Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification Use in the Literature

Abstract

This study aimed to determine whether the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POPQ) system should be simplified based on its use in the peer-reviewed literature. The American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and International Urogynecology Journal were used for this study. All articles relating to pelvic organ prolapse published in these journals from January 2005 to December 2010 were reviewed for their use of the POPQ system. The POPQ points described in the Materials and/or Results sections of these articles were recorded. Two hundred eighty-three articles using the POPQ system were identified. One hundred thirty-two (47%) articles used the POPQ system but only to determine the stage of prolapse. Specific points were not mentioned. One hundred two (36%) articles evaluated specific POPQ points (Aa, Ba, Ap, Bp, C, D). Forty-nine (17%) articles evaluated points Gh, Pb, and Tvl. The POPQ system, based on its use in the peer-reviewed literature, may need revisions. An abbreviated version of the system may be considered, allowing for more widespread use.