Thesis (Ph.D.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Medicine - Department of Radio-diagnosis

Bump RC et al, 1996 and confirmed by Elsayed et al, 2013 mentioned that to obtain a standardized system for assessing and documenting pelvic organ prolapse by physical examination so, the pelvic organ prolapse quantification (POP-Q) system was proposed by the International continence society in 1996. In this system, the descent of each compartment is measured by using the vaginal hymen as a reference line while the patient is in the lithotomy position and is performing the valsalva maneuver (woodfield CA et al, 2009). Maglinte DD et al, 1999 mentioned that although this clinical grading system is widely accepted, it often leads to underestimation of the number of compartments affected. Moreover, failure to recognize prolapse in a substantial number of patients by using this approach contributes to high rates of therapeutic failure and was confirmed by Elsayed et al, 2013. Several imaging techniques may be used as adjuncts to physical examination. Traditional imaging procedures (eg, urodynamic study, voiding cystourethrography, and fluor scopic cystocolpodefecography) remain practical and cost effective methods for evaluating uncomplicated anorectal and pelvic dysfunction. MR imaging is an excellent tool for noninvasive evaluation of the pelvic floor. Thin section MR imaging allows a careful assess ment of the ligaments and muscles, and dynamic MR imaging with steady-state sequences may play a complementary role in evaluating functional disorders Gracia del Salto et al, 2014

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