Imaging pelvic floor disorders: trend toward comprehensive MRI

Area of Science:

• Anatomy and imaging of the female pelvic floor.
• Diagnostic techniques for pelvic floor dysfunction.

Background:

• Pelvic floor disorders encompass a diverse range of complex conditions.
• Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review pelvic floor anatomy.
• To discuss sonography, fluoroscopy, and MRI for evaluating pelvic floor disorders.

Main Methods:

• Review of relevant anatomical structures.
• Analysis of imaging modalities: sonography, fluoroscopy, and MRI.
• Focus on diagnostic capabilities for pelvic floor abnormalities.

Main Results:

• Sonography, fluoroscopy, and MRI offer distinct advantages for pelvic floor assessment.
• MRI provides a comprehensive view of global pelvic floor structures and function.

Conclusions:

• Pelvic floor disorders are heterogeneous and complex.
• Imaging plays a vital role in identifying and characterizing pelvic floor abnormalities.
• MRI is particularly effective for comprehensive pelvic floor evaluation, including prolapse and defecatory function.