Assessment of pelvic floor dysfunctions using dynamic magnetic resonance imaging

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to assess pelvic floor dysfunction using dynamic MRI. Material and methodsA prospective study was carried out on 21 consecutive patients presented during February 2013 to June 2013 with pelvic pain, difficulty in defecation, constipation or organ prolapse. Pelvic floor was imaged using T2-weighted and fast imaging employing steady-state acquisition sequences. Pubococcygeal line was used as the line of reference which further allowed measurement of width and vertical descent of levator hiatus. Anorectal angle was measured to assess relaxation and contraction of puborectalis muscle. Grading of prolapse was classified as mild, moderate and severe. All data were recorded both in resting and during straining phase. ResultsA total of 21 patients were studied, with a mean age of 37.3 (9.4) years with 15 (71.4%) females and 6 (21%) males. Dynamic MR revealed cystocele and rectocele in 7 (33.3%) patients, each. Three (14.28%) patients had enteroceles and spastic pelvic syndrome, each. Only one patient (4.76%) had descending perineal syndrome. Intussusception was observed in 10 (47.6%) patients with commonest type being intra rectal seen in 7 (33.3%) patients. ConclusionDynamic MRI is an ideal, non invasive technique which does not require patient preparation for evaluation of pelvic floor. It acts as one stop shop for diagnosing single or multiple pelvic compartment involvement in patients with pelvic floor dysfunction.