Biomechanical Mapping of the Female Pelvic Floor: Prolapse versus Normal Conditions

Background: Quantitative biomechanical characterization of pelvic supportive structures and functions in vivo is thought to provide insight into pathophysiology of pelvic organ prolapse (POP). An innovative approach—vaginal tactile imaging—allows biomechanical mapping of the female pelvic floor to quantify tissue elasticity, pelvic support, and pelvic muscle functions. The Vaginal Tactile Imager (VTI) records high definition pressure patterns from vaginal walls under an applied tissue deformation and during pelvic floor muscle contractions. Objective: To explore an extended set of 52 biomechanical parameters for differentiation and characterization of POP relative to normal pelvic floor conditions. Methods: 96 subjects with normal and POP conditions were included in the data analysis from multi-site observational, case-controlled studies;42 subjects had normal pelvic floor conditions and 54 subjects had POP. The VTI, model 2S, was used with an analytical software package to calculate automatically 52 biomechanical parameters for 8 VTI test procedures (probe insertion, elevation, rotation, Valsalva maneuver, voluntary muscle contractions in 2 planes, relaxation, and reflex contraction). The groups were equalized for subject age and parity. Results: The ranges, mean values, and standard deviations for all 52 VTI parameters were established. 33 of 52 parameters were identified as statistically sensitive (p 0.05;t-test) to the POP development. Among these 33 parameters, 11 parameters show changes (decrease) in tissue elasticity, 8 parameters show deteriorations in pelvic support and 14 parameters show weakness in muscle functions for POP versus normal conditions. Conclusions: The biomechanical mapping of the female pelvic floor with the VTI provides a unique set of parameters characterizing POP versus normal conditions. These objectively measurable biomechanical transformations of pelvic tissues, support structures, and functions under POP may be used in future research and practical applications.

Uterus-reserved or hysterectomized total pelvic floor reconstruction for female pelvic dysfunction:a clinical analysis of 74 cases

Objective To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of the entire pelvic floor reconstruction(Prolift) with uterus reserved in the treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction diseases.Methods From March 2008 to January 2009,74 female cases from our hospital who had different defects in pelvic organ prolapse were treated with the entire reconstructive pelvic surgery,in which 38 had uterus retained(observation group) and 36 cases had hysterectomy(control group).The two groups were compared.The patients with combined stress urinary incontinence had transobturator tension-free vaginal tape(TVT-O technique) at the same time.The results of operations were objectively evaluatedaccording to Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification sub-degree method(POP-Q) developed by the International Continence Society.Results For observation group,the average operative time was 50 min,and the average amount of bleeding was 100 mL.For control group,the average operative time was 110 min,and the average amount of bleeding was 200 mL.During the postoperative follow-up(8 ~18 months),in the observation group the structures of patients' pelvic floor were normal;stress urinary incontinence was all cured;related symptoms disappeared or were markedly improved;and no postoperative infection appeared.In control group,two cases had postoperative infection;the patients ' pelvic structures were normal during the postoperative follow-up;the related symptoms disappeared or were significantly improved.After 3 months,POP-Q score was significantly elevated in the two groups.Conclusion Full reconstructive pelvic surgery with uterus retained can complete the whole pelvic floor structure and function of all or part of the reconstruction with fast recovery and clear short-term effect.However,the long-term efficacy remains to be revealed.

A nurse-led long-term pelvic floor muscle training program in the management of female patients with overactive bladder e A study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Background:Previous research has suggested that pelvic floor muscle training(PFMT)offers a therapeutic benefit in patients with overactive bladder.Methods:Weconducted a single-blind,randomized trial of pelvic floor muscle training(PFMT)as compared with usual care.The intervention group(n=54)received a 6-month a nurse-led long-term pelvic floor muscle training program(three sessions a day,15e20 times per session)and the control group(n?53)received usual care.All patients received 3-month solifenacin succinate tablets(5 mg e once daily).The treatment outcomes were measured by the Modified Oxford Scale(MOS),Overactive Bladder SymptomScore(OABSS)and the King's Health Questionnaire(KHQ)at baseline,3 months and 6 months respectively.Results:Of the 91 randomly assigned patients,46 patients in the PFMT group and 45 patients in the control group completed the trial.The trial revealed statistically significant differences between groups in pelvic muscle strength at 3 months following the intervention(p<0.05),but no significant difference was found between two groups in OABSS scores(p>0.05).In regards to quality of life,the experimental group showed significant improvements compared to the control group on 6 of 10 domains(p<0.05).At 6 months,there were significant improvements in OABSS scores and quality of life in the experimental group compared to the control group(p<0.05).No adverse events were observed.Conclusion:A nurse-led long-term(6 months)pelvic floor muscle training program may alleviate OAB symptoms effectively and improve the quality of life more than a short term(3 months)pelvic floor muscle training program combined with solifenacin succinate tablets.

Digital Twin of the Female Pelvic Floor

Digital twin technology, originally developed for intricate physical systems, holds great potential in women’s healthcare, particularly in the management of pelvic floor disorders. This paper delves into the development of a digital twin specifically for the female pelvic floor, which can amalgamate various data sources such as imaging, biomechanical assessments, and patient-reported outcomes to offer personalized diagnostic and therapeutic insights. Through the utilization of 3D modeling and machine learning, the digital twin may facilitate precise visualization, prediction, and individualized treatment planning. Nevertheless, it is crucial to address the ethical and practical challenges related to data privacy and ensuring fair access. As this technology progresses, it has the potential to revolutionize gynecological and obstetric care by enhancing diagnostics, customizing treatments, and increasing patient involvement.

Contemporary diagnostics and treatment options for female stress urinary incontinence

Stress urinary incontinence is not a deadly disease,but for the large population of women suffering from it,it is a very important issue.Especially in the continuously aging population all over the world,there is more and more need for treatment of this serious medical condition.Treatment of female stress urinary incontinence exists already for ages.In the 20th century invasive treatments like Burch colposuspension and pubovaginal slings were the mainstay of surgical treatments.The introduction of the midurethral sling made the procedure less invasive and accessible for more caregivers.Luckily there are many options available and the field is developing quickly.In recent years many new medical devices have been developed,that increase the number of treatment options available and make it possible to find a suitable solution for the individual patient based on subjective and objective results and the chances of complications.This manuscript provides an introduction to the therapeutical options that are available nowadays for female stress urinary incontinence.

Electroacupuncture Treatment for Constipation Due to Spasmodic Syndrome of the Pelvic Floor——A Report of 36 Cases

Thirty-six cases of constipation due to spasmodic syndrome of the pelvic floor were treated by electroacupuncture, with satisfactory therapeutic results reported as follows.Clinical DataThere were 36 cases in this series, 12 males and 24 females, ranging in age from 25 to 76 years, averaging 42 years. The course of disease ranged from 6 months to 22 years, with an average of 6 years. All the 36 cases were previously treated by purgative and emollient cathartic for promoting the bowl movement.

Treatment patterns of primary care physicians vs specialists prior to subspecialty urogynaecology referral for women suffering from pelvic floor disorders

BACKGROUND There are approximately 25% of women in the United States suffering from pelvic floor disorders (PFDs) and this number is predicted to rise. The potential complications and increasing healthcare costs that exist with an operation indicate the importance of conservative treatment options prior to attempting surgery. Considering the prevalence of PFDs, it is important for primary care physician and specialists (obstetricians and gynecologists) to be familiar with the initial work-up and the available conservative treatment options prior to subspecialist (urogynecologist) referral. AIM To assess the types of treatments that specialists attempted prior to subspecialty referral and determine the differences in referral patterns. METHODS This is a retrospective cohort study of 234 patients from a community teaching hospital referred to a single female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery (FPMRS) provider for PFD. Specialist vs primary care provider (PCP) referrals were compared. Number, length and treatment types were studied using descriptive statistics. RESULTS There were 184 referrals (78.6%) by specialists and 50 (21.4%) by PCP. Treatment (with Kegel exercises, pessary placements, and anticholinergic medications) was attempted on 51%(n = 26) of the PCP compared to 48%(n = 88) of the specialist referrals prior to FPMRS referral (P = 0.6). There was no significant difference in length of treatment prior to referral for PCPs vs specialists (14 mo vs 16 mo, respectively, P = 0.88). However, there was a significant difference in the patient’s average time with the condition prior to referral (35 mo vs 58 mo for PCP compared to specialist referrals)(P = 0.02). CONCLUSION One half of the patients referred to FPMRS clinic received treatment prior to referral. Thus, specialists and generalists can benefit from education regarding therapies for PFD before subspecialty referral.

Implementing of Electronic Medical Record in Pelvic Floor Ward: A Pilot Study

The electronic medical record is an essential technology tool to improve the quality of care. In present study we reported on the design and feasibility of electronic medical records in Female Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Ward. Our main goal was documentation with the least possible missed data, evidence-based decision making, documented active patient follow up and increasing patient’s satisfaction. The Electronic Registry System of Female Pelvic Floor Dysfunction (Vali e Asr Hospital, Tehran, Iran) was designed in mid 2014 and tested till March 2015. The software description was designed based on previous paper questionnaire used in this ward. The electronic questionnaires were filled in upon hospitalization and thereafter including follow ups. The questionnaire included 10 demographic and 15 main questions. A digital analog scale (1 - 10) in each part quantified the effects of problem on patient’s quality of life and also the effects of interventions as well. Entered information in each step was available for those with defined access. Reporting design was dependent on the needed data. Our supervised data entry was a guarantee to the quality of information with the least errors. Access to all para clinical data made rapid and evidence-based decision making. Patient satisfaction was achieved because of unified approach. The most interesting part was access to evidence-based results and data to be used in research projects. This study showed that EMRs in Female Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Wards could provide valuable information, improve the quality of care and increase patient’s satisfaction.

二维盆底超声评估盆膈裂孔前后径与盆腔器官脱垂的关系

目的研究盆底正中矢状切面盆膈裂孔前后径(AP)与盆腔器官脱垂(POP)程度的关系。资料与方法回顾性收集2017年7月—2019年5月中南大学湘雅二医院262例女性的临床资料和经会阴盆底超声(TPUS)数据。在盆底正中矢状切面于最大Valsalva动作下测量AP,通过TPUS和盆腔器官脱垂量化系统(POP-Q)测定POP程度,并分析AP与POP程度的关系,采用受试者工作特征曲线分析AP对POP程度的预测能力。结果共获得237例有效数据,其中POP-Q 0度POP 51例(21.51%),I度57例(24.05%),II度49例(20.67%),III度44例(18.56%),IV度36例(15.18%)。AP为37.10~97.90 mm,平均(61.33±10.71)mm。在TPUS或POP-Q系统诊断的不同程度POP中,AP测值差异均有统计学意义(F=52.00、58.18,P均<0.01)。以AP=6.0 cm为截断值,预测TPUS明显POP的敏感度为81.0%,特异度为75.5%;预测POP-Q II度以上POP的敏感度为74.5%,特异度为76.0%。AP与POP严重程度呈正相关,AP<6.0 cm与0~I度POP相关,6.0 cm≤AP<6.5 cm与II度POP相关,6.5 cm≤AP<7.0 cm与II~III度POP相关,7.0 cm≤AP与IV度POP相关(r=0.61、0.47、0.56、0.41,P均<0.05)。结论AP≥6.0 cm提示盆膈裂孔扩张,可能发生POP;AP越大,器官脱垂程度越严重。

女性盆底功能障碍性疾病诊治流程及物理康复技术临床应用——临床应用及实践

盆底肌训练、生物反馈、电刺激、磁刺激、射频、激光等物理康复技术现已证实在女性盆底功能障碍性疾病(FPFD)的临床治疗中有一定疗效,且在相关类型FPFD诊治指南中获得一定推荐或不同强度证据支持。物理康复技术相关参数在同一种FPFD的治疗中虽不具有一致性,但均在一定参数范围内。本综述旨在探究物理康复技术的相关循证依据,对重点类型FPFD推荐相应物理参数的物理治疗,从而对不同类型物理治疗技术在FPFD的治疗提供借鉴和依据。

女性盆底功能障碍性疾病诊治流程及物理治疗康复临床应用——康复流程、原则及智能诊疗

女性盆底功能障碍性疾病(FPFD)发生机制复杂,专科的临床医师往往无法覆盖妇产、泌尿、肛肠、影像等各专科全面的医学专业信息,限制了对于该疾病的系统、全面诊治。FPFD的治疗需要遵循康复流程,制定个性化物理治疗干预措施,同时结合其他方式制定综合性治疗策略。人工智能在盆底领域的应用,不仅可以提高医生诊断效率,还可以为综合治疗方案的制定提供参考和依据,实现智能诊疗与精准医疗。本文从FPFD康复流程出发,分析康复原则及内容,探究人工智能在FPFD诊疗中的应用现状,旨在为实现盆底疾病智能诊疗提供参考。

结直肠癌术后女性患者盆底康复管理的最佳证据总结

目的 检索并总结结直肠癌术后女性患者盆底康复管理的最佳证据,为医护人员进行科学有效的盆底康复管理提供循证依据。方法 计算机检索2010年1月至2023年2月国内外有关指南网站和数据库中结直肠癌术后女性患者盆底康复管理的文献,对所纳入文献进行方法学质量评价后,对证据进行汇总、分级并归纳主题。结果 最终纳入22篇文献,其中指南4篇、临床决策5篇、专家共识2篇、系统评价8篇、随机对照试验3篇,提炼出11个方面、共55条最佳证据主题。结论 总结的结直肠癌术后女性患者盆底康复管理的最佳证据切实可行,医护人员可在多学科合作和循证基础上为结直肠癌术后女性患者提供标准化的结直肠癌术后盆底康复的管理与护理。

女性盆底功能障碍性疾病诊治流程及物理康复技术临床应用--临床评估与诊断

女性盆底功能障碍性疾病(FPFD)是主要由于盆底支持缺陷、损伤、退化等导致盆腔器官发生移位或功能紊乱而引起的一系列病症,往往与肌肉、结缔组织、筋膜、神经和血管等一种或多种功能异常有关,每种类型FPFD的发生机制复杂,病因不一,两种及以上类型的FPFD往往同时出现。系统而全面的评估有助于了解疾病发生原因及为患者制定综合治疗方案提供依据。本章节以尿失禁和盆腔器官脱垂为例,重点阐述系统性临床评估内容。

女性盆底功能障碍性疾病诊治流程及物理康复技术临床应用--定义、流行病学、发病机制及物理康复技术概要

女性盆底功能障碍性疾病(FPFD)是主要由于盆底支持缺陷、损伤、退化等导致盆腔器官发生移位或功能紊乱而引起的一系列病症。FPFD往往与肌肉、结缔组织、筋膜、神经和血管等一种或多种功能异常有关,发病机制复杂,且尚不完全明确,需要系统而全面的临床评估,再结合临床诊断,制定综合性干预措施。本文从FPFD的定义、流行病学特征、发病机制及物理康复技术概要,临床诊断与评估,康复流程、原则及智能临床诊疗,临床应用及实践四个方面展开,系统解读FPFD。本章节重点阐述FPFD的定义、流行病学特征及发病机制,并简要概述FPFD物理康复技术,旨在为FPFD的临床诊治提供流行病学及治疗依据。

联合生物反馈电刺激疗法治疗产后女性盆底功能障碍性疾病疗效的Meta分析

目的评价联合生物反馈电刺激疗法治疗产后女性盆底功能障碍性疾病(pelvic floor dysfunction disease,PFD)的临床价值。方法遵循PRISMA声明,通过检索2015年1月至2021年3月间在Cochrane Library、PubMed、Embase、Web of science、中国知网(CNKI)、万方数字知识服务平台、中国生物医学文献数据库(CBM)等数据库中已发表的选用联合生物反馈电刺激疗法治疗产后女性PFD的随机对照临床试验相关文献,以单纯盆底肌肉训练为对照组,由2名研究者独立对所获得的文献进行筛选、质量评价及数据提取,进行Meta分析。结果共检索文献455篇,最终纳入21篇文献进行Meta分析。观察组Ⅰ类肌肌力≥Ⅳ级、Ⅱ类肌肌力≥Ⅳ级、综合肌力≥Ⅳ级的占比优于对照组,差异均具有统计学意义(P<0.05)。观察组盆底器官脱垂程度改善效果优于对照组(P<0.01)。观察组尿失禁疗效显著高于对照组(P<0.01)。观察组PDF疗效显著高于对照组(P<0.05)。结论相比单纯盆底肌肉训练,联合生物反馈电刺激疗法治疗盆底功能障碍性疾病疗效显著,可明显提升盆底肌肌力。

阴道哑铃结合热敏灸、Kegel运动训练治疗产后盆底功能障碍的效果

目的分析阴道哑铃结合热敏灸、Kegel运动训练治疗产后盆底功能障碍(PFD)的效果。方法选择2021年1月至2023年12月诊治的PFD初产妇118例,依照随机抽签法分为观察组和对照组,每组59例。对照组采用阴道哑铃结合Kegel运动训练,观察组给予阴道哑铃结合热敏灸、Kegel运动训练。比较2组治疗效果,干预前后阴道收缩力、盆底肌力、盆底功能、女性性功能指数、尿失禁分级情况。结果观察组总有效率[98.31%(58/59)]高于对照组[84.75%(50/59)](P<0.05)。干预后,观察组阴道收缩力相关指标、盆底肌力、性功能指数均高于对照组(P<0.01);干预后,观察组盆底功能相关评分低于对照组(P<0.01);干预后,观察组尿失禁分级优于对照组(P<0.05)。结论PFD患者经阴道哑铃结合热敏灸、Kegel运动训练干预盆底肌力、盆底功能、尿失禁分级得到了改善,女性性功能指数、阴道收缩力得到了提升,效果较好。

盆底超声在女性膀胱膨出与压力性尿失禁患者中的应用分析

目的:探讨盆底超声对女性膀胱膨出分型与不同程度压力性尿失禁(SUI)的评估作用。方法:选择经盆底超声诊断为膀胱膨出的325名女性和100名健康女性为观察对象。100名健康女性为对照组,325名膀胱膨出女性依据有无SUI分为2组,无SUI纳入膨出组(n=160),有SUI纳入SUI组(n=165),并对SUI患者进行程度划分。每组均进行盆底超声,分别记录静息状态下膀胱尿道后角(PUA1)、最大Valsalva动作下膀胱后壁最低点下降值、膀胱颈移动度(BND)、尿道旋转角(UTA)、膀胱尿道后角(PUA2)、肛提肌裂孔面积(LHA)、尿道内口漏斗形成等指标,比较各组患者各项盆底参数的差异。结果:SUI组、膨出组中膀胱后壁最低点下降值、BND、UTA、PUA1及LHA均大于对照组,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05);SUI组PUA2大于对照组,膨出组PUA2小于对照组,差异均有统计学意义(P<0.05);SUI组中UTA、PUA2及LHA均大于膨出组,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05);SUI组中膀胱后壁最低点下降值小于膨出组,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05);SUI组与膨出组分别诊断Ⅰ型膀胱膨出56例、29例,Ⅱ型膀胱膨出79例、61例,Ⅲ型膀胱膨出30例、70例;其中GreenⅡ型SUI轻度37例、中度29例、重度13例,该分度中膀胱后壁最低点下降值、BND、UTA、PUA2、LHA水平依次增高,即轻度<中度<重度,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05)。结论:盆底超声能够准确评估膀胱膨出分型与SUI,分析出膀胱膨出分型与不同程度的SUI之间的相关性,并对不同程度的SUI进行实时可视化,为临床诊断及治疗提供精准的影像数据。

盆底康复治疗患者的分布及变化趋势分析:一项基于3033例患者的研究

目的:分析接受盆底康复治疗患者的分布及变化特征,探讨其有临床症状的相关影响因素、就诊特征。方法:对2010年1月至2019年12月广州医科大学附属第三医院接受盆底康复治疗患者的年龄、分娩方式、产次、治疗时间等数据进行回顾性分析。结果:①接受盆底康复治疗患者共3033例,无临床症状者72.8%(2209/3033),近十年呈下降趋势(P=0.000);有临床症状者27.2%(824/3033),呈上升趋势(P=0.000),8类临床症状中尿失禁症状的比例为72.5%(597/824)。②十年间盆底康复治疗患者中,40岁以上患者比例逐年增加(P=0.001);③经阴道分娩的妇女所占比例最高(70.3%),近十年趋势保持平稳(P=0.054)。④十年间盆底康复治疗患者中初产妇占比最高(73.1%),经产妇(产次≥2)的患者有增高趋势(P=0.000);⑤84.8%(2573/3033)患者进行盆底康复治疗距离末次分娩时间<1年,治疗距离末次分娩时间≥1年的患者呈增多的趋势(P=0.002,r=0.855)。⑥年龄≥40岁(OR 10.884,P<0.001)、孕次为3次(OR 1.634,P=0.001)、孕次≥4次(OR 1.908,P<0.001)、产次为2次(OR 1.305,P=0.038)、产次≥3次(OR 2.327,P=0.001)、经阴道分娩(OR 2.079,P<0.001)是已生育接受盆底康复治疗患者有临床症状的独立危险因素。结论:接受盆底康复治疗有临床症状患者中,以尿失禁症状为主,呈增加的趋势;强化对年龄≥40岁、有阴道分娩史、孕次≥3次、产次≥2次的女性早期筛查和干预,对年龄≥40岁、距离末次分娩≥1年的女性可考虑将治疗时间前移。

局部雌激素治疗女性盆底功能障碍性疾病的研究进展

女性盆底功能障碍性疾病(PFD)是影响中老年女性生活质量的主要疾病之一,对患者的日常生活、社会活动及心理健康均有负面影响。PFD的治疗方法较多,但其疗效个体差异较大。PFD的发病机制复杂,其中衰老是影响盆腔器官、盆底肌和结缔组织以及下尿路结构和功能的核心因素,其发生发展机制与雌激素缺乏有关。雌激素疗法通过外源性补充雌激素减轻围绝经期女性雌激素缺乏症状,对PFD患者同样适用。由于全身使用雌激素副作用较多,寻找更为安全的雌激素补充方式对治疗PFD具有重要意义,局部雌激素治疗有望成为PFD患者的新选择。

基于fNIRS对女性不同膀胱状态下盆底肌收缩任务的前额叶激活情况

目的为探讨前额叶在人体控尿功能中发挥的作用提供神经影像学依据。方法利用近红外脑功能成像技术(fNIRS)收集20名健康成年女性志愿者膀胱充盈和空虚状态下盆底肌收缩时大脑前额皮层的血流动力学数据,并对数据进行相应的处理,通过分析各个通道所提取的氧合血红蛋白浓度的相对变化量所对应的Beta值,对比前额叶不同脑区间激活情况差异。结果膀胱充盈状态下前额皮层共有30个通道激活,膀胱空虚状态下前额皮层共有8个通道激活(P均<0.05),其中共同激活通道有7个;相较于空虚状态,膀胱充盈时的前额叶激活更明显,且以右侧脑区激活为主,差异主要体现在右侧背外侧前额叶和额极(P均<0.05)。结论盆底肌收缩运动可以使大脑前额皮层被激活。当膀胱处于充盈状态时大脑前额皮层可能会通过神经反射活动感知膀胱的压力变化,从而参与调控盆底肌的自主舒缩运动,实现其在人体控尿功能中的作用,其中右侧背外侧前额叶脑区在此过程中发挥的作用可能更为明显。