Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 1, 2026

Isolation and Characterization of the Murine Uterosacral Ligaments and Pelvic Floor Organs
Published on: March 3, 2023
Chronic urinary retention and pelvic floor hypertonicity after surgery for endometriosis: a case series
Alan P Gehrich1, John N Aseff, Cheryl B Iglesia
1Washington Continence Center/Institute for Pelvic Floor Disorders, Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC, USA. ABRGehrich@aol.com
Objective:
The purpose of this study was to evaluate 4 cases of chronic urinary retention and pelvic floor muscle spasms after surgery for endometriosis.
Study Design:
These patients underwent a complete history, physical exam, and diagnostic work- up. The results were analyzed with regards to type and extent of inciting surgery, diagnostic findings, postoperative recovery, and treatment success.
Results:
The patients' mean age was 39.5 years and all had undergone various surgical interventions for endometriosis. In addition to urinary retention, all developed debilitating pelvic floor muscle spasm postoperatively. Physical exam revealed pelvic floor hypertonicity and urodynamics indicated hypoactive detrusor contractility. Neurodiagnostic testing gave evidence of neuropathy in all subjects.
Conclusion:
Extensive endometriosis surgery may pose a risk for postoperative bladder dysfunction and pelvic floor muscle spasm.
More Related Videos
07:20Intraoperative Detection of Subtle Endometriosis: A Novel Paradigm for Detection and Treatment of Pelvic Pain Associated with the Loss of Peritoneal Integrity
Published on: December 21, 2012
06:44Demonstration of Cutaneous Allodynia in Association with Chronic Pelvic Pain
Published on: June 22, 2009
Related Concept Videos
Muscles of the Pelvic Floor and Perineum
Perineal Layer
The perineum is a diamond-shaped area below the pelvic diaphragm, divided into an anterior urogenital triangle that contains the external genitals and a posterior anal triangle housing the anus. The urogenital...
Resistors In Series
In a series circuit, the...
Series Resonance
Introduction to Urinary System
The kidneys are bean-shaped organs located in the retroperitoneal space, on either side of the vertebral column, between the T12 and L3 vertebrae. They are partially protected by the rib cage and surrounded by perirenal fat, which provides cushioning. They are responsible for urine formation and play critical roles in regulating blood pressure, electrolyte levels, and hormone production. The ureters...
Urinary Bladder
In males, the bladder is situated in front of the rectum, while in females, it is positioned anterior to the vagina and uterus. The bladder floor contains an inverted triangular area called the trigone, defined by the two ureteric...
Disorders of the Urinary System
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common urinary system disorders. They are caused by bacteria that enter the urethra and can spread to the bladder resulting in cystitis. Pyelonephritis is the result of a UTI that has ascended to the level of the...