Aplicabilidade de algoritmo de apoio à decisão na avaliação perineal para o parto / Aplicabilidad de algoritmo para respaldar la decisión en la evaluación perineal para el parto / Applicability of decision support algorithm in perineal assessment for childbirth

Resumo Objetivo Desenvolver um algoritmo para avaliação perineal na assistência ao parto e aferir sua aplicabilidade e acurácia utilizando um protótipo de sistema de suporte à decisão. Métodos Pesquisa aplicada de desenvolvimento tecnológico, constituída pela construção de algoritmo, avaliação por profissionais com expertise na área, criação de um protótipo de Sistema de Apoio à Decisão usando ferramentas on-line e avaliação de sua aplicabilidade e acurácia durante a assistência a 305 partos realizados por enfermeiros. Os dados foram analisados por estatística descritiva, teste Qui-quadrado e exato de Fisher além do coeficiente de Kappa para avaliar a concordância entre o procedimento indicado pelo sistema e o realizado pelo profissional. Resultados Houve concordância entre a sugestão do algoritmo e a decisão do profissional em 93,1% dos partos; em 6,9% o profissional decidiu caminhos opostos ao recomendado. Os profissionais que optaram por seguir a sugestão do algoritmo obtiveram como desfecho a integridade perineal ou a ocorrência de lacerações de 1°grau. Os que optaram por não seguir a recomendação houve ocorrência de lacerações de 2º ou 3º graus em 28,6% das parturientes. Já na análise de acurácia, o algoritmo sugeriu que a episiotomia deveria ser realizada em 45 dos 305 partos assistidos. Verificou-se associação entre divergências de conduta e número de eventos adversos (p=0,001). Conclusão O algoritmo mostrou-se ferramenta útil para a avaliação perineal na assistência ao parto.

Resumen Objetivo Desarrollar un algoritmo para la evaluación perineal en la asistencia al parto y determinar su aplicabilidad y precisión utilizando un prototipo de sistema para respaldar la decisión. Métodos Investigación aplicada de desarrollo tecnológico, constituida mediante la construcción del algoritmo, evaluación de profesionales con experiencia en el área, creación de un prototipo de Sistema para Respaldar la Decisión usando herramientas en línea y evaluación de su aplicabilidad y precisión durante la atención a 305 partos realizados por enfermeros. Los datos fueron analizados mediante estadística descriptiva, prueba χ2 de Pearson y prueba exacta de Fisher, además del coeficiente Kappa para evaluar la concordancia entre el procedimiento indicado por el sistema y el realizado por el profesional. Resultados Hubo concordancia entre la sugerencia del algoritmo y la decisión del profesional en el 93,1 % de los partos, en el 6,9 % el profesional decidió un camino opuesto al recomendado. Los profesionales que optaron por seguir la sugerencia del algoritmo obtuvieron como resultado la integridad perineal o episodios de desgarro de primer grado. Los que optaron por no seguir la recomendación, tuvieron episodios de desgarros de segundo y tercer grado en el 28,6 % de las parturientas. Por otro lado, en el análisis de precisión, el algoritmo sugirió que la episiotomía debería ser realizada en 45 de los 305 partos atendidos. Se verificó relación entre divergencias de conducta y número de eventos adversos (p=0,001). Conclusión El algoritmo demostró ser una herramienta útil para la evaluación perineal en la atención a partos.

Abstract Objective To develop an algorithm for perineal assessment in childbirth care and assess its applicability and accuracy using a decision support system prototype. Methods This is applied research of technological development, consisting of the construction of an algorithm, assessment by professionals with expertise in the area, creation of a Decision Support System prototype using online tools and assessment of its applicability and accuracy during care for 305 childbirths performed by nurses. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square and Fisher's exact tests, in addition to the Kappa coefficient to assess the agreement between the procedure indicated by the system and that performed by professionals. Results There was agreement between the algorithm's suggestion and professional decision in 93.1% of childbirths. In 6.9%, professionals decided opposite paths to the recommended one. The professionals who chose to follow the algorithm's suggestion had perineal integrity or the occurrence of first-degree tear as an outcome. Those who chose not to follow the recommendation had second- or third-degree tears in 28.6% of parturient women. In the accuracy analysis, the algorithm suggested that episiotomy should be performed in 45 of the 305 assisted childbirths. There was an association between divergences in conduct and the number of adverse events (p=0.001). Conclusion The algorithm proved to be a useful tool for perineal assessment in childbirth care.

Translating Fecobionics Into a Technique That Addresses Clinical Needs for Objective Perineal Descent Measurements.

INTRODUCTION: Perineal descent is a phenomenon associated with anorectal dysfunction. It is diagnosed by defecography but subjected to manual measurements on the images/videos and interobserver bias. Fecobionics is a simulated feces for assessing important physiological parameters during defecation. Here, we translate Fecobionics into a new method for estimation of perineal descent based on electronic signals from the embedded inertial measurement units (IMUs). METHODS: A displacement measurement method by a combined zero-velocity update and gravity compensation algorithm from IMUs was developed. The method was verified in a robot model, which mimicked perineal descent motion. RESULTS: The method correlated well with the reference (R = 0.9789) and had a deviation from the peak displacement (range 0.25-2.5 cm) of -0.04 ± 0.498 cm. The method was further validated in 5 human experiments with comparison to the benchmark defecography technology (R = 0.79). DISCUSSION: The proposed technology is objective, i.e., electronic measurements rather than by fluoroscopy or MRI. The development may impact clinical practice by providing a resource-saving and objective technology for diagnosing perineal descent in the many patients suffering from anorectal disorders. The technology may also be used in colon experiments with Fecobionics and for other gastrointestinal devices containing IMUs such as ingestible capsules like the Smartpill.

Ropivacaine versus lidocaine infiltration for postpartum perineal pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

AIM: To systematically and meta-analytically examine the efficacy of ropivacaine versus lidocaine infiltration for controlling postpartum perineal pain secondary to spontaneous tear or selective episiotomy. METHODS: We searched four databases from inception to 20-September-2020. We included all relevant randomized and nonrandomized studies and assessed their risk of bias. We pooled data as standardized mean difference (SMD), weighted mean difference (WMD), or odds ratio (OR) with 95 % confidence intervals (95 % CIs). RESULTS: Four studies met the inclusion criteria (one and three studies were nonrandomized and randomized, respectively). There were 405 patients; 205 and 200 patients received lidocaine and ropivacaine, respectively. There was no significant difference between ropivacaine and lidocaine groups with regard to visual analogue scale (VAS) pain scores at suturing (WMD = -0.04, 95 % CI [-0.41, 0.32], P = 0.82), 2 h (SMD = -1.50, 95 % CI [-3.50, 0.50], P = 0.14), and 24 h (SMD = -0.40, 95 % CI [-1.15, 0.34], P = 0.29) post repair of perineal trauma. Proportion of patients with mild VAS pain score ≤3 at 24 h was significantly higher in the ropivacaine group (OR = 4.34, 95 % CI [2.03, 9.29], P < 0.001). Proportion of patients who did not require additional analgesia during the first 24 h post perineal repair did not significantly differ between both groups (OR = 2.44, 95 % CI [0.09, 68.21], P = 0.60). Ropivacaine group achieved higher maternal satisfaction (OR = 7.13, 95 % CI [3.63, 13.99], P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: During repair of postpartum perineal trauma, pain efficacy is relatively longer with ropivacaine but safety is not well investigated. High-quality and large-sized studies are needed to consolidate these findings.

The Effect of Perineal Warm Application on Perineal Pain, Perineal Integrity, and Postpartum Comfort in the Second Stage of Labor: Randomized Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND: Protection of perineum and reduction of perineal pain is important in the second stage of labor. AIM: The aim of this study was to determine the effect of perineal warm application on perineal pain, perineal integrity, and postnatal comfort in the second stage of labor. METHODS: A single blind randomized and controlled experimental study was conducted with a total of 100 primiparous pregnant women in the warm application (n = 50) and control groups (n = 50). The warm application group was given a damp and warm application to the perineal region during the second stage of labor and only the standard midwifery care was given to the control group. Pregnant Introductory Form was used in the collection of data. Perineal pain level was measured prior to and after the intervention, after delivery, and 2 h from delivery by means of Visual Analogue Scale. In the postpartum period, the perineal condition was evaluated by the midwife with Questionnaire to Determine the Perineal Condition. Two hours from the delivery, Postpartum Comfort Questionnaire was used to determine the comfort level of the women. RESULTS: It was found that there was a decrease in the pain levels of the warm application group compared to pre-intervention pain levels (p < 0.0001). When the warm application and control groups were compared, we found statistically significant differences between the pain levels immediately after the intervention (perineal pain: 8.54 ± 1.38 vs. 9.56 ± 0.57, p < 0.0001), after delivery (perineal pain: 2.20 ± 1.72 vs. 3.64 ± 2.07, p < 0.0001), and 2 h after delivery (perineal pain: 0.30 ± 0.78 vs. 0.68 ± 0.98, p = 0.028). In the study, the intactness of perineum was found to be significantly higher in the warm application group compared to the control group (p = 0.003). The suture need for perinea was significantly higher in the control group than in the warm application group (p = 0.016). In the study, the physical comfort level of the warm application group was found to be significantly higher than the control group (56.06 ± 4.61 vs. 54.30 ± 4.73, p = 0.012). CONCLUSIONS: In the second stage of labor, it was found that the application of warmth decreases perineal pain, maintains the perineal integrity, and improves postpartum comfort.

Clinical Features and Associations of Descending Perineum Syndrome in 300 Adults with Constipation in Gastroenterology Referral Practice.

BACKGROUND: Outlet obstruction constipation accounts for about 30% of chronic constipation (CC) cases in a referral practice. AIMS: To assess the proportion of patients with CC diagnosed with descending perineum syndrome (DPS) by a single gastroenterologist and to compare clinical, radiological, and associated features in DPS compared to patients with constipation. METHODS: We conducted a review of records of 300 consecutive patients evaluated for constipation by a single gastroenterologist from 2007 to 2019, including medical, surgical, and obstetrics history, digital rectal examination, anorectal manometry, defecation proctography (available in 15/23 with DPS), treatment, and follow-up. DPS was defined as > 3 cm descent of anorectal junction on imaging or estimated perineal descent on rectal examination. Logistic regression with univariate and multivariate analysis compared factors associated with DPS to non-DPS patients. RESULTS: Twenty-three out of 300 (7.7%, all female) patients had DPS; these patients were older, had more births [including more vaginal deliveries (84.2% vs. 31.2% in non-DPS, p < 0.001)], more instrumental or traumatic vaginal deliveries, more hysterectomies, more rectoceles on proctography (86.7% vs. 28.6% non-DPS, p = 0.014), lower squeeze anal sphincter pressures (p < 0.001), and lower rectal sensation (p = 0.075) than non-DPS. On univariate logistic regression, history of vaginal delivery, hysterectomy, and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome increased the odds of developing DPS. Vaginal delivery was confirmed as a risk factor on multivariate analysis. CONCLUSIONS: DPS accounts for almost 10% of tertiary referral patients presenting with constipation. DPS is associated with age, female gender, and number of vaginal (especially traumatic) deliveries.

The effects of cryotherapy on perineal pain after childbirth: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Most women experience perineal pain after childbirth. Sustained perineal pain affects mother's daily living. Various methods have been used to relieve postpartum perineal pain, such as cold or warm therapy, but the pain-control effects of cryotherapy are still controversial. AIMS: The purpose of this study was to verify the effectiveness of cryotherapy in relieving perineal pain in women after childbirth. METHODS: The researchers searched the CINAHL, Cochrane, EMBASE, PubMed, Korea Education and Research Information Service, NDSL, KoreaMed, LILACS and SciELO databases for studies to include in this review, and selected studies using PICO criteria. Methodological quality was assessed based on Cochrane's risk of bias 2 for randomized controlled trials. Data were analyzed with the Comprehensive Meta-Analysis program. FINDINGS: Eleven published studies encompassing 1,492 participants were included. Cryotherapy significantly reduced pain two days postpartum. Ice packs and gel packs had similar pain-relieving effects. Cryotherapy did not differ significantly from Epifoam therapy (hydrocortisone-pramoxine) in its effects on perineal pain one day or five days after childbirth. CONCLUSIONS: Cryotherapy can be an effective non-pharmacological nursing intervention to reduce pain after childbirth.

Anal incontinence and unrecognized anal sphincter injuries after vaginal delivery- a cross-sectional study in Norway.

BACKGROUND: Aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence of postpartum anal incontinence among women who delivered vaginally, and to assess the extent to which obstetric injuries to the anal sphincters are missed. METHODS: All women (both primiparous and multiparous) who delivered vaginally and received any kind of sutures in the perineal area at Innlandet Hospital Trust Elverum in Norway between January 1, 2015 and June 30, 2016 were invited to answer a questionnaire on St. Mark's incontinence score and to participate in a clinical examination of the pelvic floor including endoanal sonography. RESULTS: In total 52,3% (n = 207) of the 396 invited women participated in the study. Mean St. Mark's score was 1.8 points (95% CI 1.4 to 2.1) at examination 14 months (mean) postpartum, and none of the participants suffered from weekly fecal leakage. Fecal urgency affected 11.7% (95% CI 7.1 to 16.3) of the participants, and 8.7% (95%CI 5.1 to 12.8) had weekly involuntary leakage of flatus. Nine women (9.3%, 95% CI 4.1 to 15.5) had a previously undetected third degree obstetric anal sphincter injury. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of anal incontinence among women who have delivered vaginally and received sutures due to 1st and 2nd degree perineal lacerations is low. Some obstetric anal sphincter injuries remain unrecognized at the time of delivery, but the symptoms of anal incontinence due to these injuries are in the lower half of the St. Mark's incontinence score. Women with persistent symptoms like fecal urgency or leakage of gas and/or feces should be referred to evaluation by a colorectal surgeon in order to achieve optimal treatment.

Transperineal ultrasound predicts endoscopic and histological healing in ulcerative colitis.

BACKGROUND: Transabdominal ultrasound is useful to assess inflammation in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC); however, the assessment of the rectum is challenging and a barrier for its widespread use. AIM: To evaluate if transperineal ultrasound is useful for predicting endoscopic and histological findings of the rectum in UC. METHODS: Fifty-three consecutive adults with UC who required colonoscopy were included and transperineal ultrasound was performed in combination with transabdominal ultrasound within a week before or after colonoscopy with rectal biopsy. Mayo endoscopic subscore (MES) ≤1 was defined as endoscopic healing and Geboes score <2.1, Robarts histopathology index ≤6, and Nancy index ≤1 were defined as histological healing. Limberg score and bowel wall thickness were recorded with transperineal ultrasound. Faecal calprotectin was also measured. RESULTS: Excellent correlation was confirmed between colonoscopy and transabdominal ultrasound in all segments except for the rectum. Rectal bowel wall thickness and Limberg score in transperineal ultrasound well correlated with rectal MES and histological indices. Bowel wall thickness ≤4 mm predicted endoscopic (Area under the curve [AUC] = 0.90) and histological (AUC = 0.87-0.89) healing. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, only bowel wall thickness in transperineal ultrasound was a significant independent predictor for rectal endoscopic and histologic healing (P < 0.05) and the predictability was better than faecal calprotectin. CONCLUSIONS: Transperineal ultrasound predicts endoscopic and histological healing of the rectum. The combination of transperineal ultrasound with transabdominal ultrasound visualises the entire colorectum and is an ideal modality for the treat-to-target strategy. Clinical Trials Registry number UMIN000033611 (https://upload.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr_e/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000038323).

Description and classification of postpartum chronic pain: A multicentric prospective study.

INTRODUCTION: To classify persistent perineal and pelvic postpartum pain using the classification usually employed in chronic pelvic pain. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Prospective observational study including all women who have consulted an algologist or gynecologist at one of the six French centers for a chronic pain (superior or equal to 3 months) spontaneous linked by the mother with her childbirth were included. During semi-directed interviews, a questionnaire regarding sociodemographic factors and detailed questions about pain were collected. Then, pelvic and perineal pain were classified into 7 pain syndromes: pelvic sensitization (Convergences PP criteria), complex regional pain syndrome (Budapest criteria), pudendal or cluneal neuralgia (Nantes criteria), neuroma, thoraco-lumbar junction syndrome, myofascial pain (muscle trigger zone), fibromyalgia (American College of Rheumatology criteria). The principal objective of this study is to assess the prevalence of each painful disorder. The secondary aims were the description of socio-demographic factors and clinical characteristics of this population, identify the related symptoms and the impact on daily function associated with the chronic pelvic or perineal postpartum pain. RESULTS: 40 women with chronic pelvic or perineal pain spontaneously linked with childbirth were included. 78 % experienced pain for more than 12 months. A large majority had a vaginal birth (95 %) with perineal suture (90 %) and severe acute pain within the first week postpartum (62 %). Postpartum pain impacted participant's sexual activity (80 %), micturition (28 %) and defecation (38 %). In the sample, 17 cases of neuroma, 6 patients with pudendal or cluneal neuralgia, 13 patients with pelvic sensitization and 2 cases of fibromyalgia were identified. Complex regional pain syndrome was diagnosed in 8 patients, and myofascial pain in 11 women, and only 1 patient had thoraco-lumbar junction syndrome. Neuropathic pain was found in 31 participants (77.5 %) according to DN4 criteria. DISCUSSION: The classification scheme proposed in this study may be a very useful tool to investigate postpartum pelvic and perineal pain and to propose a treatment.

Bladder and urethral dysfunction in multiparous and mature rabbits correlates with abnormal activity of pubococcygeus and bulbospongiosus muscles.

AIMS: To evaluate the combined effect of age and multiparity on the micturition reflex, including pelvic floor muscle activation. METHODS: Young and mature nulliparous rabbits were compared to young and mature multiparas (n = 6 per group). Cystometrograms and urethral pressure (UP) were performed while simultaneously recording the electromyogram (EMG) activity of the pubococcygeus and bulbospongiosus muscles to establish their functional correlation to urological function. RESULTS: Multiparity and age significantly influence the bladder and UP affecting the voiding efficiency and intercontraction interval. Such interaction also reduced the UP threshold, timing, and duration. Other bladder and urethral variables were predominantly affected only by age. Urodynamic alterations correlated with abnormal patterns or absent EMG activity of the pubococcygeus and bulbospongiosus muscles. CONCLUSIONS: The present findings strongly suggest that multiparity and age affects specific pelvic floor muscle reflex activation during micturition, and may contribute to alterations in bladder and urethral function. This data broadens our understanding of the critical role of the appropriate activity of the individual pelvic floor muscles in micturition.

[Breech Presentation: CNGOF Guidelines for Clinical Practice - Maternal Benefits and Risks of Planned Cesarean Delivery compared to Planned Vaginal Delivery]. / Présentation du siège. Recommandations pour la pratique clinique du CNGOF ­ Bénéfices et risques maternels de la césarienne programmée comparée à la tentative de voie basse.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate maternal risks and benefits associated with planned mode of delivery in case of breech presentation at term. METHODS: MedLine and Cochrane Library databases search and review of the main foreign guidelines. RESULTS: To analyze maternal complications according to the planned mode of delivery for breech singleton at term, only one study of high quality is available, a randomized controlled trial- the Term Breech Trial, having found a similar maternal morbidity rate with planned cesarean delivery compared to planned vaginal delivery (LE2). This trial found at 3 months postpartum a decreased risk of urinary incontinence and perineal pain, and an increased risk of abdominal pain in case of planned cesarean delivery compared to planned vaginal delivery (LE2). This trial found at 2 years postpartum, a similar rate of maternal morbidity according to planned mode of delivery, in the absence of subsequent pregnancy (LE2). In studies with fetus in cephalic presentation, previous cesarean delivery exposes women in subsequent pregnancies at serious risk of uterine rupture, abnormalities of placental insertion and hysterectomy (LE2). CONCLUSION: For breech singleton at term, short and long term maternal complications appear similar in case of planned vaginal delivery compared to planned cesarean delivery without subsequent pregnancy. In subsequent pregnancies, women with previous cesarean section are at risk for serious complications (uterine rupture, abnormalities of placental insertion).

Perineal trauma with anal avulsion: case report.

Anorectal avulsion is an exceptional rectal trauma. In this kind of lesions, the anus and the sphincter no longer join the perineum and are pulled upward. We present a case of 34-years-old patient who was admitted because of a pelvic-perineal trauma, presenting a partial anorectal avulsion, exposed femoral fracture with thigh's lacerated-contused wound. Our treatment included primary plastic of the internal anal sphincter with replanting of the rectum on the anal canal and a diverting loop sigmoid colostomy (SCS), so as to prevent sepsis. Closure of the protective SCS was performed four months after the trauma.

Perineal pain the first year after childbirth and uptake of post-partum check-up- A Swedish cohort study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this prospective cohort study was to investigate the prevalence of perineal pain related to the perineal injury within the first year after childbirth. The study further explored the rates of postpartum check-up attendance, and whether they had undergone a vaginal examination, pelvic floor assessment and exercise advice. RESEARCH DESIGN: The primary outcome was women's self-perceived and selfreported occurrence of pain related to perineal injuries (within three, six and 12 months) after birth. Secondary outcomes were uptake of postpartum check-up six to 12 weeks after birth and care received at the check-up. A postal questionnaire was completed one year after birth. Descriptive data was used to present data. FINDINGS: A total of 461 Swedish women (77%) were included in the study. The majority of women with severe perineal injuries (75.0%), and 61.8% of those with moderate injuries II suffered from perineal pain three months postpartum, while 60% with severe injuries and 38.7 with moderate injuries II still had perineal pain six months after birth. The postpartum check-up was attended by 90.6%. However, one out of four had not been given a pelvic examination or advised about pelvic floor exercises. KEY CONCLUSION: Many primiparas suffer from pain related to perineal injuries during the first year after birth. One out of ten women has problems with perineal pain one year postpartum. It is essential to investigate and recognize the impact of perineal pain on women's daily life and psychological and emotional wellbeing at the postpartum checkup.

Development of a New Incontinence Containment Product and an Investigation of Its Effect on Perineal Dermatitis in Patients With Fecal Incontinence: A Pilot Study in Women.

Research related to the design and development of new incontinence containment products for women is scarce. PURPOSE: The purpose of this 2-part study was to 1) develop a new incontinence containment product for fecal incontinence and 2) examine the effect of this new product on the occurrence of incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD). METHODS: In part 1, a new incontinence containment product was designed, developed, and trialed among 10 healthy female volunteers. The product was comprised of a double layer of polypropylene nonwoven fabric and 100% cotton interlock fabric with a 3-ply 100% cotton interlock fabric added into the perianal section. Participants wore the product for 8 hours and were asked to defecate into the product and evaluate its comfort, ability to contain liquids and protect privacy, any personal allergic reaction, and air permeability. In part 2, after any product modifications, 12 bedridden women treated in the neurology unit of a hospital in western Turkey who had an indwelling urinary catheter and fecal incontinence and who did not have diabetes mellitus, a darkly pigmented area in the perianal area, pressure injury, or erythema were randomized to 2 groups (study product and control, a premium adult diaper) and monitored for 8 days for the development and severity of perineal dermatitis (scored from 0 [no erythema] to 4 [broken, abraded skin]) using a skin assessment tool. Any type of erythema was considered IAD. Skin care (cleansing with a washcloth and water) was provided daily and after each defecation to all study participants. Data were collected via paper-and-pencil completion of the perineal skin integrity assessment and patient observation forms and entered into and analyzed by a computerized statistical program. Fisher's exact test and the chi-squared test were used to analyze the difference in IAD incidence and severity between the 2 groups, and the Mann Whitney U test was used to detect differences in the number and consistency of defecations. RESULTS: No statistically significant differences were noted among the characteristics of the 12 participants (6 in each group) except for age; patients in the study product group were significantly older (70.66 ± 10.36 vs 52.20 ± 16.78 years; P <.05. Four (4) patients in the study group exhibited 13 areas of perineal dermatitis (degree 1 = 6 areas; degree 2 = 6 areas; degree 3 = 1 area; and degree 4 = 0); 1 patient in the control group had 4 areas with degree 1. CONCLUSION: This prototype product is not sufficient to be used in clinical practice in patients with fecal incontinence, but further study in a larger population is warranted..

Pelvic Electric Potential as a Marker of Autonomic Dysfunctions and Risk Factor of Neurogenic Arrhythmias in Humans.

Differential high-resolution ECG (V1-V2) and pelvic electric potential measured between the coccyx and perineum were recorded simultaneously in resting supine position in men with autonomic nervous system disorders (N=37). In healthy volunteers (N=23), the effective (rms) value of PEP presented by median and interdecile range was 30 (20-80) µV within the frequency band of 0.03-80 Hz. In patients, the corresponding value was significantly higher: 140 (80-280) µV. In both groups, the amplitude harmonic spectrum of pelvic electric potential decreased monotonically with frequency according to 1/f1.6 law. In some patients (N=16), rare single or grouped high-amplitude impulses (up to 1 mV) of pelvic electric potential with total duration of about 1 sec were observed; of them, some persons (N=7) demonstrated practically one-to-one synchronous relations between these impulses and arrhythmia episodes indicating abnormal activity of the autonomic nervous system as their most probable common cause. The high-amplitude pelvic electric potential impulses were also observed in ECG records as interference signals with an amplitude attaining 50 µV. Thus, high-resolution ECG and pelvic electric potential can reveal the risk of abnormal neurogenic influences on the heart. The data obtained are discussed in relation to diagnostics of the autonomic nervous system disorders, neurogenic arrhythmias, and risk of sudden cardiac death.

Shear Wave Elastography to Assess Perineal Body Stiffness During Labor.

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to evaluate perineal body stiffness intrapartum using shear wave elastography ultrasound and to study its association with maternal and labor characteristics. METHODS: This was a prospective observational study. Pregnant women with term pregnancy who had been admitted for labor management were recruited into the study. Transperineal shear wave elastography of perineal body was performed. Maternal and labor data were retrieved from electronic medical charts. RESULTS: Thirty-two patients' data were available for analysis. Mean (SD) melastography modulus was 15.33 (5.49). While comparing the mean elastography modulus across maternal and labor characteristics, the difference was statistically different between parity, cervical dilation, and perineal laceration presence groups (P < 0.05). The mean of elastography modulus of primiparous women with cervical dilation less than 3 cm was 21.47 kPa, whereas that of multiparous women was 13.17 kPa (P = 0.0511). Perineal laceration was more prevalent in women with stiffer perineal body. The risk of having perineal laceration compared with no perineal laceration was 29.1% higher for each additional unit increase in perineal body elastography modulus (odds ratio, 0.709; 95% confidence interval, 0.507-0.992). CONCLUSIONS: Shear wave elastography can be used to quantify perineal body stiffness. Primiparous women in early stages of labor have stiffer perineal body than multiparous women in any stage of labor and primiparous women in late stage of labor.

Should Genital Hiatus/Perineal Body Be Measured at Rest or on Valsalva?

OBJECTIVE: Genital hiatus (Gh) and perineal body (Pb) are part of the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification assessment system, but it is unclear whether measurements should be taken at rest or on Valsalva. This study was designed to assess the predictive value of Gh and Pb measurements obtained at rest and on Valsalva for signs and symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse (POP). METHODS: This is a retrospective study involving 416 women who presented to a tertiary urogynecology unit with symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction. Genital hiatus and Pb were measured at rest and on maximal Valsalva. The strength of association between binary markers of POP and measurements of Gh/Pb was estimated using logistic regression analysis. Receiver operator characteristic statistics were used to compare predictive values of Gh and Pb measurements obtained at rest and on Valsalva. RESULTS: A total of 451 women were seen during the study period. Thirty-five were excluded owing to missing data, leaving 416. Fifty-four percent (n = 223) complained of POP symptoms. On examination, 80% (n = 332) had significant POP (stage 2+ in anterior or posterior compartments or stage 1+ in the central compartment). On imaging, significant POP was diagnosed in 66% (n = 275). Mean hiatal area was 22 cm (SD, 7; range, 5-49 cm) at rest and 30 cm (SD, 10; range, 11-69 cm) on Valsalva. Genital hiatus and Pb measured on Valsalva were consistently stronger predictors of prolapse symptoms and objective prolapse (by clinician examination and by ultrasound) than at Gh and Pb measured at rest. The corresponding area under the curve values were significantly larger for Gh/Pb measures on Valsalva after adjusting for multiple confounders. CONCLUSIONS: Genital hiatus/Pb measured on maximal Valsalva is a superior predictor of symptoms and signs of POP compared with Gh/Pb at rest.

[Methods of preventing perineal injury and dysfunction during pregnancy: CNGOF Perineal prevention and protection in obstetrics]. / Quelles interventions au cours de la grossesse diminuent le risque de lésions périnéales ? RPC Prévention et protection périnéale en obstétrique CNGOF.

OBJECTIVE: Several interventions during pregnancy have been described that might prevent the risk of postnatal perineal injury or dysfunction; these include prenatal perineal massage, use of the Epi-No device, and pelvic floor muscle training exercises. Our objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of these different interventions during pregnancy. METHODS: A systematic review of the literature was conducted on PubMed, including articles in French and English published before May 2018, to evaluate the effectiveness of these different interventions on perineal protection in the post-partum period. RESULTS: Perineal massage during pregnancy diminishes the episiotomy rate (LE1) as well as post-partum perineal pain and flatus (LE2). It does not reduce the rate of either OASIS (LE1) or post-partum urinary incontinence (LE2). The Epi-No device does not provide benefits for perineal protection (LE1). Prenatal pelvic floor muscle training exercises do not reduce the risk of perineal lacerations (LE2); they reduce the prevalence of post-partum urinary incontinence at 3 to 6 months but not at 12 months post-partum (LE2). CONCLUSION: Perineal massage during pregnancy must be encouraged among women who want it (Grade B). The use of the Epi-No device during pregnancy is not recommended for the prevention of OASIS (grade B). Pelvic floor muscle training during pregnancy is not recommended for the prevention of OASIS (grade B); moreover, its absence of effect in the medium term does not allow us to recommend it for urinary incontinence (professional consensus).

[Fetal expulsion: Which interventions for perineal prevention? CNGOF Perineal Prevention and Protection in Obstetrics Guidelines]. / Quelles interventions au cours du dégagement diminuent le risque de lésions périnéales ? RPC Prévention et protection périnéale en obstétrique CNGOF.

OBJECTIVE: The objective for all obstetricians and midwifes who intervene during the release of the fetal presentation is to prevent at best the perineal lesions. This work consisted in analyzing the literature, researching and evaluating interventions that reduce this perineal risk during the release. METHODS: A keyword search for each medical intervention during the expulsion phase was conducted by selecting studies assessing perineal risk. Interventions during pregnancy and during delivery before the expulsion phase were specifically addressed in other sections of the recommendations. RESULTS: Firstly, the degree of perineal stretching during the second stage of labour does not appear to be a risk factor for OASIS, postpartum incontinence, or sexual disorders (LE3) and that a substantial stretching of the perineum is not an indication of episiotomy (Professional consensus). Then, manual control of the expulsion of the fetus at the end of the second stage of labour and support of the posterior perineum during this time appear to reduce the rate of OASIS (LE3). The crowning of the baby's head should be manually controlled and the posterior perineum manually supported manually to reduce the risk of OASIS (GradeC). There is no recognised benefit to episiotomy in normal deliveries (LE1); the liberal practice of episiotomy results in fewer intact perineums than its restrictive practice, and the latter does not result in increasing the number of cases of OASIS. No evidence indicates that an episiotomy for women with a breech presentation, twin pregnancy, or posterior position prevents OASIS (LE3). Indication for episiotomy during delivery depends on individual risk factors and obstetric conditions (Professional consensus). It is recommended that the indication for episiotomy be explained and the woman's consent received before its performance. The performance of an episiotomy during normal deliveries is not recommended to reduce the risk of OASIS (Grade A). The liberal practice of episiotomy to prevent OASIS is not recommended for women with a breech presentation, twin pregnancy, or posterior position (GradeC). Episiotomy during an instrumental delivery appears to be associated with a reduction of the risk of OASIS (LE3). The vacuum extractor appears to induce fewer cases of OASIS than other instruments (LE3). Episiotomy may be indicated in instrumental deliveries to avoid OASIS (GradeC). Training in perineal protection in obstetrics is recommended (Grade B). In operative vaginal deliveries when several instruments can be used, a vacuum extractor is preferentially recommended to reduce the risk of OASIS (GradeC). When forceps or spatulas are used, it is preferable that they be withdrawn just before cephalic deflexion so that the fetal head is not "capped" with these instruments at birth (Professional consensus). Couder's maneuver, which consists of lowering the forearm during the release of the fetal shoulders, appears to decrease the rate of second-degree perineal tears and increase the rate of intact perineum (LE3). CONCLUSION: Manual control of the expulsion and perineal support reduce the risk of perineal injury. There is no benefit to episiotomy in normal delivery, nor in special cases such the breech presentation for example. On the other hand, in case of instrumental delivery, an episiotomy may be indicated to avoid OASIS (GradeC), and it is recommended if it is possible to use the ventouse preferentially. The Couder's maneuver seems to reduce the rate of 2nd degree perineal lesions (LE3). Finally, training in perineal obstetric protection is recommended (Grade B).