Clinical applications of pelvic floor imaging: opinion statement endorsed by the society of abdominal radiology (SAR), American Urological Association (AUA), and American Urogynecologic Society (AUGS)

Abdom Radiol (NY). 2021 Apr;46(4):1451-1464. doi: 10.1007/s00261-021-03017-8. Epub 2021 Mar 27.

Abstract

Pelvic floor dysfunction is prevalent, with multifactorial causes and variable clinical presentations. Accurate diagnosis and assessment of the involved structures commonly requires a multidisciplinary approach. Imaging is often complementary to clinical assessment, and the most commonly used modalities for pelvic floor imaging include fluoroscopic defecography, magnetic resonance defecography, and pelvic floor ultrasound. This collaboration opinion paper was developed by representatives from multiple specialties involved in care of patients with pelvic floor dysfunction (radiologists, urogynecologists, urologists, and colorectal surgeons). Here, we discuss the utility of imaging techniques in various clinical scenarios, highlighting the perspectives of referring physicians. The final draft was endorsed by the Society of Abdominal Radiology (SAR), American Urogynecologic Society (AUGS), and the American Urological Association (AUA).

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Pelvic Floor / diagnostic imaging
  • Pelvic Floor Disorders* / diagnostic imaging
  • Radiography, Abdominal
  • Radiology*
  • Ultrasonography
  • United States