Related Experiment Videos
Third degree obstetric tears; outcome after primary repair
H Gjessing1, B Backe, Y Sahlin
1Department of Surgery, Trondheim University Hospital, Norway.
Acta Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica
|September 18, 1998
Summary
Over half of women with third-degree tears experienced anal sphincter complications, including fecal incontinence and sexual dysfunction, indicating issues with primary repair. Further research is needed to improve surgical outcomes for anal sphincter injuries.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Colorectal Surgery
- Pelvic Floor Disorders
Background:
- Anal sphincter disruption affects 0.5-2.5% of women during childbirth.
- Sphincter defects are a primary cause of fecal incontinence.
- Over 30% of women with third-degree perineal tears develop incontinence.
Purpose of the Study:
- Determine the incidence of anal sphincter injury symptoms post-delivery.
- Investigate the sensitivity of manometry and endosonography.
- Correlate diagnostic findings from manometry and endosonography.
Main Methods:
- Thirty-eight women were evaluated 1-5 years after delivery.
- Symptoms of anal incontinence were assessed using a questionnaire.
- Anal manometry and endosonography were performed for diagnostic evaluation.
Main Results:
- 57% of women reported anal incontinence symptoms, primarily flatulence incontinence (34%).
- 17% experienced anal incontinence during sexual intercourse.
- Only 7 women sought medical consultation for these issues.
Conclusions:
- Primary repair of third-degree anal sphincter tears is often unsatisfactory, with 57% of women reporting complications.
- Sexual dysfunction is a notable complication of primary repair for third-degree obstetric tears.
- Improved information dissemination on symptoms and available treatments for anal sphincter tears is crucial for affected women and healthcare providers.