PFIQ-7 Scores Research Articles

Telehealth is effective for pelvic health physical therapy.

Telehealth utilization, largely spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic, has become popular due to convenience and access. We assessed the effectiveness of telehealth for delivering pelvic health physical therapy (PHPT) in patients with pelvic floor disorders (PFD). In this IRB approved, cross-sectional study, 812 patients who underwent PHPT treatment by telehealth or in combination with in-person visits were surveyed. Post intervention effectiveness was analyzed using Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC) and short form Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire (PFIQ-7). One hundred and forty-one patients, 80% female, mean (SD) age of 52 (17) completed the study. The mean number of encounters was 4.55 (4.25) with 2.81 (2.08) telehealth visits. A total of 42 (30%) patients reported no change/worse, 27 (19%) minimal, and 72 (51%) moderate/much improvement of symptoms consistent with a lower PFIQ-7 scores. Patients who reported improvement were significantly younger (p < 0.002). Age was the only independent factor that could predict response to PHPT. Patients <50 years old reported significantly more symptom improvement (p < 0.02), symptom resolution (p < 0.002), meeting personal goals (p < 0.0001), improved muscle strength, coordination, and relaxation (p < 0.05), greater satisfaction with bowel movements, and less negative impact of bowel on quality of life (p < 0.005) than older patients. Regardless of age, 89 (64%) patients preferred hybrid telehealth visits. Utilizing telehealth alone or in a hybrid format combined with in-person visits for PHPT appears to be preferred by patients and associated with subjective report of improvement of symptoms. However, efficacy of telehealth interventions in older adults warrants further studies.

Health-Related Quality of Life and Psychosocial Variables in Women with Colorectal Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Pelvic floor dysfunction comprises various disorders, including urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and chronic pelvic pain. This study aimed to evaluate health-related quality of life (HRQoL), anxiety, depression, sleep disturbance, and sexual functioning in women with pelvic floor dysfunction of colorectal etiology compared with control women. Patients were recruited from a specialized colorectal unit and controls were selected from among the patients' friends and relatives. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected. Pelvic floor dysfunction distress and impact, HRQoL, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and sexual functioning were assessed using the following validated questionnaires: Short-Form Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI-20), Short Form Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire (PFIQ-7), 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36), Beck Depression Inventory II (BDI-II), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), and Changes in Sexual Functioning Scale (CSFQ). Statistical analyses included Welch's t-test, Fisher's exact test, and Spearman's correlation coefficients. Eighty-four patients and 57 controls were included. Compared with controls, patients were more likely to be obese or overweight, have had higher numbers of deliveries, more vaginal deliveries, more frequent use of forceps, and have had more associated comorbidities, mainly in the urinary, neurological, and psychiatric domains. As expected, patients scored significantly higher than controls on both the PFDI-20 and PFIQ-7 and their respective sub-scales, with the highest mean values in the patient group on the sub-scales related to the colorectal-anal domain. QoL, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and sexual functioning were significantly worse in patients than in controls (p < 0.0001 in every case). In patients, PFIQ-7 scores correlated significantly with HRQoL (p < 0.001 for the physical component and p < 0.01 for the mental component), depression (p < 0.001), anxiety (p < 0.001), insomnia (p < 0.05), and sexual functioning scores (p < 0.05). Colorectal pelvic floor dysfunction had a markedly deleterious impact on the HRQoL, depression, anxiety, sleep disturbance, and sexual functioning of patients. It is concluded that colorectal pelvic floor dysfunction exerts a considerable burden on patients' lives. Addressing these issues in clinical settings could significantly improve patients' well-being.

Comparison of efficacy between laparoscopic pectopexy and laparoscopic high uterosacral ligament suspension in the treatment of apical prolapse-short term results

To compare the clinical efficacy of laparoscopic pectopexy and laparoscopic high uterosacral ligament suspension in women suffering from apical prolapse. The clinical data of 170 patients with apical prolapse (POP-Q score ≥ II) treated in the Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from January 2018 to July 2020 were retrospectively analyzed to assess the clinical efficacy of three surgical methods [laparoscopic pectopexy with uterine preservation, laparoscopic pectopexy with hysterectomy, laparoscopic high uterosacral ligament suspension (LHUSLS) with hysterectomy]. Patients were divided into three groups depending on Surgical methods: laparoscopic uterine pectopexy group (n = 23), laparoscopic pectopexy with hysterectomy group (n = 78) and LHUSLS with hysterectomy group (n = 69). The POP-Q points before and after operation were analyzed. The operation-related indices, perioperative periods and post-operative complications were compared. 1. The operation time of laparoscopic uterine pectopexy group was the shortest (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the incidence of apical prolapse and new stress urinary incontinence among the three groups during the follow-up period (p > 0.05). 2. The POP-Q points (Aa, Ba, C) in the three groups were better than those before operation (p < 0.05). Laparoscopic pectopexy with hysterectomy group had better Ap, Bp and C points and a longer TVL than LHUSLS with hysterectomy group (p < 0.05). 3. The postoperative PFDI-20, PFIQ-7 and PISQ-12 scores of the three groups were significantly improved than those before operation (p < 0.05). The PISQ-12 scores in laparoscopic uterine pectopexy group were significantly higher than that in the other two groups one year after operation (p < 0.05). The study concludes that laparoscopic pectopexy and LHUSLS can significantly improve the quality of life and sexual function for patients with apical prolapse. One year after operation, laparoscopic pectopexy has a more satisfactory anatomical reduction than LHUSLS with hysterectomy. The laparoscopic uterine pectopexy group had lower postoperative complications and better sexual function than that with hysterectomy group. Laparoscopic pectopexy should be used for the treatment of apical prolapse (POP-Q score ≥ II) patients who aim to better clinical efficacy and sexual function improvement.

Quality-of-life improvements in patients after various surgical treatments for pelvic organ prolapse.

To compare the improvements in quality of life of patients with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) treated using various surgical methods. The PUBMED, MEDLINE and Cochrane Library online databases were searched using the keywords "pelvic organ prolapse", "surgery", "PFDI-20" and "PFIQ-7" for articles published from January 2010 to December 2022 that included quality-of-life scores before and after surgery. Forty-nine articles were include. The mean postoperative PFDI-20 and PFIQ-7 scores decreased by 67.50% and 76.98%, respectively, compared with those before surgery. In 76.9% of patients, this change did not decrease with increased postoperative time. The improvement rate in PFDI-20 scores after colpocleisis did not differ statistically from that after sacrocolpopexy and was significantly higher than that after other procedures. The improvement rate in PFIQ-7 scores after colpocleisis did not statistically differ from that after high uterosacral ligament suspension and was significantly higher than that after other procedures. The improvement rate in PFDI-20 scores after transvaginal mesh-based repair (TVM) did not significantly differ from that after sacrospinous ligament fixation and was significantly lower than that after other procedures except traditional vaginal wall repair. The improvement rate in PFIQ-7 scores after TVM did not significantly differ from that after new procedures and was significantly lower than that after other procedures. Surgical treatment can significantly improve the quality of life of patients with POP. Colpocleisis may offer more advantages than those of other surgical procedures, and improvement was lower after TVM than after other procedures.

Laparoscopic pectopexy with native tissue repair for pelvic organ prolapse.

The use of mesh for vaginal repair is currently problematic; consequently, there is increased interest in native tissue repair. Combining native tissue repair with sufficient mesh-applied apical repair might provide effective treatment. We describe the study focusing on the combination of pectopexy and native tissue repair. Between April 2020 and November 2021, 49 patients with symptomatic stage III or IV were treated with laparoscopic pectopexy combined with native tissue repair. The mesh was solely used for apical repair. All other clinically relevant defects were treated with native tissue repair. The perioperative parameters including surgical time, blood loss, hospital stay, and complications were recorded. The anatomical cure rate was evaluated according to the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Questionnaire (POP-Q) assessment. Validated questionnaires of the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI-20) and the Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire (PFIQ-7) were recorded to evaluate the symptom severity and quality of life. The mean duration of follow-up was 15months. All domains of POP-Q, PFDI-20, and PFIQ-7 scores improved significantly after surgery. No major complications, mesh exposure, or mesh complication occurred during the follow-up period. The overall repair concept of laparoscopic pectopexy as the core, assisted by vaginal natural tissue repair for severe pelvic organ prolapse can achieve satisfactory clinical results and improve patient satisfaction.

Novel, disposable, self-inserted, vaginal device for the non-surgical management of pelvic organ prolapse: efficacy, safety, and quality of life

BackgroundWe evaluated a novel disposable, collapsible, ring-shaped vaginal device that is self-inserted within an applicator and removed with a string. The device was developed to overcome the drawbacks of existing ring pessaries for non-surgical pelvic organ prolapse management (POP).MethodsThe primary objective efficacy endpoint of this prospective, interventional, multicenter, self-controlled, and home-use study was the proportion of subjects with improved staging on the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POP-Q) scale. Subjective efficacy was assessed using the POP symptoms alleviation score. Safety was evaluated by recording the rate and incidence of adverse events (AEs) in a daily diary, and quality of life (QoL) was evaluated using the modified Pelvic Floor Impact (PFIQ-7) and Pelvic Floor Disability Index (PFDI-20) questionnaires.ResultsA total of 94 usage cycles were observed in a group of 52 participants (mean age 60.2 ± 10.5 years, 81.1% postmenopausal) who used the device for 3558 days. Of these, 24 participants completed one usage cycle, 14 completed two usage cycles, and 14 completed three usage cycles with 28–45 days of ProVate use in each usage cycle. All patients experienced greater than two POP-Q stage reductions. The descent was completely reduced to POP-Q stage 0 in 97.8% of participants. The POP symptom alleviation questionnaire showed significant subjective efficacy (P < 0.0001). The modified PFDI-20 and PFIQ-7 scores also improved substantially (P < 0.0001 for both). There were 91 nonserious device-related AEs: 98.9% were mild and 87.9% anticipated, with no vaginal infection, and one case of urinary tract infection.ConclusionThe novel device substantially reduces prolapse and provides significant subjective POP symptom relief and QoL improvement, with minimal AEs. The device may enable women to self-manage their prolapse with a small, disposable device that minimizes self-touching and frequent dependency on the clinic.Trial registrationClinical.Trials.gov, NCT02239133, posted September 12, 2014 (retrospectively registered).

Translation, reliability, and validity of Amharic versions of the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI-20) and Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire (PFIQ-7).

Pelvic Floor Disorders (PFDs) affects many women and have a significant impact on their quality of life. Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire (PFIQ-7) and Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI-20) help to assess PFDs; however, both are not culturally translated into the Amharic-language. Hence, we aimed to translate the English versions of short forms of the PFDI-20 and PFIQ-7 into Amharic-language and evaluate their psychometric properties in Amharic-speaking Ethiopian women with symptomatic PFDs. The PFDI-20 and PFIQ-7 were translated into Amharic language using standard procedures. The Amharic versions were completed by 197 patients (response rate 92%) with PFDs from University of Gondar specialized and comprehensive Hospital. Internal consistency and test-retest reliability were examined through Cronbach's alpha and Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). A relative criterion standard, POP-SS-7 score, was correlated with total PFDI-20 and subscale POPDI-6 scores using spearman's rank order correlation (SCC). Construct validity was evaluated by known group validity using the Mann-Whitney U test. Both instruments were successfully translated and adapted with an excellent content validity (&gt; 0.90). The Amharic versions of the PFDI-20 and PFIQ-7 showed excellent internal consistency and test-retest reliability in both summary and subscales (Cronbach's alpha: 0.92 for PFDI-20 and 0.91 for PFIQ-7; and ICC: 0.97 for PFDI-20 and 0.86 for PFIQ-7). Criterion validity was good for POPDI-6 (SCC = 0.71; p &lt; 0.001). Moreover, construct validity was acceptable, showing significant differences among groups of PFDs in the PFDI-20 and PFIQ-7 scores (Mann-Whitney U Test; p &lt; 0.001). The Amharic versions of the PFDI-20 and PFIQ-7 are comprehensible, reliable, valid, and feasible in Ethiopian Amharic-speaking women with PFDs to evaluate symptoms and its impact during research and clinical practice. However, further studies are needed to evaluate the responsiveness.

De novo pain and relief of pain after abdominal synthetic mesh implants

Introduction:This study assessed the incidence, severity and risk factors for pain after abdominal mesh usage in pelvic floor prolapse surgery. Methods:Prospective observational cohort study (NCT01598467, clinical trials.gov) performed in a tertiary referral center for patients with gynecological prolapse. Women undergoing robot-assisted sacrocolpopexy (RASC) or supracervical hysterectomy with sacrocervicopexy for the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse were​ included (2014–2018). Primary outcome was presence and degree of pre- and postoperative pain. Secondary outcomes were quality of life, dyspareunia and risk factors for postoperative pain. Pre- and postoperative interviews and validated questionnaires were used to assess pain severity and location. A Numeric rating scale (NRS; 0-10; 0 no pain and 10 highest pain score) was included in the questionnaire. ‘De novo pain’, ‘ongoing pain’ and ‘resolved pain’ were respectively described as: Pain solely present postoperatively, pain present both pre- and postoperatively and pain present preoperatively, but resolved postoperatively. The Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire (PISQ-12) and the quality of life Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire (PFIQ-7) were used. Results:115 subjects who underwent abdominal mesh implant surgery were included. Mean follow-up duration was 12.8 3.7 months. The preoperative prevalence of patient self-reported pain was 52%, postoperative self-reported pain was 24%. De novo pain was found in 4.3%. Self-reported ongoing pain was noted in 18%. In 29%of patients the pain had resolved after surgery. Preoperative pain and previous intra-abdominal surgery were identified risk factors for postoperative pain (intra-abdominal surgery OR 3.6, 95% CI 1.2-10.7; preoperative NRS pain score OR 1.4, 95% CI 1.1-1.7). Less women reported dyspareunia postoperatively (49% versus 36%). Total PFIQ-7 scores decreased significantly (Total PFIQ-7: -49) postoperatively, indicating improvement in quality of life. Conclusion:Pain is mostly reduced or resolved and less dyspareunia is reported after abdominal pelvic floor surgery with mesh implants for pelvic organ prolapse.

How Satisfied Are Women 6 Months after a Pessary Fitting for Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

Background: The non-surgical solution for Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) typically consists of a pessary fitting. We aimed to assess patient satisfaction and symptom improvement 6 months after a pessary fitting and to identify risk factors associated with pessary failure. Methods: Six months after a pessary fitting, patient satisfaction was assessed by the PGII score; symptoms and quality of life were assessed using validated questionnaires (PFDI-20, ICIQ-SF, PISQ-12, USP, and PFIQ-7). Results: Of the 190 patients included in the study (mean age of 66.7 years), 141 (74%) and 113 (59%) completed the follow-up questionnaires at 1 and 6 months, respectively. Nearly all the women were menopausal (94.6%) and 45.2% declared being sexually active at inclusion. The satisfaction rate was 84.3% and 87.4% at 1 and 6 months, respectively. The global symptom score PFDI-20 had significantly improved at 6 months. A high body mass index (RR = 1.06, CI95%: [1.02–1.09]), as well as high PFDI-20 (1.05 [1.01–1.09]), PFIQ7 (1.04 [1.01, 1.08]), and PISQ12 scores at inclusion (0.75 [0.60, 0.93]), as well as higher GH and GH/TVL measurements (1.49 [1.25–1.78] and 1.39 [1.23–1.57], respectively) were associated with pessary failure. Conclusions: Pessary seems to be an effective treatment for POP with high patient satisfaction. Higher BMI, higher symptom scores, and greater genital hiatus measurements before insertion are risk factors for failure at 6 months.

The effect evaluation of traditional vaginal surgery and transvaginal mesh surgery for severe pelvic organ prolapse: 5 years follow-up.

The objective of this study was to compare the clinical effectiveness of traditional vaginal surgery and transvaginal mesh (TVM) surgery on severe pelvic organ prolapse (POP). We performed a retrospective chart review study of 258 severe POP patients who underwent surgery between November 2010 and September 2016. One hundred forty patients underwent traditional vaginal surgery and 118 TVM surgery. The Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantitation (POP-Q) staging was used for objective evaluation. The Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory-20 (PFDI-20), Pelvic Floor Disease Life Impact Questionnaire Simplified Version-7 (PFIQ-7), and Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Incontinence Sexual Function Questionnaire (PISQ-12) were used for subjective evaluation. Their complications were also recorded. All the data were collected in the outpatient department through the follow-up at 3 months, 1, 3, and 5 years after the operation. Forty patients in the traditional vaginal surgery group and 25 in the TVM group were lost to follow-up. There was no difference in the POP-Q score between the groups (P = 0.346). The recurrence rate increased with follow-up time, reaching nearly 20% in the two groups by 5 years. The TVM group has higher PFDI-20 and PFIQ-7 scores and lower PISQ-12 scores than the traditional vaginal surgery group at six months, 1, 3, and 5 years, respectively (P < 0.001). Mesh exposure has occurred in the TVM group. Both surgeries showed similar objective satisfaction and recurrence rate. However, traditional vaginal surgery has higher subjective satisfaction than TVM in our study and does not risk exposure to prosthetic material.

Perioperative and Long-Term Anatomical and Subjective Outcomes of Laparoscopic Pectopexy and Sacrospinous Ligament Suspension for POP-Q Stages II-IV Apical Prolapse.

The aim of this paper was to analyze perioperative and long-term outcomes in 114 women undergoing surgery for POP-Q ≥ 2 apical prolapse: sacrospinous ligament colpo/hysteropexy (SSLF/SSHP)—61; laparoscopic pectopexy (LP)—53. Validated questionnaires (PGI-I, ISI, #35 EPIQ, PFIQ-7, PFDI-20) were completed at baseline and follow-up. POP-Q stages II, III and IV were diagnosed in 1 (0.9%), 84 (73.7%) and 29 (25.4%) patients, respectively. Mean operative time and hospital stay were 151.8 ± 36.2 min/2.6 ± 1.1 days for LP and 69 ± 20.4 min (p < 0.001)/2.7 ± 1.0 days for SSLF. Severe intraoperative complications occurred in two (1.8%) patients. Mean follow-up was 26.9 ± 12 and 37.3 ± 17.5 months for LP and SSLF, respectively. At follow-up, significant improvement for all POP-Q points was observed in both groups (p < 0.001). Shortening of total vaginal length was found in both groups, but predominantly in SSLF patients (p = 0.01). The sensation of vaginal bulge (EPIQ) was reduced, and total PFDI-20 and PFIQ-7 scores improved (p < 0.04) in both groups. Subjective success was reported by 40 (75.5%) LP and 44 (72.1%) SSLF patients. ISI detected no deterioration in urinary incontinence. PGI-I, PFDI-20, #35 EPIQ, PFIQ-7 and ISI did not differ between the groups. In conclusion both, SSLF and LP for apical prolapse generate good anatomical and subjective outcomes, with protective effect on the anterior compartment observed for LP.

Long-term development of surgical outcome of laparoscopic sacrohysteropexy with anterior and posterior mesh extension.

Long-term durability and functional outcome of laparoscopic sacrohysteropexy (LSH) remains to be confirmed. We set out to assess the development of surgical outcome in women with increasing minimal follow-up. All women after LSH with anterior and posterior mesh extension operated for advanced apical uterine prolapse at Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire clinic from July 2005 to June 2020 were enrolled in this retrospective study. Last known follow-up information was used for the analysis and allocation into groups. The surgical success was defined as no prolapse beyond hymen, no symptomatic recurrence or no retreatment. Functional outcome was evaluated from validated questionnaires and presence of pelvic floor disorders. The outcomes were compared with preoperative state using chi-square and Fisher's test; p < 0.05 was considered significant. In total, 270 patients after LSH with a follow-up of up to 14.5years were enrolled and divided into groups according to their last follow-up length: ≥ 1 year 242, ≥ 3 years 112, ≥ 5years 76, ≥ 7years 45 and ≥ 10 years 18 women. Increase of minimal follow-up was associated with gradual decrease in surgical success. Rates of stress urinary incontinence were unchanged by the surgery, while anal incontinence and constipation rates decreased significantly; 14.5% of women were operated on for SUI in the follow-up. The PFDI-20, PFIQ-7 and VAS bother scores decreased significantly regardless of minimal follow-up length. LSH with anterior and posterior mesh extension is a safe, effective and durable surgery with a positive long-term effect on quality of life. Although the surgical success gradually decreases, LSH remains a surgical success in most women.

Robot-assisted sacrocolpopexy: not only for vaginal vault suspension? An observational cohort study

Introduction and hypothesisSurgery for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) has high recurrence rates. Long-term anatomical and patient-reported outcomes after pelvic floor repair are therefore required.MethodsThis prospective observational cohort study was conducted in a teaching hospital with tertiary referral function for patients with POP. Patients with symptomatic vaginal vault or uterine prolapse (simplified POP Quantification [sPOPQ] stage ≥2), who underwent robot-assisted sacrocolpopexy (RASC) or supracervical hysterectomy with sacrocervicopexy (RSHS), were included. Follow-up visits with sPOPQ evaluations were planned 4 years after surgery. Patients received pre- and postoperative questionnaires reporting symptoms of vaginal bulge, Urogenital Distress Inventory (UDI-6), and Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire (PFIQ-7). Primary outcome was patient self-reported symptoms. Secondary outcome was anatomical cure (sPOPQ stage 1) for all vaginal compartments.ResultsSeventy-seven patients were included. Sixty-one patients (79%) were evaluated after 50 months (physical examination n = 51). Symptoms of bulge (95% vs 15% p ˂ 0.0005), median UDI-6 scores (26.7 vs 22.2, p = 0.048), median PFIQ-7 scores (60.0 vs 0, p = 0.008), and median sPOPQ stages in all landmarks improved significantly from the pre- to the postoperative visit. Thirty patients (59%) were completely recurrence free and 96% of patients had no apical recurrence. Most recurrences were asymptomatic cystoceles (20%). There was one surgical re-intervention for recurrent prolapse (1.6%).ConclusionsRobot-assisted sacrocolpopexy and RSHS show sustainable results in the treatment of prolapse. Symptoms of bulge, urinary symptoms, and quality of life improved substantially 50 months postoperatively. Patients should be counseled about the risk of anterior wall recurrence and the small chance of recurrent symptoms that need treatment.

An alternative technique in surgical correction of anterior compartment prolapse; Iliococcygeal fixation of the pubocervical fascia by native tissue repair

AimTo present ‘bilateral iliococcygeal fixation of the pubocervical fascia’ as an alternative vaginal surgical technique for anterior compartment repair with native tissue and the surgical outcomes of 30 cases. Materials-MethodsThe consecutive 30 cases who admitted to urogynecology clinic with anterior vaginal prolapse/cystocele and underwent anterior compartment repair by bilateral iliococcgeal fixation of the pubocervical fascia by native tissue were included to the study. All cases attended to the postoperative follow-up visits at the sixth and the twelfth months. ResultsThere were no major or minor intraoperative complications. Overall, in 28 (93.3 %) patients surgical success was achieved at the postoperative 12th month when it was defined as the maximum descent of the anterior segment was proximal to the hymen. During the study period, none of the patients requested or admitted for re-treatment for anterior compartment prolapse. Subjective cure that was assessed by the absence of bulge symptoms was achieved in 29 cases (96.7 %) at first year follow-up. Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) were found to be significantly lower at the first-year postoperative visit compared to pre-operative evaluation. A clinically significant improvement in the quality of life parameters were also noted (mean PFIQ-7 scores = 8.5, 5.6 and 50.8, respectively). ConclusionBilateral iliococcygeal fixation of the pubocervical fascia seems to be effective in surgical correction of anterior vaginal prolapse according to our post-operative follow-up results. It is an easy to learn procedure with low complication rates and associated with high patient satisfaction.

Investigation of the relationship between the pelvic floor and sexual dysfunction in women with Sjögren's syndrome.

Women with Sjögren's syndrome (SS) may have sexual dysfunctions due to vaginal dryness and may also have pelvic floor problems. The aim of this study was to examine the pelvic floor distress of women with SS with a self-reported questionnaire, to compare this group with healthy individuals, and to examine the relationship between pelvic floor problems and sexual dysfunction. The study included 94 women with SS, aged 47.26±7.56years, and 94 age-matched healthy women, aged 48.15±8.73years. The Pelvic Floor Disease Inventory (PFDI-20), Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire (PFIQ-7), and Female Sexual Function Scale (FSFI) were used for assessment. The PFDI-20, PFIQ-7, and FSFI scores of the healthy control group were found to be statistically significantly better than those of the primary SS group (Z=-2.69 to -8.03, P=.00). A moderate-high correlation was found between the total and sub-parameters of PFDI-20 and disease duration, the total and sub-parameters of the PFIQ-7 and the pain sub-parameter and total score of the FSFI (r=-0.66 to 0.78, P=.00-.04). According to the study results, as the disease duration increases, the distress increases and this distress has a negative effect on the health-related quality of life of these women. Pelvic floor distress was associated with poor sexual function and pain. From these results, it can be recommended that the methods of pharmacology, education, exercise, relaxation, lifestyle change, and so on for pelvic floor dysfunction and pain in women with SS should be applied together with a multidisciplinary approach.

Long-term outcomes of pelvic organ prolapse repair using a mesh-capturing device when comparing single- versus multicenter use

PurposeThe aim of this study was to compare long-term effects of high-volume surgery at a single-center to multicenter use when using a mesh-capturing device for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) repair.MethodsFive years after surgery 101 (88%) at the single center were compared with 164 (81.2%) in the multicenter trial. Outcome measurements included clinical examination, prolapse-specific symptom questionnaires [Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory 20 (PFDI-20), Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire—short form (PFIQ-7), Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire (PISQ-12)] and pain estimation by VAS (0–10).ResultsOptimal apical segment outcome was 95% in the single- compared to 83.3% in the multicenter study (p < 0.001). POP recurrence in the anterior and posterior walls (POP-Q, Ba and Bp ≥ 0) was more common at the multicenter as compared to the single center [(19.8% vs 5.4%) and (26% vs 2.7%), (p < 0.001)]. Reoperations for POP and mesh-related complications were more frequent in the multicenter study [31/202 (15.3%) vs 7/116 (6.1%), p < 0.001]. Total PFDI-20, PFIQ-7 and PISQ-12 scores were comparable between the cohorts. There were no significant differences in overall pain scores in-between the cohorts during follow-up. At the single center, 1/81 patients (1.2%) had VAS 7/10, i.e. severe pain, as compared to 3/131 (2.3%) in the multicenter study (p = 0.277).ConclusionsDespite the high objective and subjective long-term effectiveness of the procedure in both regular use, and at a high-volume center, centralizing the use of a standardized capturing-device guided transvaginal mesh for POP repair reduced secondary interventions by more than half.

Short-, mid-, and long-term incontinence outcomes in women undergoing mid-urethral sling procedures: a retrospective cohort study.

The primary aim was to compare subjective treatment success among women in short-, mid-, and long-term follow-up after mid-urethral sling (MUS). Symptom severity, condition-specific quality of life (QOL), and patient satisfaction were also examined. Women undergoing a primary MUS between 2001 and 2010 were identified by CPT code. Eligible subjects were mailed the Urogenital Distress Inventory (UDI-6), Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire (PFIQ-7), Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I), and Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire (PSQ). Follow-up intervals were short term (≤ 36months), mid term (37-70months), and long term (119-200months). The primary outcome of treatment success was defined as responses of "not at all" or "somewhat" to both stress urinary incontinence (SUI) subscales on the UDI-6. Of 896 respondents, 361 were assessed in the short-term (23.3 ± 7.2months), 251 in the mid-term (49.8 ± 9.1months), and 284 in the long-term group (147.9 ± 20.6months). Treatment success was 75.4% in the short-, 62.3% in the mid-, and 67.0% in the long-term groups (p < 0.01). Logistic regression showed women with mid- and long-term follow-up were nearly half as likely as their short-term counterparts to report treatment success (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.51, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.36, 0.74). UDI-6 and PFIQ-7 scores differed significantly among the short-, mid- and long-term groups (p < 0.01). Patient satisfaction was similar, 83.3% in the short-, 76.6% in the mid-, and 78.2% in the long-term follow-up (p = 0.31). Women with short-term follow-up had the highest subjective treatment success rates; mid- and long-term follow-up was lower, but sustained after 3years. Symptom severity and impact on QOL were lowest in the short-term group. However, high satisfaction was noted across all groups.

Trans-Obturator Approach and the Native Tissue in the Treatment of High Stage Prolapse of the Anterior Vaginal Wall: Midterm Results of a New Surgical Technique.

Pelvic organ prolapse is a common condition as a consequence of the pelvic floor support weakness. This study evaluated the clinical results of treating the high stage prolapse of the anterior vaginal wall using a trans-obturator approach and the native vaginal wall tissue. This was a prospective analysis of 94 patients with anterior vaginal wall prolapse stage ≥ Ⅲ. They underwent surgery with the trans-obturator approach using the native vaginal wall tissue. The objective primary outcome was evaluated according to the pelvic organ prolapse staging system (POP-Q). The subjective primary outcome was evaluated with pelvic floor distress inventory (PFDI-20) and pelvic floor impact questionnaire (PFIQ-7) questionnaires. The secondary outcomes were post-surgery complications. Totally, 85 of 94 patients were followed up for a mean of 38.2 ± 4 months. The objective anatomical success rate was 90.58%. PDFI-20 and PFIQ-7 scores had improved (P = 0.001). The complications were minor (G1) according to the Clavien-Dindo classification (8.2 %). At one year follow up 3 out of 8 patients with clinical SUI underwent transvaginal repair with the Poly propylene mini sling mesh. The midterm results of the surgical repair of the high stage anterior vaginal wall prolapse are promising with a new surgical technique by trans-obturator approach and native vaginal wall as the supportive layer.

A prospective study of pessary use for severe pelvic organ prolapse: 3-year follow-up outcomes

To estimate the optimal definition of successful pessary use and the long-term success rate of the pessary as well as the complications and factors associated with continued pessary use. Consecutive patients who had symptomatic stage III/IV POP were enrolled. The degrees of POP were assessed by POP-Q. All patients completed the PFIQ-7 questionnaire before pessary use. For the 1-week, 1-month, 3-month, 6-month, 1-year and 3-year follow-up assessments, patients visited the clinic for an examination and to complete the questionnaire. SPSS 18.0 was used for the data analysis. Wilcoxon's signed-rank test was performed to estimate the change in PFIQ-7 scores before and after pessary use. Logistic regression was performed to identify the factors associated with the duration of pessary use. A total of 60 subjects (average age 68.93 ± 8.98years) were enrolled. The 3-year success rate of the pessary was 63.33%. The PFIQ-7 score in the 1-month follow-up was significantly decreased (16.22 ± 12.81 vs 1.39 ± 3.39, P = 0.000). During the follow-up, none of the patients experienced any severe complications, and the rate of vaginal erosion was 20% (12/60). The PFIQ-7 score in the 1-month follow-up decreased more than 50% and was associated with continuous pessary use [OR 20.75, P = 0.027, 95% CI (2.28, 189.27)]. Successful pessary use can be defined as fitting for longer than 3months. The PFIQ-7 scores should be focused on during the follow-up. The treatment should be changed if the scores decrease less than 50% in the 1-month follow-up.

Electromyographic Evaluation of the Pelvic Muscles Activity After High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic Procedure and Electrical Stimulation in Women With Pelvic Floor Dysfunction.

IntroductionImpaired coordination, relaxation, and atrophy of pelvic floor muscles (PFMs) may cause various health issues referred to as pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD). In recent years, electromagnetic noninvasive stimulation of the pelvic floor was successfully used to treat PFD symptoms.AimThis study aims to compare the effectiveness of electrical and magnetic noninvasive stimulation for the treatment of PFD in postpartum women.Methods2 intervention groups treated with high-intensity focused electromagnetic ([HIFEM]; G1) procedure and electrical stimulation (G2) were established along with the control group (G3). Patients received 10 therapies delivered at the hospital (G1; 2–3 times per week) or self-administered at home (G2; every other day) after initial training. The protocol was identical for both modalities. Functionality of the PFM was examined by surface electromyography measurements (maximal voluntary contraction [MVC]; mean MVC; muscle activity at rest; endurance of contraction) while patient's subjective perception of pelvic floor functionality was assessed by Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire–Short Form 7 (PFIQ-7) standardized questionnaire. Changes in electromyography values and PFIQ-7 scores were statistically evaluated from baseline to after all treatments.Main Outcome MeasureThe main outcome measure was enhancement of PFM activity.ResultsIn total, 95 patients (G1 = 50; G2 = 25; G3 = 20) participated in the study. The MVC, mean MVC, and endurance were lowered in symptomatic patients. After the treatments, these parameters significantly increased (P < .001) and moved toward the values of healthy population. Electrogenesis at relaxation revealed divergent tendencies in the G1 and G2 groups. PFIQ-7 scores significantly improved in treated patients (P < .001). In general, superior results were documented in the HIFEM group as it reached improvement of electromyography parameters from 48% to 59% (electrical stimulation from 7% to 36%) and similarly the improvement of PFIQ-7 score by 57% (electrical stimulation by 32%).ConclusionThis study documented that the HIFEM procedure was significantly more effective than electrical stimulation in treatment of PFD in postpartum women. Both the objective and subjective evaluation indicates more profound effects of magnetic stimulation.Elena S, Dragana Z, Ramina S, et al. Electromyographic Evaluation of the Pelvic Muscles Activity After High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic Procedure and Electrical Stimulation in Women With Pelvic Floor Dysfunction. Sex Med 2020;8:282–289.