Published in:
01-08-2011 | Original Article
Tridimensional sonographic anatomical changes on pelvic floor muscle according to the type of delivery
Authors:
Jordi Cassadó Garriga, Antoni Pessarrodona Isern, Montserrat Espuña Pons, Montserrat Durán Retamal, Anna Felgueroso Fabregas, Monica Rodriguez-Carballeira
Published in:
International Urogynecology Journal
|
Issue 8/2011
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Abstract
Introduction and hypothesis
The aim of the study was to evaluate the association of avulsion and postnatal hiatal dimensions with delivery mode. These anatomical changes on pelvic floor muscle may be assessed by 3–4D ultrasonography.
Methods
This is a prospective observational study that included 164 women: 20 nulliparous, 20 primigravid, and 124 postpartum women (62 at 1 month, 62 at 9 months postpartum). We performed an introital 3–4D ultrasonography to assess levator ani muscle's integrity, levator hiatal area at rest, on Valsalva, and on contraction.
Results
Levator ani avulsion was diagnosed in 59.5% of forceps deliveries. There were no statistically significant differences in postnatal hiatal dimensions between normal vaginal deliveries at 9 months postpartum and nulligravid. Levator hiatal area was significantly higher after forceps delivery.
Conclusion
Low incidence of levator avulsion takes place in normal vaginal deliveries. However, forceps delivery is the riskiest type of delivery for pelvic floor pathology and its recovery.