Relación entre score de incontinencia fecal y hallazgos ecográficos en pacientes con antecedente de trauma obstétrico / Relationship between faecal incontinence score and ultrasound findings in patients with a history of obstetric trauma

Introducción: La incontinencia anal es una compleja y devastadora patología que altera la calidad de vida de los pacientes, cuya etiología más común es la lesión esfintérica postparto vaginal. A la hora de clasificar la incontinencia, el score descripto por Jorge y Wexner es el más utilizado en nuestro medio. La ecografía endoanal ha sido definida como el gold standard para evaluar los defectos del esfínter anal. Objetivo: Determinar la correlación entre los hallazgos clínicos y ecográficos en pacientes con incontinencia fecal de causa obstétrica. Material y Métodos: Población: pacientes que consultaron en el Centro Privado de Cirugía y Coloproctología entre enero de 2015 y diciembre de 2017 por incontinencia fecal con antecedentes de trauma obstétrico y a las que se les realizó una ecografía endoanal 360° y score de Jorge y Wexner. Resultados: Se evaluaron 24 pacientes. La media de edad fue de 56 años. El número de partos en promedio fue 2,3 y el Score de Wexner en promedio fue 9.7 (±5.2). La ecografía endoanal confirmó alteración esfintérica por afinamiento o interrupción en el 100% de los pacientes. Se observó una tendencia a una asociación negativa entre el Score de Wexner y la ecografía endoanal (r=-0.328, p=0.067). Las pacientes con menor grado de lesión esfinteriana por ecografía tenían mayor severidad en el Score de Wexner que las pacientes con mayor grado de lesión. Las pacientes con evidencia ecográfica de lesiones leves refirieron un mayor Score de Wexner que aquellas con lesiones severas. Conclusión: En este trabajo no existió correlación entre los hallazgos ecográficos y el score de incontinencia. Si bien la ecografía esfintérica es el gold standard para evaluar daño muscular, la terapéutica no debe ser determinada solamente por la ecografía. Tipo de estudio: Retrospectivo, transversal y descriptivo.

Introduction: Anal incontinence is a complex and devastating pathology that alters the patient's quality of life, whose most common etiology is vaginal postpartum sphincter injury. To classify incontinence, the score described by Jorge and Wexner is the most used in our environment. Endoanal ultrasound has been defined as the gold standard for evaluating anal sphincter defects. Objective: To determine the correlation between clinical and ultrasound findings in patients with fecal incontinence due to obstetric cause. Material and Methods: Population: patients who consulted at the Private Center of Surgery and Coloproctology between January 2015 and December 2017 due to fecal incontinence with a history of obstetric trauma and who underwent a 360º endoanal ultrasound and a Jorge and Wexner score. Results: Twenty-four patients were evaluated. The average age was 56 years. The number of births on average was 2.3 and the Wexner Score on average was 9.7 (± 5.2). Endoanal ultrasound confirmed sphincter alteration by refining or interruption in 100% of patients. A tendency to a negative association was observed between the Wexner Score and the endoanal ultrasound (r = -0.328, p = 0.067). Patients with a lower degree of sphincter injury by ultrasound had greater severity in the Wexner Score than patients with a higher degree of injury. Patients with ultrasound evidence of mild lesions reported a higher Wexner Score than those with severe lesions. Conclusion: In this work, there was no correlation between the sonographic findings and the incontinence score. Although sphincter ultrasonography is the gold standard for assessing muscle damage, therapy should not be determined only by ultrasound. Type of study: Retrospective, cross-sectional and descriptive.

PREDICTORS OF UNSUCCESSFUL OF TREATMENT FOR FECAL INCONTINENCE BIOFEEDBACK FOR FECAL INCONTINENCE IN FEMALE.

BACKGROUND: Biofeedback is an effective method of treatment for fecal incontinence but there is controversy regarding factors that may be correlated with its effectiveness. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of biofeedback in the treatment of fecal incontinence, identifying the predictive factors for unsuccessful treatment. METHODS: Consecutive female patients who had fecal incontinence and were treated with a full course of biofeedback were screened. The symptoms were evaluated using Cleveland Clinic incontinence (CCF) score before and six months after the completion of therapy. Patients had a satisfactory clinical response to biofeedback if the CCF score had decreased by more than 50% at six months (GI) and an unsatisfactory response if the CCF score did not decrease or if the score decreased by <50% (GII). The groups were compared with regard to age, score, anal resting and squeeze pressures and sustained squeeze pressure by manometry, history of vaginal delivery, number of vaginal deliveries, menopause, hysterectomy, and previous anorectal surgery. RESULTS: Of 124 women were included, 70 (56%) in GI and 54 (44%) in GII. The median CCF score decreased significantly from 10 to 5 (P=0.00). FI scores were higher in GII. Patients from GII had more previous vaginal deliveries and previous surgeries. The mean sustained squeeze pressure was higher in GI. Patients from GI and GII had similar ages, number of vaginal deliveries, menopause, hysterectomy, anal pressures, and sphincter defects. The median sustained squeeze pressure increased significantly before and after biofeedback in GI. CONCLUSION: Biofeedback therapy shows effective treatment with 50% reductions in FI score in half of patients. Factors associated with unsuccessful outcome include FI score ≥10, previous vaginal delivery, previous anorectal and/or colorectal surgery, and reduced mean sustained squeeze pressure.

Fatores preditivos de insucesso do biofeedback para tratamento da incontinência fecal em mulheres / Predictors of unsuccessful of treatment for fecal incontinence biofeedback for fecal incontinence in female

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Biofeedback is an effective method of treatment for fecal incontinence but there is controversy regarding factors that may be correlated with its effectiveness. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of biofeedback in the treatment of fecal incontinence, identifying the predictive factors for unsuccessful treatment. METHODS: Consecutive female patients who had fecal incontinence and were treated with a full course of biofeedback were screened. The symptoms were evaluated using Cleveland Clinic incontinence (CCF) score before and six months after the completion of therapy. Patients had a satisfactory clinical response to biofeedback if the CCF score had decreased by more than 50% at six months (GI) and an unsatisfactory response if the CCF score did not decrease or if the score decreased by <50% (GII). The groups were compared with regard to age, score, anal resting and squeeze pressures and sustained squeeze pressure by manometry, history of vaginal delivery, number of vaginal deliveries, menopause, hysterectomy, and previous anorectal surgery. RESULTS: Of 124 women were included, 70 (56%) in GI and 54 (44%) in GII. The median CCF score decreased significantly from 10 to 5 (P=0.00). FI scores were higher in GII. Patients from GII had more previous vaginal deliveries and previous surgeries. The mean sustained squeeze pressure was higher in GI. Patients from GI and GII had similar ages, number of vaginal deliveries, menopause, hysterectomy, anal pressures, and sphincter defects. The median sustained squeeze pressure increased significantly before and after biofeedback in GI. CONCLUSION: Biofeedback therapy shows effective treatment with 50% reductions in FI score in half of patients. Factors associated with unsuccessful outcome include FI score ≥10, previous vaginal delivery, previous anorectal and/or colorectal surgery, and reduced mean sustained squeeze pressure.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: Biofeedback é um método eficaz de tratamento para a incontinência fecal. No entanto, há controvérsias sobre fatores que podem ser correlacionados com a sua eficácia. Objetivo - Avaliar a eficácia do biofeedback no tratamento da incontinência fecal (IF), identificando os fatores preditivos relacionados ao insucesso do tratamento. MÉTODOS: Consecutivos pacientes do sexo feminino com IF e submetidos a terapia com biofeedback que aceitaram participar do estudo foram incluídos. Os sintomas foram avaliados utilizando o escore de incontinência da Cleveland Clinic-CCF antes e seis meses após termino da terapia. Os pacientes com resposta satisfatória ao biofeedback apresentaram redução no escore de IF ≥50% (GI) e resposta insatisfatória a redução no escore de IF <50% (GII) em seis meses. Os grupos foram comparados de acordo com a idade, escore, pressões anais quantificada pela manometria anorretal (repouso, contração e capacidade de sustentação em 30 segundos), parto vaginal prévio, número de partos vaginais, menopausa, histerectomia e cirurgia anorretal e/ou colorretal prévia. RESULTADOS: Total de 124 mulheres incluídas, 70 (56%) em GI e 54 (44%) em GII. A mediana do CCF escore reduziu significativamente de 10 para 5 (P=0.00). FI escore foi mais elevado no GII, assim como foi observado o maior número de mulheres submetidas a partos vaginais e cirurgias prévias. A pressão média de contração foi significante maior no GI. No entanto, idade, número de partos vaginais, menopausa, histerectomia, pressões anais e presença de defeito esfincteriano foram similares nos dois grupos. A pressão média de sustentação mantida por 30 seg aumentou significamente comparando pré com pós biofeedback no GI. CONCLUSÃO: O biofeedback é um tratamento eficaz com redução em 50% no escore de IF em mais da metade dos pacientes. Os fatores associados ao insucesso do tratamento incluem o escore de IF ≥10, parto vaginal prévio, cirurgia anorretal prévia e pressão média de sustentação reduzida.

Pubovisceral muscle and anal sphincter defects in women with fecal or urinary incontinence after vaginal delivery.

BACKGROUND: Vaginal delivery is the most frequent cause of direct anal sphincter trauma as well as pelvic floor muscle defects in women with corresponding signs and symptoms. The aim of the present study was to identify anatomical and functional abnormalities of the anal canal and pelvic floor in women who had had a vaginal delivery and determine the relationship between such abnormalities and the symptoms and severity of fecal incontinence (FI). METHODS: Consecutive female patients with symptoms of fecal and/or urinary incontinence were recruited through the colorectal and gynecological outpatient clinics at two large university hospitals and were eligible if they had had at a vaginal delivery. All women were assessed for symptoms FI by means of the Cleveland Clinic Florida Incontinence Scale (CCFIS) and for urinary incontinence symptoms, including the presence of complaints of any involuntary leakage of urine, leakage on exertion, sneezing, or coughing, and/or leaking or losing urine associated with an urge to urinate. All women underwent anorectal and endovaginal three-dimensional ultrasonography and anal manometry. The extent of the anal sphincter and PVM defects identified by ultrasound was scored from 1 to 6 based on the longitudinal involvement of the external and internal anal sphincter, the radial angle of the anterior external anal sphincter defect and the longitudinal involvement of the PVM. RESULTS: There were 130 women and 89 (68%) had at least one defect of the anal sphincter or the pubovisceral muscle or both (42/32% had a pubovisceral muscle defect with or without sphincter defects, 47/36% women had an intact pubovisceral muscle but sphincter defect); and 41 (32%) had intact anal sphincter and pubovisceral muscles. The mean levator hiatus area at rest in women with anal sphincter and/or pubovisceral muscle defects was 18 (± 4 SD) which was significantly greater than in women with no defects (16 ± 3 SD; p = 0.01). Women with PVM defects had significantly higher ultrasound scores (median ultrasound score = 4/range 1-10 vs Intact = 2/range 2-5), indicating more extensive defects (p = 0.001). Bivariate analysis revealed a positive association (p < 0.05) between increasing FI symptom severity (CCFIS score) and women with PVM defects (ρ = 0.6913). Within the group of women with defects mean maximum anal squeeze pressure was significantly lower in women with PVM defect (mean 73 ± 34 SD mmHg vs mean 93 ± 38 SD; p = 0.04). Women with PVM defects had significantly higher median CCFIS scores (median score, 7/range 0-16) compared to women with intact PVM (4/range 0-10) (p < 0.001). There was a significant positive correlation between the CCFIS and ultrasound scores (ρ = 0.625; p < 0.001). Bivariate analysis revealed a negative correlations between the CCFIS score and the lengths of the anterior EAS (ρ = - 0.5621, p < 0.001), IAS (ρ = - 0.40, p < 0.001) and the area of the levator hiatus (ρ = 0.5211, p = 0.001). However, no significant correlations were observed between CCFIS scores and the gap measurement (ρ = 0.101; p = 0.253) or the resting (ρ = - 0.08, p = 0.54) or squeeze pressure (ρ = - 0.12; p = 0.34) values on anal manometry. The variables associated with worsening FI symptom severity (CCFIS score) that remained significant in multiple linear regression included the shorter lengths of the anterior EAS and/or the lengths of the anterior IAS and increased area of the levator hiatus. CONCLUSIONS: The study data demonstrate that half of the women had combined defects of PVM and sphincter. There were correlations between anatomical abnormalities including the anal sphincter and/or pubovisceral muscle defects with decrease in the anal pressures and increased severity of FI.

Análise funcional e anatômica anorretal de pacientes femininas portadoras de esclerodermia em um centro universitário de referência em desordens do assoalho pélvico / Functional and anatomical analysis of the anorectum of female scleroderma patients at a center for pelvic floor disorders

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Scleroderma or progressive systemic sclerosis is characterized by a chronic inflammatory process with proliferation of fibrous connective tissue and excessive deposition of collagen and extracellular matrix in the skin, smooth muscle, and viscera. The smooth muscle most involved in scleroderma is that of the esophagus, and dysphagia is the most commonly reported symptom. However, the internal anal sphincter may also be impaired by degeneration and fibrosis, leading to concomitant anal incontinence in scleroderma patients. These patients may neglect to complain about it, except when actively questioned. OBJECTIVE: To assess anorectal function and anatomy of female scleroderma patients with symptoms of anal incontinence through Cleveland Clinic Florida Fecal Incontinence Score (CCFIS), anorectal manometry and endoanal ultrasound at the outpatient clinic of colorectal and anal physiology, Clinics Hospital, University of São Paulo Medical School (HC-FMUSP). METHODS: Female scleroderma patients were prospectively assessed and questioned as to symptoms of anal incontinence. The anorectal manometry and endoanal ultrasound results were correlated with clinical data and symptoms. RESULTS: In total, 13 women were evaluated. Their mean age was 55.77 years (±16.14; 27-72 years) and their mean disease duration was 10.23 years (±6.23; 2-23 years). All had symptoms of fecal incontinence ranging from 1 to 15. Seven (53.8%) patients had fecal incontinence score no higher than 7; three (23.1%) between 8 and 13; and three (23.1%) 14 or higher, corresponding to mild, moderate, and severe incontinence, respectively. Ten (76.92%) patients had hypotonia of the internal anal sphincter. Three-dimensional endoanal ultrasound showed tapering associated with muscle atrophy of the internal sphincter in six cases and previous muscle defects in three cases. CONCLUSION: A functional and anatomical impairment of the sphincter is an important factor to assess in patients with progressive systemic sclerosis and it should not be underestimated.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: Esclerodermia ou esclerose sistêmica progressiva caracteriza-se por um processo inflamatório crônico com proliferação e fibrose do tecido conjuntivo e uma deposição excessiva de colágeno e matriz extracelular na pele, musculatura lisa e vísceras. A musculatura lisa mais envolvida é a esofágica e a disfagia é o sintoma mais comumente relatado. Entretanto, o esfíncter anal interno também pode ser acometido por essa degeneração e fibrose ocasionando incontinência anal nos pacientes portadores de esclerodermia. Isso pode ser omitido pelo paciente, exceto quando questionado de forma direta. OBJETIVO: Analisar a função e anatomia anorretal através do escore de incontinência anal de Cleveland Clinic Florida, manometria anorretal e ultrassom endoanal em pacientes do sexo feminino portadoras de esclerodermia e sintomas de incontinência anal atendidas no ambulatório de Fisiologia Colorretoanal no Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade de São Paulo (HC-FMUSP). RESULTADOS: Treze pacientes do sexo feminino foram avaliadas com média de idade de 55,77 anos (±16,14; 27-72 anos) e duração média da doença de 10,23 anos (±6,23; 2-23 anos). O índice de incontinência anal teve variação de 1-15, sendo que sete (53,8%) pacientes apresentavam índice inferior a 7; três (23,1%) entre 8 e 13; e três (23,1%) superior a 14, correspondendo à incontinência anal leve, moderada e grave, respectivamente. Dez (76,92%) pacientes apresentavam hipotonia do esfíncter anal interno. O estudo da ultrassonografia endoanal de três dimensões demonstrou afilamento com atrofia do esfíncter anal interno em seis casos e defeito muscular em três pacientes. CONCLUSÃO: O prejuízo funcional e anatômico do complexo esfincteriano anorretal é um importante fator a ser analisado em pacientes portadores de esclerose sistêmica progressiva e isso não pode ser subestimado.

Manometria anorretal de alta resolução sob cateter de perfusão (MARAR): primeira experiência no Brasil / Water-perfused high-resolution anorectal manometry (hram-wp): the first brazilian study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: High resolution anorectal manometry (HRAM-WP) allows more simplified, objective, and uniform data acquisition and interpretation of the test results. OBJECTIVE: To validate a HRAM under water perfusion (Alacer Biomédica) with a 24-channel probe and to compare the results of anorectal manometry with other systems. METHODS: Individuals without critical evacuation disorders were selected. Patients with incontinence, anal surgery, dyssynergia or sphincter injury were excluded. The test was performed with an Alacer Biomédica 24 channel manometry system under water perfusion, with a probe configured with 6 levels of 4 radial channels, separated from each other by 0.8 mm. The mean pressures for the functional channel were determined, in states of rest (RMP), contention effort (CMP) and evacuation effort (EEMP). The pressure extension of the sphincter was also tabulated in cm. The results were compared with those available in recent literature. RESULTS: Fifty patients were studied (20 men; 30 women). Overall, the following results were obtained: the RMP was 76.9±3.0 mmHg, the CMP was 194.2±9.4 mmHg, and EEMP was 88.2±3.7 mmHg. When classified according to the gender, for men: RMP was 72.2±3.0 mmHg, CMP was 229.5±17 mmHg, and EEMP was 91.4±7.0. For women, RMP was 79.8±4.0 mmHg, CMP was 170.7±8, and EEMP was 86.1±4.3 mmHg. The sphincter gauge extension for both genders was 3.1±0.09 cm (men 3.3±0.1; women 3.0±0.1). DISCUSSION: Studying HRAM-WP has become much easier. Non-mobilization of the sensor causes less discomfort and artefacts with a lower assessment time. In this study, small differential values between both sexes during rest were observed, highlighting a greater containment force in men. No difference in sphincter extension was noted. The results of this study are consistent with that of existing reports and with those obtained using solid state probes. CONCLUSION: The perfusion system yielded results similar to that of solid state systems. Further studies to evaluate parameters with respect to pelvic dyssynergia and incontinence need to be conducted. Additionally, to determine if the vector volume can furnish new information in terms of functional and anatomical aspects.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: Através da manometria anorretal de alta resolução (MARAR), a aquisição dos dados e a interpretação do exame tornaram-se mais simplificadas, objetivas e uniformes. OBJETIVO: Validar um sistema de MARAR sob perfusão de água (Alacer Biomédica), com sonda de 24 canais e comparar resultados dos exames de manometria anorretal com outros sistemas em trabalhos já publicados. MÉTODOS: Selecionados indivíduos sem distúrbio evacuatório importante. Excluídos pacientes com incontinência, cirurgia orificial, dissinergia, ou lesão esfincteriana. O exame foi realizado com sistema Alacer Biomédica de manometria sob perfusão de agua de 24 canais, com sonda configurada com 6 níveis de 4 canais radiais, distanciados entre si por 0,8 mm. Estabelecidas as pressões médias para o canal funcional, nos estados de repouso (PMR), no esforço de contenção (PMC) e no esforço evacuatório (PMEE). Também foi tabulada a extensão pressórica do esfíncter em cm. Comparou-se os resultados com os disponíveis em literatura recente. RESULTADOS: Foram estudados 50 pacientes (20 masc; 30 fem). No geral, foram encontrados os seguintes resultados: a PMR foi de 76,9±3,0 mmHg; PMC foi de 194,2±9,4 mmHg e; PMEE foi de 88,2±3,7 mmHg. Quando divididos por sexo: sexo masculino: PMR 72,2±3,0 mmHg; PMC: 229,5±17 mmHg e; PMEE 91,4±7,0. Sexo feminino: PMR 79,8±4,0 mmHg; PMC: 170,7±8; PMEE 86,1±4,3 mmHg. A extensão manométrica para ambos os sexos foi de 3,1±0,09 cm (masc 3,3±0,1; fem 3,0±0,1). DISCUSSÃO: A realização do estudo da MARAR ficou muito facilitada. A não mobilização da sonda provoca menos desconforto e artefatos, com menor tempo de estudo. Em nossa série há valores diferenciais pequenos entre os sexos durante o repouso, destacando-se maior força de contenção no sexo masculino. Não houve diferença para a extensão do esfíncter. Em relação à comparação com os estudos já publicados, mesmo com sondas de solid state, há uma proximidade de valores. CONCLUSÃO: O sistema de perfusão utilizado permitiu reproduzir resultados similares a sistemas solid state. Resta estabelecer parâmetros em casos de dissinergia pélvica, incontinência e esclarecer se o estudo pelo vetor volume pode trazer novas informações nos aspectos funcional e anatômico.

FUNCTIONAL AND ANATOMICAL ANALYSIS OF THE ANORECTUM OF FEMALE SCLERODERMA PATIENTS AT A CENTER FOR PELVIC FLOOR DISORDERS.

BACKGROUND: Scleroderma or progressive systemic sclerosis is characterized by a chronic inflammatory process with proliferation of fibrous connective tissue and excessive deposition of collagen and extracellular matrix in the skin, smooth muscle, and viscera. The smooth muscle most involved in scleroderma is that of the esophagus, and dysphagia is the most commonly reported symptom. However, the internal anal sphincter may also be impaired by degeneration and fibrosis, leading to concomitant anal incontinence in scleroderma patients. These patients may neglect to complain about it, except when actively questioned. OBJECTIVE: To assess anorectal function and anatomy of female scleroderma patients with symptoms of anal incontinence through Cleveland Clinic Florida Fecal Incontinence Score (CCFIS), anorectal manometry and endoanal ultrasound at the outpatient clinic of colorectal and anal physiology, Clinics Hospital, University of São Paulo Medical School (HC-FMUSP). METHODS: Female scleroderma patients were prospectively assessed and questioned as to symptoms of anal incontinence. The anorectal manometry and endoanal ultrasound results were correlated with clinical data and symptoms. RESULTS: In total, 13 women were evaluated. Their mean age was 55.77 years (±16.14; 27-72 years) and their mean disease duration was 10.23 years (±6.23; 2-23 years). All had symptoms of fecal incontinence ranging from 1 to 15. Seven (53.8%) patients had fecal incontinence score no higher than 7; three (23.1%) between 8 and 13; and three (23.1%) 14 or higher, corresponding to mild, moderate, and severe incontinence, respectively. Ten (76.92%) patients had hypotonia of the internal anal sphincter. Three-dimensional endoanal ultrasound showed tapering associated with muscle atrophy of the internal sphincter in six cases and previous muscle defects in three cases. CONCLUSION: A functional and anatomical impairment of the sphincter is an important factor to assess in patients with progressive systemic sclerosis and it should not be underestimated.

WATER-PERFUSED HIGH-RESOLUTION ANORECTAL MANOMETRY (HRAM-WP): THE FIRST BRAZILIAN STUDY.

BACKGROUND: High resolution anorectal manometry (HRAM-WP) allows more simplified, objective, and uniform data acquisition and interpretation of the test results. OBJECTIVE: To validate a HRAM under water perfusion (Alacer Biomédica) with a 24-channel probe and to compare the results of anorectal manometry with other systems. METHODS: Individuals without critical evacuation disorders were selected. Patients with incontinence, anal surgery, dyssynergia or sphincter injury were excluded. The test was performed with an Alacer Biomédica 24 channel manometry system under water perfusion, with a probe configured with 6 levels of 4 radial channels, separated from each other by 0.8 mm. The mean pressures for the functional channel were determined, in states of rest (RMP), contention effort (CMP) and evacuation effort (EEMP). The pressure extension of the sphincter was also tabulated in cm. The results were compared with those available in recent literature. RESULTS: Fifty patients were studied (20 men; 30 women). Overall, the following results were obtained: the RMP was 76.9±3.0 mmHg, the CMP was 194.2±9.4 mmHg, and EEMP was 88.2±3.7 mmHg. When classified according to the gender, for men: RMP was 72.2±3.0 mmHg, CMP was 229.5±17 mmHg, and EEMP was 91.4±7.0. For women, RMP was 79.8±4.0 mmHg, CMP was 170.7±8, and EEMP was 86.1±4.3 mmHg. The sphincter gauge extension for both genders was 3.1±0.09 cm (men 3.3±0.1; women 3.0±0.1). DISCUSSION: Studying HRAM-WP has become much easier. Non-mobilization of the sensor causes less discomfort and artefacts with a lower assessment time. In this study, small differential values between both sexes during rest were observed, highlighting a greater containment force in men. No difference in sphincter extension was noted. The results of this study are consistent with that of existing reports and with those obtained using solid state probes. CONCLUSION: The perfusion system yielded results similar to that of solid state systems. Further studies to evaluate parameters with respect to pelvic dyssynergia and incontinence need to be conducted. Additionally, to determine if the vector volume can furnish new information in terms of functional and anatomical aspects.

Fiabilidad y validez de un instrumento que utiliza fotografías para medir la habilidad de diagnóstico diferencial de lesiones causadas por presión y/o por incontinencia / Reliability and validity of an instrument that uses photographs to measure the abilityfor differential diagnosis of injuries caused by pressure and/or incontinence

RESUMEN Objetivo: Evaluar la fiabilidad y validez de un instrumento que permite medir la habilidad visual para identificar y clasificar Dermatitis Asociada a Incontinencia (DAI), Ulceras por Presión (UPP) y lesiones mixtas, por parte de profesionales de enfermería. Material y método: Se aplicó un instrumento autoadministrado conformado por 14 fotografías a una muestra por conveniencia de 28 profesionales de enfermería, donde se debía identificar la lesión y luego clasificar su estado de avance. A modo exploratorio se calculó la fiabilidad anidada con Alpha de Cronbach y la validez con Análisis de Componentes Principales (ACP). Resultados: La fiabilidad inicial de las 14 fotografías (Alpha de Cronbach= 0,174) fue baja y tras eliminar 7 la fiabilidad fue aceptable (Alpha de Cronbach= 0,709). Se estableció la presencia de dos dimensiones: por un lado, la habilidad de diagnosticar DAI que explica un 35% de la varianza y, por otro, la habilidad de diagnosticar UPP, que explica el 22% de la varianza, ya sea que se encuentren separadas o juntas en un mismo paciente. Las lesiones DAI son diagnosticadas en mayor proporción que las lesiones mixtas. Conclusión: El estudio aportó 6 fotografías fiables y válidas que pueden ser utilizadas en futuros trabajos para construir un instrumento más robusto que pueda ser utilizado en Chile para la capacitación en el área. La muestra estudiada tiene fortalezas en el diagnóstico de DAI y dificultades en el diagnóstico de lesiones mixtas.

ABSTRACT Aim: To evaluate the reliability and validity of an instrument that allows to measure the visual ability to identify and classify Incontinence Associated Dermatitis (IAD), Pressure Ulcers (PU) and mixed lesions, by nursing professionals. Material and method: A self-administered instrument consisting of 14 photographs was applied to a convenience sample of 28 nurses. A set of 14 photographs were shown in which they were asked to identify and then classify the state of the lesion. In an exploratory manner, the nested reliability was calculated with Cronbach's Alpha and the validity with Principal Component Analysis (PCA). Results: The initial reliability of the 14 photographs was low (Cronbach Alpha = 0.174), after removing 7 photographs the reliability became acceptable (Cronbach Alpha = 0.709). The presence of two dimensions was established: on the one hand the ability to diagnose IAD, which explains 35% of the variance, and secondly, the ability to diagnose PU, which explains 22% of the variance, whether they are separated or together in the same patient. IAD is better diagnosed than mixed lesions. Conclusion: The study provided 6 reliable and valid photos that can be used in future work to build a more robust instrument that can be used in Chile for training in the area. The studied sample shows strengths when diagnosing IAD and difficulties when diagnosing mixed lesions.

Anal sphincter trauma and anal incontinence in urogynecological patients.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of evidence of residual obstetric anal sphincter injury, to evaluate its association with anal incontinence (AI) and to establish minimal diagnostic criteria for significant (residual) external anal sphincter (EAS) trauma. METHODS: This was a retrospective analysis of ultrasound volume datasets of 501 patients attending a tertiary urogynecological unit. All patients underwent a standardized interview including determination of St Mark's score for those presenting with AI. Tomographic ultrasound imaging (TUI) was used to evaluate the EAS and the internal anal sphincter (IAS). RESULTS: Among a total of 501 women, significant EAS and IAS defects were found in 88 and 59, respectively, and AI was reported by 69 (14%). Optimal prediction of AI was achieved using a model that included four abnormal slices of the EAS on TUI. IAS defects were found to be less likely to be associated with AI. In a multivariable model controlling for age and IAS trauma, the presence of at least four abnormal slices gave an 18-fold (95% CI, 9-36; P < 0.0001) increase in the likelihood of AI, compared with those with fewer than four abnormal slices. Using receiver-operating characteristics curve statistics, this model yielded an area under the curve of 0.86 (95% CI, 0.80-0.92). CONCLUSIONS: Both AI and significant EAS trauma are common in patients attending urogynecological units, and are strongly associated with each other. Abnormalities of the IAS seem to be less important in predicting AI. Our data support the practice of using, as a minimal criterion, defects present in four of the six slices on TUI for the diagnosis of significant EAS trauma.

Do changes in anal sphincter anatomy correlate with anal function in women with a history of vaginal delivery?

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate anal sphincter anatomy using three-dimensional ultrasonography (3-DAUS) in incontinent women with vaginal delivery, correlate anatomical findings with symptoms of fecal incontinence and determine the effect of vaginal delivery on anal canal anatomy and function. METHODS: Female with fecal incontinence and vaginal delivery were assessed with Wexner's score, manometry, and 3DAUS. A control group comprising asymptomatic nulliparous was included. Anal pressure, the angle of the defect and length of the external anal sphincter (EAS), the anterior and posterior internal anal sphincter (IAS), the EAS + puborectal and the gap were measured and correlated with score. RESULTS: Of the 62, 49 had fecal incontinence and 13 were asymptomatic. Twenty five had EAS defects, 8 had combined EAS+IAS defects, 16 had intact sphincters and continence scores were similar. Subjects with sphincter defects had a shorter anterior EAS, IAS and longer gap than women without defects. Those with a vaginal delivery and intact sphincters had a shorter anterior EAS and longer gap than nulliparous. We found correlations between resting pressure and anterior EAS and IAS length in patients with defects. CONCLUSIONS: Fecal incontinence symptoms did not correlate with anal pressures and anal sphincter anatomy changes, but women with sphincter defects have shorter anterior EAS and IAS and a longer gap.

Assessment of pubovisceral muscle defects and levator hiatal dimensions in women with faecal incontinence after vaginal delivery: is there a correlation with severity of symptoms?

AIM: We assessed pubovisceral muscle (PVM) defects, levator hiatal dimensions and anal sphincter defects using three-dimensional (3D) endovaginal and anorectal ultrasonography in women with previous vaginal delivery and faecal incontinence to determine the relationship between anatomic/functional findings and severity of faecal incontinence symptoms. METHOD: This was a prospective, observational study including 52 women with faecal incontinence symptoms who had undergone vaginal delivery. Asymptomatic nulliparous women (n = 17) served as controls to provide reference values for pelvic floor measurements. All participants underwent 3D endovaginal and anorectal ultrasonography. We used an ultrasound score to identify and quantify the extent of PVM defects and sphincter damage and to measure levator hiatal dimensions. Incontinence was assessed using the Cleveland Clinic Florida Incontinence Scoring System. RESULTS: Defects of the PVM were identified with 3D endovaginal ultrasonography in 27% of women with faecal incontinence who had undergone vaginal delivery. The incontinence score and the ultrasound score were significantly higher in women with a PVM defect. A significant, positive correlation was found between the incontinence score and the ultrasound score. The levator hiatal dimensions were significantly greater, and the positions of the anorectal junction and bladder neck were lower, in women who had undergone vaginal delivery than in nulliparous women. CONCLUSION: As determined by the 3D ultrasound score, severity of incontinence is related to the extent of damage of the PVM, as well as of the anal sphincters. Additionally, vaginal delivery results in enlargement of the levator hiatus and a lower position of the anorectal junction and bladder neck compared with nulliparous women.

Prevalence of anal sphincter injury in primiparous women.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS) in a cohort of primiparous women and to evaluate their association with demographic, obstetric and ultrasound parameters. METHODS: This was a retrospective analysis of the ultrasound volume datasets of 320 primiparous women, acquired at 5 months postpartum. Tomographic ultrasound imaging (TUI) was used to evaluate the external anal sphincter (EAS). A significant EAS defect was diagnosed if a defect of > 30° was seen in four or more of six TUI slices bracketing the EAS. RESULTS: Significant EAS defects were found in 69 women (27.9% of those delivered vaginally). In nine of those a third-degree tear was diagnosed intrapartum and was sutured. In 60 women with significant defects there was no documentation of sphincter damage at birth, implying unidentified or occult defects (60/69, 87.0%). Among them, 29 had had a second-degree tear, two a first-degree tear and three an intact perineum. In 31 cases an episiotomy had been performed, with five extensions to a third-degree tear. On multivariate analysis only forceps delivery was significantly associated with OASIS. CONCLUSIONS: In this cohort of primiparous women we found OASIS in 27.9% of vaginally parous women, most of which had not been diagnosed in the delivery suite. There seems to be a need for better education of labor-ward staff in the recognition of OASIS. On the other hand, it is conceivable that some defects may be masked by intact tissue. The significance of such defects remains doubtful. Forceps delivery was the only identifiable risk factor.

[Anorectal manometry and ultrasound in the study of patients with fecal incontinence]. / Ecografía anorrectal y manometría en el estudio de pacientes con incontinencia fecal.

INTRODUCTION: Fecal incontinence is a complex disease that affects the quality of life of patients suffering from it. Anorectal manometry and endoanal ultrasound 360 grades are included among the studies used. There are no clear agreement about the relevance and usefulness of this studies and their role as apart of diagnostic procedures. OBJECTIVE: To describe the relationship between the clinical severity score in patients with fecal incontinence and the findings of anorectal manometry and endoanal ultrasound. Another objective of this study is to describe the degree of agreement of both methods of study. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study population includes 74 patients who underwent endoanal ultrasonography and anorectal manometry for fecal incontinence. The presence or absence of ultrasound injury, the pressures obtained by anorectal manometry and its relationship with clinical severity of patients were described. An analysis of the degree of agreement between both methods was performed. RESULTS: The mean age of patients was 53 years old (range 19-84 years). Pressures of anorectal manometry were reduced in 59 patients (79.7%) and normal in 15 (20.3%). The assessment of the degree of agreement or concordance between ultrasound and anorectal manometry yielded a kappa coefficient of 0.25 (acceptable) (P = 0.0001). CONCLUSION: There is a level of acceptable agreement between endoanal ultrasound findings and anorectal manometry when patients with fecal incontinence are evaluated.

Acute toxicity after hypofractionated conformal radiotherapy for localized prostate cancer: nonrandomized contemporary comparison with standard fractionation.

PURPOSE: To prospectively study acute rectal and urinary reactions from three-dimensional conformal external beam radiotherapy for localized prostate cancer comparing two hypofractionation regimens with standard fractionation (standard). The hypofractionation regimens were designed to avoid more late reactions in the hypofractionation groups than in the standard group, with the advantage of one-half as many treatment sessions. PATIENTS AND MATERIALS: A total of 56 nonrandomized patients chose hypofractionation delivered at 3 (n = 22) or 3.15 (n = 34) Gy/fraction, 4 d/wk, to a total dose of 60 or 63 Gy within 5 weeks. A total of 74 patients were contemporarily treated with standard fractionation at 2 Gy/fraction, 5 d/wk, to a total dose of 76 to 80 Gy. RESULTS: The differences within patients without complications were not statistically significant in the three groups. However, for acute complications of Grade 2 or worse, the Hypo3.15 group had significantly greater (p = 0.001) complication rates (50%) compared with the standard group (17%). The incidence of patients without acute rectal complications was significantly lower for the Hypo3.15 group compared with the Hypo3 and standard groups. The incidence of rectal Grade 2 or greater complications was correspondingly significantly greater for the Hypo3.15 group than for the Hypo3 and standard groups (p < 0.001). The incidence of patients with urinary complications was not significantly different among the three groups. CONCLUSIONS: Acute rectal reactions were more frequent and intense in the Hypo3.15 group than in the Hypo3 and standard groups. In our study, 60 Gy at 3 Gy/fraction within 5 weeks resulted in acute toxicity similar to that after standard fractionation.

Endoanal sonography in assessment of fecal incontinence following obstetric trauma.

OBJECTIVES: Fecal incontinence is a common, incapacitating and largely unrecognized medical problem and can be caused by various factors. Obstetric trauma is the most common cause of fecal incontinence secondary to trauma. We aimed to analyze the role of endoanal ultrasound in assessment of this type of fecal incontinence, and report the functional results of surgical treatment. METHODS: We reviewed the records of all 22 patients with fecal incontinence secondary to obstetric trauma who were evaluated by endoanal ultrasound and underwent surgical management in our department from April to 1997 to April 2002. Pre- and postoperative evaluation of the degree of incontinence was done using the incontinence score of Jorge and Wexner. RESULTS: The patients had a median age of 43 (range, 29-68) years. All had vaginal deliveries, five of which (22.7%) were instrumental. Most of the patients had total fecal incontinence (solids) with preoperative incontinence score values of 15-20 (median, 18). Endoanal ultrasound confirmed structural defects in the anterior external anal sphincter alone in 16 (72.7%) patients, and both anterior external and internal sphincter defects in six (27.3%) patients. A thinned perineal body was present in all patients. All patients received surgical treatment with overlapping sphincteroplasty and there was improvement of continence in 19 (86.4%) patients with postoperative incontinence score values between 4 and 0 (median, 2). CONCLUSIONS: Endoanal sonography is an accurate method for assessing sphincter anatomy, delineating both internal and external anal sphincters. Surgical treatment of sphincter defects is associated with good outcome.

Experiencia de 4 años con videodefecatografía / Video-defecatography: our 4 years experience

La incontinencia fecal es el trastorno más frecuente entre las alteraciones de la defecación y se define como la incapacidad de diferirla hasta disponer de un momento y lugar apropiados. Constituye un problema social y económico, ya que es la principal causa de internación de ancianos en instituciones geriátricas. El presente estudio investiga la dinámica y morfología anorrectal durante la defecación cuyo mecanismo tiene varias etapas y para que se produzca la incontinencia deben fallar más de una de estas barreras. Se estudiaron 26 pacientes con trastornos en la dinámica anorrectal cuyas edades oscilaron entre 35 y 73 años. La importancia del método radica en la posibilidad de diagnosticar patologías no detectables con otros métodos y orientar el tratamiento, ya sea quirúrgico, por biofeedback o ambos (AU)