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Quantification of Levator Ani Hiatus Enlargement by Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Males and Females with Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Published on: April 17, 2019
Pelvic floor anatomy and applied physiology.
Varuna Raizada1, Ravinder K Mittal
1Pelvic Floor Function and Disorder Group, Division of Gastroenterology, University of California, GI-111D, San Diego VA Health Care Center, 3350 La Jolla Village Drive, San Diego, CA 92161, USA.
Gastroenterology Clinics of North America
|September 17, 2008
Summary
Pelvic floor muscles support abdominal organs and control continence of the urethral, anal, and vaginal openings. This article reviews their role in anal, vaginal, and urethral closure functions.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Urology
Background:
- Pelvic floor muscles (PFM) are crucial for supporting pelvic organs and maintaining continence.
- Dysfunction of PFM can lead to issues like incontinence and organ prolapse.
- Understanding PFM function is vital for diagnosing and treating related disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the role of pelvic floor muscles in anal opening and closure.
- To present novel findings on the function of PFM in vaginal and urethral closure mechanisms.
- To consolidate knowledge on PFM anatomy and function for clinical relevance.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of anatomical and physiological studies.
- Analysis of biomechanical data related to PFM function.
- Synthesis of recent research on PFM in continence and support.
Main Results:
- PFM play a critical role in the anal sphincter mechanism, enabling voluntary and involuntary control.
- New evidence highlights the contribution of PFM to maintaining vaginal closure and integrity.
- PFM are essential for urethral closure, preventing involuntary leakage.
Conclusions:
- Pelvic floor muscles are integral to the functional integrity of the anal, vaginal, and urethral orifices.
- Further research into PFM function can lead to improved therapeutic strategies for pelvic floor disorders.
- A comprehensive understanding of PFM is necessary for effective clinical management.
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