Use of Ultrasound Imaging in Pelvic Organ Prolapse: an Overview

Abstract
Pelvic floor ultrasonography has emerged as a procedure that is accurate, easy to perform, cost-effective, and widely available. Numerous studies have been published that demonstrate its potential applications in the assessment of pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Despite the current lack of standardization of techniques and validation studies, use of ultrasound holds promise for aiding the clinician in making surgical decisions and understanding causes of operative failures in POP. Three-dimensional and four-dimensional transperineal and endovaginal ultrasound (3D/4D-TPUS and EVUS) can provide detailed visualization of pelvic floor muscles and soft tissues. Real-time imaging capabilities also allow functional pelvic floor assessment during dynamic maneuvers such as Valsalva or muscle contraction. We provide in this report up-to-date information on the use of ultrasound imaging in POP. Special attention is given to the study of levator ani muscle (LAM) morphology and functionality, which is believed to play an essential role in pelvic organ support.

Source: Current Obstetrics and Gynecology Reports - April 11, 2015 Category: OBGYN Source Type: research