Investigation and influencing factors on pelvic floor muscle strength of 929 adult females in gynecological outpatient department / 中华妇产科杂志

Objective: To investigate the present situation of pelvic floor muscle strength, and to analyze the factors affecting pelvic floor muscle strength. Methods: The data of patients who were admitted into the general outpatient department of gynecology, Peking University People's Hospital from October 2021 to April 2022 were collected, and the patients who met the exclusion criteria were included in this cross sectional study. The patient's age, height, weight, education level, defecation way and defecation time, birth history, maximum newborn birth weight, occupational physical activity, sedentary time, menopause, family history and disease history were recorded by questionnaire. Morphological indexes such as waist circumference, abdomen circumference and hip circumference were measured with tape measure. Handgrip strength level was measured with grip strength instrument. After performing routine gynecological examinations, the pelvic floor muscle strength was evaluated by palpation with modified Oxford grading scale (MOS). MOS grade>3 was taken as normal group and ≤3 as decreased group. Binary logistic regression was used to investigate the related factors of deceased pelvic floor muscle strength. Results: A total of 929 patients were included in the study, and the average MOS grade was 2.8±1.2. By univariate analysis, birth history, menopausal time, defecation time, handgrip strength level, waist circumference and abdominal circumference were related to the decrease of pelvic floor muscle strength (all P<0.05). By binary logistic regression analysis, the level of handgrip strength (OR=0.913, 95%CI: 0.883-0.945; P<0.001) was correlated with normal pelvic floor muscle strength; waist circumference (OR=1.025, 95%CI: 1.005-1.046; P=0.016), birth history (OR=2.224, 95%CI: 1.570-3.149; P<0.001), sedentary time> 8 hours (OR=2.073, 95%CI: 1.198-3.587; P=0.009) were associated with the decrease of pelvic floor muscle strength. Conclusions: The level of handgrip strength is related to the normal pelvic floor muscle strength of females, while the waist circumference, birth history and sedentary time>8 hours are related to the decrease of pelvic floor muscle strength of females. In order to prevent the decrease of pelvic floor muscle strength, it is necessary to carry out relevant health education, enhance exercise, improve the overall strength level, reduce daily sedentary time, maintain symmetry, and carry out comprehensive overall intervention to improve pelvic floor muscle function.

Pelvic floor muscle training alone or in combination with oxybutynin in treatment of nonmonosymptomatic enuresis. A randomized controlled trial with 2-year follow up / Exercícios dos músculos do assoalho pélvico exclusivos ou em combinação com oxibutinina no tratamento da enurese não monossintomática. Um estudo randomizado controlado com 2 anos de seguimento

Abstract Objective To compare the results of the standard urotherapy alone and associated with pelvic floor muscle training alone, and in combination with oxybutynin in treatment of nonmonosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis. Methods A total of 38 children aged 5 to 10 years were randomized into three groups: Group I (n=12) that was submitted to standard urotherapy; Group II (n=15), standard urotherapy associated with pelvic floor muscle training; and Group III (n=11), standard urotherapy associated with pelvic floor muscle training and oxybutynin; the treatment lasted 12 weeks. The assessment tools used were playful bladder diary, and a 48-hour bladder diary, before and after treatment. After 2 years, patients were assessed by telephone using a standardized questionnaire. Results The data of children from the three groups were homogeneous at baseline. After 12-week treatment, all children showed improved symptoms and signs of nonmonosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis, but the differences were not significant among the groups. After 2 years, the three groups showed maintenance of treatment results, but no differences among them. Conclusion All treatment modalities were effective regarding improved enuresis and lower urinary tract symptoms, but the sample was not large enough to show differences among groups.

Resumo Objetivo Comparar os resultados da uroterapia padrão isolada e associada ao treinamento dos músculos do assoalho pélvico isoladamente e em combinação com a oxibutinina no tratamento da enurese noturna não monossintomática. Métodos Trinta e oito crianças entre 5 e 10 anos de idade foram randomizadas em três grupos: Grupo I (n=12) realizou uroterapia padrão; Grupo II (n=15) realizou uroterapia padrão associada ao treinamento muscular do assoalho pélvico; e Grupo III (n=11) realizou uroterapia padrão associada ao treinamento muscular do assoalho pélvico e oxibutinina. O tratamento teve duração de 12 semanas. Os instrumentos de avaliação foram diário miccional lúdico e diário miccional de 48 horas, antes e depois do tratamento. Após 2 anos, os pacientes foram avaliados por telefone, usando um questionário padronizado. Resultados Os dados das crianças dos três grupos eram homogêneos no início do estudo. Após 12 semanas de tratamento, todas as crianças apresentaram melhora em relação aos sinais e sintomas de enurese noturna não monossintomática, mas as diferenças não foram significativas entre os grupos. Depois de 2 anos, os resultados do tratamento se mantiveram nos três grupos, mas não houve diferenças entre os grupos. Conclusão As três modalidades de tratamento foram eficazes na melhora da enurese e dos sintomas do trato urinário inferior, mas o tamanho da amostra não foi grande o suficiente para mostrar diferenças entre os grupos.

Training through gametherapy promotes coactivation of the pelvic floor and abdominal muscles in young women, nulliparous and continents

ABSTRACT Introduction and objectives: Several studies have been investigated co-activation can enhance the effectveness of PFM training protocols allowing preventive and therapeutic goals in pelvic floor dysfunctions. The objective of the present study was to investigate if an abdominal-pelvic protocol of training (APT) using gametherapy would allow co-activation of PFM and transversus abdominis/oblique internal (TrA/OI) muscles. Patients and methods: Twenty-five nulliparous, continent, young females, with median age 24.76 (±3.76) years were evaluated using digital palpation (DP) of PFM and surface electromyography of PFM and TrA/OI simultaneously, during maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), alternating PFM and TrA/OI contraction requests. All women participated on a supervised program of APT using gametherapy, that included exercises of pelvic mobilization associated to contraction of TrA/OI muscles oriented by virtual games, for 30 minutes, three times a week, in a total of 10 sessions. Electromyographic data were processed and analyzed by ANOVA - analysis of variance. Results: When MVC of TrA/OI was solicited, it was observed simultaneous increase of electromyographic activity of PFM (p=0.001) following ATP. However, EMG activity did not change significantly during MVC of PFM. Conclusion: Training using gametherapy allowed better co-activation of pelvic floor muscles in response to contraction of TrA, in young nulliparous and continent women.

The effects of training by virtual reality or gym ball on pelvic floor muscle strength in postmenopausal women: a randomized controlled trial

ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of abdominopelvic training by virtual reality compared to pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) using a gym ball (a previously tested and efficient protocol) on postmenopausal women’s pelvic floor muscle (PFM) strength. Method A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 60 postmenopausal women, randomly allocated into two groups: Abdominopelvic training by virtual reality – APT_VR (n=30) and PFMT using a gym ball – PFMT_GB (n=30). Both types of training were supervised by the same physical therapist, during 10 sessions each, for 30 minutes. The participants’ PFM strength was evaluated by digital palpation and vaginal dynamometry, considering three different parameters: maximum strength, average strength and endurance. An intention-to-treat approach was used to analyze the participants according to original groups. Results No significant between-group differences were observed in most analyzed parameters. The outcome endurance was higher in the APT_VR group (p=0.003; effect size=0.89; mean difference=1.37; 95% CI=0.46 to 2.28). Conclusion Both protocols have improved the overall PFM strength, suggesting that both are equally beneficial and can be used in clinical practice. Muscle endurance was higher in patients who trained using virtual reality.

Association between the Functionality of Pelvic Floor Muscles and Sexual Satisfaction in Young Women / Associação entre a funcionalidade dos músculos do assoalho pélvico e a satisfação sexual em mulheres adultas jovens

Abstract Objective The objective of this study is to associate the results obtained while assessing the pelvic floor muscles (PFM) functionality with the score of sexual satisfaction of young adult women. Methods This is an observational and cross-sectional study. The inclusion criteria were women aged between 20 and 40 years who have had sexual intercourse, nulliparous, BMI lower than 25 kg/m2, and absence of pelvic floor dysfunction. The evaluation consisted of both the medical history and assessment of the PFM functionality using the Perina pressure biofeedback and Oxford Scale. We measured sexual satisfaction using the Female Sexual Quotient questionnaire and used the KolmogorovSmirnov test to verify the normality of the data. We analyzed non-parametric variables using the Spearman correlation test. The significance level was 5 %. Results A total of 80 women with a median age of 26 years and median BMI of 21.64 kg/m2 participated in this study. We divided the subjects into two groups, best and worse PFM functionality, according to median Perina pressure biofeedback and Oxford scale. We found no difference between the groups when comparing the sexual satisfaction scores. There was only a slight significant correlation between the Contraction Voluntary Average obtained using the pressure biofeedback and the primary domain (r = 0.27; p = 0.01). Conclusion This study found a slight correlation between PFM functionality and the functionality of the primary domain of the Female Sexual Quotient questionnaire. Therefore, it is not possible to state whether there is an association between the PFM functionality and female sexual satisfaction in young adults.

Determination of a cutoff value for pelvic floor distensibility using the Epi-no balloon to predict perineal integrity in vaginal delivery: ROC curve analysis. Prospective observational single cohort study / Determinação de um valor de ponto de corte para a extensibilidade do assoalho pélvico pelo balão Epi-no para predizer integridade perineal no parto vaginal: análise pela curva ROC. Estudo prospectivo observacional de coorte única

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Several risk factors are involved in perineal lacerations during vaginal delivery. However, little is known about the influence of perineal distensibility as a protective factor. The aim here was to determine a cutoff value for pelvic floor distensibility measured using the Epi-no balloon, which could be used as a predictive factor for perineal integrity in vaginal delivery. DESIGN AND SETTING: Prospective observational single cohort study conducted in a maternity hospital. METHODS: A convenience sample of 227 consecutive at-term parturients was used. All women had a single fetus in the vertex presentation, with up to 9.0 cm of dilation. The maximum dilation of the Epi-no balloon was measured using a tape measure after it had been inflated inside the vagina up to the parturients' maximum tolerance. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to obtain the Epi-no circumference measurement with best sensitivity and specificity. RESULTS: Among the 161 patients who were included in the study, 50.9% underwent episiotomy, 21.8% presented lacerations and 27.3% retained an intact perineum. Age > 25.9 years; number of pregnancies > 3.4; number of deliveries > 2.2 and circumference measured by Epi-no > 21.4 cm were all directly correlated with an intact perineum. Circumference measurements using the Epi-no balloon that were greater than 20.8 cm showed sensitivity and specificity of 70.5% and 66.7% (area under curve = 0.713), respectively, as a predictive factor for an intact perineum in vaginal delivery. CONCLUSION: Circumferences greater than 20.8 cm achieved using the Epi-no balloon are a predictive factor for perineal integrity in parturients.

CONTEXTO E OBJETIVO: Diversos fatores de risco estão envolvidos nas lacerações do períneo durante o parto vaginal, contudo, pouco se sabe sobre a influência da extensibilidade perineal como um fator protetor. O objetivo foi avaliar o ponto de corte da extensibilidade do assoalho pélvico medido pelo balão Epi-no, o qual poderia ser usado como fator preditor de integridade perineal no parto vaginal. TIPO DE ESTUDO E LOCAL: Estudo prospectivo observacional de coorte única conduzido em maternidade. MÉTODOS: Uma amostra de conveniência de 277 parturientes consecutivas no termo foi utilizada. Todas as mulheres tinham feto único com apresentação cefálica fletida, com até 9,0 cm de dilatação. A máxima dilatação do balão Epi-no foi medida com fita métrica após a sua insuflação dentro da vagina até a tolerância máxima da parturiente. Uma curva característica de operação do receptor (ROC) foi utilizada para obter a medida da circunferência com a melhor sensibilidade e especificidade. RESULTADOS: Dentre as 161 pacientes que foram incluídas no estudo, 50,9% sofreram episiotomia, 21,8% lacerações e 27,3% tiveram o períneo intacto. Idade > 25,9 anos; número de gestações > 3,4; número de partos > 2,2; e medida do perímetro do Epi-no > 21,4 cm foram todos diretamente correlacionados com períneo intacto. Os valores do perímetro com o balão Epi-no que estavam acima de 20,8 cm mostraram sensibilidade e especificidade de 70,5% e 66,7% (área sob a curva = 0,713), respectivamente, como fator preditor de períneo intacto no parto vaginal. CONCLUSÃO: Circunferência medida pelo balão Epi-no maior que 20,8 cm é fator preditor de integridade perineal em parturientes.

Pelvic floor muscle strength in primiparous women according to the delivery type: cross-sectional study / Força muscular do assoalho pélvico em primíparas segundo o tipo de parto: estudo transversal / Fuerza muscular del suelo pélvico en primíparas según el tipo de parto: estudio transversal

ABSTRACT Objectives: to compare the pelvic floor muscle strength in primiparous women after normal birth and cesarean section, related to the socio-demographic characteristics, nutritional status, dyspareunia, urinary incontinence, perineal exercise in pregnancy, perineal condition and weight of the newborn. Methods: this was a cross-sectional study conducted after 50 - 70 postpartum days, with 24 primiparous women who underwent cesarean delivery and 72 who had a normal birth. The 9301 PeritronTM was used for analysis of muscle strength. The mean muscle strength was compared between the groups by two-way analysis of variance. Results: the pelvic floor muscle strength was 24.0 cmH2O (±16.2) and 25.4 cmH2O (±14.7) in postpartum primiparous women after normal birth and cesarean section, respectively, with no significant difference. The muscular strength was greater in postpartum women with ≥ 12 years of study (42.0 ±26.3 versus 14.6 ±7.7 cmH2O; p= 0.036) and in those who performed perineal exercises (42.6±25.4 11.8±4.9 vs. cmH2O; p = 0.010), compared to caesarean. There was no difference in muscle strength according to delivery type regarding nutritional status, dyspareunia, urinary incontinence, perineal condition or newborn weight. Conclusion: pelvic floor muscle strength does not differ between primiparous women based on the type of delivery. Postpartum women with normal births, with higher education who performed perineal exercise during pregnancy showed greater muscle strength.

RESUMO Objetivos: comparar a força muscular do assoalho pélvico em primíparas no pós-parto normal e cesariana, relacionando-a às características sociodemográficas, estado nutricional, incontinência urinária, dispareunia, exercício perineal na gestação, condição perineal e peso do recém-nascido. Método: estudo transversal realizado entre 50 e 70 dias de pós-parto, com 24 primíparas submetidas à cesariana e 72 ao parto normal. Utilizou-se PeritronTM 9301 para análise da força muscular. Comparou-se as médias da força muscular entre os grupos pela Análise de Variância a dois fatores. Resultados: a força muscular do assoalho pélvico foi de 24,0 cmH2O(±16,2) e 25,4 cmH2O(±14,7) em primíparas pós-parto normal e cesariana, respectivamente, sem diferença significativa. A força muscular foi maior nas mulheres de pós-parto normal com ≥12 anos de estudo (42,0±26,3 versus 14,6±7,7 cmH2O; p=0,036) e que realizaram exercício perineal (42,6±25,4 versus 11,8±4,9 cmH2O; p=0,010), comparadas às de cesariana. Não houve diferença na força muscular segundo o tipo de parto quanto ao estado nutricional, incontinência urinária, dispareunia, condição perineal e peso do recém-nascido. Conclusão: a força muscular do assoalho pélvico não difere entre primíparas quanto ao tipo de parto. Mulheres pós-parto normal com maior escolaridade e que realizaram exercício perineal na gestação, tem maior força muscular.

RESUMEN Objetivos: comparar la fuerza muscular del suelo pélvico en primíparas en el posparto normal y cesárea, relacionándola a las características sociodemográficas, estado nutricional, incontinencia urinaria, coito doloroso, ejercicio perineal en la gestación, condición perineal y peso del recién nacido. Método: estudio transversal realizado entre 50 y 70 días de posparto, con 24 primíparas sometidas a cesárea y 72 a parto normal. Se utilizó PeritronTM 9301 para analizar la fuerza muscular. Se compararon los promedios de la fuerza muscular entre los grupos por medio del Análisis de Variancia de dos factores. Resultados: la fuerza muscular del suelo pélvico fue de 24,0 cmH2O(±16,2) y 25,4 cmH2O(±14,7) en primíparas posparto normal y cesárea, respectivamente, sin diferencia significativa. La fuerza muscular fue mayor en las mujeres de posparto normal con ≥12 años de estudio (42,0±26,3 versus 14,6±7,7 cmH2O; p=0,036) y que realizaron ejercicio perineal (42,6±25,4 versus 11,8±4,9 cmH2O; p=0,010), comparadas con las de cesárea. No hubo diferencia en la fuerza muscular según el tipo de parto en lo que se refiere al estado nutricional, incontinencia urinaria, coito doloroso, condición perineal y peso del recién nacido. Conclusión: la fuerza muscular del suelo pélvico no difiere entre las primíparas en lo que se refiere al tipo de parto. Las mujeres posparto normal con mayor escolaridad y que realizaron ejercicio perineal en la gestación, tienen mayor fuerza muscular.

Eficácia do Epi-No® na diminuição da episiotomia e risco de lesão perineal pós-parto: revisão sistemática / Effectiveness of Epi-No® in decline episiotomy and risk of injury perineal postpartum: systematic review

A pergunta mais clássica das gestantes ou futuras mães seria qual tipo de parto escolher. Para as que pretendem ter parto normal, o desejo é ter seu períneo íntegro após o parto. Como a taxa de episiotomia aumentou consideravelmente, e atualmente é a operação cirúrgica mais frequente em mulheres no mundo, surge à necessidade de pesquisar quais métodos seriam capazes de minimizar ou evitar esse procedimento. Este estudo objetivou avaliar a eficácia de um aparelho em forma de balão que infla com ajuda de um medidor de pressão denominado Epi-No® na redução da necessidade de episiotomia e na diminuição do risco de lesão pós-parto. Foi realizada uma revisão sistemática da literatura, de estudos clínicos randomizados, que investigassem os efeitos do Epi-No® levantados no período de 24 a 30 de setembro de 2014 através das palavras-chave. Inicialmente foram encontrados 1.149 artigos, seguindo os critérios de inclusão e exclusão, o número foi reduzido, sendo analisados 6 artigos neste estudo. Conclui-se então que o uso do Epi-No® parece ser eficaz na redução de episiotomia e lesões pós-parto, no entanto são necessários mais estudos controlados randomizados com maiores números amostrais para determinar melhor a sua eficácia.(AU)

The most classic question of pregnant women or future mothers is: which type of delivery to choose? For those who intend to take normal delivery, the desire is that the perineum remain integrate after delivery. Since episiotomy rate has increased considerably and is currently the most common surgical procedure in women in the world, comes the need to know which methods would be effective to prevent it. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a balloon-like device that inflates with the help of a pressure gauge known as Epi-No® in reducing the need for episiotomy and decreased risk of postpartum injury. A systematic literature review was performed with randomized clinical trials to investigate the effects of Epi-No®, from September 24 to 30, using keywords. Initially, were found 1.149 articles, following the inclusion and exclusion criteria, the number was reduced and 6 articles wer analyzed in this study. The conclusion is that Epi-No® appears to be effective in reducing episiotomy and postpartum injuries, but we need more randomized controlled trials with larger sample numbers to better determine their effectiveness.(AU)

Intra and inter-rater reliability study of pelvic floor muscle dynamometric measurements

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the intra and inter-rater reliability of pelvic floor muscle (PFM) dynamometric measurements for maximum and average strengths, as well as endurance. METHOD: A convenience sample of 18 nulliparous women, without any urogynecological complaints, aged between 19 and 31 (mean age of 25.4±3.9) participated in this study. They were evaluated using a pelvic floor dynamometer based on load cell technology. The dynamometric evaluations were repeated in three successive sessions: two on the same day with a rest period of 30 minutes between them, and the third on the following day. All participants were evaluated twice in each session; first by examiner 1 followed by examiner 2. The vaginal dynamometry data were analyzed using three parameters: maximum strength, average strength, and endurance. The Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) was applied to estimate the PFM dynamometric measurement reliability, considering a good level as being above 0.75. RESULTS: The intra and inter-raters' analyses showed good reliability for maximum strength (ICCintra-rater1=0.96, ICCintra-rater2=0.95, and ICCinter-rater=0.96), average strength (ICCintra-rater1=0.96, ICCintra-rater2=0.94, and ICCinter-rater=0.97), and endurance (ICCintra-rater1=0.88, ICCintra-rater2=0.86, and ICCinter-rater=0.92) dynamometric measurements. CONCLUSIONS: The PFM dynamometric measurements showed good intra- and inter-rater reliability for maximum strength, average strength and endurance, which demonstrates that this is a reliable device that can be used in clinical practice. .

Effects of Electric Stimulation and Biofeedback for Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercise in Women with Vaginal Rejuvenation Women

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of pelvic floor muscle exercise using electric stimulation and biofeedback on maximum pressure of vaginal contraction, vaginal contraction duration and sexual function in women who have had vaginal rejuvenation. METHODS: The research design was a non-equivalent control group non-synchronized design study. Participants in this study were women who had vaginal rejuvenation at C obstetrics and gynecology hospital. The 15 participants in the experimental group were given pelvic floor muscle exercise using electric stimulation and biofeedback and the 15 participants in the control group received self pelvic floor muscle exercise. RESULTS: For maximum pressure of vaginal contraction, the experimental group showed a statistically significant increase compared to than the control group (t=5.96, p<.001). For vaginal contraction duration, the experimental group also showed a statistically significant increase compared to the control group (t=3.23, p=.003). For women's sexual function, the experimental group showed a significant increase when compared to the control group in total sexual function scores (t=3.41, p=.002). CONCLUSION: The results indicate that pelvic floor muscle exercise with electric stimulation and biofeedback after vaginal rejuvenation is effective in strengthening vaginal contraction pressure, vaginal contraction and that it also positively functions to increase women's sexual function.

Relationship among vaginal palpation, vaginal squeeze pressure, electromyographic and ultrasonographic variables of female pelvic floor muscles / Correlação entre palpação digital, pressão de contração, atividade eletromiográfica e variáveis ultrassonográficas da musculatura do assoalho pélvico feminino

Background: The proper evaluation of the pelvic floor muscles (PFM) is essential for choosing the correct treatment. Currently, there is no gold standard for the assessment of female PFM function. Objective: To determine the correlation between vaginal palpation, vaginal squeeze pressure, and electromyographic and ultrasonographic variables of the female PFM. Method: This cross-sectional study evaluated 80 women between 18 and 35 years of age who were nulliparous and had no pelvic floor dysfunction. PFM function was assessed based on digital palpation, vaginal squeeze pressure, electromyographic activity, bilateral diameter of the bulbocavernosus muscles and the amount of bladder neck movement during voluntary PFM contraction using transperineal bi-dimensional ultrasound. The Pearson correlation was used for statistical analysis (p<0.05). Results: There was a strong positive correlation between PFM function and PFM contraction pressure (0.90). In addition, there was a moderate positive correlation between these two variables and PFM electromyographic activity (0.59 and 0.63, respectively) and movement of the bladder neck in relation to the pubic symphysis (0.51 and 0.60, respectively). Conclusions: This study showed that there was a correlation between vaginal palpation, vaginal squeeze pressure, and electromyographic and ultrasonographic variables of the PFM in nulliparous women. The strong correlation between digital palpation and PFM contraction pressure indicated that perineometry could easily be replaced by PFM digital palpation in the absence of equipment. .

Contextualização: A avaliação adequada da musculatura do assoalho pélvico (MAP) é essencial para o delineamento do tratamento correto. No entanto, atualmente não existe um método de avaliação dessa região que seja considerado como padrão-ouro. Objetivo: Verificar a correlação entre a palpação digital, a pressão de contração, a atividade eletromiográfica e as variáveis ultrassonográficas da MAP. Método: Neste estudo transversal, foram avaliadas 80 mulheres com idades entre 18 e 35 anos, nulíparas e sem relatos de disfunção de assoalho pélvico. Foram avaliados a função muscular por meio da palpação digital, a pressão de contração, a atividade eletromiográfica, o diâmetro bilateral do músculo bulbocavernoso e o deslocamento do colo vesical em relação à sínfise púbica por meio da ultrassonografia bidimensional. Para a análise estatística, foi realizada a Correlação de Pearson (p<0,05). Resultados: Observou-se uma correlação positiva forte entre a função e a pressão de contração da MAP (0,90). Observou-se também uma correlação positiva moderada entre essas duas variáveis e a atividade eletromiográfica da MAP (0,59 and 0,63, respectivamente), bem como entre o deslocamento do colo vesical e a sínfise púbica (0.51 e 0.60, respectivamente). Conclusões: Os achados deste estudo permitem concluir que existe correlação entre as variáveis ultrassonográficas e a função muscular, a pressão de contração e a atividade eletromiográfica da MAP em mulheres jovens nulíparas. A correlação forte existente entre a palpação digital e a pressão de contração ...

Parturient perineal distensibility tolerance assessed by EPI-NO: an observational study / Tolerância da parturiente à extensibilidade perineal avaliada pelo EPI-NO: estudo observacional / Tolerância da parturiente à extensibilidade perineal avaliada pelo EPI-NO: estudo observacional

Objective : To determine how parturient women tolerate the use of a perineal distensibility assessment technique using the EPI-NO device. Methods : An observational study with a total of 227 full-term parturient women was performed. During the evaluation with EPI-NO, parturient patients were asked about their sensation of discomfort. The degree of discomfort was measured using the Visual Analogue Scale, with a score from zero to 10. The Mann-Whitney test was applied to assess perineal distensibility measured by EPI-NO and the degree of discomfort caused by the test according to parity. The relation between perineal distensibility and discomfort was analyzed by using the Spearman correlation test (r). Results : The test with EPI-NO caused only slight discomfort (mean Visual Analogue Scale of 3.8), and primiparous women reported significantly greater discomfort (mean Visual Analogue Scale of 4.5) than did multiparous (mean Visual Analogue Scale=3.1), with p<0.001 women. A negative correlation was observed, in other words, the greater the perineal distensibility on the EPI-NO, the lower the pain reported by the patients (r=-0.424; p<0.001). Conclusion : The assessment of perineal distensibility with EPI-NO was well tolerated by the parturient women. .

Objetivo : Determinar como a mulher parturiente tolera o uso de uma nova técnica de extensibilidade perineal, por meio do aparelho EPI-NO. Métodos : Estudo observacional com um total de 227 gestantes a termo. Durante a avaliação pelo EPI-NO, as parturientes foram perguntadas sobre a sensação de desconforto. O grau de desconforto foi medido usando a Escala Visual Analógica, com escore entre zero a 10. O teste de Mann-Whitney foi usado para avaliar a extensibilidade perineal avaliada pelo EPI-NO e o grau de desconforto causado pelo teste de acordo com a paridade. A relação entre extensibilidade perineal e desconforto foi avaliada pelo teste de correlação de Spearman (r). Resultados : O teste com EPI-NO causou apenas leve desconforto (média da Escala Visual Analógica de 3,8), sendo que as primíparas reportaram mais desconforto de modo significativo (média da Escala Visual Analógica de 4,5) que as multíparas (média da Escala Visual Analógica de 3,1), com p<0,001. Observou-se correlação negativa, ou seja, a maior extensibilidade no EPI-NO foi acompanhada de menor dor referida pelas pacientes (r=-0,424; p<0,001). Conclusão : A avaliação da extensibilidade perineal com EPI-NO foi bem tolerada pelas parturientes. .

Pelvic floor muscle strength evaluation in different body positions in nulliparous healthy women and its correlation with sexual activity

Objective The aim of this study was to assess pelvic floor muscle (PFM) strength in different body positions in nulliparous healthy women and its correlation with sexual activity. Materials and Methods Fifty healthy nulliparous women with mean age of 23 years were prospectively studied. Subjective evaluation of PFM was assessed by transvaginal digital palpation (TDP) of anterior and posterior areas regarding the vaginal introitus. A perineometer with inflatable vaginal probe was used to assess the PFM strength in four different positions: supine with extended lower limbs (P1); bent-knee supine (P2); sitting (P3); standing (P4). Results Physical activity, 3 times per week, was reported by 58% of volunteers. Sexual activity was observed in 80% of women and 82% of them presented orgasm. The average body mass index (BMI) was 21.76 kg/m2, considered as normal according World Health Organization (WHO). We observed that 68% of volunteers were conscious about the PFM contraction. TDP showed concordance of 76% when anterior and posterior areas were compared (p = 0.00014). There was not correlation between PFM strength and orgasm in subjective evaluation. The PFM strength was significantly higher in standing position when compared with the other positions (p < 0.000). No statistical difference was observed between orgasm and PFM strength when objective evaluations were performed. Conclusions There was concordance between anterior and posterior areas in 76% of cases when subjective PFM strength was assessed. In objective evaluation, higher PFM strength was observed when volunteers were standing. No statistical correlation was observed between PFM strength and orgasm in nulliparous healthy women. .

The effect of outpatient physical therapy intervention on pelvic floor muscles in women with urinary incontinence / Influencia da intervencao fisioterapeutica ambulatorial sobre a musculatura do assoalho pelvico em mulheres com incontinencia urinaria

OBJECTIVE: To assess the effect of a weekly, short-term physical therapy intervention on the pelvic floor muscles and urinary incontinence (UI) among patients of the public health system. METHOD: Quasi-experimental before-and-after study. Clinical history and function evaluation were performed using perineal bidigital maneuvers and perineometry. The intervention consisted of transvaginal electrical stimulation and pelvic floor kinesiotherapy. Data were analyzed using the paired t test or Wilcoxon signed-rank test, Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient or Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. A value of P<0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: Eight-two women 55.1±10.9 years-old were evaluated. Mixed urinary incontinence (MUI), stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and urge urinary incontinence (UUI) were observed in 52.4%, 36.6% and 11%, respectively. The length of UI was 6.0 years (3.0-10). Approximately 13.64 physical therapy sessions were held on average. There was no difference in perineometry measurements following the intervention (40.6±24.1 versus 41.7±25.4, P=0.098). Muscle function significantly increased (P<0.01) in the bidigital maneuver. The patients reported being continent or satisfied with the treatment in 88.9% of cases. CONCLUSIONS: The results demonstrated an increase in muscle function and the attainment of urinary continence or treatment satisfaction in most cases. .

OBJETIVO: Verificar a influência de uma intervenção fisioterapêutica semanal e de curta duração sobre a musculatura do assoalho pélvico e sobre a incontinência urinária (IU) em usuárias da rede pública de saúde. MÉTODO: Estudo quase-experimental do tipo antes e depois. Foi realizada anamnese e avaliação da função perineal por meio da manobra bidigital e perineometria. A intervenção consistiu em eletroestimulação transvaginal e cinesioterapia pélvica. Os dados foram analisados por meio do teste t pareado ou Wilcoxon, regressão linear de Pearson ou Spearman. Um valor de P<0,05 foi considerado como significativo. RESULTADOS: Foram avaliadas 82 mulheres com idade de 55,1±10,9 anos. Incontinência urinária mista (IUM), incontinência urinária de esforço (IUE) e incontinência urinária de urgência (IUU) foram observadas em 52,4%, 36,6% e 11%, respectivamente. A duração da IU foi de 6,0 anos (3,0-10). Foram realizadas, em média, 13,64 sessões fisioterapêuticas. Não houve diferença, após a intervenção, nas medidas da perineometria (40,6±24,1 versus 41,7±25,4, P=0,098). Na manobra bidigital, a função muscular aumentou significativamente (P<0,01). Em 88,9% dos casos, as pacientes informaram estar continentes ou satisfeitas com o tratamento. CONCLUSÕES: Os resultados mostraram aumento da função muscular e obtenção da continência urinária ou satisfação com o tratamento na maioria dos casos. .

Rehabilitación de piso pélvico en el tratamiento del síndrome de vejiga hiperactiva / Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation in the treatment of overactive bladder syndrome

El objetivo de este trabajo es dar a conocer los resultados, a mediano plazo, de una cohorte de mujeres con Síndrome de Vejiga Hiperactiva (SVH) tratadas mediante un protocolo de rehabilitación de piso pélvico en una consulta kinésica particular. Se intervino una cohorte de 20 mujeres derivadas a la Unidad de Piso Pélvico del Centro Médico IDG por diagnóstico de SVH entre marzo de 2010 y marzo de 2012. La evaluaciones se realizaron al momento del enrolamiento, al finalizar la intervención y luego de 5 a 12 meses de concluida la intervención. Las variables evaluadas fueron: frecuencia miccional diurna y nocturna, urgencia miccional, fuerza muscular de piso pélvico y calidad de vida. La intervención consistió en 10 sesiones de 45 minutos, 2 veces por semana. Se aplicó un protocolo que comprende: entrena- miento muscular de piso pélvico y biofeedback, neuromodulación tibial posterior y reeducación vesical mediante calendario miccional y láminas educativas. La mediana de edad de las pacientes fue 54.5 años y la media de seguimiento fue 11.77 meses. Completaron las 10 sesiones programadas el 80 por ciento de las pacientes. Existió una mejoría significativa entre el basal y el control inmediato a la intervención en las siguientes variables: incontinencia de esfuerzo, score de urgencia, frecuencia miccional diurna y nocturna, fuerza muscular y calidad de vida. Esta tendencia se mantiene al final del seguimiento para las variables frecuencia miccional diurna, frecuencia miccional nocturna y la calidad de vida. El único parámetro que mantuvo su significancia estadística en el seguimiento a mediano plazo fue la frecuencia miccional diurna. Esto no ocurrió con los parámetros frecuencia miccional nocturna y calidad de vida. La rehabilitación integral del piso pélvico es una herramienta eficiente en el tratamiento del SVH, mejorando significativamente parámetros como urgencia, frecuencia miccional diurna y nocturna, fuerza de los músculos elevadores del ano.

The aim of this paper is to present medium term results of a cohort of women with overactive bladder syndrome (SVH) treated with a protocol of pelvic floor rehabilitation in a private Kinesiology office. A cohort of 20 women referred to the Pelvic Floor unit of IDG Medical Center due to diagnosis of SVH between March 2010 and March 2012 was evaluated. The evaluations were performed at enrollment, at the end of intervention and 5-12 months after having completed the intervention. Evaluated variables were: daytime and nighttime urinary frequency, urinary urgency, pelvic floor muscle strength and quality of life. The intervention consisted of 10 sessions of 45 minutes, 2 times a week. Using muscular workout, pelvic floor biofeedback, posterior tibial neuromodulation and bladder voiding re-education through educational micturition calendar. The median age of patients was 54.5 years and the mean follow-up was 11.77 months. 80 percent of patients completed the 10 sessions as scheduled. There was a significant improvement between baseline and immediate intervention in the following control variables: stress incontinence, urgency score, daytime and nighttime urinary frequency, muscle strength and quality of life. This trend is maintained at follow-up variables for daytime frequency, nighttime frequency and quality of life. The only parameter that maintained its statistical significance in the midterm follow-up was daytime voiding frequency. This did not happen with the parameters nocturnal voiding frequency and quality of life. The comprehensive rehabilitation of the pelvic floor is an efficient tool in the treatment of SVH, significantly improving parameters such as urgency, daytime and nighttime urinary frequency, strength of the levator any muscles and quality of life.

Anatomical and functional characteristics of the pelvic floor in nulliparous women submitted to three-dimensional endovaginal ultrasonography: case control study and evaluation of interobserver agreement / Características anatômicas e funcionais do assoalho pélvico em nulíparas avaliadas por ultrassonografia tridimensional endovaginal: estudo caso-controle e avaliação da confiabilidade interobservador

PURPOSE: To determine anatomical and functional pelvic floor measurements performed with three-dimensional (3-D) endovaginal ultrasonography in asymptomatic nulliparous women without dysfunctions detected in previous dynamic 3-D anorectal ultrasonography (echo defecography) and to demonstrate the interobserver reliability of these measurements. METHODS: Asymptomatic nulliparous volunteers were submitted to echo defecography to identify dynamic dysfunctions, including anatomical (rectocele, intussusceptions, entero/sigmoidocele and perineal descent) and functional changes (non-relaxation or paradoxical contraction of the puborectalis muscle) in the posterior compartment and assessed with regard to the biometric index of levator hiatus, pubovisceral muscle thickness, urethral length, anorectal angle, anorectal junction position and bladder neck position with the 3-D endovaginal ultrasonography. All measurements were compared at rest and during the Valsalva maneuver, and perineal and bladder neck descent was determined. The level of interobserver agreement was evaluated for all measurements. RESULTS: A total of 34 volunteers were assessed by echo defecography and by 3-D endovaginal ultrasonography. Out of these, 20 subjects met the inclusion criteria. The 14 excluded subjects were found to have posterior dynamic dysfunctions. During the Valsalva maneuver, the hiatal area was significantly larger, the urethra was significantly shorter and the anorectal angle was greater. Measurements at rest and during the Valsalva maneuver differed significantly with regard to anorectal junction and bladder neck position. The mean values for normal perineal descent and bladder neck descent were 0.6 cm and 0.5 cm above the symphysis pubis, respectively. The intraclass correlation coefficient ranged from 0.62-0.93. CONCLUSIONS: Functional biometric indexes, normal perineal descent and bladder neck descent values were determined for young asymptomatic nulliparous women with the 3-D endovaginal ultrasonography. The method was found to be reliable to measure pelvic floor structures at rest and during Valsalva, and might therefore be suitable for identifying dysfunctions in symptomatic patients.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar as medidas anatômicas e funcionais do assoalho pélvico utilizando a ultrassonografia tridimensional transvaginal em nulíparas assintomáticas sem disfunções do compartimento posterior evidenciado pela ecodefecografia. Demonstrar o grau de concordância entre observadores do método utilizado para medir as estruturas anatômicas. MÉTODOS: Voluntárias nulíparas assintomáticas foram submetidas à ecodefecografia para identificar alterações dinâmicas no compartimento posterior, incluindo aquelas anatômicas (retocele, intussuscepção, entero/sigmoidocele e descenso perineal) e funcionais (ausência de relaxamento ou contração paradoxal do puborretal) e avaliadas com ultrassonografia tridimensional transvaginal para determinar índices biométricos do hiato dos elevadores do ânus, espessura do músculo pubovisceral, comprimento da uretra, ângulo anorretal, posição da junção anorretal e posição do colo vesical. Todas as medidas foram comparadas em repouso e durante Valsalva; e determinado descenso perineal e do colo da bexiga. A variabilidade interobservador foi avaliada utilizando o coeficiente de correlação intraclasse. RESULTADOS: Foram avaliadas 34 voluntárias com a ecodefecografia e a ultrassonografia tridimensional transvaginal. Dessas, 20 foram incluídas no estudo. As 14 excluídas apresentavam alterações dinâmicas no compartimento posterior. Durante a manobra de Valsalva, a área hiatal foi significativamente maior. A uretra foi significantemente mais curta e o ângulo anorretal foi maior. Medidas em repouso e durante a Valsalva diferiram significativamente em relação à posição da junção anorretal e do colo vesical. A média de valor do descenso perineal e do descenso da bexiga foram de 0,6 cm e 0,5 cm acima da sínfise púbica, respectivamente. O coeficiente de correlação intraclasse variou entre 0,62-0,93. CONCLUSÕES: Foram determinados valores normais para os índices biométricos funcionais, descida perineal e colo vesical em nulíparas assintomáticas utilizando-se a ultrassonografia transvaginal tridimensional. É um método seguro para mensurar a anatomia do assoalho pélvico durante o repouso e a manobra de Valsalva, e pode ser adequado para a identificação de disfunções em pacientes sintomáticos.

Pelvic floor electrophysiology patterns associated with faecal incontinence

Pelvic floor electrophysiological tests are essential for assessment of patients with faecal incontinence. The present study was conducted to determine the patterns of pelvic floor electrophysiology that are associated with faecal incontinence. The present study included 40 patients with faecal incontinence and 20 apparently healthy subjects as a control group. All patients were subjected to history taking, clinical examination, proctosigmoidoscopy, anal manometry and electrophysiological studies. Electrophysiological studies included pudendal nerve motor conduction study, pudendo-anal reflex, needle electromyography of the external anal sphincter and puborectalis muscles, pudendal somatosensory evoked potential and tibial somatosensory evoked potential. The control group was subjected to electrophysiological studies which include pudendal nerve motor conduction study, pudendo anal reflex, pudendal somatosensory evoked potential and tibial somatosensory evoked potential. The most common pelvic floor electrodiagnostic pattern characteristic of faecal incontinence was pudendal neuropathy, abnormal pudendo-anal reflex, denervation of the external anal sphincter and puborectalis at rest, incomplete interference pattern of the external anal sphincter and puborectalis at squeezing and cough and a localized defect in the external anal sphincter. There were characteristic pelvic floor electrodiagnostic patterns for faecal incontinence

Comparison of active and passive forces of the pelvic floor muscles in women with and without stress urinary incontinence / Comparação das forças ativa e passiva dos músculos do assoalho pélvico de mulheres com e sem incontinência urinária de estresse

BACKGROUND: The reduction of the pelvic floor muscles (PFM) strength is a major cause of stress urinary incontinence (SUI). OBJECTIVES: To compare active and passive forces, and vaginal cavity aperture in continent and stress urinary incontinent women. METHODS: The study included a total of thirty-two women, sixteen continent women (group 1 - G1) and sixteen women with SUI (group 2 - G2). To evaluate PFM passive and active forces in anteroposterior (sagittal plane) and left-right directions (frontal plane) a stainless steel specular dynamometer was used. RESULTS: The anteroposterior active strength for the continent women (mean±standard deviation) (0.3±0.2 N) was greater compared to the values found in the evaluation of incontinent women (0.1±0.1 N). The left-right active strength (G1=0.43±0.1 N; G2=0.40±0.1 N), the passive force (G1=1.1±0.2 N; G2=1.1±0.3 N) and the vaginal cavity aperture (G1=21±3 mm; G2=24±4 mm) did not differ between groups 1 and 2. CONCLUSION: The function evaluation of PFM showed that women with SUI had a lower anteroposterior active strength compared to continent women.

CONTEXTUALIZAÇÃO: A redução da força dos músculos do assoalho pélvico (MAP) é a maior causa da incontinência urinária de estresse (IUE). OBJETIVO: Comparar as forças ativa e passiva e a abertura da cavidade vaginal em mulheres continentes e com IUE. MÉTODOS: O estudo incluiu um total de 32 mulheres, 16 mulheres continentes (grupo 1 - G1) e 16 mulheres com IUE (grupo 2 - G2). Um espéculo dinamométrico de aço inoxidável foi usado para avaliar as forças ativa e passiva dos MAP nas direções ântero-posterior (plano sagital) e látero-lateral (plano frontal). RESULTADOS: A força ativa ântero-posterior nas mulheres continentes (0,3±0,2 N) foi maior que nas mulheres com IUE (0,1±0,1 N). Não houve diferença entre o G1 e o G2 nos valores de força ativa látero-lateral (G1=0,43±0,1 N; G2=0,40±0,1 N), força passiva (G1=1,1±0,2 N; G2=1,1±0,3 N) e abertura da cavidade vaginal (G1=21±3 mm; G2=24±4 mm). CONCLUSÃO: A avaliação da função dos MAP mostrou que mulheres com IUE tiveram uma menor força ativa ântero-posterior quando comparadas com as mulheres continentes.

El impacto de la resonancia magnética dinámica en el diagnostico de las disfunciones del piso pélvico / Impact of dynamic magnetic resonance in the diagnosis of pelvic floor dysfunctions

Introducción: La Resonancia Magnética Dinámica del Piso Pelviano (RMDPP) es un estudio diagnóstico que permite la evaluación dinámica y/o estática de todos los compartimentos de la pelvis (anterior, medio y posterior) en un solo estudio. Material y Método: Se presenta una serie prospectiva y consecutiva de 223 pacientes evaluados en el periodo comprendido entre abril de 2005 y Junio de 2011. Resultados: Del total de 223 pacientes 5 (2.3%) fueron del sexo masculino y 218 (97.7%) del sexo femenino. Cuatro casos normales (para estandarizar el procedimiento), 20 controles post operatorios y un paciente con una fistula colo - vesical, fueron excluidos de la serie a analizar. La coexistencia de patología en los distintos sectores del piso pelviano, mas frecuente en el sexo femenino, hace necesario su confirmación diagnóstica a fin implementar terapéuticas adecuadas en un solo tiempo quirúrgico. Ciento noventa y seis pacientes padecían un síndrome de obstrucción de tracto de salida (SOTS) y dos dolores perineales crónicos. Ciento veintiocho (64,6%) presentaron rectocele anterior de los cuales en 25 (12.6%) fue el único hallazgo. En 152 pacientes se constataron alteraciones de otras estructuras anatómicas abdomino-pelvianas que no habían sido sospechadas o comprobadas durante el examen fisico. Discusión: Es un estudio que no expone al paciente a radiaciones ionizante y brinda datos anatómicos y funcionales. Mediante la obtención de imágenes multiplanares se visualizan con detalle los órganos contenidos en la pelvis y la musculatura del piso pelviano, no siempre accesibles al examen físico. La RMDPP es hoy en día, el estudio más indicado para evaluar las disfunciones del piso pelviano...

Background: Dynamic magnetic resonance imaging of the pelvic floor (DMRPP) is a complementary diagnostic tool that allows dynamic and/or static assessment of all compartments of the pelvis (anterior, middle and posterior) in a single study. Method: We present a prospective and consecutive series of 223 patients evaluated between the period April 2005 and June 2011. Results: Of the total of 223 patients 5 (2.3%) were male and 218 (97.7%) females. Four normal cases (to standardize the procedure), 20 post-operative evaluation and one patient with a sigmoid- bladder fistula, were excluded from the analyzed series. The coexistence of pathology in different parts of the pelvic floor, more often in women, diagnostic confirmation is necessary to implement appropriate treatment in a single surgical session. One hundred ninety six patients had symptoms from an obstructive outlet syndrome (ODS) and two complained of chronic perineal pain. In 128 (64.6%) patients an anterior rectocele was confirmed. Only in 25 (12.6%) was the single finding. In 152 patients, other abdomino-pelvic anatomical dislocations were found that had not been suspected or found during physical examination. Discussion: DMRPP is a study that does not exposes patients to ionizing radiation and provides anatomical and functional data. Using multiplanar imaging, the organs in the pelvis and pelvic floor muscles are displayed in detail not always accessible to physical examination. The DMRPP is today an appropriate study to evaluate pelvic floor dysfunction, confirms presumptive diagnosis and quantify the incidence of dislocation of organs such as bladder, bowel and/or colon, uterus and vagina, influencing on intestinal voiding dynamics, as well as inadequate muscle relaxation such as: the puborectalis and/or anal sphincter. Conclusion: With DMRPP we have gained a comprehensive view of the pelvic floor enabling more rational treatments of pelvic floor dysfunctions...