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Published in: International Urogynecology Journal 8/2011

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.
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Metadata
Title
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
Publication date
01-08-2011
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
International Urogynecology Journal / Issue 8/2011
Print ISSN: 0937-3462
Electronic ISSN: 1433-3023
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-011-1413-4

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