Association between ICS POP-Q coordinates and translabial ultrasound findings: implications for definition of 'normal pelvic organ support'

International Urogynecological Consultation Chapter 2.2: Imaging in the Diagnosis of Pelvic Organ Prolapse

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

This section of Chapter 2.2 of the International Urogynecology Consultation on Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP), reviews the literature on the role of imaging in the diagnosis of POP.

METHODS

An international group of nine urogynecologists and one university-based medical librarian adhered to the framework of the scoping review. The group performed a search of the literature using pre-specified search terms in Scopus, OVID Medline, and PubMed. Publications were eliminated if not relevant to the diagnostic value of POP imaging. The remaining articles were evaluated for quality using the Joanna Briggs Institute Checklist for Diagnostic Test Accuracy Studies. The resulting list of articles was used to perform a comprehensive narrative review of the diagnostic value of imaging modalities for the diagnosis of POP.

RESULTS

The original search yielded 3,289 references, 135 of which were used by the writing group.

CONCLUSIONS

Most imaging studies utilized in the diagnoses of POP lacked standardization in the definition of POP. Most imaging studies lack standardization in the protocols used to diagnose POP within each imaging technique. Ultrasound- and MRI-related studies are most represented in the literature, compared with fewer CT- and X-ray-/fluoroscopy-related studies. Therefore, radiographic imaging is of limited value in the diagnosis of POP.

Deep learning-assisted two-dimensional transperineal ultrasound for analyzing bladder neck motion in women with stress urinary incontinence

BACKGROUND

No universally recognized transperineal ultrasound parameters are available for evaluating stress urinary incontinence. The information captured by commonly used perineal ultrasound parameters is limited and insufficient for a comprehensive assessment of stress urinary incontinence. Although bladder neck motion plays a major role in stress urinary incontinence, objective and visual methods to evaluate its impact on stress urinary incontinence remain lacking.

OBJECTIVE

To use a deep learning-based system to evaluate bladder neck motion using 2-dimensional transperineal ultrasound videos, exploring motion parameters for diagnosing and evaluating stress urinary incontinence. We hypothesized that bladder neck motion parameters are associated with stress urinary incontinence and are useful for stress urinary incontinence diagnosis and evaluation.

STUDY DESIGN

This retrospective study including 217 women involved the following parameters: maximum and average speeds of bladder neck descent, β angle, urethral rotation angle, and duration of the Valsalva maneuver. The fitted curves were derived to visualize bladder neck motion trajectories. Comparative analyses were conducted to assess these parameters between stress urinary incontinence and control groups. Logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic curve analyses were employed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of each motion parameter and their combinations for stress urinary incontinence.

RESULTS

Overall, 173 women were enrolled in this study (82, stress urinary incontinence group; 91, control group). No significant differences were observed in the maximum and average speeds of bladder neck descent and in the speed variance of bladder neck descent. The maximum and average speed of the β and urethral rotation angles were faster in the stress urinary incontinence group than in the control group (151.2 vs 109.0 mm/s, P=.001; 6.0 vs 3.1 mm/s, P<.001; 105.5 vs 69.6 mm/s, P<.001; 10.1 vs 7.9 mm/s, P=.011, respectively). The speed variance of the β and urethral rotation angles were higher in the stress urinary incontinence group (844.8 vs 336.4, P<.001; 347.6 vs 131.1, P<.001, respectively). The combination of the average speed of the β angle, maximum speed of the urethral rotation angle, and duration of the Valsalva maneuver demonstrated a strong diagnostic performance (area under the curve, 0.87). When 0.481∗β anglea+0.013∗URAm+0.483∗Dval=7.405, the diagnostic sensitivity was 70% and specificity was 92%, highlighting the significant role of bladder neck motion in stress urinary incontinence, particularly changes in the speed of the β and urethral rotation angles.

CONCLUSIONS

A system utilizing deep learning can describe the motion of the bladder neck in women with stress urinary incontinence during the Valsalva maneuver, making it possible to visualize and quantify bladder neck motion on transperineal ultrasound. The speeds of the β and urethral rotation angles and duration of the Valsalva maneuver were relatively reliable diagnostic parameters.

Is Vaginal Laxity Associated with Vaginal Parity and Mode of Delivery?

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Vaginal laxity (VL) is a common symptom of pelvic floor dysfunction. Although VL has become a frequent topic for research in the last decade, its pathogenesis is still not well understood. The objective was to determine whether vaginal parity or mode of delivery is associated with vaginal laxity.

METHODS

This was a retrospective observational study involving women seen in a tertiary urogynecology clinic between May 2016 and November 2018 with symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction. Patients underwent a standardized interview, clinical examination (POP-Q), and four-dimensional (4D) pelvic floor ultrasound (PFUS). Data regarding vaginal parity and the mode of delivery were based on patient-reported information. Archived 4D-PFUS volumes were analyzed offline to evaluate levator hiatal area on Valsalva.

RESULTS

Data from 1,051 patients were analyzed. VL was reported by 236 women (23%) who were younger on average (mean age 54 vs 59 years, p < 0.001) and less likely to be menopausal (530 out of 815 [65.0%] vs.129 out of 236 [54.7%]), p = 0.004]. Symptoms of prolapse were much more common in the VL group (214 out of 236 [91%] vs 316 out of 815 [39%], p =  < 0.001) and on imaging mean levator hiatal area (HA) on Valsalva was larger (31 vs 26 cm2, p = 0.01). Vaginal parity was associated with VL symptoms (235 out of 236 [99%] vs 767 out of 815 [94%], p = 0.008), but neither VL prevalence nor bother increased with higher parity. Women who delivered vaginally were three times more likely to complain of VL than those who delivered only by cesarean section.

CONCLUSIONS

Vaginal laxity was found to be more prevalent in vaginally parous women. This effect seems to be largely attributable to the first delivery. Instrumental delivery was not shown to increase association with VL compared with normal vaginal delivery.

Post-operative outcomes associated with anterior mesh location after laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the relationship between the anatomical position of the anterior arm of the mesh, measured by ultrasound through the bladder neck-mesh distance technique and the surgical outcomes after laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy (SCP) for apical prolapse.

STUDY DESIGN

It was a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data in a tertiary care hospital. Between January 2019 and September 2019, 63 women who underwent laparoscopic SCP due to apical prolapse were included. Bladder neck-mesh distance was measured immediately after surgery. The pelvic floor was evaluated using the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POP-Q) System before, 1 month, and 2.7 years (mid-term) after the surgery. Post-operative stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I) scores were also assessed. The correlation between bladder neck-mesh distance and the post-operative outcomes was investigated using the Spearman rank correlation coefficient.

RESULTS

At mid-term follow-up visit, bladder neck-mesh distance was inversely correlated with the correction of apical prolapse and post-operative SUI. No correlation was detected with the anterior compartment prolapse correction. PGI-I scores were high in all patients at mid-term follow-up, irrespective of bladder neck-mesh distance values.

CONCLUSION

The shorter the bladder neck-mesh distance, the better the outcome for apical compartment repair. Bladder neck-mesh distance had no correlation with the anterior anatomical correction. Shorter bladder neck-mesh distance values were positively correlated to better PGI-I scores and a higher risk of SUI.

Influence of Transperineal Ultrasound on the POP-Q System in the Surgical Indication of Symptomatic Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Background/Objectives: The diagnostic capacity of the preoperative pelvic organ prolapse quantification (POP-Q) system to define surgical pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is sometimes limited. On the other hand, pelvic floor ultrasound can influence the surgical indication for patients with symptomatic POP. Therefore, our objective is to determine how transperineal ultrasound can influence the surgical indication for symptomatic POP. Methods: This is a prospective observational study conducted over two years including patients who underwent corrective surgery for symptomatic POP. All patients underwent a preoperative examination using the POP-Q system to assess POP. Patients in whom the pelvic floor specialist had diagnostic doubts about the stage of POP underwent an ultrasound examination of the POP. Before the surgical procedure and with the patient anesthetized, a new clinical examination was performed using the POP-Q system and surgical correction of the POP was executed when the patient had a decline to stage II or higher. Cohen's kappa coefficient of agreement was used to assess the agreement. Results: Of the 180 patients who met the inclusion criteria, 167 were included (99 with preoperative clinical examination and 68 with preoperative clinical examination and ultrasound study). The kappa index for the diagnosis of surgical uterine prolapse of the preoperative clinical examination (moderate correlation) was lower than the ultrasound examination (very good correlation) (0.493 p < 0.001 and 0.924 p < 0.001). The kappa index for the diagnosis of cervical elongation without surgical uterine prolapse also showed differences between the preoperative clinical examination (good correlation) and the ultrasound examination (very good correlation) (0.749 p < 0.001 and 0.853 p < 0.001). Conclusions: Transperineal ultrasound has a higher concordance than presurgical clinical examination, based on the POP-Q system, for detecting POP with central compartment surgical indication.

Use of transrectal high-frequency ultrasound in assessment of middle compartment prolapse

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the superiority of transrectal high-frequency ultrasound (TRUS) in precise assessment of middle compartment prolapse in comparison with routine transperineal ultrasound (TPUS).

METHODS

Prospectively analyzed and compared detection rates of entire cervical length and uterine descent on TPUS and TRUS in 101 patients with pelvic organ prolapse (POP).

RESULTS

Detection rates of entire cervix on TRUS were significantly higher than those on TPUS both at rest and during Valsalva maneuver (90.10% VS 49.50%, 92.08% VS 9.90% respectively, both p < 0.05). Uterine descent was able to be evaluated in 92.08% of patients by TRUS and in 5.94% of patients by TPUS, which was statistically significant (p < 0.05). The interobserver repeatability for the measurements of anterior lip, cervical canal and posterior lip on TRUS was excellent. The mean lengths of anterior lip, cervical canal and posterior lip were significantly increased during Valsalva maneuver than those measured at rest (p < 0.05). And mean length of anterior lip was longer than posterior lip both at rest and during Valsalva (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

TRUS can significantly raise detection rates of entire cervix, and make the direct evaluation of uterine descent feasible. TRUS can be used as a complementary method to TPUS to attain more comprehensive and accurate presurgical imaging information in middle compartment prolapse patients.

The Role of Pelvic Ultrasound in Evaluating the Success of Tension-free Vaginal Tape (TVT)

Objectives

This study aims to assess the lack of response to treatment in individuals undergoing mid-urethral sling surgery for stress urinary incontinence (SUI) using ultrasound findings of the pelvic floor.

Methods

The study included patients who underwent the tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) procedure for stress urinary incontinence within the period spanning from January 2016 to January 2021. The physical examination involved maintaining bladder filling at an average volume of 200-400 mL, and treatment failure was determined by the presence of SUI during the Valsalva maneuver.

Results

The study comprised a total of 214 patients, where it was observed during the stress test that 32 patients (25.8%) had an unsuccessful outcome following mid-urethral sling surgery. In the unsuccessful group, the distance of the mesh-posterior urethra was lower (4.09±0.39 vs. 4.91±0.51; p<0.001), the posterior urethrovesical angle was lower when at rest, but the angle increased more significantly during the Valsalva maneuver, and the bladder neck angle was narrower (p<0.001).

Conclusion

We obtained lower mean values of mesh-posterior urethral distance in unsuccessful patients compared to those found in the group of cured patients. Pelvic floor ultrasound can predict the success of TVT surgeries but there is as yet little data and there is a need to find in the near future more standard and objective parameters for the diagnosis of urinary incontinence.

Correlation between clinical examination and perineal ultrasound in women treated for pelvic organ prolapse

INTRODUCTION

Lifetime risk of surgery for female pelvic organ prolapse (FPOP) is estimated at 10 to 20%. Prolapse assessment is mostly done by clinical examination. Perineal ultrasound is easily available and performed to evaluate and stage FPOP. This study's aim is to evaluate the agreement between clinical examination by POP-Q and perineal sonography in women presenting pelvic organ prolapse.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We carried out a prospective study from December 2015 to March 2018 in the gynecologic department of a teaching hospital. Consecutive woman requiring a surgery for pelvic organ prolapse were included. All women underwent clinical examination by POP-Q, perineal ultrasound with measurements of each compartment descent, levator hiatus area and posterior perineal angle. They also answered several functional questionnaires (PFDI 20, PFIQ7, EQ-5D and PISQ12) before and after surgery. Data for clinical and sonographic assessments were compared with Spearman's test and correlation with functional questionnaires was tested.

RESULTS

82 women were included. We found no significant agreement between POP-Q and sonographic measures of bladder prolapse, surface of the perineal hiatus or perineal posterior angle. There was a significant improvement of most of the functional scores after surgery.

DISCUSSION

Our study does not suggest correlation between clinical POP-Q and sonographic assessment of bladder prolapse, hiatus surface or perineal posterior angle. Ultrasound datasets were limited by an important number of missing data resulting in a lack of power.

Clinical application of a fixed reference line in the ultrasound quantitative diagnosis of female pelvic organ prolapse

OBJECTIVE

This study explored using an improved ultrasound (US) for quantitative evaluation of the degree of pelvic organ prolapse(POP).

DESIGN

A transluminal probe was used to standardize ultrasound imaging of pelvic floor organ displacements. A US reference line was fixed between the lower edge of the pubic symphysis and the central axis of the pubic symphysis at a 30°counterclockwise angle.

METHOD

Points Aa, Ba, C and Bp on pelvic organ prolapse quantification (POP-Q) were then compared with the points on pelvic floor ultrasound (PFUS).

RESULTS

One hundred thirteen patients were included in the analysis of the standard US plane. Correlations were good in the anterior and middle compartments (PBN:Aa, ICC = 0.922; PBB:Ba, ICC = 0.923; and PC:C, ICC = 0.925), and Bland-Altman statistical maps corresponding to the average difference around the 30°horizontal line were close to 0. Correlations were poor in the posterior compartment (PRA:Bp, ICC = 0.444). However, eight (7.1%) cases of intestinal hernia and 21 (18.6%) cases of rectocele were diagnosed.

CONCLUSIONS

Introital PFUS using an intracavitary probe, which is gently placed at the introitus of the urethra and the vagina, may be accurately used to evaluate organ displacement. The application of a 30°horizontal line may improve the repeatability of the US diagnosis of POP.

Automated segmentation and measurement of the female pelvic floor from the mid-sagittal plane of 3D ultrasound volumes

BACKGROUND

Transperineal ultrasound (TPUS) is a valuable imaging tool for evaluating patients with pelvic floor disorders, including pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Currently, measurements of anatomical structures in the mid-sagittal plane of 2D and 3D US volumes are obtained manually, which is time-consuming, has high intra-rater variability, and requires an expert in pelvic floor US interpretation. Manual segmentation and biometric measurement can take 15 min per 2D mid-sagittal image by an expert operator. An automated segmentation method would provide quantitative data relevant to pelvic floor disorders and improve the efficiency and reproducibility of segmentation-based biometric methods.

PURPOSE

Develop a fast, reproducible, and automated method of acquiring biometric measurements and organ segmentations from the mid-sagittal plane of female 3D TPUS volumes.

METHODS

Our method used a nnU-Net segmentation model to segment the pubis symphysis, urethra, bladder, rectum, rectal ampulla, and anorectal angle in the mid-sagittal plane of female 3D TPUS volumes. We developed an algorithm to extract relevant biometrics from the segmentations. Our dataset included 248 3D TPUS volumes, 126/122 rest/Valsalva split, from 135 patients. System performance was assessed by comparing the automated results with manual ground truth data using the Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) and average absolute difference (AD). Intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) and time difference were used to compare reproducibility and efficiency between manual and automated methods respectively. High ICC, low AD and reduction in time indicated an accurate and reliable automated system, making TPUS an efficient alternative for POP assessment. Paired t-test and non-parametric Wilcoxon signed-rank test were conducted, with p < 0.05 determining significance.

RESULTS

The nnU-Net segmentation model reported average DSC and p values (in brackets), compared to the next best tested model, of 87.4% (<0.0001), 68.5% (<0.0001), 61.0% (0.1), 54.6% (0.04), 49.2% (<0.0001) and 33.7% (0.02) for bladder, rectum, urethra, pubic symphysis, anorectal angle, and rectal ampulla respectively. The average ADs for the bladder neck position, bladder descent, rectal ampulla descent and retrovesical angle were 3.2 mm, 4.5 mm, 5.3 mm and 27.3°, respectively. The biometric algorithm had an ICC > 0.80 for the bladder neck position, bladder descent and rectal ampulla descent when compared to manual measurements, indicating high reproducibility. The proposed algorithms required approximately 1.27 s to analyze one image. The manual ground truths were performed by a single expert operator. In addition, due to high operator dependency for TPUS image collection, we would need to pursue further studies with images collected from multiple operators.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on our search in scientific databases (i.e., Web of Science, IEEE Xplore Digital Library, Elsevier ScienceDirect and PubMed), this is the first reported work of an automated segmentation and biometric measurement system for the mid-sagittal plane of 3D TPUS volumes. The proposed algorithm pipeline can improve the efficiency (1.27 s compared to 15 min manually) and has high reproducibility (high ICC values) compared to manual TPUS analysis for pelvic floor disorder diagnosis. Further studies are needed to verify this system's viability using multiple TPUS operators and multiple experts for performing manual segmentation and extracting biometrics from the images.

Robot-assisted sacrohysteropexy vs robot-assisted sacrocolpopexy in women with primary advanced apical prolapse: A retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the anatomic and clinical outcomes of robot-assisted sacrohysteropexy (RASH) against robot-assisted sacrocolpopexy (RASC) for the treatment of primary advanced apical prolapse.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of all robot-assisted pelvic organ prolapse surgeries for primary advanced apical prolapse (stage ≥II) between January 2011 and May 2021 at an academic tertiary hospital. Surgical outcomes and pelvic organ function were evaluated using the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantitative (POP-Q) stage and validated questionnaires (POPDI-6) during preoperative and postoperative 12-month follow-up evaluations. All data were obtained from electronic medical records.

RESULTS

A total of 2368 women underwent surgery for apical prolapse repair, and 18 women underwent either RASH (n = 11) or RASC (n = 7). Compared to the RASC group, the RASH group was significantly younger, premenopausal, and less parous. Preoperative prolapse stage, operative time, estimated blood loss, and hospitalization length was comparable between the groups. No intraoperative complications were observed. All women had a median follow-up duration of 24 months (range: 12-108 months). During the 12-month follow-up period, women in the RASH group reported higher satisfaction with the surgery than those in the RASC group (100% vs. 71.4%, p = 0.137). The mesh exposure rate was significantly higher in the RASC group (3/7, 42.9%) than in the RASH group (0/11, 0%) ( p = 0.043), which was found at 12 to 36 months postoperatively and was successfully managed with vaginal estrogen cream. In the RASH group, one woman required reoperation with anterior colporrhaphy for recurrent anterior prolapse at 60 months postoperatively. The apical success rate was 100% at one year postoperatively, without apical recurrence in either group during the follow-up period.

CONCLUSION

RASH represents an effective and feasible option for the surgical treatment of advanced primary apical prolapse in women who desire uterine preservation and have a significantly lower risk of mesh erosion than RASC.

Perineal ultrasound to assess the urethral spatial movement in stress urinary incontinence in women

BACKGROUND

Perineal ultrasound as a non-invasive method for the diagnosis of female stress urinary incontinence has attracted more and more attention. However, the criteria for stress urinary incontinence in women using perineal ultrasound have not been fully established. Our study aimed to evaluate characteristics of the urethral spatial movement with perineal ultrasonography.

METHODS

A total of 136 female patients with stress urinary incontinence and 44 controls were enrolled. Stress urinary incontinence was diagnosed using the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Short Form, medical history and physical examination, and severity was assessed using a 1 h pad test. We described the mobility of four equidistant points (A-D) located along the urethra length. The retrovesical and urethral rotation angles were measured using perineal ultrasonography at rest and during the maximal Valsalva maneuver.

RESULTS

Patients with stress urinary incontinence showed a more significant vertical movement at Points A, B and C than controls. The mean variations in the retrovesical angle were significantly larger in patients with stress urinary incontinence at rest and during the Valsalva maneuver than in controls (21.0 ± 16.5° vs. 14.7 ± 20.1°, respectively). The cut-off value for the retrovesical angle variation was 10.7° with 72% sensitivity and 54% specificity. There was a receiver-operating characteristic curve area of 0.73 and 0.72 for Points A and B, respectively. A cut-off of 10.8 mm, and 9.4 mm provided 71% sensitivity and 68% specificity and 67% sensitivity and 75% specificity, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The spatial movement of the bladder neck and proximal urethra, and variations in the retrovesical angle may be correlated with clinical symptoms and facilitate to the assessment of SUI.

Application of transperineal ultrasound combined with shear wave elastography in pelvic floor function assessment after hysterectomy

This study explored the application of transperineal ultrasound (TPUS) combined with shear wave elastography (SWE) in evaluating the pelvic structure function of women after total hysterectomy. Seventy healthy women and 76 women who underwent total hysterectomy were selected for ultrasound examination. They were divided into normal (nulliparous) group, (parous) group without hysterectomy, and (parous) group with hysterectomy. TPUS combined with SWE was used to evaluate the pelvic floor structure and function in the 3 groups of women. Posterior urethrovesical angle in resting and maximal Valsalva state, anteroposterior diameter of hiatus in the 3 states, the bladder neck descent, the urethral rotation angle, the Young modulus of left and right puborectalisis muscle in resting state, and the incidence of pelvic floor dysfunction diseases were all higher in the group with hysterectomy than in the group without hysterectomy (P < .05). Bladder neck-symphyseal distance and anorectal junction-symphyseal distance in the maximum Valsalva state, and the difference in Young modulus between the left and right PR before and after anus contraction were all lower in the group with hysterectomy than the group without hysterectomy (P < .05). The incidence of pelvic floor dysfunction in postmenopausal patients in the group with hysterectomy was higher than that in premenopausal patients (P < .05). Total hysterectomy had negative effects on female pelvic floor structure and function. TPUS combined with SWE can be used to evaluate pelvic floor function in multiple dimensions.

All or nothing? A second look at partial levator avulsion

OBJECTIVE

To define associations between partial levator trauma and symptoms and signs of pelvic organ prolapse (POP).

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of 3484 women attending a tertiary urogynecology unit for symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction between January 2012 and February 2020. All women underwent a standardized interview, clinical pelvic organ prolapse quantification (POP-Q) examination and tomographic ultrasound imaging of the pelvic floor. Women with full levator avulsion were excluded from analysis. Partial levator avulsion was quantified using the tomographic trauma score (TTS), in which slices 3-8 are scored bilaterally for abnormal insertions. Binomial multiple logistic regression was analyzed independently for the outcome variables prolapse symptoms, symptom bother and objective prolapse on clinical examination and imaging, with age and body mass index as covariates. Two continuous outcome variables, prolapse bother score and hiatal area on Valsalva, were analyzed using multiple linear regression.

RESULTS

Of the 3484 women, ultrasound data were missing or incomplete in 164 due to lack of equipment, clerical error and/or inadequate image quality. Full levator avulsion was diagnosed in 807 women, leaving 2513 for analysis. TTS ranged from 0-10, with a median of 0. Partial trauma (TTS > 0) was observed in 667/2513 (26.5%) women. All subjective and objective measures of POP were associated significantly with TTS, most strongly for cystocele. Associations were broadly linear and similar for all slice locations but disappeared after accounting for hiatal area on Valsalva.

CONCLUSION

Partial avulsion is associated with POP and prolapse symptoms. This association was strongest for cystocele, both on POP-Q and ultrasound imaging. The effect of partial avulsion on POP and prolapse symptoms is explained fully by its effect on hiatal area. © 2022 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Pelvic Floor Dysfunction in Females

Pelvic floor disorders including pelvic organ prolapse (POP), urinary dysfunction, defecatory dysfunction, and complications after pelvic floor surgery are relatively common in the female population. Imaging tests are obtained when the initial clinical evaluation is thought to be incomplete or inconclusive or demonstrates findings that are discordant with patients' symptoms. An integrated imaging approach is optimal to evaluate the complex anatomy and dynamic functionality of the pelvic floor. Fluoroscopic cystocolpoproctography (CCP) and MR defecography are considered the initial imaging tests of choice for evaluation of POP. Fluoroscopic voiding cystourethrography is considered the initial imaging test for patients with urinary dysfunction. Fluoroscopic CCP and MR defecography are considered the initial imaging test for patients with defecatory dysfunction, whereas ultrasound pelvis transrectal is a complementary test in patients requiring evaluation for anal sphincter defects. MRI pelvis without and with intravenous contrast, MRI pelvis with dynamic maneuvers, and MR defecography are considered the initial imaging tests in patients with suspected complications of prior pelvic floor surgical repair. Transperineal ultrasound is emerging as an important imaging tool, in particular for screening of pelvic floor dysfunction and for evaluation of midurethral slings, vaginal mesh, and complications related to prior pelvic floor surgical repair. The American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria are evidence-based guidelines for specific clinical conditions that are reviewed annually by a multidisciplinary expert panel. The guideline development and revision include an extensive analysis of current medical literature from peer reviewed journals and the application of well-established methodologies (RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation or GRADE) to rate the appropriateness of imaging and treatment procedures for specific clinical scenarios. In those instances where evidence is lacking or equivocal, expert opinion may supplement the available evidence to recommend imaging or treatment.

Ultrasound assessment of bladder descent and its correlation with prolapse severity in Chinese women: a prospective multicenter study

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Translabial ultrasound is currently regarded as one of the most promising modalities in the evaluation of female pelvic organ prolapse. However, abnormal bladder descent on pelvic floor ultrasound has not been established among Chinese women. This study aimed to establish optimal cutoffs for defining bladder prolapse among Chinese women using translabial ultrasound.

METHODS

In this prospective multicenter study, 674 women with symptoms of lower urinary tract dysfunction and/or pelvic floor dysfunction were finally included and underwent interview, Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POP-Q) examinations and 4D translabial ultrasound. The receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) statistic was used to assess accuracy and define the optimal cutoffs.

RESULTS

The mean patient age was 42.6 (range, 19-82) years. Multivariable analysis showed that both POP-Q assessment and translabial ultrasound findings for anterior compartment were significantly associated with prolapse symptoms. The ROC statistics suggested an optimal cutoff value of 10 mm below the symphysis pubis of bladder position on Valsalva for predicting prolapse symptoms, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.73. Compared to translabial ultrasound, POP-Q stage showed similar accuracy for predicting prolapse symptoms (AUC: 0.74; P = 0.79), with an optimal cutoff of POP-Q stage ≥ 2.

CONCLUSIONS

This study proposed that the descent of the bladder to ≥ 10 mm below the symphysis pubis on Valsalva should be proposed as an optimal cutoff value for defining abnormal bladder prolapse on translabial ultrasound among the Chinese population. These cutoff values are nearly identical to those previously established in mainly Caucasian women.

Ultrasonographic Imaging of the Pelvic Floor

This article discusses various pelvic floor ultrasonographic modalities and the clinical applications of ultrasonography of the pelvic floor. Ultrasonography provides a detailed anatomic assessment of the muscles and surrounding organs of the pelvic floor. Different anatomic variabilities and pathologic conditions, such as prolapse, fecal incontinence, urinary symptoms, vaginal wall cysts, synthetic implanted material, and pelvic pain, are assessed with pelvic floor ultrasonography. This imaging modality is an important adjunct to the evaluation and diagnosis of pelvic floor disorders.

Three-Dimensional Pelvic Floor Ultrasound Assessment of Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Minimal Levator Hiatus and Levator Ani Deficiency Score

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine whether levator ani deficiency (LAD) scores and minimal levator hiatus (MLH) areas affect Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POP-Q) stage.

Methods

This study was a retrospective chart review of patients with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) at Seoul Songdo Hospital between August 2019 and August 2020. Three-dimensional (3D) pelvic floor ultrasound, preoperative anal manometry, and other physiological tests were performed in 78 patients with POP symptoms. We divided the patients into mild prolapse and severe prolapse groups based on the POP-Q. We examined the LAD and MLH areas. LAD scores were categorized as mild, moderate, or severe.

Results

There were 32 patients (41.0%) in the mild prolapse group (POP-Q stage I and II) and 46 (59.0%) in the severe prolapse group (POP-Q stage III and IV). The mean LAD score was significantly higher in severe prolapse group (13.33±2.49 vs. 8.19±2.92, P<0.001), and the rate of severe deficiency was also significantly higher in the severe prolapse group (29 [63.0%] vs. 2 [6.3%], P<0.001). The mean MLH was also significantly larger in the severe prolapse group (17.91±2.74 cm² vs. 14.95±2.60 cm², P<0.001). In addition, both MLH and LAD scores tended to increase at each stage.

Conclusion

There is a strong positive correlation between the POP-Q stage and the MLH and LAD scores that can be seen on 3D pelvic floor ultrasound. The findings of this study, by objectively demonstrating LAD and MLH in women with POP, are an important contribution to POP.

Cut-offs for defining uterine prolapse using transperineal ultrasound in Chinese women: prospective multicenter study

OBJECTIVE

Transperineal ultrasound is a simple and highly repeatable method that has been used increasingly in the quantification of pelvic organ prolapse, but abnormal uterine descent on ultrasound in Chinese women is still poorly defined. We aimed to determine the optimal cut-off to define abnormal uterine descent on transperineal ultrasound in Chinese women.

METHODS

This prospective multicenter study recruited women who were examined in tertiary-level gynecological centers, due to symptoms of lower urinary tract and/or pelvic floor dysfunction, between February 2017 and September 2018. All recruited women underwent a standardized interview, pelvic organ prolapse quantification (POP-Q) examination, and four-dimensional transperineal ultrasound examination. On ultrasound, uterine descent was measured relative to the posteroinferior margin of the symphysis pubis during maximum Valsalva maneuver. The optimal cut-off value for definition of abnormal uterine descent was selected as the value with the highest Youden index and the diagnostic performance of this cut-off for the prediction of prolapse symptoms and POP-Q stage was assessed and compared by means of the area under the receiver-operating-characteristics curve (AUC).

RESULTS

In total, 538 Chinese women, with a mean age of 39.4 (range, 18-81) years, were enrolled into the study. Both uterine descent on transperineal ultrasound (P < 0.001) and POP-Q stage (P < 0.001) were associated strongly with presence of prolapse symptoms. Uterine descent on ultrasound was associated significantly with POP-Q stage for apical compartment prolapse (P < 0.001). The optimal cut-off value for the definition of abnormal uterine descent on transperineal ultrasound during maximum Valsalva maneuver in the prediction of prolapse symptoms was 4.79 mm above the symphysis pubis (AUC, 0.75 (95% CI, 0.71-0.78)), while the optimal cut-off values in the prediction of prolapse of POP-Q Stage ≥ 1 and POP-Q Stage ≥ 2 were 6.63 mm above the symphysis pubis (AUC, 0.83 (95% CI, 0.80-0.86)) and 8.42 mm below the symphysis pubis (AUC, 0.85 (95% CI, 0.82-0.88)), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The optimal cut-off value to define abnormal uterine descent on transperineal ultrasound during maximum Valsalva maneuver for the prediction of prolapse symptoms in this population of Chinese women was 4.79 mm above the symphysis pubis, close to that for predicting apical compartment prolapse of POP-Q Stage ≥ 1 (6.63 mm above the symphysis pubis). These are somewhat different from values described previously in mainly Caucasian populations. Ethnic differences should be taken into account in the evaluation of pelvic organ prolapse using transperineal ultrasound. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

International Urogynecological Consultation: clinical definition of pelvic organ prolapse

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

This segment of Chapter 1 of the International Urogynecology Consultation (IUC) on pelvic organ prolapse (POP) reviews the literature on the clinical definition of POP with the intent of creating standard terminology.

METHODS

An international group containing nine urogynecologists and one university-based medical librarian performed a search of the literature using pre-specified search terms in PubMed, Embase, and Scopus. Publications were eliminated if not relevant to the clinical definition of POP, and those articles remaining were evaluated for quality using the Specialist Unit for Review Evidence (SURE). The resulting list of articles was used to inform a comprehensive review and creation of the clinical definition of POP.

RESULTS

The original search yielded 31,931 references, of which 167 were used by the writing group. Ultimately, 78 are referenced in the manuscript.

CONCLUSIONS

The clinical definition of POP for this review of the literature is: "anatomical prolapse with descent of at least one of the vaginal walls to or beyond the vaginal hymen with maximal Valsalva effort WITH the presence either of bothersome characteristic symptoms, most commonly the sensation of vaginal bulge, or of functional or medical compromise due to prolapse without symptom bother."

Clinical applications of pelvic floor imaging: opinion statement endorsed by the society of abdominal radiology (SAR), American Urological Association (AUA), and American Urogynecologic Society (AUGS)

Pelvic floor dysfunction is prevalent, with multifactorial causes and variable clinical presentations. Accurate diagnosis and assessment of the involved structures commonly requires a multidisciplinary approach. Imaging is often complementary to clinical assessment, and the most commonly used modalities for pelvic floor imaging include fluoroscopic defecography, magnetic resonance defecography, and pelvic floor ultrasound. This collaboration opinion paper was developed by representatives from multiple specialties involved in care of patients with pelvic floor dysfunction (radiologists, urogynecologists, urologists, and colorectal surgeons). Here, we discuss the utility of imaging techniques in various clinical scenarios, highlighting the perspectives of referring physicians. The final draft was endorsed by the Society of Abdominal Radiology (SAR), American Urogynecologic Society (AUGS), and the American Urological Association (AUA).

Pelvic floor ultrasound: when, why, and how?

Pelvic floor disorders are a significant medical issue, reportedly affecting nearly one in four women in the United States. Nonetheless, until the last decade, there has been relatively limited imaging research into this highly prevalent disorder. The three major imaging modalities utilized to assess pelvic floor function are ultrasound, MRI and fluoroscopy. Pelvic floor ultrasound is a rapidly emerging technique which takes advantage of the widespread availability of ultrasound, the non-invasive and relatively inexpensive approach and the incorporation of real-time imaging and software advances which permit 3-D volume imaging. Pelvic floor ultrasound provides the opportunity to optimize patient counseling and enhance pre-operative planning by providing an anatomic and functional roadmap for the referring clinician. We recommend the consideration of pelvic floor ultrasound, as described here, as an addition to the imaging armamentarium available to physicians and surgeons serving this patient population.

Is voluntary pelvic floor muscles contraction important for sexual function in women with pelvic floor disorders?

AIMS

To investigate relationships between pelvic floor muscles (PFM) and sexual function (SF) in sexually active (SA) and not-SA (NSA) women with pelvic floor disorders (PFD).

METHODS

In 350 women with PFD: 173 (49.4%) SA, 177 (50.6%) NSA, Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP)-Quantification, PFM tone, and strength were evaluated. Transperineal ultrasound (TPS) measured genital hiatus (GH) diameter, bladder neck (BN) movement. Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire, IUGA-Revised (PISQ-IR), and Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) were used. SA women were dichotomized according to muscle strength (weak/strong) and tone (normal/hypoactive).

RESULTS

FSFI scores reflected sexual dysfunction in 63.5% SA women. 32.2% partnered NSA stated PFD the reason for sexual inactivity. NSA women had higher POP stages and hypoactive PFM rates compared to SA: 72 (40.7%) vs 52 (30.1%), P = .04. TPS GH diameter did not differ between SA and NSA at rest, contraction, and did not correlate with SF. BN length was longer in SA at rest (15.0 ± 7.0 vs 13.1 ± 9.4, P = .03) and contraction (19.7 ± 7.0 vs 16.7 ± 10.2, P = .006); 30 (8.6%) subjects depressed BN during contraction. GH change at contraction correlated with Oxford Grading Scale (r_ps  = 0.41; P < .001), and was smaller in women with nonfunctioning vs normal/underactive PFM (P < .001). Women with hypoactive PFM had lower SF in PISQ-IR Global quality and FSFI Desire domains vs normal tone. BN length at rest, contraction, and total mobility correlated with several PISQ-IR and FSFI domains.

CONCLUSIONS

In SA women with PFD, lower rates of hypoactive PFM tone were found. The ability to contract PFM did not influence SF. Greater mobility of BN correlated with lower SF.

Does levator ani hiatal area configuration affect pelvic organ prolapse?

OBJECTIVE

Levator ani trauma and hiatal overdistension have been shown to be associated with female pelvic organ prolapse (POP); however, the role of the shape of the levator hiatus in POP has not been examined to date. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the configuration of the levator ani hiatus and POP.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of 547 women who attended a tertiary urogynecological center for symptoms of pelvic floor and lower urinary tract dysfunction between October 2014 and August 2016. All women underwent a standardized interview and prolapse assessment using the International Continence Society (ICS) Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POP-Q) method and four-dimensional translabial ultrasound (TLUS). Measurements of the hiatal anteroposterior diameter (APD), coronal diameter (CD) and hiatal area (HA), at rest and on maximal Valsalva maneuver, and those of organ descent were performed offline at a later date by an investigator blinded to all other data. Hiatal configuration was defined as the ratio APD/CD. Associations between HA and HA adjusted by APD/CD at rest and on maximal Valsalva and symptoms and signs of prolapse were analyzed statistically using logistic regression modelling.

RESULTS

The mean age of the women was 54 ± 13.6 (range, 16-89) years. Of the 547 women included, 241 (44%) presented with prolapse symptoms. Clinically significant POP was detected in 406 (74%) patients and significant prolapse on TLUS was detected in 331 (61%). Hiatal ballooning was observed in 310 (57%) women and this was strongly associated with signs and symptoms of POP. HA at rest and on Valsalva was associated with significant POP both on clinical examination and on TLUS. Adjusted odds ratios for hiatal shape showed no effect of the hiatal configuration on the association between HA and POP.

CONCLUSION

Hiatal shape does not seem to influence the association between HA and symptoms and signs of prolapse. Copyright © 2018 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Detection of Concealed Uterine Prolapse in the Volume-Rendering Mode of 4-Dimensional Translabial Ultrasound: A Retrospective Observational Study

OBJECTIVES

To assess the association between a widened vaginal canal on volume-rendered ultrasound (US) imaging with concealed uterine prolapse.

METHODS

This work was a retrospective study of 253 women who had an International Continence Society Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification System examination and translabial US examination. The anteroposterior diameter of the vaginal canal was measured in the rendered axial plane for all women. The widened vaginal canal was defined as an anteroposterior diameter above the 95th centile in women with normal uterine descent. The performance of the widened vaginal canal for prediction of clinical uterine prolapse was tested.

RESULTS

Valid data from 233 women were analyzed. A mean anteroposterior diameter of 5.6 mm (range, 2.3-10.5 mm; 95th percentile, 10 mm) was seen in 119 women with normal uterine descent. An eye-shaped vaginal canal with a mean anteroposterior diameter of 17.8 mm (range, 10.7-26.8 mm) was seen in 69 women with uterine prolapse. A widened vaginal canal was defined as an anteroposterior diameter of greater than 10 mm. Of 45 concealed uterine descents, 32 had a widened vaginal canal (ie, anteroposterior diameter > 10 mm), and 27 had clinical uterine prolapse. The κ test showed good agreement between physical and US findings (κ = 0.76; P < .001). Ultrasound findings had excellent predictive value (odds ratio, 82.3) for the diagnosis of clinical uterine prolapse.

CONCLUSIONS

An eye-shaped vaginal canal with an anteroposterior diameter of greater than 10 mm in the rendered axial plane was a sign of uterine prolapse. This sign may be helpful for detecting concealed uterine prolapse in complex pelvic organ prolapse.

Pelvic organ prolapse in Caucasian and East Asian women: a comparative study

OBJECTIVE

Ethnicity has been suggested to be a significant risk factor for pelvic organ prolapse (POP); yet, pelvic organ descent in different ethnic groups, especially in Asian populations, is not well studied. The aim of this study was to compare prolapse stages, pelvic organ descent and hiatal dimensions between East Asian and Caucasian women presenting with symptoms of POP.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study of East Asian and Caucasian women presenting with symptoms of POP to a tertiary urogynecology clinic in, respectively, Hong Kong and Sydney. Demographic data, prolapse symptoms and prolapse stage were assessed. Physical examination was performed using the pelvic organ prolapse quantification (POP-Q) system. All women underwent transperineal ultrasound using Voluson systems. Offline analysis of four-dimensional ultrasound volume data was performed at a later date, by one operator blinded to all clinical data, to ascertain pelvic organ descent and hiatal dimensions on Valsalva maneuver. Levator muscle avulsion was assessed in volumes obtained on pelvic floor muscle contraction. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to assess factors associated with prolapse on clinical and ultrasound examinations.

RESULTS

A total of 225 East Asian women were included between July 2012 and February 2014 from the Hong Kong clinic and 206 Caucasian women between January 2015 and July 2016 from the Sydney clinic. There was no significant difference in the overall staging of prolapse. However, in East Asian women, compared with Caucasians, apical compartment prolapse was more common (99.6% vs 71.8%, P < 0.001) and posterior compartment prolapse less common (16.9% vs 48.5%, P < 0.001) on POP-Q examination. On Valsalva maneuver, the position of the uterus was lower in East Asian than in Caucasian women (-11.3 vs 1.35 mm, P < 0.001), while the rectal ampulla position was lower in Caucasians than in East Asians (-10.6 vs - 4.1 mm, P < 0.001). On multiple regression analysis, Caucasian ethnicity was a significant factor for lower risk of apical compartment prolapse on clinical assessment (odds ratio (OR), 0.01; P < 0.001) and on ultrasound (OR, 0.13; P < 0.001), and for a higher risk of posterior compartment prolapse on clinical assessment (OR, 4.36; P < 0.001) and of true rectocele on ultrasound (OR, 8.14; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

East Asian women present more commonly with uterine prolapse while Caucasians show more often posterior compartment prolapse. Ethnicity was a significant predictor of type of prolapse on multivariate analysis. Copyright © 2018 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Does Patient Posture Affect the Ultrasound Evaluation of Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

OBJECTIVES

Translabial ultrasound (US) imaging is an emerging method for the evaluation of pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Normative data to date are limited to imaging in the supine position. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of posture changes on US pelvic organ mobility.

METHODS

This work was a retrospective study of 175 women seen in a tertiary urogynecologic center for symptoms of lower urinary tract and pelvic floor dysfunction. All underwent a standardized interview, POP quantification prolapse assessment, and 4-dimensional translabial US examination in supine and standing positions. Offline measurement of organ descent on the Valsalva maneuver was undertaken at a later date and was blinded against all other data.

RESULTS

The mean age was 58 (SD, 13.5; range, 17 to 89) years, with a mean body mass index of 29 (SD, 6.1; range, 18 to 53) kg/m² . In total, 58.9% (n = 103) presented with symptoms of prolapse. Clinically, 82.8% (n = 145) had substantial prolapse on the POP quantification assessment. On imaging, bladder, uterine, and rectal ampulla positions were significantly lower, and the hiatal area on the Valsalva maneuver was larger in the standing position (P < .03). On receiver operating characteristic statistics assessing correlations between POP symptoms and US pelvic organ descent, the area under the curve was higher in the standing position, but the difference was not statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Measurements of organ descent and hiatal dimensions are generally higher in the standing position. However, they are not reflected in a stronger association between symptoms and organ descent. Hence, imaging in the standing position can be limited to those patients in whom a false-negative assessment result is suspected.

Comparison of transperineal ultrasound with POP-Q for assessing symptoms of prolapse

INTRODUCTION

Our aim was to study any correlation between pelvic organ prolapse quantification (POP-Q) and ultrasound measurement of prolapse in women from a normal population and to identify the method with a stronger association with prolapse symptoms.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study of 590 parous women responding to the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory was carried out. They were examined using POP-Q and transperineal ultrasound, and correlation was tested using Spearman's rank test. Numerical measurements and significant prolapse (POP-Q ≥ 2 in any compartment or bladder ≥10 mm, cervix ≥0 mm or rectal ampulla ≥15 mm below the symphysis on ultrasound) were compared in symptomatic and asymptomatic women (Mann-Whitney U and Chi-squared tests).

RESULTS

A total of 256 women had POP-Q ≥ 2 and 209 had significant prolapse on ultrasound. The correlation (r_s) between POP-Q and ultrasound was 0.69 (anterior compartment), 0.53 (middle), and 0.39 (posterior), p < 0.01. Women with a "vaginal bulge" (n = 68) had greater descent on POP-Q and ultrasound in the anterior and middle compartments than asymptomatic women, p < 0.01. For women with a symptomatic bulge, the odds ratio was 3.8 (95% CI 2.2-6.7) for POP-Q ≥ grade 2 and 2.4 (95% CI 1.4-3.9) for prolapse on ultrasound. A sensation of heaviness (n = 90) and incomplete bladder emptying (n = 4) were more weakly associated with ultrasound (p = 0.03 and 0.04), and splinting (n = 137) was associated with POP-Q Bp, p = 0.02.

CONCLUSION

POP-Q and ultrasound measurement of prolapse had moderate to strong correlation in the anterior and middle compartments and weak correlation in the posterior compartment. Both methods were strongly associated with the symptom "vaginal bulge," but POP-Q had a stronger association than ultrasound.

Concordance of tomographic ultrasound and multiplanar ultrasound in detecting levator ani muscle injury in patients with pelvic organ prolapse

Aim

To compare the evaluations of evaluate levator ani muscle injury (LAMI) by tomographic ultrasound imaging (TUI) and multiplanar (MP) ultrasound in patients with pelvic organ prolapse (POP).

Method

This retrospective analysis studied women who underwent International Continence Society POP quantification examination between October 2015 and June 2016. LAMI was assessed by both TUI and MP ultrasounds. Concordance of these two testing results was analyzed. Their correlations with clinical symptoms were also studied.

Results

A total of 135 women were included. All the patients with POP had a minimal LAMI depth ≥ 7 mm. Two examinations, TUI and MP, had satisfactory concordance (k = 0.71, P < 0.01). Depth of LAMI in the coronal plane demonstrated good agreement with TUI scores (r = 0.84; P < 0.01). After controlling for age, BMI, and parity, to have clinically significant POP and POP symptoms, the odds ratios (ORs) for the depth of LAMI in the coronal plane were 1.31 (95% CI 1.19–1.44) and 1.25 (95% CI 1.14–1.36), and for TUI scores were 1.72 (95% CI 1.37–2.17) and 1.63 (95% CI 1.31–2.03). Receiver operating characteristic curve analyses showed a cutoff depth of 7 mm of LAMI yielded a sensitivity of 62% and specificity of 80% for POP symptoms.

Conclusions

TUI and MP had satisfactory concordance in detecting LAMI and correlated with clinical symptoms of POP.

Ultrasound in the assessment of pelvic organ prolapse

Imaging is increasingly being used in urogynaecology. Because of low cost and universal availability, ultrasound (US) is the most commonly used diagnostic modality, which allows the observation of manoeuvres such as Valsalva and pelvic floor muscle contraction in real time. The ability to see beyond surface anatomy is particularly important in the posterior compartment and in obstructed defecation where this method may replace defecation proctography. Imaging is especially useful in the form of 3D/4D multiplanar and tomographic translabial US, as these modalities give access to the axial plane and the levator ani. This allows assessment of both avulsion, i.e. major maternal birth trauma, and hiatal overdistension, i.e. ballooning. Both are major risk factors for both prolapse and prolapse recurrence. This review will outline current clinical utility, introduce recent research in the respective field and provide an overview of likely future utility of imaging in the investigation of pelvic organ prolapse.

Can We Evaluate Hiatal Ballooning by Measuring the Anteroposterior Diameter With 2-Dimensional Translabial Ultrasonography?

OBJECTIVES

To analyze the association between the anteroposterior hiatal diameter and pelvic organ prolapse and to determine whether 2-dimensional translabial ultrasonography can evaluate hiatal ballooning by measuring the anteroposterior diameter.

METHODS

This study was a retrospective analysis of 312 women seen for lower urinary tract symptoms or pelvic organ prolapse between December 2014 and July 2016. All women had an International Continence Society (ICS) Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POP-Q) system examination and 4-dimensional translabial ultrasonography. The anteroposterior hiatal diameter was measured in the midsagittal plane, and the hiatal area was measured in the minimal axial plane during the maximal Valsalva maneuver.

RESULTS

Valid data from 294 patients were analyzed. International Continence Society POP-Q stage 0 was found in 121 women, stage 1 in 49, stage 2 in 78, stage 3 in 42, and stage 4 in 4. The anteroposterior diameter had an excellent linear correlation (r = 0.814; P < .001) with the hiatal area during the Valsalva maneuver and was strongly related to ICS POP-Q stages (P < .01). A receiver operating characteristic curve analysis proposed a cutoff of 6.0 cm for the anteroposterior diameter against ICS POP-Q stage 2 and higher (sensitivity, 73%; specificity, 52%) and prolapse symptoms (sensitivity, 74%; specificity, 64%).

CONCLUSIONS

The anteroposterior hiatal diameter, which represents hiatal distensibility in the midsagittal plane, can be used to evaluate hiatal ballooning. "Mild" ballooning was defined as an anteroposterior diameter measurement of 6.0 to less than 6.5 cm, "moderate" ballooning as 6.5 to less than 7.0 cm, and "marked" ballooning as 7.0 cm or greater.

Increasing Anteroposterior Genital Hiatus Widening Does Not Limit Apical Descent for Prolapse Staging During Valsalva's Maneuver: Effect on Symptom Severity and Surgical Decision Making

OBJECTIVE

Determine if anteroposterior genital hiatus (GH) widening obscures rather than facilitates signs and symptoms, inadvertently altering management decisions for women with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) during Valsalva's Maneuver, at a given total vaginal length (TVL).

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort with nested cross-sectional study of patients who underwent POP surgery. Data from obstetric and gynecologic history, preoperative and postoperative physical examinations, and 20-item Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI-20) and 7-item Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire (PFIQ-7) scores were extracted. Study participants were compared in 2 groups: anteroposterior widened (>3 cm) and not widened (≤3 cm) GH, for baseline leading edge and POP stage, while controlling for TVL. Baseline PFDI-20 and PFIQ-7 scores were evaluated within GH groups. Delta GH, PFDI-20, and PFIQ-7 scores after apical suspension with and without posterior colporrhaphy were compared to assess the clinical value of the procedure.

RESULTS

Study participants with anteroposterior GH widening during Valsalva maneuver had greater baseline leading edge descent and higher POP stage compared with those without anteroposterior GH widening after controlling for TVL. Baseline PFDI-20 and PFIQ-7 scores were similar within both GH categories controlling for prolapse severity. Adding posterior colporrhaphy to apical suspension resulted in a greater anteroposterior GH reduction without improving delta PFDI-20 or PFIQ-7 scores.

CONCLUSIONS

Facilitation through herniation rather than obscuration from anteroposterior GH widening explains why patients will not be undertreated based on signs and symptoms of disease. Adding posterior colporrhaphy to apical suspension more effectively reduces anteroposterior GH widening without differential improvement in symptoms rendering the operation to no more than a cosmetic procedure.

Prolapse assessment supine and standing: do we need different cutoffs for "significant prolapse"?

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Translabial ultrasound (TLUS) has shown good correlations between clinical examination and imaging findings in the supine position, and limits of normality have been described. This is not the case for imaging in the standing position. This study was designed to test the hypothesis that different cutoff values are required for imaging in the standing position.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study carried out in a tertiary urogynecological unit in women presenting with symptoms of lower urinary tract and pelvic floor dysfunction between August 2013 and December 2015. All women underwent a standardized interview, 4D TLUS and a POP-Q assessment. Organ descent on ultrasound was measured relative to the postero-inferior margin of the symphysis pubis (SP) on maximal Valsalva in the supine and standing positions. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) statistics were used to determine optimal cutoffs for "normal" pelvic organ support.

RESULTS

We assessed 243 data sets. Mean patient age was 57 years. Prolapse symptoms were reported by 59.2%, and POP of stage ≥ 2 was found in 82.3%. On analysing imaging data sets obtained in the standing position, we obtained similar cutoff values to those established previously for supine imaging, using ROC statistics. The levator hiatus distended significantly more on Valsalva in the standing position compared with supine, and on ROC analysis we identified a new optimal cutoff of 29 cm².

CONCLUSIONS

Established cutoffs for supine imaging of organ descent are suitable for imaging in the standing position. Hiatal distensibility may require a higher cutoff of 29 cm².