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Beer F, Kuppinger M, Schwab F, Hübner M, Kiefner B, Nacke A, Kelkenberg U, Schütze S, Lindner A, Hellmeyer L, Janni W, Metz M, Deniz M. Effect of postpartum pessary use on pelvic floor function: a prospective multicenter study. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2025; 311:1209-1217. [PMID: 39390126 PMCID: PMC11985659 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-024-07758-x] [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: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 09/21/2024] [Indexed: 10/12/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study evaluates the restitution of pelvic floor function in postpartum women using the Restifem® pessary in a preventive and therapeutic approach. METHODS In this multicentre study all postpartum women independently of their parity, mode of delivery and existing pelvic floor symptoms were offered to use the Restifem® pessary from 6 weeks postpartum for 3 to 6 months. They completed the validated German pelvic floor questionnaire (GPFQpp) via online survey at 6 weeks, 6 months and 12 months postpartum and were divided, by their own choice, into users and non-users of the pessary. RESULTS Initially 857 women were enrolled. After 6 weeks 137 pessary users and 133 non-users, after 12 months 53 pessary users and 45 non-users submitted a completed questionnaire. Pessary users had significantly higher (worse) scores in all domains of the GPFQpp at 6 weeks postpartum. At 12 months postpartum pessary users still had a significantly higher bladder score, compared to non-users. There was a greater improvement in the bladder score (p = 0.005) and the pelvic organ prolapse score (p < 0.001) from 6 weeks to 12 months postpartum, among pessary users compared to non-users. CONCLUSION Pessary users had a significantly greater improvement in pelvic floor function from 6 weeks to 12 months postpartum, compared to non-users. This effect might be in part due to wearing the pessary but also due to greater scope for recovery, given the higher level of pelvic floor dysfunction in the pessary user group. TRIAL REGISTRATION The trial was registered in the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS00024733) on 19 of April 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Beer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Madeleine Kuppinger
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Frank Schwab
- Institute of Hygiene and Environmental Medicine, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Markus Hübner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Brenda Kiefner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Anna Nacke
- Department of Obstetrics, Vivantes Klinikum Friedrichshain, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ute Kelkenberg
- Departement of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Klinikum Bielefeld, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Sabine Schütze
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Anna Lindner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Lars Hellmeyer
- Department of Obstetrics, Vivantes Klinikum Friedrichshain, Berlin, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Janni
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Melanie Metz
- Department of Sexual Health and Family Planning, Berlin, Germany
| | - Miriam Deniz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany.
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Kiefner B, Schwab F, Kuppinger M, Nacke A, Kelkenberg U, Schütze S, Berger F, Lindner A, Hellmeyer L, Janni W, Metz M, Deniz M. Evaluating compliance and applicability of postpartum pessary use for preventing and treating pelvic floor dysfunction: a prospective multicenter study. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2023; 308:651-659. [PMID: 37210701 PMCID: PMC10293351 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-023-07075-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Pelvic floor disorders are common and associated with pregnancy and childbirth. For restitution of pelvic floor connective tissue and thereby therapy of postpartum pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence, the Restifem® pessary is approved. It supports the anterior vaginal wall behind the symphysis, the lateral sulci and the sacro-uterine ligaments and stabilises the connective tissue. We evaluated the compliance and applicability of Restifem® use in women postpartum in a preventive and therapeutic approach. METHODS Restifem® pessary was handed out to 857 women. Six weeks after birth, they started the pessary use. After 8 weeks, 3 and 6 months postpartum, women received a questionnaire via online survey for evaluation of pessary applicability and efficacy. RESULTS After 8 weeks, 209 women answered the questionnaire. 119 women used the pessary. Common problems were discomfort, pain and the pessary use was to circuitous. Vaginal infections were rare. After 3 months, 85 women and after 6 months, 38 women still used the pessary. 3 months postpartum, 94% of women with POP, 72% of women with UI and 66% of women with OAB stated to have an improvement of their symptoms using the pessary. 88% women without any disorder felt an improvement of stability. CONCLUSIONS Use of the Restifem® pessary in the postpartum period is feasible and accompanied with less complications. It reduces POP and UI and leads to an increased sense of stability. So, Restifem® pessary can be offered to women postpartum to improve pelvic floor dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Frank Schwab
- Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Hygiene and Environmental Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Anna Nacke
- Vivantes Klinikum Friedrichshain, Department of Obstetrics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ute Kelkenberg
- Klinikum Bielefeld, Departement of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bielefeld, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Lars Hellmeyer
- Vivantes Klinikum Friedrichshain, Department of Obstetrics, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Melanie Metz
- Vivantes Klinikum Friedrichshain, Department of Obstetrics, Berlin, Germany
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Dietz HP. Diagnosis of maternal birth trauma by pelvic floor ultrasound. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2023; 285:86-96. [PMID: 37087835 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2023.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
BRIEF SUMMARY Maternal somatic birth trauma due to vaginal delivery is more common than generally assumed and an important cause of future morbidity. Maternal birth trauma may involve both psychological and somatic morbidity, some of it long-term and permanent. Somatic birth trauma is now understood to encompass not just episiotomy, perineal tears and obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASI), but also trauma to the levator ani muscle, termed 'avulsion'. This review will focus on recent developments in the imaging diagnosis of maternal birth trauma, discuss the most important risk factors and strategies for primary and secondary prevention. Translabial and exo-anal ultrasound allow the assessment of maternal birth trauma in routine clinical practice and enable the use of levator avulsion and anal sphincter trauma as key performance indicators of maternity services. This is likely to lead to a greater awareness of maternal birth trauma amongst maternity caregivers and improved outcomes for patients, not the least due to an increasing emphasis on patient autonomy and informed consent in antenatal and intrapartum care.
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Rodrigues-de-Souza DP, Alcaraz-Clariana S, García-Luque L, Carmona-Pérez C, Garrido-Castro JL, Cruz-Medel I, Camargo PR, Alburquerque-Sendín F. Absolute and Relative Reliability of the Assessment of the Muscle Mechanical Properties of Pelvic Floor Muscles in Women with and without Urinary Incontinence. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11122315. [PMID: 34943552 PMCID: PMC8700723 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11122315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
An analysis of the muscle mechanical properties (MMPs) of the pelvic floor muscles (PFMs) is relevant for understanding the physiopathology of urinary incontinence (UI). However, there is no objective and reliable methodology currently available for quantifying the MMPs of PFMs. Thus, the objective was to determine the intra-rater and inter-rater reliability of the MMPs of PFM assessment with a hand-held tonometer device, called the MyotonPRO, in young women with and without UI. Sociodemographic and pelvic floor questionnaires, plus MMPs of PFMs were assessed in 38 nulliparous women with UI and 40 matched healthy women by two trained physiotherapists on two different occasions, 48-72 h apart. Good to excellent absolute reliability was found for tone, stiffness, and decrement of both intra- and inter-rater analyses in both study groups (Intraclass Correlation Coefficient ranged from 0.75 to 0.92), with a trend of lower values for relaxation and creep. The standard error of measurement (SEM) did not achieve 10% of the mean values for any MMPs. The minimum detectable change (MDC) values were also provided for clinical applications. In conclusion, the relative reliability of tone, stiffness, and the assessment of the decrement of PFMs with MyotonPRO is good to excellent for UI and healthy women. The SEM and MDC values were acceptable for their application in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiana Priscila Rodrigues-de-Souza
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, 14004 Córdoba, Spain; (D.P.R.-d.-S.); (S.A.-C.); (L.G.-L.); (C.C.-P.); (I.C.-M.)
| | - Sandra Alcaraz-Clariana
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, 14004 Córdoba, Spain; (D.P.R.-d.-S.); (S.A.-C.); (L.G.-L.); (C.C.-P.); (I.C.-M.)
| | - Lourdes García-Luque
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, 14004 Córdoba, Spain; (D.P.R.-d.-S.); (S.A.-C.); (L.G.-L.); (C.C.-P.); (I.C.-M.)
| | - Cristina Carmona-Pérez
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, 14004 Córdoba, Spain; (D.P.R.-d.-S.); (S.A.-C.); (L.G.-L.); (C.C.-P.); (I.C.-M.)
| | - Juan Luis Garrido-Castro
- Department of Computer Science and Numerical Analysis, Rabanales Campus, University of Córdoba, 14071 Córdoba, Spain;
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Córdoba, Spain
| | - Inés Cruz-Medel
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, 14004 Córdoba, Spain; (D.P.R.-d.-S.); (S.A.-C.); (L.G.-L.); (C.C.-P.); (I.C.-M.)
| | - Paula R. Camargo
- Laboratory of Analysis and Intervention of the Shoulder Complex, Department of Physical Therapy, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Rodovia Washington Luis km 235, São Carlos 13565-905, SP, Brazil;
| | - Francisco Alburquerque-Sendín
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, 14004 Córdoba, Spain; (D.P.R.-d.-S.); (S.A.-C.); (L.G.-L.); (C.C.-P.); (I.C.-M.)
- Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Córdoba, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-957-218-241
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Li Q, Zhang X. Effects of yoga on the intervention of levator ani hiatus in postpartum women: a prospective study. J Phys Ther Sci 2021; 33:862-869. [PMID: 34776624 PMCID: PMC8575480 DOI: 10.1589/jpts.33.862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
[Purpose] This study aimed to explore the application value of yoga intervention in
early postpartum recovery of the levator ani muscle hiatus (LAH) area. [Participants and
Methods] Females in natural labor from May 2020 to November 2020 in the Third People’s
Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University Ultrasound Research Center were prospectively included
for a pelvic ultrasound examination. The control group received no intervention. The
experimental group received 60-min yoga once a week from week 1 to week 12 postpartum. A
pelvic ultrasound examination was performed on the week 6 and week 12 postpartum. The LAH
area was measured at rest, during contraction and Valsalva maneuver. [Results] A total of
128 participants who met the inclusion criteria were selected and randomly assigned to the
control group (n=66) and the experimental group (n=62)
in pre and post intervention design. No significant differences were found in age, parity,
body mass index, and fetal weight between the control and experimental groups. Further, no
significant difference was observed in the LAH area between the control and experimental
groups at rest, during contraction and Valsalva maneuver on the week 6 postpartum.
However, the LAH area in experimental group significantly reduced at rest, during
contraction and Valsalva maneuver on the week 12 postpartum. The differences of LAH area
(date week 6 minus date week 12) in the control group at rest, during contraction and
Valsalva maneuver were 0.12 ± 3.12 cm2, 0.80 ± 2.29 cm2, and 0.80 ±
4.22 cm2, while in the control these were 1.95 ± 3.41 cm2, 1.39 ±
1.91 cm2, and 3.81 ± 5.49 cm2, respectively. Compared with control
group, the differences of LAH area significantly increased in experimental group at rest
and during Valsalva maneuver. [Conclusion] Yoga intervention can help in the recovery of
LAH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qunfeng Li
- Macau University of Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, China.,Guangdong Vocational College of Science and Technology, China
| | - Xinling Zhang
- Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University: No. 600, Tianhe Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou 510630, China
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Rusavy Z, Paymova L, Kozerovsky M, Veverkova A, Kalis V, Kamel RA, Ismail KM. Levator ani avulsion: a Systematic evidence review (LASER). BJOG 2021; 129:517-528. [PMID: 34245656 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.16837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is variation in the reported incidence rates of levator avulsion (LA) and paucity of research into its risk factors. OBJECTIVE To explore the incidence rate of LA by mode of birth, imaging modality, timing of diagnosis and laterality of avulsion. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, AMED and MIDIRS with no language restriction from inception to April 2019. STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA A study was included if LA was assessed by an imaging modality after the first vaginal birth or caesarean section. Case series and reports were not included. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS RevMan v5.3 was used for the meta-analyses and SW SAS and STATISTICA packages were used for type and timing of imaging analyses. RESULTS We included 37 primary non-randomised studies from 17 countries and involving 5594 women. Incidence rates of LA were 1, 15, 21, 38.5 and 52% following caesarean, spontaneous, vacuum, spatula and forceps births, respectively, with no differences by imaging modality. Odds ratio of LA following spontaneous birth versus caesarean section was 10.69. The odds ratios for LA following vacuum and forceps compared with spontaneous birth were 1.66 and 6.32, respectively. LA was more likely to occur unilaterally than bilaterally following spontaneous (P < 0.0001) and vacuum-assisted (P = 0.0103) births but not forceps. Incidence was higher if assessment was performed in the first 4 weeks postpartum. CONCLUSIONS LA incidence rates following caesarean, spontaneous, vacuum and forceps deliveries were 1, 15, 21 and 52%, respectively. Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging were comparable tools for LA diagnosis. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT Levator avulsion incidence rates after caesarean, spontaneous, vacuum and forceps deliveries were 1, 15, 21 and 52%, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Rusavy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic.,Biomedical Centre, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - L Paymova
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - M Kozerovsky
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - A Veverkova
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - V Kalis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic.,Biomedical Centre, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - R A Kamel
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - K M Ismail
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic.,Biomedical Centre, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
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7
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Dietz HP. Ultrasound imaging of maternal birth trauma. Int Urogynecol J 2021; 32:1953-1962. [PMID: 33595672 DOI: 10.1007/s00192-020-04669-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS The term 'maternal birth trauma' has undergone substantial changes in meaning over the last 2 decades. Leaving aside psychological morbidity, somatic trauma is now understood to encompass not just episiotomy, perineal tears and obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASI), but also trauma to the levator ani muscle. This review covers diagnosis of maternal birth trauma by translabial ultrasound imaging. METHODS Narrative review. RESULTS Tomographic imaging of pelvic structures with the help of 4D ultrasound, used since 2007, has allowed international standardization and seems to be highly reproducible and valid for the diagnosis of OASI and levator avulsion. CONCLUSIONS Translabial and exo-anal ultrasound allows the assessment of maternal birth trauma in routine clinical practice and the utilization of avulsion and sphincter trauma as key performance indicators of maternity services. It is hoped that this will lead to a greater awareness of maternal birth trauma among maternity caregivers and improved outcomes for patients, both in the short term and in the decades to come.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans Peter Dietz
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Neonatology, Sydney Medical School Nepean, The University of Sydney, 62 Derby Street, Kingswood, NSW, 2747, Australia.
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8
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Davidson MJ, Nielsen PMF, Taberner AJ, Kruger JA. Change in levator ani muscle stiffness and active force during pregnancy and post-partum. Int Urogynecol J 2020; 31:2345-2351. [PMID: 32785748 DOI: 10.1007/s00192-020-04493-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS It is assumed changes occur to the biomechanics and viscoelastic response of the levator ani muscle during pregnancy; however, there is limited evidence of this. This study used instrumentation and clinical measures to determine the stiffness and active force capacity of levator ani muscle during pregnancy and post-partum, investigated any associations with delivery outcomes, and explored the biomechanical properties associated with symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction. METHODS This was a prospective observational study, with nulliparous women with a singleton low-risk pregnancy. Data were collected at two stages during pregnancy and post-partum. Measurements included the Australian Pelvic Floor Questionnaire, palpation of active force, and elastometry measurements. Post-partum, 3D/4D ultrasound measurements were included. Repeated measures ANOVAs, pairwise comparisons, Pearson correlation coefficients, and Student's t-tests were used as appropriate. RESULTS Fifty-nine women took part in the study. Active force was significantly different over the pregnancy and post-partum, measured with instrumentation (p = 0.002) and palpation (p = 0.006 right, p = 0.029 left). There was no significant change in muscle stiffness during pregnancy. Post-partum muscle stiffness was significantly different between women who gave birth vaginally vs. caesarean section (p = 0.002). Post-partum there were differences in levator hiatal area, symptoms of bladder dysfunction, prolapse symptoms, and sexual dysfunction symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Active force of the levator ani muscle was significantly reduced during pregnancy and in the post-partum period, while muscle stiffness reduced only in those who had vaginal deliveries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa J Davidson
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Poul M F Nielsen
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Department of Engineering Science, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Andrew J Taberner
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Department of Engineering Science, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jennifer A Kruger
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Gachon B, Fritel X, Pierre F, Nordez A. In vivo assessment of the elastic properties of women's pelvic floor during pregnancy using shear wave elastography: design and protocol of the ELASTOPELV study. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2020; 21:305. [PMID: 32414362 PMCID: PMC7229576 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-020-03333-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Animal studies have reported an increase in pelvic floor muscle stiffness during pregnancy, which might be a protective process against perineal trauma at delivery. Our main objective is to describe the changes in the elastic properties of the pelvic floor muscles (levator ani, external anal sphincter) during human pregnancy using shear wave elastography (SWE) technology. Secondary objectives are as follows: i) to look for specific changes of the pelvic floor muscles compared to peripheral muscles; ii) to determine whether an association between the elastic properties of the levator ani and perineal clinical and B-mode ultrasound measures exists; and iii) to provide explorative data about an association between pelvic floor muscle characteristics and the risk of perineal tears. Methods Our prospective monocentric study will involve three visits (14–18, 24–28, and 34–38 weeks of pregnancy) and include nulliparous women older than 18 years, with a normal pregnancy and a body mass index (BMI) lower than 35 kg.m− 2. Each visit will consist of a clinical pelvic floor assessment (using the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification system), an ultrasound perineal measure of the anteroposterior hiatal diameter and SWE assessment of the levator ani and the external anal sphincter muscles (at rest, during the Valsalva maneuver and during pelvic floor contraction), and SWE assessment of both the biceps brachii and the gastrocnemius medialis (at rest, extension and contraction). We will collect data about the mode of delivery and the occurrence of perineal tears. We will investigate changes in continuous variables collected using the Friedman test. We will look for an association between the elastic properties of the levator ani muscle and clinical / ultrasound measures using a Spearman test at each trimester. We will investigate the association between the elastic properties of the pelvic floor muscles and perineal tear occurrence using a multivariate analysis with logistic regression. Discussion This study will provide original in vivo human data about the biomechanical changes of pregnant women’s pelvic floor. The results may lead to an individualized risk assessment of perineal trauma at childbirth. Trial registration This study was registered on https://clinicaltrials.gov on July 26, 2018 (NCT03602196).
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Affiliation(s)
- Bertrand Gachon
- Department of obstetrics and gynecology, Poitiers university hospital, 2 rue de la Miletrie CS90577, 86021, Poitiers Cedex, France. .,Nantes Université, Movement - Interactions - Performance, MIP, EA 4334, F-44000, Nantes, France. .,Poitiers University, INSERM, Poitiers university hospital, CIC 1402, Poitiers, France.
| | - Xavier Fritel
- Department of obstetrics and gynecology, Poitiers university hospital, 2 rue de la Miletrie CS90577, 86021, Poitiers Cedex, France.,Poitiers University, INSERM, Poitiers university hospital, CIC 1402, Poitiers, France.,INSERM, Center for Research in Epidemiology and Population Health (CESP), U1018, Gender, Sexuality and Health Team, University Paris-Sud, UMRS 1018, Orsay, France
| | - Fabrice Pierre
- Department of obstetrics and gynecology, Poitiers university hospital, 2 rue de la Miletrie CS90577, 86021, Poitiers Cedex, France
| | - Antoine Nordez
- Nantes Université, Movement - Interactions - Performance, MIP, EA 4334, F-44000, Nantes, France.,Health and Rehabilitation Research Institute, Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
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Anumba DOC, Gillespie S, Jha S, Abdi S, Kruger J, Taberner A, Nielsen PMF, Li X. Postnatal pelvic floor muscle stiffness measured by vaginal elastometry in women with obstetric anal sphincter injury: a pilot study. Int Urogynecol J 2019; 31:567-575. [PMID: 31802165 PMCID: PMC7093346 DOI: 10.1007/s00192-019-04136-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Introduction and hypothesis Vaginal childbirth is associated with pelvic floor muscle (PFM) damage in a third of women. The biomechanics prediction, detection and management of PFM damage remain poorly understood. We sought in this pilot study to determine whether quantifying PFM stiffness postnatally by vaginal elastometry, in women attending a perineal trauma clinic (PTC) within 6 months of obstetric anal sphincter injury, correlates with their antecedent labour characteristics, pelvic floor muscle damage, or urinary/bowel/sexual symptoms, to inform future definitive prospective studies. Methods In this pilot study, we measured postnatal PFM stiffness by vaginal elastometry in 54 women. A subset of participants (n = 14) underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to define any levator ani (LA) muscle defects from vaginal childbirth. We investigated the association of PFM stiffness with demographics, labour and delivery characteristics, clinical features and MRI evidence of LA damage. Results Raised maternal BMI was associated with reduced pelvic floor stiffness (r = −0.4; p < 0.01). Higher stiffness values were associated with forceps delivery for delayed second stage of labour (n = 14) vs non-forceps vaginal delivery (n = 40; 630 ± 40 N/m vs 500 ± 30 N/m; p < 0.05), and a non-significant trend towards longer duration of the second stage of labour. Women with urinary, bowel or sexual symptoms (n = 37) demonstrated higher pelvic floor stiffness values than those without (570 ± 30 N/m vs 450 ± 40 N/m; p < 0.05). Conclusions A history of delayed second stage of labour and forceps delivery was associated with higher PFM stiffness values in the postnatal period. Whether high pelvic muscle stiffness antenatally is a risk factor for instrumental vaginal delivery and LA avulsion is unknown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dilly O C Anumba
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Dentistry and Health, The University of Sheffield, Jessop Wing, Tree Root Walk, Sheffield, S10 2SF, UK. .,Insigneo Institute for in silico Medicine, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK.
| | - Siobhán Gillespie
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Dentistry and Health, The University of Sheffield, Jessop Wing, Tree Root Walk, Sheffield, S10 2SF, UK
| | - Swati Jha
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Dentistry and Health, The University of Sheffield, Jessop Wing, Tree Root Walk, Sheffield, S10 2SF, UK
| | - Shahram Abdi
- Clinical Radiology, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, Sheffield, UK
| | - Jenny Kruger
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Andrew Taberner
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Department of Engineering Science, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Poul M F Nielsen
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Department of Engineering Science, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Xinshan Li
- Insigneo Institute for in silico Medicine, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK.,Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
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Tissue biomechanical behavior should be considered in the risk assessment of perineal trauma at childbirth. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2019; 300:1821-1826. [PMID: 31720778 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-019-05369-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Perineal trauma at childbirth is associated with strong negative impacts on a woman's health but remains unpredictable. Pregnancy induces several changes in biomechanical behavior in humans as in animals, namely, an increase in ligamentous laxity and an increase in vaginal distensibility. Pelvic floor muscles in rats are reported to exhibit specific behaviors during pregnancy. Increases in both stiffness and the number of sarcomeres in series are observed and might process that protect against perineal trauma at childbirth. Some data in humans have shown that the risk of perineal trauma is highly linked to the intrinsic characteristics of the tissue, suggesting the potential benefit of incorporating intrinsic biomechanical characteristics in the risk prediction for perineal trauma. Shear wave elastography might be a useful noninvasive tool to investigate the elastic properties of these tissues in pregnant women in vivo, with the goal of implementing these properties as a predictive strategy.
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12
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Parkinson LA, Rosamilia A, Mukherjee S, Papageorgiou AW, Melendez-Munoz J, Werkmeister JA, Gargett CE, Arkwright JW. A fiber-optic sensor-based device for the measurement of vaginal integrity in women. Neurourol Urodyn 2019; 38:2264-2272. [PMID: 31385355 DOI: 10.1002/nau.24130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Pelvic floor disorders (PFDs) in women are a major public health concern. Current clinical methods for assessing PFDs are either subjective or confounded by interference from intra-abdominal pressure (IAP). This study introduces an intravaginal probe that can determine distributed vaginal pressure during voluntary exercises and measures the degree of vaginal tissue support independent of IAP fluctuations. METHODS An intravaginal probe was fabricated with 18 independent fiber-optic pressure transducers positioned along its upper and lower blades. Continuous pressure measurement along the anterior and posterior vaginal walls during the automated expansion of the probe enabled the resistance of the tissue to be evaluated as a function of displacement, in a manner reflecting the elastic modulus of the tissue. After validation in a simulated vaginal phantom, in vivo measurements were conducted in the relaxed state and during a series of voluntary exercises to gauge the utility of the device in women. RESULTS The probe reliably detected variations in the composition of sub-surface material in the vaginal phantom. During in-vivo measurements the probe detected distributed tissue elasticity in the absence of IAP change. In addition, the distribution of pressure along both anterior and posterior vaginal walls during cough, Valsalva and pelvic floor contraction was clearly resolved with a large variation observed between subjects. CONCLUSIONS Our data highlight the potential for the probe to assess the integrity of the vagina wall and support structures as an integrated functional unit. Further in vivo trials are needed to correlate data with clinical findings to assist in the assessment of PFDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke A Parkinson
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Tonsley, South Australia, Australia
| | - Anna Rosamilia
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Monash Health Hospital & Health Care, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Shayanti Mukherjee
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anthony W Papageorgiou
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Tonsley, South Australia, Australia
| | | | - Jerome A Werkmeister
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Caroline E Gargett
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - John W Arkwright
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Tonsley, South Australia, Australia
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13
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14
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Zuchelo LTS, Bezerra IMP, Da Silva ATM, Gomes JM, Soares Júnior JM, Chada Baracat E, de Abreu LC, Sorpreso ICE. Questionnaires to evaluate pelvic floor dysfunction in the postpartum period: a systematic review. Int J Womens Health 2018; 10:409-424. [PMID: 30123009 PMCID: PMC6087030 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s164266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pelvic floor dysfunctions (PFDs) affect the female population, and the postpartum period can be related to the onset or aggravation of the disease. Early identification of the symptoms and the impact on quality of life can be achieved through assessment instruments. Objective The purpose of this systematic review is to evaluate questionnaires used to assess PFD in the postpartum period. Methods A systematic review study was conducted, following Preferred Reporting Items for the Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) criteria, using the databases: PubMed, Biblioteca Virtual de Saúde (BVS), Web of Science, and Scopus, and the keywords PFD or pelvic floor disorders, postpartum or puerperium, and questionnaire. Articles published up till May 2018 were included, searching for articles using validated questionnaires for the evaluation of PFDs in postpartum women. The articles included were evaluated according to a checklist, and the validation studies and translated versions of the questionnaires were identified. Results The search of the databases resulted in 359 papers, and 33 were selected to compose this systematic review, using nine validated questionnaires to assess PFDs in the postpartum period: International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire – Vaginal Symptoms (ICIQ-VS), Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory 20 (PFDI-20), Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire (PFIQ-7), PFDI-46, Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire (PFIQ-31), Pelvic Floor Bother Questionnaire (PFBQ), Female Pelvic Floor Questionnaire, electronic Personal Assessment Questionnaire – Pelvic Floor, and PFD questionnaire specific for pregnancy and postpartum. The most frequently reported questionnaires included PFDI-20, PFIQ-7, and ICIQ-VS and are recommended by ICI. In addition, the review identified a specific questionnaire, recently developed, to access PFD during pregnancy and postpartum. Conclusion The questionnaires used to evaluate PFD during postpartum period are developed for general population or urology/gynecology patients with incontinence and reinforce the paucity of highly recommended questionnaires designed for postpartum, in order to improve early and specific approach for this period of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Tami Suzuki Zuchelo
- Study Design and Scientific Writing Laboratory at ABC Medical School, Santo André, Brazil, .,Research Laboratory of Uninorte (Barão do Rio Branco Faculty), Rio Branco, Brazil
| | - Italla Maria Pinheiro Bezerra
- Study Design and Scientific Writing Laboratory at ABC Medical School, Santo André, Brazil, .,School of Sciences of Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Vitoria, Vitória, Brazil
| | - Adna Thaysa Marcial Da Silva
- Study Design and Scientific Writing Laboratory at ABC Medical School, Santo André, Brazil, .,Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil,
| | - Jéssica Menezes Gomes
- Study Design and Scientific Writing Laboratory at ABC Medical School, Santo André, Brazil, .,Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil,
| | | | | | - Luiz Carlos de Abreu
- Study Design and Scientific Writing Laboratory at ABC Medical School, Santo André, Brazil, .,School of Sciences of Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Vitoria, Vitória, Brazil
| | - Isabel Cristina Esposito Sorpreso
- Study Design and Scientific Writing Laboratory at ABC Medical School, Santo André, Brazil, .,Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil,
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Zhao Y, Zou L, Xiao M, Tang W, Niu HY, Qiao FY. Effect of different delivery modes on the short-term strength of the pelvic floor muscle in Chinese primipara. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2018; 18:275. [PMID: 29970030 PMCID: PMC6029267 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-018-1918-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2017] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To investigate the effect of different delivery modes and related obstetric factors on the short-term strength of the pelvic floor muscle after delivery in Chinese primipara. METHODS A total of 4769 healthy Chinese primiparas at postpartum 6-8 weeks were interviewed. According to the difference of delivery mode, the selected primiparas were divided into 2 groups, including cesarean delivery group containing 2020 and vaginal delivery group containing 2749. All the vaginal deliveries were further divided into 3 groups, including episiotomy group containing 2279, perineal laceration group containing 398, and forceps assisted group containing72. The scales of their pelvic floor muscle (PFM) strengths were examined by specially trained personnel using digital palpation (Modified Oxford scale:0-5 grade). According to participants' willingness, if the PFM strength was weak (0 or 1 grade), at-home PFM training would be recommended and an electrical stimulation combined with biofeedback therapy would be conducted for them in hospital. Twelve weeks after delivery, the PFM strength would be measured again. For statistical analysis, t-test, one-way variance analysis, Chi-square analysis, Kruskal-Wallis test H, Mann-Whitney U test and Wilcoxon test were carried out. RESULTS The PFM strength in cesarean delivery group was higher than in vaginal delivery group (p < 0.05). Among 3 vaginal delivery groups, the PFM strength in perineal laceration group was the highest (p < 0.05); however, there was no difference in PFM strength between episiotomy group and forceps assisted group (p>0.05). After accepting PFM training at home and therapy in hospital, 305 women showed increased PFM strength (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Vaginal delivery is an independent risk factor causing the damage of PFM, and episiotomy may cause injury of PFM. Through PFM training at home and therapy in hospital, those damage will resume as soon as possible in the short-time period after delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, No 745 Wuluo Road, Wuhan City, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Zou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan City, People's Republic of China
| | - Mei Xiao
- Department of Obstetrics, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, No 745 Wuluo Road, Wuhan City, People's Republic of China.
| | - Wan Tang
- Department of Obstetrics, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, No 745 Wuluo Road, Wuhan City, People's Republic of China
| | - Hai-Yi Niu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan City, People's Republic of China
| | - Fu-Yuan Qiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan City, People's Republic of China
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In vivo assessment of the levator ani muscles using shear wave elastography: a feasibility study in women. Int Urogynecol J 2018; 30:1179-1186. [DOI: 10.1007/s00192-018-3693-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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