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Open Access 01-04-2022 | Computed Tomography | Original Article

Normal width of the linea alba, prevalence, and risk factors for diastasis recti abdominis in adults, a cross-sectional study

Authors: R. L. Kaufmann, C. S. Reiner, U. A. Dietz, P. A. Clavien, R. Vonlanthen, S. A. Käser

Published in: Hernia | Issue 2/2022

Abstract

Aim

The prevalence and definition of diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) is under debate. This retrospective cross-sectional study evaluated the interrectal distance and the prevalence of DRA in computed tomography (CT) in an asymptomatic population.

Materials and methods

Patients undergoing CT scans for suspected appendicitis or kidney stones from 01/2016 to 12/2018 were screened retrospectively to participate. A study population with equal distribution according to gender and age (18–90 years) was generated (n = 329 patients) and the interrectal distance was measured at six reference points.

Results

DRA (defined as > 2 cm at 3 cm above the umbilicus) was present in 57% of the population. The 80th percentile of the interrectal distance was 10 mm at the xiphoid (median 3 mm, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0–19 mm), 27 mm halfway from xiphoid to umbilicus (median 17 mm, 95% CI 0–39 mm), 34 mm at 3 cm above the umbilicus (median 22 mm, 95% CI 0–50 mm), 32 mm at the umbilicus (median 25 mm, 95% CI 0–45 mm), 25 mm at 2 cm below the umbilicus (median 14 mm, 95% CI 0–39 mm), and 4 mm halfway from umbilicus to pubic symphysis (median 0 mm, 95% CI 0–19 mm). In the multivariate analysis, higher age (p = 0.001), increased body mass index (p < 0.001), and parity (p < 0.037) were independent risk factors for DRA, while split xiphoid, tobacco abuse, and umbilical hernia were not.

Conclusion

The prevalence of DRA is much higher than commonly estimated (57%). The IRD 3 cm above the umbilicus may be considered normal up to 34 mm. To avoid over-treatment, the definition of DRA should be revised.

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Title: Normal width of the linea alba, prevalence, and risk factors for diastasis recti abdominis in adults, a cross-sectional study
Authors: R. L. Kaufmann
C. S. Reiner
U. A. Dietz
P. A. Clavien
R. Vonlanthen
S. A. Käser
Publication date: 01-04-2022
Publisher: Springer Paris
Keywords: Computed Tomography
Computed Tomography
Diastasis Recti
Published in: Hernia / Issue 2/2022
Print ISSN: 1265-4906
Electronic ISSN: 1248-9204
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10029-021-02493-7

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Normal width of the linea alba, prevalence, and risk factors for diastasis recti abdominis in adults, a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Aim

Materials and methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Aim

Materials and methods

Results

Conclusion

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