Dynamic assessment of pelvic floor function in women using the intravaginal device test.

Abstract

The aim of the study was to assess pelvic floor function and dysfunction using intravaginal devices (IVD test). One hundred and eighty-five patients were evaluated, 65 (35.1%) in the control group without genital prolapse and 120 (64.9%) in the study group, with prolapse. Anatomic changes were evaluated on a scale described by Halban, and functional classification based on palpation of the muscles of the pelvic floor during contraction. Additionally, weighted vaginal devices were used to assess pelvic floor function. Statistic analysis was performed with the Spearman-Pearson correlation coefficient, the chi2 test and the response/operator characteristic curve. There was an acceptable correlation between the IVD test and the functional classification of 0.75. Using this classification, the IVD test showed 86.58% sensitivity, 75.72% specificity, and had a positive predictive value of 73.95% and a negative predictive value of 87.64%. Significant differences between pelvic floor muscle activity in those patients with and without genital prolapse were observed (chi2 = 58.28, P=<0.005). It was concluded that pelvic floor assessment can be done through the evaluation of active muscle strength or pelvic floor integrity using the functional classification and the IVD test.