Pelvic floor parameters predict postpartum stress urinary incontinence: a prospective MRI study

ConclusionsIncreased retrovesicourethral angle, shortened functional urethral length, and the presence of bladder funnel may be anatomical predictors for SUI in the early postpartum period. Urethral sphincter dysfunction plays an essential role in developing postpartum SUI.Critical relevance statementThis study used several measurements to reflect the anatomical structure and functional changes of the pelvic floor to identify the best anatomical predictors associated with postpartum stress urinary incontinence (SUI), aiming to provide new insights into treatment strategies for postpartum SUI.Key points• Increased retrovesicourethral angle, shortened functional urethral length, and the presence of bladder funnel are more commonly seen in primiparas with SUI.• The combination of retrovesicourethral angle, functional urethral length, and bladder funnel had the highest diagnostic performance in predicting postpartum SUI (AUC=0.947).• Urethral sphincter dysfunction may be the main pathophysiological foundation in SUI development.Graphical Abstract
Source: Insights into Imaging - Category: Radiology Source Type: research