpose of this study was to determine the digital caliper's interrater reliability in measuring the interrecti distance and its accuracy in diagnosing the diastasis of the recti abdomini muscles (DRAM) in the third trimester of pregnancy compared with ultrasound. Methods Fifty-four pregnant women were included. Measurements were taken in supine, during trunk flexion and expiration, in the supraumbilical region, in the umbilical scar (US), and in the infraumbilical (IU) region, at first by ultrasonography (USG) and then by the 2 digital caliper's examiners. The 3 evaluators were independent and blind. Results In the interrecti distance measurement, comparing the 2 calipers' evaluators, the instrument showed an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.86 (95% CI: 0.72-0.92) in the supra-umbilical and ICC of 0.96 (95% CI: 0.92-0.98) in the US. Compared with the USG, the instrument showed the worst interrater reliability in the US (ICC -0.14; 95% CI: -0.39 to 0.13). In diagnosing DRAM, comparing calipers' evaluators, kappa was 0.56 (P < .01) for the IU region and 0.12 (P = .19) for the US region. When compared with the USG, kappa was 0.02 (P = .84) for the IU region and 0.05 (P = .59) for the US. In the US, the caliper presented a positive likelihood ratio of 1.05 (95% CI: 0.86-1.30) and a negative likelihood ratio of 0.63 (95% CI: 0.12-3.43). Conclusion The digital caliper did not present good interrater reliability in measuring or in diagnosing the DRAM during the third trimester of pregnancy compared with ultrasound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maíra Belo
- Department of Physical Therapy, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife-PE, Brazil
| | - Adriana Melo
- Instituto de Medicina Integral Professor Fernando Figueira, Recife-PE, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Delgado
- Department of Physical Therapy, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife-PE, Brazil.,Instituto de Medicina Integral Professor Fernando Figueira, Recife-PE, Brazil
| | - Adriana Costa
- Departament of Physical Therapy, Faculdade Maurício de Nassau, Campina Grande-PB, Brazil
| | - Valéria Anísio
- Departament of Physical Therapy, Faculdade Maurício de Nassau, Campina Grande-PB, Brazil
| | - Andrea Lemos
- Department of Physical Therapy, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife-PE, Brazil
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Self-reported symptoms in women with diastasis rectus abdominis: A systematic review. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2020; 50:101995. [PMID: 33227494 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2020.101995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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Gu Y, Wang P, Li H, Tian W, Tang J. Chinese expert consensus on adult ventral abdominal wall defect repair and reconstruction. Am J Surg 2020; 222:86-98. [PMID: 33239177 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2020.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Surgical management of patients with ventral abdominal wall defects, especially complex abdominal wall defects, remains a challenging problem for abdominal wall reconstructive surgeons. Effective surgical treatment requires appropriate preoperative assessment, surgical planning, and correct operative procedure in order to improve postoperative clinical outcomes and minimize complications. Although substantial advances have been made in surgical techniques and prosthetic technologies, there is still insufficient high-level evidence favoring a specific technique. Broad variability in existing practice patterns, including clinical pre-operative evaluation, surgical techniques and surgical procedure selection, are still common. DATA SOURCES With the purpose of providing a best practice algorithm, a comprehensive search was conducted in Medline and PubMed. Sixty-four surgeons considered as experts on abdominal wall defect repair and reconstruction in China were solicited to develop a Chinese consensus and give recommendations to help surgeons standardize their techniques and improve clinical results. CONCLUSIONS This consensus serves as a starting point to provide recommendations for adult ventral abdominal wall repair and reconstruction in China and may help build opportunities for international cooperation to refine AWR practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Gu
- Hernia and Abdominal Wall Disease Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China.
| | - Ping Wang
- Department of Hernia Surgery, Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Hangyu Li
- Department of General Surgery, Fourth Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110000, China
| | - Wen Tian
- Department of General Surgery, Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China.
| | - Jianxiong Tang
- Department of General Surgery, Huadong Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China.
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50
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Benjamin DR, Frawley HC, Shields N, Georgiou C, Taylor NF. Establishing measurement properties in the assessment of inter-recti distance of the abdominal muscles in a postnatal women. Musculoskelet Sci Pract 2020; 49:102202. [PMID: 32861363 DOI: 10.1016/j.msksp.2020.102202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diastasis of the rectus abdominis muscle is often evaluated in clinical practice but it is unknown which clinical method has the best measurement properties. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to determine: (i) the criterion validity of the callipers, tape measure and finger-width to evaluate the inter-recti distance of the abdominal muscles compared to ultrasound; and (ii) inter-rater and retest reliability of these methods. DESIGN Measurement study. METHODS Two physiotherapists assessed the inter-recti distance of rectus abdominis on 50 women postnatally using the three clinical methods. These measurements were compared to ultrasound and assessed for inter-rater and retest reliability. RESULTS Callipers had very good positive correlations with ultrasound (r = 0.85 to 0.99) and narrow limits of agreement (LOA) (<6 mm). Finger-width and tape measure had moderate to very good correlation with ultrasound (tape measure r = 0.82 to 0.98; finger-width r = 0.75 to 0.98) with wider limits of agreement (tape measure LOA <8 mm; finger-width LOA <18 mm). Callipers demonstrated excellent inter-rater (ICC = 0.80 to 0.99) and retest (ICC = 1.00) reliability. Inter-rater reliability testing was very good for tape measure (ICC = 0.80 to 0.97) and moderate to very good (ICC = 0.44 to 0.85) for finger-width. Retest reliability demonstrated very good reliability (ICC = 0.99 to 1.00) for both finger-width and tape measure. The largest inter-recti distances, strongest correlations and reliability were found at the level of the lower umbilicus. CONCLUSION Callipers, tape measure and finger-width are valid and reliable methods of measuring inter-recti distance in postnatal women. Validity, and relative and absolute reliability were found to be the strongest using the callipers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deenika R Benjamin
- School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Helena C Frawley
- School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nora Shields
- School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Chris Georgiou
- Obstertrics & Gynecology, Eastern Health, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nicholas F Taylor
- School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia; Allied Health Clinical Research Office, Eastern Health, Victoria, Australia
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