Anterior vaginal wall repair (surgical treatment of urinary incontinence) - slideshow

MedlinePlus

... page: //medlineplus.gov/ency/presentations/100110.htm Anterior vaginal wall repair (surgical treatment of urinary incontinence) - series— ... to slide 4 out of 4 Overview The vaginal opening lies just below the urethral opening, and ...

Adhesion of uropathogenic Escherichia coli to epithelial cells from women with recurrent urinary tract infection.

PubMed

Schaeffer, A J; Jones, J M; Duncan, J L; Chmiel, J S; Plotkin, B J; Falkowski, W S

1982-01-01

Adherence of Escherichia coli to human uroepithelial cells obtained from the midstream urine of healthy women, nd to vaginal and buccal cells obtained from 11 healthy women and 24 patients who had had at least three urinary tract infections in the preceding year was studied. Bacteria labeled with [3H] uridine were used, and unattached organisms were separated from the epithelial cells by vacuum filtration through a polycarbonate membrane filter (5-micrometers-pore-size). A day-to-day variation in the receptivity of uroepithelial cells was noted. The range and rapidity of change in adherence to both vaginal and buccal cells were greater in patients than in controls. Adherence to vaginal cells was greater in patients than in controls (10.1 +/- 0.92 vs. 3.8 +/- 0.47 bacteria per cell [mean +/- S. E.], P less than 0.001), as was adherence to buccal cells (1.7 +/- 1.29 vs. 7.1 +/- 0.49, P = 0.002). There was a very strong, positive non-linear correlation between vaginal and buccal cell receptivity (R = 0.87, P less than 0.0001). The data suggest that susceptibility in women to urinary-tract infections is associated with widespread, fluctuating changes in the adhesive characteristics of epithelial cells.

Postpartum urinary tract infection by mode of delivery: a Danish nationwide cohort study.

PubMed

Gundersen, Tina Djernis; Krebs, Lone; Loekkegaard, Ellen Christine Leth; Rasmussen, Steen Christian; Glavind, Julie; Clausen, Tine Dalsgaard

2018-03-14

To examine the association between postpartum urinary tract infection and intended mode of delivery as well as actual mode of delivery. Retrospective cohort study. All live births in Denmark between 2004 and 2010 (n=450 856). Births were classified by intended caesarean delivery (n=45 053) or intended vaginal delivery (n=405 803), and by actual mode of delivery: spontaneous vaginal delivery, operative vaginal delivery, emergency or planned caesarean delivery in labour or prelabour. The primary outcome measure was postpartum urinary tract infection (n=16 295) within 30 days post partum, defined as either a diagnosis of urinary tract infection in the National Patient Registry or redemption of urinary tract infection-specific antibiotics recorded in the Register of Medicinal Product Statistics. We found that 4.6% of women with intended caesarean delivery and 3.5% of women with intended vaginal delivery were treated for postpartum urinary tract infection.Women with intended caesarean delivery had a significantly increased risk of postpartum urinary tract infection compared with women with intended vaginal delivery (OR 1.33, 95% CI 1.27 to 1.40), after adjustment for age at delivery, smoking, body mass index, educational level, gestational diabetes mellitus, infection during pregnancy, birth weight, preterm delivery, preterm prelabour rupture of membranes, pre-eclampsia, parity and previous caesarean delivery (adjusted OR 1.24, 95% CI 1.17 to 1.46).Using actual mode of delivery as exposure, all types of operative delivery had an equally increased risk of postpartum urinary tract infection compared with spontaneous vaginal delivery. Compared with intended vaginal delivery, intended caesarean delivery was significantly associated with a higher risk of postpartum urinary tract infection. Future studies should focus on reducing routine catheterisation prior to operative vaginal delivery as well as improving procedures related to catheterisation. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Postpartum urinary tract infection by mode of delivery: a Danish nationwide cohort study

PubMed Central

Krebs, Lone; Loekkegaard, Ellen Christine Leth; Rasmussen, Steen Christian; Glavind, Julie; Clausen, Tine Dalsgaard

2018-01-01

Objectives To examine the association between postpartum urinary tract infection and intended mode of delivery as well as actual mode of delivery. Design Retrospective cohort study. Setting and participants All live births in Denmark between 2004 and 2010 (n=450 856). Births were classified by intended caesarean delivery (n=45 053) or intended vaginal delivery (n=405 803), and by actual mode of delivery: spontaneous vaginal delivery, operative vaginal delivery, emergency or planned caesarean delivery in labour or prelabour. Primary and secondary outcome measures The primary outcome measure was postpartum urinary tract infection (n=16 295) within 30 days post partum, defined as either a diagnosis of urinary tract infection in the National Patient Registry or redemption of urinary tract infection-specific antibiotics recorded in the Register of Medicinal Product Statistics. Results We found that 4.6% of women with intended caesarean delivery and 3.5% of women with intended vaginal delivery were treated for postpartum urinary tract infection. Women with intended caesarean delivery had a significantly increased risk of postpartum urinary tract infection compared with women with intended vaginal delivery (OR 1.33, 95% CI 1.27 to 1.40), after adjustment for age at delivery, smoking, body mass index, educational level, gestational diabetes mellitus, infection during pregnancy, birth weight, preterm delivery, preterm prelabour rupture of membranes, pre-eclampsia, parity and previous caesarean delivery (adjusted OR 1.24, 95% CI 1.17 to 1.46). Using actual mode of delivery as exposure, all types of operative delivery had an equally increased risk of postpartum urinary tract infection compared with spontaneous vaginal delivery. Conclusions Compared with intended vaginal delivery, intended caesarean delivery was significantly associated with a higher risk of postpartum urinary tract infection. Future studies should focus on reducing routine catheterisation prior to operative vaginal delivery as well as improving procedures related to catheterisation. PMID:29540408

Updated Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of the Comparative Data on Colposuspensions, Pubovaginal Slings, and Midurethral Tapes in the Surgical Treatment of Female Stress Urinary Incontinence.

PubMed

Fusco, Ferdinando; Abdel-Fattah, Mohamed; Chapple, Christopher R; Creta, Massimiliano; La Falce, Sabrina; Waltregny, David; Novara, Giacomo

2017-10-01

Retropubic (RP-TVT) and transobturator miurethral (TO-TVT) midurethral sling (MUS) are popular surgical treatments for female stress urinary incontinence. The long-term efficacy and safety of the procedures is still a topic of intense clinical research and several randomised controlled trials (RCTs) have been published in the last years OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of MUS compared with other surgical treatments for female stress urinary incontinence. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature was performed using the Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science databases to update our previously published analyses. Twenty-eight RCTs were identified. In total, the meta-analyses included 15 855 patients. Patients receiving MUS had significantly higher overall (odds ratio [OR]: 0.59, p=0.0003) and objective (OR: 0.51, p=0.001) cure rates than those receiving Burch colposuspension. Patients undergoing MUS and pubovaginal slings had similar cure rates. Patients treated with RT-TVT had higher subjective (OR: 0.83, p=0.03) and objective (OR: 0.82, p=0.01) cure rates than those receiving TO-TVT. However, the latter had a lower risk of intraoperative bladder or vaginal perforation (OR: 2.4, p=0.0002), pelvic haematoma (OR: 2.61, p=0.002), urinary tract infections (OR: 1.31, p=0.04) and voiding lower urinary tract symptoms (OR: 1.66, p=0.002). Sensitivity analyses limited to RCTs with follow-up durations >60 mo demonstrated similar outcomes for RP-TVT and TO-TVT. No significant differences in efficacy were identified comparing inside-to-out and outside-to-in TO-TVT but vaginal perforations were less common with the former (OR: 0.21, p=0.0002). The present analysis confirms the superiority of MUS over Burch colposuspension. The studies comparing insertion of RT-TVT and TO-TVT showed higher subjective and objective cure rates for the RP-TVT but at the cost of higher risks of some complications and voiding lower urinary tract symptoms. Efficacy of inside-out and outside-in techniques of TO-TVT insertion was similar, although the risk of vaginal perforation was lower in the inside-to-out TO-TVT. Retropubic and transobturator midurethral slings are a popular treatment for female stress urinary incontinence. The available literature suggest that those slings are either more effective or safer than other older surgical procedures. Retropubic tapes are followed with slightly higher continence rates as compared with the transobturator tapes but are associated with higher risk of intra- and postoperative complications. Copyright © 2017 European Association of Urology. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Influence of pelvic floor muscle contraction on the profile of vaginal closure pressure in continent and stress urinary incontinent women.

PubMed

Shishido, Keiichi; Peng, Qiyu; Jones, Ruth; Omata, Sadao; Constantinou, Christos E

2008-05-01

We characterized the vaginal pressure profile as a representation of closure forces along the length and circumference of the vaginal wall. Vaginal pressure profile data were used to test the hypothesis that the strength of pelvic floor muscle contractions differs significantly between continent women and women with stress urinary incontinence. Vaginal pressure profile recordings were made in 23 continent subjects and in 10 patients with stress urinary incontinence. The recordings characterized closure forces along the entire length of the vagina and identified differences among the anterior, posterior, left and right sides of the vaginal wall. Using a novel, directionally sensitive vaginal probe we made vaginal pressure profile measurements with the women at rest and during pelvic floor muscle contraction while supine. The nature of the vaginal pressure profile was characterized in terms of force distribution in the anterior and posterior vaginal walls, which was significantly greater than that on the left and right sides. The continent group had significant greater maximum pressure than the stress urinary incontinence group on the posterior side at rest (mean +/- SE 3.4 +/- 0.3 vs 2.01 +/- 0.36 N/cm(2)) and during pelvic floor muscle contraction (4.18 +/- 0.26 vs 2.25 +/- 0.41 N/cm(2)). The activity pressure difference between the posterior and anterior vaginal walls in the continent group was significantly increased when the pelvic floor muscles contracted vs that at rest (3.29 +/- 0.21 vs 2.45 +/- 0.26 N/cm(2)). However, the change observed in the stress urinary incontinence group was not significant (1.85 +/- 0.38 vs 1.35 +/- 0.27 N/cm(2)). The results demonstrate that the voluntary pelvic floor muscles impose significant closure forces along the vaginal wall of continent women but not in women with stress urinary incontinence. The implication of these findings is that extrinsic urethral closure pressure is insufficiently augmented by pelvic floor muscle contraction in women with stress urinary incontinence.

Intra-uterine microbial colonization and occurrence of endometritis in women with endometriosis†.

PubMed

Khan, Khaleque Newaz; Fujishita, Akira; Kitajima, Michio; Hiraki, Koichi; Nakashima, Masahiro; Masuzaki, Hideaki

2014-11-01

Is there any risk of intra-uterine bacterial colonization and concurrent occurrence of endometritis in women with endometriosis? An increase in intra-uterine microbial colonization and concurrent endometritis occurred in women with endometriosis that was further increased after GnRH agonist (GnRHa) treatment. Higher bacterial contamination of menstrual blood and increased endotoxin level in menstrual and peritoneal fluids have been found in women with endometriosis than in control women. However, information on intra-uterine microbial colonization across the phases of the menstrual cycle and possible occurrence of endometritis in women with endometriosis is still lacking. This is a case-controlled study with prospective collection of vaginal smears/endometrial samples from women with and without endometriosis and retrospective evaluation. Vaginal smears and endometrial smears were collected from 73 women with endometriosis and 55 control women. Twenty of the women with endometriosis and 19 controls had received GnRHa therapy for a period of 4-6 months. Vaginal pH was measured by intra-vaginal insertion of a pH paper strip. The bacterial vaginosis (BV) score was analyzed by Gram-staining of vaginal smears and based on a modified Nugent-BV scoring system. A panel of bacteria was analyzed by culture of endometrial samples from women treated with GnRHa or not treated. Immunohistochemcial analysis was performed using antibody against Syndecan-1 (CD138) and myeloperoxidase in endometrial biopsy specimens from women with and without endometriosis. A significant shifting of intra-vaginal pH to ≥4.5 was observed in women with endometriosis compared with control women (79.3 versus 58.4%, P < 0.03). Compared with untreated women, use of GnRHa therapy also shifted vaginal pH to ≥4.5 in both control women (P = 0.004) and in women with endometriosis (P = 0.03). A higher risk of increasing intermediate flora (total score, 4-6) (P = 0.05) was observed in women with endometriosis who had GnRHa treatment versus untreated women. The number of colony forming units (CFU/ml) of Gardnerella, α-Streptococcus, Enterococci and Escherichia coli was significantly higher in endometrial samples from women with endometriosis than control women (P < 0.05 for each bacteria). GnRHa-treated women also showed significantly higher colony formation for some of these bacteria in endometrial samples than in untreated women (Gardnerella and E. coli for controls; Gardnerella, Enterococci and E. coli for women with endometriosis, P < 0.05 for all). Although there was no significant difference in the occurrence of acute endometritis between women with and without endometriosis, both GnRHa-treated controls and women with endometriosis had a significantly higher occurrence of acute endometritis (P = 0.003 for controls, P = 0.001 for endometriosis versus untreated women). Multiple analysis of covariance analysis revealed that an intra-vaginal pH of ≥4.5 (P = 0.03) and use of GnRHa (P = 0.04) were potential factors that were significantly and independently associated with intra-uterine microbial colonization and occurrence of endometritis in women with endometriosis. These findings indicated the occurrence of sub-clinical uterine infection and endometritis in women with endometriosis after GnRHa treatment. We cannot exclude the introduction of bias from unknown previous treatment with immunosuppressing or anti-microbial agents. We have studied a limited range of bacterial species and used only culture-based methods. More sensitive molecular approaches would further delineate the similarities/differences between the vaginal cavity and uterine environment. Our current findings may have epidemiological and biological implications and help in understanding the pathogenesis of endometriosis and related disease burden. The worsening of intra-uterine microbial colonization and higher occurrence of endometritis in women with endometriosis who were treated with GnRHa identifies some future therapeutic avenues for the management, as well as prevention of recurrence, of endometriosis. Further studies are needed to examine intra-uterine colonization of a broad range of common bacteria as well as different viruses and their role in the occurrence of endometritis. This work was supported by Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research from the Ministry of Education, Sports, Culture, Science and Technology of Japan. There is no conflict of interest related to this study. Not applicable. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Vaginal cones or balls to improve pelvic floor muscle performance and urinary continence in women post partum: A quantitative systematic review.

PubMed

Oblasser, Claudia; Christie, Janice; McCourt, Christine

2015-11-01

the vaginal use of cones or balls aims to increase muscle performance and thereby prevent or treat urinary incontinence. To date, no systematic review has focused on the effectiveness of these devices specifically during the postpartum period. The objectives of this review were: to compare the effectiveness of vaginal cones or balls for improvement of pelvic floor muscle performance and urinary continence in the postpartum period to no treatment, placebo, sham treatment or active controls; to gather information on effect on perineal descent or pelvic organ prolapse, adverse effects and economical aspects. quantitative systematic review. 14 scientific databases (including PubMed and CINAHL) and the world-wide web; experts were contacted for published and unpublished data. studies had to be randomised/quasi-randomised trials and have female participants up to one year after childbirth. The intervention is compared to no treatment, placebo, sham treatment or active controls. Outcome measures relate to pelvic floor muscle performance or urinary incontinence. Studies were selected, 'risk of bias' assessed, and data extracted by two reviewers independently with inter-reviewer agreement. one study met the inclusion criteria; its original data were re-analysed. In an intention-to-treat analysis, compared with the control group, the cone group showed a statistically significant lower rate of urinary incontinence; compared with the exercise group, the prevalence was similar. However, the validity of the analysis is limited. the evidence gained from this systematic review is very limited. The use of cones may be helpful for urinary incontinence after childbirth, but further research is needed. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Vaginal Calculus in a Woman With Mixed Urinary Incontinence and Vaginal Mesh Exposure.

PubMed

Winkelman, William D; Rabban, Joseph T; Korn, Abner P

2016-01-01

Vaginal calculi are extremely rare and are most commonly encountered in the setting of an urethrovaginal or vesicovaginal fistula. We present a case of a 72-year-old woman with mixed urinary incontinence and vaginal mesh exposure incidentally found to have a large vaginal calculus. We removed the calculus surgically and analyzed the components. Results demonstrated the presence of ammonium-magnesium phosphate hexahydrate and carbonate apatite.

Pelvic Floor Disorders in Female Veterans: What a Difference an X Makes

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-07-22

vaginal support has weakened  Known risk factors:  Vaginal deliveries  Multiple deliveries  High birth weight deliveries  Chronic cough – increase...2010 Backup slides: UTI, Lowe Study Symptoms of vaginitis and urinary tract infections are miserable, distracting, and significantly affect women’s...had been deployed, vaginal infections were experienced by 30.1% and urinary tract infections by 18.4% of them during deployment. Vaginal symptoms were

The "RESEAU MATER": An efficient infection control for endometritis, but not for urinary tract infection after vaginal delivery.

PubMed

Ayzac, Louis; Caillat-Vallet, Emmanuelle; Girard, Raphaële; Berland, Michel

"RESEAU MATER" is useful to monitor nosocomial infections in maternity and contributes to the decreasing trend of it, since its implementation. Specifically, this network demonstrates its efficiency in the control of endometritis following vaginal deliveries, but not in the control of urinary tract infections. The aim of this study is to determine whether the difference between the control of endometritis and of urinary tract infection could be explained by an unsuitable regression model or by an unsuitable care policy concerning urinary cares. This study includes (1) the analysis of historic data of the network and (2) the description of French guidelines for maternity cares and available evaluations, concerning endometritis and urinary tract infection prevention. Univariate and multivariate odds ratios (ORs) were calculated for the total study period of 1999-2013, for these infections and their risk factors. The endometritis frequency is decreasing, in association with no significant evolution of associated risk factors, but urinary tract infection frequency is constant, in association with a increasing trend of its risk factors such as intermittent catheterization and epidural analgesia. In French guidelines, all preventive measures against endometritis are clearly broadcasted by all field operators, and repeated audits have reinforced the control of their application. But preventive measures against urinary tract infection seem to be broadcasted exclusively in the circle of infection prevention agencies and not in the obstetrics societies or in the Health Ministry communication. Urinary tract infection prevention requires a clearer public and professional policy in favor of a more efficient urinary cares, with a specific target to maternity. Copyright © 2016 King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

IL-1beta, IL-6 and IL-8 levels in gyneco-obstetric infections.

PubMed Central

Basso, Beatriz; Giménez, Francisco; López, Carlos

2005-01-01

OBJECTIVE: During pregnancy cytokines and inflammatory mediators stimulate the expression of prostaglandin, the levels of which determine the onset of labor. The aim of this work was to study interleukin IL-1beta, IL-6 and IL-8 levels in the vaginal discharge, serum and urine of pregnant women with genitourinary infection before and after specific treatment. One hundred and fifty-one patients were studied during the second or third trimester of their pregnancy. METHODS: The selected patients were: healthy or control group (n = 52), those with bacterial vaginosis (n = 47), those with vaginitis (n = 37), those with asymptomatic urinary infection (n = 15) and post-treatment. The level of cytokines was assayed by ELISA test. The Mann-Whitney U-test was used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The IL-1beta levels in vaginal discharge were: control 103.5 +/- 24.2 pg/ml, bacterial vaginosis 1030 +/- 59.5, vaginitis 749.14 +/- 66.7l ( p < 0.0001), post-treatment 101.4 +/- 28.7. IL-6 values were similar in both control and infected groups, and there were no patients with chorioamnionitis. In vaginal discharge IL-6: control 14.2 +/- 3.9 pg/ml, bacterial vaginosis 13.2 +/- 3.8, vaginitis 13 +/- 4.2. IL-8 levels were: control 1643 +/- 130.3 pg/ml, bacterial vaginosis 2612.7 +/- 257.7, vaginitis 3437 +/- 460 (p < 0.0001), post-treatment 1693 +/- 126.6. In urine the results were: control 40.2 +/- 17 pg/ml, asymptomatic urinary infection 1200.7 +/- 375 (p < 0.0001). In patients with therapeutic success both IL-1beta and IL-8 returned to normal levels. CONCLUSIONS: Genitourinary infections induce a significant increase in IL-1beta and IL-8 levels in vaginal secretions, and IL-8 in urine as well. Both cytokines could be useful as evolutive markers of infection. PMID:16338780

Urinary tract infection as a single presenting sign of multiple vaginal foreign bodies: case report and review of the literature.

PubMed

Neulander, Endre Z; Tiktinsky, Alex; Romanowsky, Igor; Kaneti, Jacob

2010-02-01

Vaginal foreign bodies in children usually present with foul-smelling discharge and/or vaginal bleeding. Rarely, these basic clinical diagnostic signs are not present. We report on a 5(1/2)-year-old girl with recurrent lower urinary tract infection as the sole presentation of multiple vaginal foreign bodies. Ultrasound of the lower urinary tract was inconclusive, and cystography indicated for recurrent urinary tract infections was declined by the patient in an outpatient setting. Cystography under general anesthesia raised the suspicion of foreign vaginal objects, and the definitive diagnosis was made by vaginoscopy. The relevant literature covering this subject is reviewed. High level of suspicion and strict basic diagnostic protocol are the most important steps for a timely diagnosis of this condition. Copyright 2010 North American Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of the safety and efficacy of a monopolar nonablative radiofrequency device for the improvement of vulvo-vaginal laxity and urinary incontinence.

PubMed

Lalji, Shelena; Lozanova, Paula

2017-06-01

Vaginal childbirth, natural process of aging, congenital factors, and surgical interventions are considered the main causes of vulvo-vaginal laxity driven by changes in collagen and elastin fibers. This causes a loss of strength and flexibility within the vaginal wall. As a result, women may experience lack of sensation and stress urinary incontinence (SUI)-the condition of involuntary loss of urine associated with activities that cause an increase in intra-abdominal pressure (eg, sneezing, coughing, and lifting). Both vaginal laxity and urinary incontinence significantly affect patients' quality of life (QoL). The aim of this study was to evaluate efficacy and safety of a noninvasive radiofrequency device when used to treat SUI and vulvo-vaginal laxity through its heating effect which stimulates collagen and elastin fibers. Twenty-seven women (average age 44.78±10.04 years) with indications of mild/moderate SUI as well as vulvo-vaginal laxity were treated with a monopolar radiofrequency device. The treatment course consisted of three once-a-week sessions. Each session included intravaginal treatment followed by treatment of labia majora and the perineum. Improvement in the SUI condition was evaluated by applying the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire - Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICIQ-UI SF). Data were collected at the baseline, after the last treatment and at 1-month follow-up visit. Vaginal laxity was assessed by subjective vulvo-vaginal laxity questionnaire (VVLQ). Data were collected before the 1st treatment and during the 1-month follow-up visit. Patient's satisfaction was recorded using a satisfaction questionnaire. Data were collected after the last treatment and at the 1-month follow-up visit. Any adverse events related to the treatments were monitored. On a scale of 0 to 5, the average frequency of urine leak improved from "2-3 times a week" (2.15±1.03 points prior to treatment) to "once a week" (1.00±0.78 points post-treatment), and on to "never" (0.44±0.51 points at the 1-month follow-up visit). Sixteen subjects (59.3%) reported decrease in the amount of leakage, with 15 women (55.6%) becoming completely leak-free at the 1-month follow-up. At the 1-month follow-up visit, 24 subjects (88.9%) expressed their condition's interference with everyday life decreased and 17 patients (62.9%) said the condition did not interfere with their everyday life at all as a result of the treatment. All results are statistically significant (P<.05). No adverse events were recorded. All subjects reported improvement in vaginal laxity, from average perception of "very loose" (2.19±1.08 points prior to treatment) to "moderately tight" (5.74±0.76 points at the 1-month follow-up visit). During the follow-up visit, 89% of the patients "agreed" or "strongly agreed" that their SUI condition improved, and 93% of the patients "agreed" or "strongly agreed" that their gratification during intercourse improved. None of the subjects reported dissatisfaction. The study confirmed the monopolar radiofrequency method as an effective and safe treatment of SUI and vulvo-vaginal laxity. The treatments were well tolerated by all subjects with no adverse effects. © The Authors. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The electromyographic activity of the external and internal urethral sphincters and urinary bladder on vaginal distension and its role in preventing vaginal soiling with urine during sexual intercourse.

PubMed

Shafik, Ahmed; Shafik, Ali A; Shafik, Ismail A; El Sibai, Olfat

2008-03-01

We investigated the hypothesis that external (EUS) and internal (IUS) urethral sphincters and urinary bladder (UB) respond to penile thrusting (PT) of vagina in a way that prevents urinary leakage during coitus. Vaginal condom was inflated with air in increments of 50-300 ml and EMG of EUS and IUS and vaginal pressure were recorded; test was repeated after anesthetization of vagina, UB, EUS, and IUS. Vaginal distension effected reduction of vesical pressure but increase of IUS EMG until the 150 ml distension was reached, beyond which more vaginal distension caused no further effect; EUS EMG showed no response. Vaginal distension while vagina, UB, EUS, and IUS had been separately anesthetized, produced no change. Vaginal balloon distension appears to effect vesical relaxation and increased IUS tone. This seems to provide a mechanism to avoid urine leakage during coitus and to occur through a reflex we term 'vagino-urethrovesical reflex'.

Vaginal prolapse with urinary bladder incarceration and consecutive irreducible rectal prolapse in a dog.

PubMed

Ober, Ciprian-Andrei; Peștean, Cosmin Petru; Bel, Lucia Victoria; Taulescu, Marian; Cătoi, Cornel; Bogdan, Sidonia; Milgram, Joshua; Schwarz, Guenter; Oana, Liviu Ioan

2016-09-22

True vaginal prolapse is a rare condition in dogs and it is occasionally observed in animals with constipation, dystocia, or forced separation during breeding. If a true prolapse occurs, the bladder, the uterine body and/or distal part of the colon, may be present in the prolapse. A 2-year-old intact non pregnant Central Asian Shepherd dog in moderate condition, was presented for a true vaginal and rectal prolapse. The prolapses were confirmed by physical examination and ultrasonography. Herniation of the urinary bladder was identified within the vaginal prolapse. The necrotic vaginal wall was resected, the urinary bladder was reduced surgically and fixed to the right abdominal wall to prevent recurrence. Rectal resection and anastomosis was necessary to correct the rectal prolapse. Recurrence of the prolapses was not observed and the dog recovered completely after the surgical treatment. In our opinion, extreme tenesmus arising from constipation may have predisposed to the vaginal prolapse with bladder incarceration and secondarily to rectal prolapse. In the young female dog, true vaginal prolapse with secondary involvement of the urinary bladder and irreducible rectal prolapse is an exceptionally rare condition.

Long-term impacts of vaginal birth with mediolateral episiotomy on sexual and pelvic dysfunction and perineal pain.

PubMed

Doğan, Bülent; Gün, İsmet; Özdamar, Özkan; Yılmaz, Ali; Muhçu, Murat

2017-02-01

To investigate whether spontaneous vaginal birth with mediolateral episiotomy has any long-term impact on urinary and/or fecal incontinence, sexual dysfunction and perineal pain in primiparous women. This matched case-control study included 150 women between 25 and 35 years old who had a singleton childbirth at least five years previously. Patients were grouped as; women who had a spontaneous vaginal delivery with mediolateral episiotomy (Group 1), an elective cesarean delivery (Group 2), and who had no delivery (Group 3). Controls were matched for age and delivery time. Urinary/fecal incontinence were questioned and Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire was completed. Total FSFI and domain scores were compared. Statistical evaluation was performed using One-way ANOVA test or χ 2 test. Statistical significance was defined as p < 0.05. No women had urinary/fecal incontinence nor sexual dysfunction. Mean total FSFI points in Group 1 were significantly lower than in Groups 2 and 3 (p = 0.001). There were significant differences in sexual desire between groups 1 and 3 (p = 0.005), in arousal and in orgasm between both groups 1 and 2 (p = 0.001 and p = 0.038, respectively) and groups 1 and 3 (p = 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively). There was no significant difference between groups 2 and 3 in any parameters or total points. Vaginal delivery with mediolateral episiotomy is not associated with urinary and/or fecal incontinence and sexual dysfunction but associated with a decreased sexual functioning as well as sexual desire, arousal and orgasm within postpartum five years.

Prevalence and predictors of urinary/anal incontinence after vaginal delivery: prospective study of Nigerian women.

PubMed

Obioha, Kingsley Chukwu; Ugwu, Emmanuel Onyebuchi; Obi, Samuel Nnamdi; Dim, Cyril Chukwudi; Oguanuo, Theophilus Chimezie

2015-09-01

Urinary and anal incontinence are major public health problems impacting on the quality of life of affected women, with resultant loss of self-esteem. Despite the anticipated magnitude of this public health problem in sub-Saharan Africa, there is paucity of data on the prevalence of urinary and/or anal incontinence after childbirth in the region. This study determined the prevalence and predictors of urinary and anal incontinence after vaginal delivery among women in Enugu, southeastern Nigeria. This was a longitudinal study of 230 consecutive parturients at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria. Eligible women were followed up immediately, 6 weeks, and 3 months postpartum to assess the development of urinary and/or anal incontinence using validated questionnaires. Overall, 28 women had urinary incontinence, giving a cumulative prevalence rate of 12.2 %. The cumulative prevalence rate was 13.5 % for anal incontinence and 3 % for combined urinary and anal incontinence. Age, social class, parity, prolonged second stage of labor, and neonatal birth weight were significantly associated with postpartum urinary incontinence (P < 0.05). On the other hand, age, parity, prolonged second stage of labor, episiotomy, and instrumental vaginal delivery were significantly associated with postpartum anal incontinence (P < 0.05). Urinary and anal incontinence are common after vaginal delivery in Enugu, Nigeria. Modification of obstetric care and discouraging preventable predisposing factors for incontinence, such as prolonged second stage of labor and vaginal delivery of macrosomic babies, are measures that may reduce the prevalence of postpartum incontinence in our population.

[Risk factors of teenage pregnancies, deliveries and post-partum in the department of Loiret].

PubMed

Alouini, S; Randriambololona, D; Randriamboavonjy, R

2015-05-01

To evaluate the obstetric outcome of teenage pregnancies compared to adult women in the department of Loiret. A retrospective study of adolescents (10-19 years) delivered after 22 weeks compared to adult women aged 20-35 years (controls) from the first January to the 31 December 2012 in a maternity level 3. The two groups were compared by the Chi(2) test or the exact test of Fisher. A P-value < 0.05 was considered significant. Adolescent had less prenatal consultations than controls (4 versus 7). They used more tobacco during pregnancy than adult controls. Urinary infections and preterm threat and births were more frequent in the adolescent group compared to the controls (P=0.04 and 0.018). However, the gestational diabetes was less frequent in the adolescent group versus controls (P=0.0005, OR: 0.16 [IC95%: 0.03-0.54]). The adolescent group represented 2.38 of total deliveries. The rate of vaginal deliveries and caesarean section was similar in the two groups. Vaginal tears were significantly more frequent among adolescents than controls (P=0.0019). The adolescents were more likely to preterm delivery and to have urinary infections than the adult women (controls). They are less likely to have gestational diabetes than older women. The rates of vaginal deliveries are comparable; however, the adolescents are more likely to experience vaginal tears than controls. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Vaginal mucosal flap as a sling preservation for the treatment of vaginal exposure of mesh.

PubMed

Kim, Sea Young; Park, Jong Yeon; Kim, Han Kwon; Park, Chang Hoo; Kim, Sung Jin; Sung, Gi Teck; Park, Chang Myon

2010-06-01

Tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) procedures are used for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence in women. The procedures with synthetic materials can have a risk of vaginal erosion. We experienced transobturator suburethral sling (TOT) tape-induced vaginal erosion and report the efficacy of a vaginal mucosal covering technique. A total of 560 female patients diagnosed with stress urinary incontinence underwent TOT procedures at our hospital between January 2005 and August 2009. All patients succeeded in follow-ups, among which 8 patients (mean age: 50.5 years) presented with vaginal exposure of the mesh. A vaginal mucosal covering technique was performed under local anesthesia after administration of antibiotics and vaginal wound dressings for 3-4 days. Seven of the 8 patients complained of persistent vaginal discharge postoperatively. Two of the 8 patients complained of dyspareunia of their male partners. The one remaining patient was otherwise asymptomatic, but mesh erosion was discovered at the routine follow-up visit. Six of the 8 patients showed complete mucosal covering of the mesh after the operation (mean follow-up period: 16 moths). Vaginal mucosal erosion recurred in 2 patients, and the mesh was then partially removed. One patient had recurrent stress urinary incontinence. Vaginal mucosal covering as a sling preservation with continued patient continence may be a feasible and effective option for the treatment of vaginal exposure of mesh after TOT tape procedures.

Comparison of the Hyaluronic Acid Vaginal Cream and Conjugated Estrogen Used in Treatment of Vaginal Atrophy of Menopause Women: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.

PubMed

Jokar, Azam; Davari, Tayebe; Asadi, Nasrin; Ahmadi, Fateme; Foruhari, Sedighe

2016-01-01

Vaginal atrophy is a common complication in menopause which does not improve with time and, if untreated, can affect the quality of life for women. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of the vaginal cream of hyaluronic acid and conjugated estrogen (Premarin) in treatment of vaginal atrophy. This study was a randomized controlled clinical trial on 56 menopausal women with symptoms of vaginal atrophy; they were randomly allocated to two groups (recipient conjugated estrogen and hyaluronic acid). The severity of each sign of atrophy was evaluated by visual analog signals (VAS) and on the basis of a four point scale. Also to recognize the cellular maturation with pap smear and the maturation degree were calculated according to the formula and scores 0-100. As to the vaginal PH, we used PH marker band, the rate of which was divided into 4 degrees. Data were analyzed using SPSS, version 20, and P≤0.05 was considered as significant. The results of this study showed that the symptoms of vaginal atrophy compared with the baseline level were relieved significantly in both groups. Dryness, itching, maturation index, PH and composite score of the vaginal symptoms were relieved significantly in both groups (P<0.001). Dyspareunia in Premarin (P<0.05) and hyaluronic acid (P<0.001) decreased compared with pre-treatment. Urinary incontinence only showed improvement in the hyaluronic acid group (P<0.05). Improvement in urinary incontinence, dryness, maturation index (P<0.05) and composite score of vaginal symptoms (P<0.001) in the hyaluronic acid group was better than those in the Premarin group. According to the results of the present study, hyaluronic acid and conjugated estrogen improved the symptoms of vaginal atrophy. But hyaluronic acid was more effective and this drug is suggested for those who do not want to or cannot take local hormone treatment. IRCT2013022712644N1.

A Case of Distal Vaginal Agenesis Presenting with Recurrent Urinary Tract Infection and Pyuria in a Prepubertal Girl.

PubMed

Dural, Ozlem; Ugurlucan, Funda Gungor; Yasa, Cenk; Bastu, Ercan; Eren, Hulya; Yuksel, Bahar; Celik, Serdal; Akhan, Suleyman Engin

2017-02-01

Isolated distal vaginal agenesis is a rare anomaly and mostly becomes symptomatic after menarche. We describe an unusual presentation of this anomaly in a prepubertal girl. An 11-year-old prepubertal girl presented with recurrent urinary tract infection, pyuria, and right-sided renal agenesis. The findings of perineal inspection, ultrasonography, and magnetic resonance imaging were consistent with a distal vaginal agenesis with pyometrocolpos. Discharging pyometrocolpos with dissection of the atretic portion and a pull-through vaginoplasty were performed. A cystoscopy showed no sign of a vesicovaginal or uterine fistula. This rare presentation of distal vaginal agenesis reminds us that congenital malformations of the female genital tract should be considered in patients with congenital anomalies of the urinary system and/or recurrent urinary tract infection, even during the prepubertal period. Copyright © 2016 North American Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of norfloxacin therapy for acute, uncomplicated lower urinary tract infection on vaginal Candida prevalence.

PubMed

Rocha, Rodrigo M; Zanni, Pâmela C M Delvas; de Souza Bonfim-Mendonça, Patrícia; Gimenes, Fabrícia; Alczuk, Silvia S Dantas; Svidzinski, Terezinha I Estivalet; Consolaro, Márcia E Lopes

2016-05-01

Acute uncomplicated lower urinary tract infections (UTI) and vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) both occur frequently in women. Although VVC is believed to commonly occur after antibiotic therapy, few studies have demonstrated this association. Thus, the aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence of colonization by Candida spp. and VVC after norfloxacin (NOR) use for UTI and the effects on the vaginal microbiota and inflammatory process. This was a prospective cohort study of women with culture-proven UTI who were treated with NOR (antibiotic group). The control group consisted of women with noninfectious diseases or in preventive care. Candida vaginal infections were monitored both clinically and mycologically at baseline and at the follow-up evaluation. All women showed UTI remission after NOR treatment, and no woman in either group, antibiotic and control, showed symptoms of VVC. Both groups showed similar ratios of a positive Candida culture at baseline (6.7 % and 12.8 %, respectively) and at follow-up (3.3 % and 8.5 %, respectively) (p = 0.2768 and p = 0.5035, respectively). The antibiotic group showed no increased risk of Candida colonization or VVC after NOR treatment compared with the control group [odds ratio (OR) 0.556, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 0.2407-10.05]. NOR was effective for UTI treatment, did not increase the risk of vaginal colonization by Candida or VVC, and did not lead to major disturbances of the vaginal microbiota.

Military women's risk factors for and symptoms of genitourinary infections during deployment.

PubMed

Lowe, Nancy K; Ryan-Wenger, Nancy A

2003-07-01

Symptoms of vaginitis and urinary tract infections are miserable, distracting, and significantly affect women's quality of life. Among civilian women, these symptoms account for 10.5 million office visits per year. To examine the scope of the problem for military women during deployment situations, surveys were sent to randomly selected Army and Navy units. Of 841 women who completed the anonymous survey and had been deployed, vaginal infections were experienced by 30.1% and urinary tract infections by 18.4% of them during deployment. Vaginal symptoms were consistent with symptoms associated with the three most common vaginal infections (candida, bacterial, and trichomonas vaginitis). A variety of risk factors, both behavioral and situational, significantly differentiated women with and without infections. Urinary tract infections and vaginal infections are common during deployment situations where resources for self-care and appropriate primary health care for women are scarce or unavailable. One solution is a self-diagnosis and treatment kit for deployed military women.

Transcatheter Arterial Embolization Therapy for a Hypoplastic Pelvic Kidney with a Single Vaginal Ectopic Ureter to Control Incontinence: The Usefulness of Three-Dimensional CT Angiography Using Multidetector-Row Helical CT

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kudoh, Kouichi, E-mail: cdk70770@par.odn.ne.jp; Kadota, Masataka; Nakayama, Yoshiharu

2003-09-15

A girl with continuous urinary incontinence was successfully treated by angiographic embolization of a hypoplastic pelvic kidney with a single unilateral vaginal ectopic opening of the ureter. For this intervention, CT angiography was useful for detecting the corresponding renal artery of the hypoplastic kidney.

Type I female genital mutilation: a cause of completely closed vagina.

PubMed

Rouzi, Abdulrahim A; Sahly, Nora; Alhachim, Estabraq; Abduljabbar, Hassan

2014-09-01

Female genital mutilation (FGM) ranges in severity from a nick of the clitoris to partial or total removal of the external genitalia. Sexual complications after FGM include sexual dysfunction, difficult intercourse, and dyspareunia. We report a case of Type I FGM presenting as complete vaginal closure and urinary retention. A 16-year-old adolescent was referred for obliterated vagina and urinary retention. She had recurrent urinary tract infections, difficulty in voiding, and cyclic hematuria. At the age of 1 year she had been taken by her mother to a pediatric surgeon to have a Type I FGM procedure. On examination, the urethral meatus and vaginal orifices were completely closed by the FGM scar. She underwent uneventful surgical opening of the vagina. A normal vaginal orifice was created and normal flow of urine and menses occurred. Type I FGM can present as complete vaginal closure and urinary retention. Proper diagnosis and treatment are of paramount importance. © 2014 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

Phenotypic characterization and adhesive properties of vaginal Candida spp. strains provided by the CHU Farhat Hached (Sousse, Tunisia).

PubMed

Noumi, Emira; Snoussi, Mejdi; Noumi, Inès; Saghrouni, Fatma; Aouni, Mahjoub; Valentin, Eulogio

2015-01-01

Vulvovaginal candidiasis is a common infection among women worldwide, being Candida albicans the most commonly isolated species. Therefore, controlling this opportunistic yeast is one of the key factors for reducing nosocomial infection. We investigated several virulence properties of 28 vaginal strains of Candida isolated from Tunisian women suffering from vulvovaginitis. We also analyzed the virulence properties of a clinical Candida krusei strain and five Candida reference strains. Candida strains were subjected to microscopic analysis and culture in Candida ID2 chromogenic medium. The adhesive properties of these strains were estimated by the microtiter plate - the safranin-staining - and the Congo red agar (CRA) methods, for determining yeast ability to form biofilms on biomaterials used in urinary catheter manufacturing. Their potency to produce hydrolytic enzymes was also studied. Our results showed that nine out of the total studied strains produced phospholipase. In addition, very high protease activity was detected in 23 Candida strains. All Candida strains were beta-hemolytic and adhered to polystyrene microtiter plates in varying degrees. Two vaginal C. albicans strains were strongly adhesive to polystyrene and glass slides. Also, our results showed that vaginal Candida strains were more adhesive to the three tested materials than the reference strains. This study shows the presence of a range of virulence and adhesion factors in clinical isolates of vaginal Candida. Consequently, control and treatment of vaginal candidiasis as a means to prevent biofilm formation on urinary catheters is of crucial importance. Copyright © 2013 Revista Iberoamericana de Micología. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

One-year prospective comparison of vaginal pessaries and surgery for pelvic organ prolapse using the validated ICIQ-VS and ICIQ-UI (SF) questionnaires.

PubMed

Lone, Farah; Thakar, Ranee; Sultan, Abdul H

2015-09-01

Vaginal pessaries, pelvic floor exercises and surgery are treatment options for women with symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse (POP). The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of pessaries and surgery in women with symptomatic POP using the validated International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Vaginal Symptoms (ICIQ-VS) and Urinary Incontinence (ICIQ-UI) Short Form (SF). Women attending the Urogynecology clinics with symptomatic POP were recruited. All women were treated using either a vaginal pessary or surgery. Outcomes were evaluated and then compared at 1 year using the validated ICIQ-VS and ICIQ-UI (SF) questionnaires. A total of 287 women with symptomatic prolapse were recruited. 269 women completed the questionnaires at baseline and 183 at 1 year. At 1 year, improvement was noted in quality of life (QOL), frequency of urinary leak and vaginal symptoms in both groups except for the symptom of vaginal soreness in the pessary group and the symptom of a tight vagina in the surgery group. However, both these symptoms were not bothersome. Women who underwent surgery demonstrated an improvement in faecal evacuation and sex life. There was an overall statistically significant improvement in vaginal, sex, QOL and urinary symptom scores in both groups. No statistically significant difference was noted between the surgery and the pessary groups. Using validated questionnaires 1 year after treatment, women with symptomatic POP report improvement in vaginal, bowel, urinary and quality of life scores when treated with either pessary use or surgery. No statistically significant difference was noted in the two groups.

Effects of carrying a pregnancy and of method of delivery on urinary incontinence: a prospective cohort study.

PubMed

Eason, Erica; Labrecque, Michel; Marcoux, Sylvie; Mondor, Myrto

2004-02-19

BACKGROUND: This study was carried out to identify risk factors associated with urinary incontinence in women three months after giving birth. METHODS: Urinary incontinence before and during pregnancy was assessed at study enrolment early in the third trimester. Incontinence was re-assessed three months postpartum. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess the role of maternal and obstetric factors in causing postpartum urinary incontinence. This prospective cohort study in 949 pregnant women in Quebec, Canada was nested within a randomised controlled trial of prenatal perineal massage. RESULTS: Postpartum urinary incontinence was increased with prepregnancy incontinence (adjusted odds ratio [adj0R] 6.44, 95% CI 4.15, 9.98), incontinence beginning during pregnancy (adjOR 1.93, 95% CI 1.32, 2.83), and higher prepregnancy body mass index (adjOR 1.07/unit of BMI, 95% CI 1.03,1.11). Caesarean section was highly protective (adjOR 0.27, 95% CI 0.14, 0.50). While there was a trend towards increasing incontinence with forceps delivery (adjOR 1.73, 95% CI 0.96, 3.13) this was not statistically significant. The weight of the baby, episiotomy, the length of the second stage of labour, and epidural analgesia were not predictive of urinary incontinence. Nor was prenatal perineal massage, the randomised controlled trial intervention. When the analysis was limited to women having their first vaginal birth, the same risk factors were important, with similar adjusted odds ratios. CONCLUSIONS: Urinary incontinence during pregnancy is extremely common, affecting over half of pregnant women. Urinary incontinence beginning during pregnancy roughly doubles the likelihood of urinary incontinence at 3 months postpartum, regardless whether delivery is vaginal or by Caesarean section.

A Novel Intra-body Sensor for Vaginal Temperature Monitoring

PubMed Central

Rodrigues, Joel J. P. C.; Caldeira, João; Vaidya, Binod

2009-01-01

Over the years some medical studies have tried to better understand the internal behavior of human beings. Many researchers in this domain have been striving to find relationships between intra-vaginal temperature and certain female health conditions, such as ovulation and fertile period since woman’s intra-vaginal temperature is one of the body parameters most preferred in such studies. However, due to lack of a appropriate technology, medical research devoted to studying correlations of such body parameters with certain womans’ body phenomena could not obtain better results. This article presents the design and implementation of a novel intra-body sensor for acquisition and monitoring of intra-vaginal temperatures. This novel intra-body sensor provides data collection that is used for studying the relation between temperature variations and female health conditions, such as anticipation and monitoring of the ovulation period, detection of pregnancy contractions, preterm labor prevention, etc.. The motivation for this work focuses on the development of this new intra-body sensor that will represent a major step in medical technology. The novel sensor was tested and validated on hospitalized women as well as normal healthy women. Finally our medical team has attested to the accuracy, usability and performance of this novel intra-body sensor. PMID:22574046

Comparison of the Hyaluronic Acid Vaginal Cream and Conjugated Estrogen Used in Treatment of Vaginal Atrophy of Menopause Women: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

PubMed Central

Jokar, Azam; Davari, Tayebe; Asadi, Nasrin; Ahmadi, Fateme; Foruhari, Sedighe

2016-01-01

Background: Vaginal atrophy is a common complication in menopause which does not improve with time and, if untreated, can affect the quality of life for women. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of the vaginal cream of hyaluronic acid and conjugated estrogen (Premarin) in treatment of vaginal atrophy. Methods: This study was a randomized controlled clinical trial on 56 menopausal women with symptoms of vaginal atrophy; they were randomly allocated to two groups (recipient conjugated estrogen and hyaluronic acid). The severity of each sign of atrophy was evaluated by visual analog signals (VAS) and on the basis of a four point scale. Also to recognize the cellular maturation with pap smear and the maturation degree were calculated according to the formula and scores 0-100. As to the vaginal PH, we used PH marker band, the rate of which was divided into 4 degrees. Data were analyzed using SPSS, version 20, and P≤0.05 was considered as significant. Results: The results of this study showed that the symptoms of vaginal atrophy compared with the baseline level were relieved significantly in both groups. Dryness, itching, maturation index, PH and composite score of the vaginal symptoms were relieved significantly in both groups (P<0.001). Dyspareunia in Premarin (P<0.05) and hyaluronic acid (P<0.001) decreased compared with pre-treatment. Urinary incontinence only showed improvement in the hyaluronic acid group (P<0.05). Improvement in urinary incontinence, dryness, maturation index (P<0.05) and composite score of vaginal symptoms (P<0.001) in the hyaluronic acid group was better than those in the Premarin group. Conclusion: According to the results of the present study, hyaluronic acid and conjugated estrogen improved the symptoms of vaginal atrophy. But hyaluronic acid was more effective and this drug is suggested for those who do not want to or cannot take local hormone treatment. Trial Registration Number: IRCT2013022712644N1 PMID:26793732

The comparison of an inexpensive-modified transobturator vaginal tape versus TVT-O procedure for the surgical treatment of female stress urinary incontinence.

PubMed

Zhang, Yan; Jiang, Min; Tong, Xiao-Wen; Fan, Bo-Zhen; Li, Huai-Fang; Chen, Xin-Liang

2011-09-01

To compare the safety and efficacy of an inexpensive-modified transobturator vaginal tape procedure with the transobturator tension-free vaginal tape (TVT-O) procedure for the surgical treatment of female stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Patients with SUI were randomly allocated to either the test group receiving the inexpensive-modified transobturator vaginal tape procedure or the control group receiving the GYNECARE TVT-O procedure. Treatment outcomes and Quality-of-life scores were recorded and analyzed between two groups. A total of 156 patients were enrolled in this trial. Eighty patients underwent the modified transobturator vaginal tape procedure. Among them 75(93.8%) were cured and 5(6.2%) were improved. The rest of the 76 patients underwent the GYNECARE TVT-O procedure with a 92% (70 of 76) cure rate and an 8% (6 of 76) improvement rate. No inefficient or aggravated cases occurred in both groups. The success rates between groups had no significant statistic difference (p > 0.05). The operative time, blood loss, hospital stay, and medical cost were significantly lower in the test group (p < 0.01); the increases in Quality-of-life scores were comparable between groups. The modified transobturator vaginal tape procedure is an efficacious and economic surgical treatment for female SUI. Copyright © 2011. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Nonantibiotic prophylaxis for recurrent urinary tract infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

PubMed

Beerepoot, M A J; Geerlings, S E; van Haarst, E P; van Charante, N Mensing; ter Riet, G

2013-12-01

Increasing antimicrobial resistance has stimulated interest in nonantibiotic prophylaxis of recurrent urinary tract infections. We assessed the effectiveness, tolerability and safety of nonantibiotic prophylaxis in adults with recurrent urinary tract infections. MEDLINE®, EMBASE™, the Cochrane Library and reference lists of relevant reviews were searched to April 2013 for relevant English language citations. Two reviewers selected randomized controlled trials that met the predefined criteria for population, interventions and outcomes. The difference in the proportions of patients with at least 1 urinary tract infection was calculated for individual studies, and pooled risk ratios were calculated using random and fixed effects models. Adverse event rates were also extracted. The Jadad score was used to assess risk of bias (0 to 2-high risk and 3 to 5-low risk). We identified 5,413 records and included 17 studies with data for 2,165 patients. The oral immunostimulant OM-89 decreased the rate of urinary tract infection recurrence (4 trials, sample size 891, median Jadad score 3, RR 0.61, 95% CI 0.48-0.78) and had a good safety profile. The vaginal vaccine Urovac® slightly reduced urinary tract infection recurrence (3 trials, sample size 220, Jadad score 3, RR 0.81, 95% CI 0.68-0.96) and primary immunization followed by booster immunization increased the time to reinfection. Vaginal estrogens showed a trend toward preventing urinary tract infection recurrence (2 trials, sample size 201, Jadad score 2.5, RR 0.42, 95% CI 0.16-1.10) but vaginal irritation occurred in 6% to 20% of women. Cranberries decreased urinary tract infection recurrence (2 trials, sample size 250, Jadad score 4, RR 0.53, 95% CI 0.33-0.83) as did acupuncture (2 open label trials, sample size 165, Jadad score 2, RR 0.48, 95% CI 0.29-0.79). Oral estrogens and lactobacilli prophylaxis did not decrease the rate of urinary tract infection recurrence. The evidence of the effectiveness of the oral immunostimulant OM-89 is promising. Although sometimes statistically significant, pooled findings for the other interventions should be considered tentative until corroborated by more research. Large head-to-head trials should be performed to optimally inform clinical decision making. Copyright © 2013 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Vaginal Microbiota and Urinary Tract Infection.

PubMed

Stapleton, Ann E

2016-12-01

The vagina is a key anatomical site in the pathogenesis of urinary tract infection (UTI) in women, serving as a potential reservoir for infecting bacteria and a site at which interventions may decrease the risk of UTI. The vaginal microbiota is a dynamic and often critical factor in this pathogenic interplay, because changes in the characteristics of the vaginal microbiota resulting in the loss of normally protective Lactobacillus spp. increase the risk of UTI. These alterations may result from the influence of estrogen deficiency, antimicrobial therapy, contraceptives, or other causes. Interventions to reduce adverse effects on the vaginal microbiota and/or to restore protective lactobacilli may reduce the risks of UTI.

Should asymptomatic anterior pelvic organ prolapse be corrected to treat irritative urinary symptoms?

PubMed

Sutherland, Suzette E

2010-09-01

In clinical practice, women seen with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) often present with a variety of pelvic floor symptoms: urinary incontinence, irritative or overactive bladder symptoms, fecal urgency or incontinence, obstructive voiding, sexual disorders, pelvic and perineal pain, and vaginal bulging. Among these, the only symptom reliably associated with clinically relevant POP that will resolve following vaginal reconstructive surgery is the visualization and/or sensation of a vaginal bulge. Most other symptoms often attributed to POP at best have only weak correlations with worsening pelvic anatomical support. Specifically, with respect to the anterior and/or apical vaginal compartment, there does not appear to be a correlation between irritative overactive bladder symptoms and the presence or degree of anterior vaginal wall prolapse. Furthermore, no other symptoms, urinary or otherwise, are reliably influenced by correction of anatomical defects of pelvic support, especially in the otherwise asymptomatic patient with POP without vaginal bulge. A review of the recent literature underscores the realization that the relationship between pelvic floor symptoms and anatomy is incompletely and poorly understood. With this in mind, there does not seem to be any absolute justification for the surgical correction of otherwise asymptomatic pelvic support defects.

Adherence to pelvic floor muscle training with or without vaginal spheres in women with urinary incontinence: a secondary analysis from a randomized trial.

PubMed

Porta Roda, Oriol; Díaz López, Miguel A; Vara Paniagua, Jesús; Simó González, Marta; Díaz Bellido, Paloma; Espinós Gómez, Juan J

2016-08-01

Pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) is widely recommended as first-line therapy for women with urinary incontinence. However, adherence to PFMT decreases over time, and information regarding barriers to PFMT is scarce. The primary aim of our study was to investigate whether a vaginal spheres device helped improve adherence to PFMT. The secondary aim was to assess determinants of adherence and the association with treatment outcome. This was a secondary analysis of a randomized trial with a 6-month follow-up in women with urinary incontinence (UI) in whom we evaluated adherence to PFMT, performed either with (spheres group) or without (control group) vaginal spheres. The Morisky-Green Questionnaire (MGQ) was used to assess adherence, defined as the extent to which participants corresponded to the agreed recommendations; participants were classified as adherent or nonadherent according to their responses. Efficacy of PFMT was assessed using the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Short Form scale (ICIQ-SF). Seventy women were enrolled and data from 65 (35 treated and 30 controls) were suitable for analysis. There were no significant differences in adherence to treatment between groups at the end of follow-up (33.3 % in controls and 42.9 % in spheres). The largest group of nonadherent women in both arms were those who mainly forgot to do the exercises. ICIQ-SF results between adherent and nonadherent women did not differ significantly [mean 0.55, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.13-2.25]. No significant difference was observed between women who attained greater and lesser improvement in UI after treatment (4.5 %; 95 % CI -11.7 to 20.6). In patients with UI, vaginal spheres as an adjunct to PFMT did not increase adherence to pelvic muscle exercises. Lack of persistence appeared to be due to forgetfulness and did not seem to be influenced by the efficacy of PFMT.

Pelvic floor muscle training for urgency urinary incontinence in women: a systematic review.

PubMed

Greer, Joy A; Smith, Ariana L; Arya, Lily A

2012-06-01

The objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of existing physiotherapy modalities for the treatment of urge urinary incontinence (UUI). A systematic review was performed for primary studies of physiotherapy techniques for UUI published in English between 1996 and August 2010 in major electronic databases. Only randomized clinical trials that reported outcomes separately for women with UUI were included. Outcomes assessed were reduction in UUI, urinary frequency, and nocturia. Data from 13 full-text trials including the modalities of pelvic floor muscles exercises with or without biofeedback, vaginal electrical stimulation, magnetic stimulation, and vaginal cones were analyzed. The methodologic quality of these trials was fair. Significant improvement in UUI was reported for all physiotherapy techniques except vaginal cone therapy. There are insufficient data to determine if pelvic physiotherapy improves urinary frequency or nocturia. Evidence suggests that physiotherapy techniques may be beneficial for the treatment of UUI.

Longitudinal comparison study of pelvic floor function between women with and without stress urinary incontinence after vaginal delivery.

PubMed

Yoshida, Mikako; Murayama, Ryoko; Haruna, Megumi; Matsuzaki, Masayo; Yoshimura, Kenichi; Murashima, Sachiyo; Kozuma, Shiro

2013-04-01

To compare the pelvic floor function between women with and without stress urinary incontinence after vaginal delivery. Seventeen women (age 35.5 ± 3.5) were prospectively studied at about 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months after vaginal delivery. Urinary incontinence was assessed by the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire - Short Form. Pelvic floor function was assessed by antero-posterior diameter of the levator hiatus using transperineal ultrasound. Five of 17 women experienced postpartum stress urinary incontinence. The antero-posterior diameter of the levator hiatus at rest was significantly longer in stress urinary incontinent women than in continent women until 3 months after delivery (p < 0.01), though shortening of the antero-posterior diameter of the levator hiatus was not significantly different between continent women and stress urinary incontinent women. Regardless of urinary incontinence, the antero-posterior diameter of the levator hiatus at rest shortened at 6 months postpartum, compared to 6 weeks postpartum (p < 0.001). The antero-posterior diameter of the levator hiatus during contraction had shortened only in continent women by 6 months postpartum (p = 0.02). The extended pelvic floor may be a cause of stress urinary incontinence in the postpartum period. Therefore, treatment to improve the extended pelvic floor should be developed for the prevention of stress urinary incontinence.

The Vaginal Microbiota and Urinary Tract Infection

PubMed Central

STAPLETON, ANN E.

2017-01-01

The vagina is a key anatomical site in the pathogenesis of urinary tract infection (UTI) in women, serving as a potential reservoir for infecting bacteria and a site at which interventions may decrease the risk of UTI. The vaginal microbiota is a dynamic and often critical factor in this pathogenic interplay, because changes in the characteristics of the vaginal microbiota resulting in the loss of normally protective Lactobacillus spp. increase the risk of UTI. These alterations may result from the influence of estrogen deficiency, antimicrobial therapy, contraceptives, or other causes. Interventions to reduce adverse effects on the vaginal microbiota and/or to restore protective lactobacilli may reduce the risks of UTI. PMID:28087949

Multidisciplinary Overview of Vaginal Atrophy and Associated Genitourinary Symptoms in Postmenopausal Women

PubMed Central

Goldstein, Irwin; Dicks, Brian; Kim, Noel N; Hartzell, Rose

2013-01-01

Introduction Vaginal atrophy, which may affect up to 45% of postmenopausal women, is often associated with one or more urinary symptoms, including urgency, increased frequency, nocturia, dysuria, incontinence, and recurrent urinary tract infection. Aims To provide an overview of the current literature regarding cellular and clinical aspects of vaginal atrophy and response to treatment with local vaginal estrogen therapy. Methods PubMed searches through February 2012 were conducted using the terms “vaginal atrophy,” “atrophic vaginitis,” and “vulvovaginal atrophy.” Expert opinion was based on review of the relevant scientific and medical literature. Main Outcome Measure Genitourinary symptoms and treatment of vaginal atrophy from peer-reviewed published literature. Results Typically, a diagnosis of vaginal atrophy is made based on patient-reported symptoms, including genitourinary symptoms, and an examination that reveals signs of the disorder; however, many women are hesitant to report vaginal-related symptoms, primarily because of embarrassment. Conclusions Physicians in various disciplines are encouraged to initiate open discussions about vulvovaginal health with postmenopausal women, including recommended treatment options. Goldstein I, Dicks B, Kim NN, and Hartzell R. Multidisciplinary overview of vaginal atrophy and associated genitourinary symptoms in postmenopausal women. Sex Med 2013;1:44–53. PMID:25356287

Delayed vaginal and urethral mesh exposure: 10 years after TVT surgery.

PubMed

Khanuengkitkong, Siwatchaya; Lo, Tsia-Shu; Dass, Anil Krishna

2013-03-01

Delayed mesh exposure after tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) procedure is rare. We report a case of mesh exposure into the vagina and urethra that developed 10 years after TVT surgery. A 58-year-old postmenopausal woman presented with mixed urinary incontinence. She was investigated, and her stress urinary incontinence was cured with a TVT procedure 10 years ago. She was then scheduled follow-up annually. Two years postsurgery, a granulation tissue was observed and excised at the vaginal incision site. Vaginal examination 10 years postsurgery showed vaginal mesh erosion 0.5 cm from urethral meatus. Cystoscopy revealed concomitant urethral erosion at the posterior urethral wall. Mesh excision was performed, and urethra and vagina were repaired in layers. Postoperative recovery was uneventful. This finding shows that, although rare, complications can occur even after 10 years of TVT surgery.

The effect of hormones on the lower urinary tract.

PubMed

Robinson, Dudley; Toozs-Hobson, Philip; Cardozo, Linda

2013-12-01

The female genital and lower urinary tracts share a common embryological origin, arising from the urogenital sinus and both are sensitive to the effects of the female sex steroid hormones throughout life. Estrogen is known to have an important role in the function of the lower urinary tract and estrogen and progesterone receptors have been demonstrated in the vagina, urethra, bladder and pelvic floor musculature. In addition estrogen deficiency occurring following the menopause is known to cause atrophic change and may be associated with lower urinary tract symptoms such as frequency, urgency, nocturia, urgency incontinence and recurrent infection. These may also co-exist with symptoms of urogenital atrophy such as dyspareunia, itching, vaginal burning and dryness. Epidemiological studies have implicated estrogen deficiency in the aetiology of lower urinary tract symptoms with 70% of women relating the onset of urinary incontinence to their final menstrual period. Whilst for many years systemic and vaginal estrogen therapy was felt to be beneficial in the treatment of lower urinary and genital tract symptoms this evidence has recently been challenged by large epidemiological studies investigating the use of systemic hormone replacement therapy as primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis. The aim of this paper is to examine the effect of the sex hormones, estrogen and progesterone, on the lower urinary tract and to review the current evidence regarding the role of systemic and vaginal estrogens in the management of lower urinary tract symptoms and urogenital atrophy.

Effects of a soy-based dietary supplement compared with low-dose hormone therapy on the urogenital system: a randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical trial.

PubMed

Carmignani, Lucio O; Pedro, Adriana Orcesi; Montemor, Eliana B; Arias, Victor A; Costa-Paiva, Lucia H; Pinto-Neto, Aarão M

2015-07-01

This study aims to compare the effects of a soy-based dietary supplement, low-dose hormone therapy (HT), and placebo on the urogenital system in postmenopausal women. In this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, 60 healthy postmenopausal women aged 40 to 60 years (mean time since menopause, 4.1 y) were randomized into three groups: a soy dietary supplement group (90 mg of isoflavone), a low-dose HT group (1 mg of estradiol plus 0.5 mg of norethisterone), and a placebo group. Urinary, vaginal, and sexual complaints were evaluated using the urogenital subscale of the Menopause Rating Scale. Vaginal maturation value was calculated. Transvaginal sonography was performed to evaluate endometrial thickness. Genital bleeding pattern was assessed. Statistical analysis was performed using χ(2) test, Fisher's exact test, paired Student's t test, Kruskal-Wallis test, Kruskal-Wallis nonparametric test, and analysis of variance. For intergroup comparisons, Kruskal-Wallis nonparametric test (followed by Mann-Whitney U test) was used. Vaginal dryness improved significantly in the soy and HT groups (P = 0.04). Urinary and sexual symptoms did not change with treatment in the three groups. After 16 weeks of treatment, there was a significant increase in maturation value only in the HT group (P < 0.01). Vaginal pH decreased only in this group (P < 0.01). There were no statistically significant differences in endometrial thickness between the three groups, and the adverse effects evaluated were similar. This study shows that a soy-based dietary supplement used for 16 weeks fails to exert estrogenic action on the urogenital tract but improves vaginal dryness.

Vaginal resection and anastomosis for treatment of vestibulovaginal stenosis in 4 dogs with recurrent urinary tract infections.

PubMed

Kieves, Nina R; Novo, Roberto E; Martin, Robert B

2011-10-01

CASE DESCRIPTION-4 dogs were evaluated because of recurrent urinary tract infections. CLINICAL FINDINGS-All dogs had recurrent urinary tract infections and similar clinical signs; 3 dogs had urinary incontinence. Digital vaginal examination revealed vestibulovaginal stenosis in all dogs, which was confirmed by results of contrast vaginourethrography. From image measurements, the vestibulovaginal ratio (ratio of the height of the vestibulovaginal junction to the maximum height of the vagina on a lateral vaginourethrogram) was calculated for each dog. Three dogs had severe stenosis (vestibulovaginal ratio, < 0.20; severe stenosis is defined as a vestibulovaginal ratio < 0.20), whereas the fourth dog had moderate stenosis (vestibulovaginal ratio, 0.24; ratio range for moderate stenosis is 0.20 to 0.25). TREATMENT AND OUTCOME-All dogs were anesthetized for surgical correction of the vestibulovaginal stenosis. Vaginal resection and anastomosis of the stenosis was performed in all 4 dogs, with 1 dog also undergoing episioplasty. Complete resolution of clinical signs was apparent in 3 dogs; 1 dog had postoperative complications including pollakiuria and stranguria, which resulted in rectal and vaginal prolapse. This dog underwent ovariohysterectomy, after which clinical signs resolved. All dogs had resolution of urinary tract infections at the time of follow-up (6 to 8 months after surgery). CLINICAL RELEVANCE-Resection and anastomosis may resolve recurrent urinary tract infections in dogs with severe or moderate vestibulovaginal stenosis. Episiotomy was not necessary for success of surgical treatment, and overall, that procedure increased morbidity, the severity of intraoperative hemorrhage, and duration of surgery.

Vaginal cones or balls to improve pelvic floor muscle performance and urinary continence in women postpartum: a quantitative systematic review and meta-analysis protocol.

PubMed

Oblasser, Claudia; Christie, Janice; McCourt, Christine

2015-04-01

To identify, critically appraise and synthesize the best current evidence on the use of vaginal cones or balls to improve pelvic floor muscle performance and urinary continence in women post partum. The vaginal use of cones or balls is a pelvic floor muscle training method that aims to enhance muscle performance and thereby prevent or treat urinary incontinence. Nonetheless to date, no systematic review has focused on the effectiveness of these devices specifically during the postpartum period. Quantitative systematic review with potential meta-analysis. The review will be undertaken by searching 14 scientific databases (including PubMed and CINAHL, without date restriction) and the world-wide web; experts will also be contacted for published and unpublished data. Included studies must be randomized or quasi-randomized trials and have female participants until 1 year after childbirth. The intervention will be compared with no treatment, placebo, sham treatment or active controls. Outcome measures will relate to pelvic floor muscle performance or urinary incontinence. Studies will be selected, 'risk of bias' assessed and data extracted by two reviewers independently. Following inter-reviewer agreement of included studies, data will be checked after entry into systematic review processing software. If appropriate, data will be synthesized by meta-analysis; if this is not possible, a narrative review only will be undertaken. The information gained from this systematic review will help midwives, nurses, other health professionals and women after childbirth decide how to promote female pelvic floor health and in defining further areas of study. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Phase I trial of a Lactobacillus crispatus vaginal suppository for prevention of recurrent urinary tract infection in women.

PubMed

Czaja, Christopher A; Stapleton, Ann E; Yarova-Yarovaya, Yuliya; Stamm, Walter E

2007-01-01

We performed a phase I trial to assess the safety and tolerance of a Lactobacillus vaginal suppository for prevention of recurrent UTI. Premenopausal women with a history of recurrent UTI were randomized to use L. crispatus CTV-05 or placebo vaginal suppositories daily for five days. 30 women were randomized (15 to L. crispatus CTV-05). No severe adverse events occurred. Mild to moderate vaginal discharge and genital irritation were reported by women in both study arms. Seven women randomized to L. crispatus CTV-05 developed pyuria without associated symptoms. Most women had high concentrations of vaginal H202-producing lactobacilli before randomization. L. crispatus, L. jensenii, and L. gasseri were the most common Lactobacillus species identified, with stable prevalence over time. L. crispatus CTV-05 can be given as a vaginal suppository with minimal sideeffects to healthy women with a history of recurrent UTI. Mild inflammation of the urinary tract was noted in some women.

Phase I Trial of a Lactobacillus crispatus Vaginal Suppository for Prevention of Recurrent Urinary Tract Infection in Women

PubMed Central

Czaja, Christopher A.; Stapleton, Ann E.; Yarova-Yarovaya, Yuliya; Stamm, Walter E.

2007-01-01

Objectives: We performed a phase I trial to assess the safety and tolerance of a Lactobacillus vaginal suppository for prevention of recurrent UTI. Methods: Premenopausal women with a history of recurrent UTI were randomized to use L. crispatus CTV-05 or placebo vaginal suppositories daily for five days. Results: 30 women were randomized (15 to L. crispatus CTV-05). No severe adverse events occurred. Mild to moderate vaginal discharge and genital irritation were reported by women in both study arms. Seven women randomized to L. crispatus CTV-05 developed pyuria without associated symptoms. Most women had high concentrations of vaginal H202-producing lactobacilli before randomization. L. crispatus, L. jensenii, and L. gasseri were the most common Lactobacillus species identified, with stable prevalence over time. Conclusions: L. crispatus CTV-05 can be given as a vaginal suppository with minimal sideeffects to healthy women with a history of recurrent UTI. Mild inflammation of the urinary tract was noted in some women. PMID:18288237

Changes in microscopic analysis of the urinary sediment in postmenopausal women who receive vaginal conjugated oestrogens

PubMed Central

Cruz-Ramírez, Miriam Elizabeth; Sulvarán-Victoria, Diana

2017-01-01

Introduction Microscopic haematuria is common in adults and it has been reported in 13% of postmenopausal women. Objective To evaluate the changes in urinary sediment after the use of vaginal conjugated oestrogens. Material and methods Postmenopausal women with vaginal dryness were studied. In all them a urinalysis was done, looking for density, pH, and the presence of leukocytes and erythrocytes. In order to be included in the study, all of the women had to have microscopic haematuria, considered as the presence of 3 or more erythrocytes in the urinary sediment. All received vaginally 1 g of conjugated equine oestrogens cream 3 times per week for one month, moment in which a new urinalysis was carried out and the same parameters were evaluated. Results Twenty-four women were studied. The median age was 62 years (40-83), and the time since menopause was 144 months (24-336). When comparing the values between baseline and end of treatment urinalyses, no significant differences in pH and urinary density were found. The number of leukocytes significantly decreased after treatment (3.0 [1-6] vs. 1.0 [1-6], p < 0.026), and the erythrocytes number decreased (4.5 [3-12] vs. 0.0 [0-2], p < 0.001). Conclusion In postmenopausal women with microscopic haematuria and vaginal dryness, it is worth considering administration of local oestrogen for one month, and after repeat the urine exam, before deciding to begin the microscopic haematuria study protocol. PMID:29507575

Urinary incontinence after vaginal delivery or cesarean section.

PubMed

Borges, João Bosco Ramos; Guarisi, Telma; Camargo, Ana Carolina Marchesini de; Gollop, Thomaz Rafael; Machado, Rogério Bonassi; Borges, Pítia Cárita de Godoy

2010-06-01

To assess the prevalence of stress urinary incontinence, urge incontinence and mixed urinary incontinence among women residing in the city of Jundiaí (São Paulo, Brazil), and the relation between the type of incontinence and the obstetric history of these women. A cross-sectional community-based study was conducted. A total of 332 women were interviewed; they were seen for whatever reason at the public primary healthcare units of the city of Jundiaí, from March 2005 to April 2006. A pre-tested questionnaire was administered and consisted of questions used in the EPINCONT Study (Epidemiology of Incontinence in the County of Nord-Trondelag). Statistical analysis was carried out using the χ2 test and odds ratio (95%CI). Urinary incontinence was a complaint for 23.5% of the women interviewed. Stress urinary incontinence prevailed (50%), followed by mixed urinary incontinence (35%) and urge incontinence (15%). Being in the age group of 35-64 years, having a body mass index of 30 or greater and having had only vaginal delivery or cesarean section, with uterine contraction, regardless of the number of pregnancies, were factors associated with stress urinary incontinence. However, being in the age group of 55 or older, having a body mass index of 30 or greater and having had three or more pregnancies, only with vaginal deliveries, were factors associated with mixed urinary incontinence. One third of the interviewees complained of some type of urinary incontinence, and half of them presented stress urinary incontinence. Cesarean section, only when not preceded by contractions, was not associated with stress urinary incontinence. The body mass index is only relevant when the stress factor is present.

Recurrent urinary tract infection.

PubMed

Epp, Annette; Larochelle, Annick

2010-11-01

to provide an update of the definition, epidemiology, clinical presentation, investigation, treatment, and prevention of recurrent urinary tract infections in women. continuous antibiotic prophylaxis, post-coital antibiotic prophylaxis, and acute self-treatment are all efficient alternatives to prevent recurrent urinary tract infection. Vaginal estrogen and cranberry juice can also be effective prophylaxis alternatives. a search of PubMed and The Cochrane Library for articles published in English identified the most relevant literature. Results were restricted to systematic reviews, randomized control trials/controlled clinical trials, and observational studies. There were no date restrictions. this update is the consensus of the Sub-Committee on Urogynaecology of the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada. Recommendations were made according to the guidelines developed by the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care (Table 1). recurrent urinary tract infections need careful investigation and can be efficiently treated and prevented. Different prophylaxis options can be selected according to each patient's characteristics.

A System Approach to Navy Medical Education and Training. Appendix 35. Competency Curriculum for Urology Assistant.

DTIC Science & Technology

1974-08-31

urinary diversion b. Remove temporary/j ermanent collection appliance c. Perform basic sto-A care d. Cleanse /examine cc’Alection device prior to...of micturition d. Determine the type/degree/duration of urethral, vaginal , wound, other urinary outlet discharges e. Determine location/site and...related o. Determine if problem is vaginal /gynacologic p. Determine if problem is scrotal related PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVE (Stimulus) When assigned to

High pressure vaginography to diagnose vaginal ureteral ectopia in patients with continuous urinary incontinence.

PubMed

Zuckerman, Jack M; Shekarriz, Bijan; Upadhyay, Jyoti

2013-02-01

Continuous urinary incontinence in female patients can be a diagnostic dilemma if traditional imaging fails to identify a source. Vaginography has been used to diagnose vaginal ectopic ureters in the past with mixed results. Institutional review board approval was obtained for a retrospective review. Five teenage females with continuous incontinence and prior negative imaging work ups underwent high pressure vaginography. Their findings and treatment outcomes are reviewed. A vaginal ectopic ureter was diagnosed in each of the five patients at a mean age 15.8 years. Each had undergone prior magnetic resonance urography that was non-diagnostic. Four of the five were managed surgically with resolution of their incontinence. One was lost to follow up. High pressure vaginogram should be considered during the work up of female patients with continuous urinary incontinence, especially when other imaging modalities fail to identify an etiology.

Anticholinergic versus botulinum toxin A comparison trial for the treatment of bothersome urge urinary incontinence: ABC trial.

PubMed

Visco, Anthony G; Brubaker, Linda; Richter, Holly E; Nygaard, Ingrid; Paraiso, Marie Fidela; Menefee, Shawn A; Schaffer, Joseph; Wei, John; Chai, Toby; Janz, Nancy; Spino, Cathie; Meikle, Susan

2012-01-01

This trial compares the change in urgency urinary incontinence episodes over 6 months, tolerability and cost effectiveness between women receiving daily anticholinergic therapy plus a single intra-detrusor injection of saline versus a single intra-detrusor injection of 100 U of botulinum toxin A plus daily oral placebo tablets. We present the rationale and design of a randomized-controlled trial, Anticholinergic versus Botulinum Toxin, Comparison Trial for the Treatment of Bothersome Urge Urinary Incontinence: ABC trial, conducted by the NICHD-funded Pelvic Floor Disorders Network. We discuss the innovative nature of this trial and the challenges related to choice of patient population, maintaining masking, cost effectiveness, ethical considerations, measuring adherence, and placebo development and testing. Enrollment began in April, 2010. 242 participants will be randomized and primary outcome data analysis is anticipated to begin in mid 2012. Several challenges in the trial design are discussed. Randomization to placebo intra-detrusor injections may limit recruitment, potentially impacting generalizability. Other challenges included the heavy marketing of drugs for overactive bladder which could impact recruitment of drug-naïve women. In addition, anticholinergic medications often cause dry mouth, making masking difficult. Finally, adverse reporting of transient urinary retention is challenging as there is no standardized definition; yet this is the most common adverse event following intra-detrusor botulinum toxin injection. The ABC trial will help women with urgency urinary incontinence balance efficacy, side effects and cost of anticholinergic medication versus botulinum toxin intra-detrusor injection. The results have the potential to fundamentally change the therapeutic approach to this condition. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Orthotopic neo- bladder in women.

PubMed

Schettini, Manlio

2010-12-01

Radical cystectomy is the most effective treatment madality for high grade urinary bladder carcinoma and orthotopic reconstruction is the better urinary diversion modality also in women. From 2002 to 2007 we performed 14 radical cystectomies followed by orthotopic reconstruction in women aged between 47 and 68 years (mean age 56) affected by urinary bladder carcinoma. Our reconstructive technique requires the preparation of two strips of the recti muscles fascia, the sectioning of the bladder neck and, when the uterus is present, hysteroannessiectomy and cystectomy en block leaving intact the lateral and inferior vaginal walls. The pelvic floor is stabilized by a colposacropexis with a prosthesis and placing an omental flap over the prosthesis. The orthotopic reconstruction is achieved via a neobladder according to the Padovana technique. The ureters are anastomized to the neobladder and splinted with single J stents. The pathological examination demonstrated in all patients the presence of a high grade carcinoma (G3): more specifically 4 patients had a full thickness intramural infiltration (T2), 2 patients had involvment of the perivescical fat (T3) ad 8 patients were in T1 stage. Lymphnodes were negative for tumour (NO). In 8 patients blood transfusions were necessary to treat post surgical anemia. No significant intra-, peri- or post operative complications were noted. The mean follow-up was 45 months: a patient died for diffuse metastatic disease after 11 months. The remaining patients are still alive and report normal lifestyle: 10 with normal micturition and 4 with urinary retention treated with intermittent self-catetherization. Two patients report nocturnal incontinence treated with hourly micturition and one pad. The five patients who had normal preoperative sexual intercourse resumed a normal sexual activity. The possibility to orthotopically recontruct the female urinary bladder has been established long time after the introduction of orthotopic neobladder in males, when became obvious that bladder reconstruction had to be done in conjunction with the reconstruction of the pelvic floor, in order to assure a satisfactory function at the new bladder. To avoid a posterior slippage of the vaginal stump we inserted the vaginal stump into a prolene tube which was then anchored posteriorly to the sacral periostium. We covered the prolene net with a flap of omentum pedicled down from the transverse colon and brought into the pelvis through the right colic space. This solid, stable and well protected support was able to accept the new bladder. We use the Padovana technique to facilitate the anastomosis of the bladder neck to the urethra. In the patients affected by urethral ipermotility we shaped a sub urethral sling using the recti muscles fascia pedicled by the pyramidal muscles. With this modality of reconstruction female pelvic anatomy is preserved as demonstrated by recovery of sexual activity.

Safety and Efficacy of Advanced Bipolar Vessel Sealing in Vaginal Hysterectomy: 1000 Cases.

PubMed

Clavé, Henri; Clavé, Arnaud

2017-02-01

To determine the safety and efficacy of advanced electrothermal bipolar vessel sealing (EBVS) during vaginal hysterectomy by evaluating urinary complications, overall complications, and reoperation rate. A retrospective cohort (Canadian Task Force classification III). High-volume gynecologic surgeon practice, private hospital. One thousand consecutive patients who have undergone vaginal hysterectomy for benign conditions carried out with EBVS between January 2002 and December 2012. Vaginal hysterectomy performed using an EBVS device. One thousand consecutive patients underwent vaginal hysterectomy with advanced EBVS between January 2002 and December 2012 with an average age of 51.4 ± 8.9 years (range, 31-88) and mean weight and body mass index of 57.4 ± 7.2 kg (range, 42-105) and 25.8 ± 4.2 kg/m 2 (range, 19.1-38.9), respectively. Eighty-five percent of patients (852/1000) were healthy without any severe systemic disease. A single experienced surgeon performed all vaginal hysterectomies with EBVS, specifically by not applying traction during thermofusion to avoid hemorrhage, amputating the cervix to transform the uterus to an apple shape to facilitate a vaginal approach and rotation of the uterus, and placing bi-clamp forceps on the edge of the uterus and not at a 45- or 90-degree angle. Wound closure was completed with a continuous suture. Eleven urinary complications (1.1%) were recorded (10 bladder mechanical injuries and 1 vesicovaginal fistula). This was not statistically different from the rate of .64% previously reported in the FINHYST study (p = .15). The overall rate of complications was 5.3%, and 20 patients (2.0%) required reoperation. The presence of uterine scar tissue (odds ratio, 5.5; 95% confidence interval, 1.6-19.2) and larger uterus size (odds ratio, 2.5; 95% confidence interval, 1.01-19.2) were associated with a higher risk of urinary complications. The use of EBVS during vaginal hysterectomy results in urinary and overall complication rates of 1.1% and 5.3%, respectively, statistically similar to previously reported series that did not use EBVS. The use of advanced EBVS is a safe and effective method of achieving hemostasis during vaginal hysterectomy. Copyright © 2016 AAGL. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Devices for home evaluation of women's health concerns.

PubMed

Scolaro, Kelly L; Lloyd, Kimberly Braxton; Helms, Kristen L

2008-02-15

Devices used for home evaluation of fertility, pregnancy, menopause, colon cancer, breast cancer, and urinary-tract and vaginal yeast infections are discussed. Ovulation-prediction devices monitor natural changes in a woman's body during the menstrual cycle, including changes in basal body temperature, urinary luteinizing hormone, and urinary estrone-3-glucuronide concentrations. Also available are devices that identify changes in the content of sodium chloride and other electrolytes in saliva and cervical-vaginal mucus. Home pregnancy tests are designed to detect human chorionic gonadotropin in the urine. Both urine and saliva tests are available for home evaluation of menopause; the most common devices use urine to measure follicle-stimulating hormone. The saliva tests measure estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone. Devices for home screening for colon cancer use either the guaiac test or the fecal immunochemical test. For aid in breast self-examination, patients may use a simulated-breast product designed to train them to detect lumps or a thin, silicone-containing pad intended to increase the sensitivity of the fingers to abnormalities. Urine-dipstick tests can be used to screen for urinary-tract infection, and a swab or panty liner can be used to detect vaginal pH changes indicative of vaginal yeast infection. Home-based tests may be convenient and economical but also have limitations; pharmacists can help educate patients and clinicians. Many devices are available to help evaluate women's health concerns at home.

Indications and risk factors for midurethral sling revision.

PubMed

Unger, Cecile A; Rizzo, Anthony E; Ridgeway, Beri

2016-01-01

To determine the indications and risk factors for needing midurethral sling revision in a cohort of women undergoing midurethral sling placement. This was a case-control study of all women undergoing midurethral sling placement for stress urinary incontinence (SUI) between January 2003 and December 2013. Cases were patients who underwent midurethral sling placement followed by sling revision (incision, partial or complete excision). Controls were patients who underwent sling placement only. Once all subjects had been identified, the electronic medical record was queried for demographic and perioperative and postoperative data. Of 3,307 women who underwent sling placement, 89 (2.7%, 95% CI 1.9 - 3.4) underwent sling revision for one or more of the following indications: urinary retention (43.8%), voiding dysfunction (42.7%), recurrent urinary tract infection (20.2%), mesh erosion (21.3%), vaginal pain/dyspareunia (7.9%), and groin pain (3.4%). The median time from the index to the revision surgery was 7.8 months (2.3 - 17.9 months), but was significantly shorter in patients with urinary retention. The type of sling placed (retropubic or transobturator) was not associated with indication for revision. Patients who underwent revision surgery were more likely to have had previous SUI surgery (adjusted odds ratio 4.4, 95% CI 1.7 - 6.5) and to have undergone concomitant vaginal apical suspension (adjusted odds ratio 2.4, 95% CI 1.4 - 4.5). The rate of sling revision after midurethral sling placement was 2.7%. Urinary retention and voiding dysfunction were the most common indications. Patients with a history of previous SUI surgery and concomitant apical suspension at the time of sling placement may be at higher risk of requiring revision surgery.

Vaginal intratubal insemination (VITI) and vaginal GIFT, endosonographic technique: early experience.

PubMed

Lucena, E; Ruiz, J A; Mendoza, J C; Ortiz, J A; Lucena, C; Gomez, M; Arango, A

1989-08-01

A new technique for vaginal intratubal insemination (VITI) and transvaginal gamete intra-Fallopian transfer (TV-GIFT) using endosonography has been developed. A total of 47 infertile couples were treated using a K-JITS 1000-1100 catheter (William Cook, Australia; Jansen Anderson Intratubal Transfer Set) introduced by Jansen and Anderson in Sydney, Australia, and endosonographic control with a Kretz Combison 310 echograph and a 5/7.5 MHz vaginal sectorial transducer. In 40 couples, the VITI technique was used, and in the other seven couples, TV-GIFT was used. Fifteen pregnancies (37.5%) were obtained in 63 VITI cycles (23.8% per treatment cycle) and three with TV-GIFT (42% per treatment cycle). A review is also presented of the migration--sedimentation technique used for management of male factor in an artificial insemination programme.

Human neutrophil peptides in vaginitis/cervicitis of different etiology.

PubMed

Wiechuła, Barbara E; Friedek, Daniela A; Ekiel, Alicja M; Romanik, Małgorzata K; Martirosian, Gayane

2007-01-01

Development of female genito-urinary infections depends on many factors, such as immune system activity, virulence of microorganism and production of factors inhibiting the growth of microorganisms. Taking into account the possibility of relapses or severe complications, it is very important to appropriately diagnose and treat infections. Because of recently observed increase of microbial resistance to antibiotics, researchers are looking for alternatives. In our study we evaluated and compared the concentration of human neutrophil peptides (HNP 1-3) in cervico-vaginal lavages (CVL), obtained from women with vaginitis/cervicitis. Swabs from the posterior vaginal fornix and from the endocervical canal as well as CVL samples were obtained from 32 patients with vaginitis/cervicitis and 29 healthy women (control group). Supernatants of CVL were used for determination of concentration of HNP by ELISA. The difference between concentrations of HNP 1-3 in studied and control groups was statistically significant (p = 0.018). The maximal concentration was determined in patients with mixed infections (28.41 ng/ml), and Group B Streptococci, GBS, (28.06 ng/ml), the minimal concentrations in cases of C. trachomatis (mean concentrations did not differ from those in the control group: 16.93 ng/ml and 16.39 ng/ml, respectively). Maximal correlation was determined for control-studied group with isolation of GBS (r = 0.79), and very high negative correlation for group of GBS - C. trachomatis (r = -0.98).

Ten-Year Followup after Tension-Free Vaginal Tape-Obturator Procedure for Stress Urinary Incontinence.

PubMed

Ulrich, Daniela; Tammaa, Ayman; Hölbfer, Susanne; Trutnovsky, Gerda; Bjelic-Radisic, Vesna; Tamussino, Karl; Aigmüller, Thomas

2016-10-01

Suburethral tapes are a standard surgical treatment for stress urinary incontinence. The aim of the study was to evaluate subjective and objective cure rates 10 years after a tension-free vaginal tape-obturator procedure. All 124 patients who underwent the tension-free vaginal tape-obturator procedure at a total of 2 centers in 2004 and 2005 were invited for followup. Objective cure was defined as a negative cough stress test at 300 ml. Subjects completed KHQ (King's Health Questionnaire), IOQ (Incontinence Outcome Questionnaire), FSFI (Female Sexual Function Index Questionnaire) and PGI-I (Patient Global Impression of Improvement). Overall, 55 of 112 women (49%) who were alive were available for clinical examination and 71 (63%) completed the questionnaires. The objective cure rate in the 55 women examined clinically was 69%, 22% were not cured and 9% (5) had undergone reoperation for recurrent or persistent stress urinary incontinence. Treatment was counted as having failed in these 5 women for study purposes. Subjective cure was reported by 45 of 71 women (64%). Three patients (5%) had vaginal tape extrusion at the time of clinical examination. Extrusion in all of them was small and asymptomatic, and did not require treatment for a cumulative extrusion rate of 7%. Six women (9%) had undergone reoperation for tension-free vaginal tape-obturator associated complications and 18 (26%) experienced de novo overactive bladder. Subjective and objective cure rates 10 years after the tension-free vaginal tape-obturator procedure were 69% and 64%, respectively. The vaginal extrusion rate in this study was slightly higher than in other series but major long-term complications appeared to be rare. Copyright © 2016 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Living with Cat and Dog Increases Vaginal Colonization with E. coli in Pregnant Women

PubMed Central

Stokholm, Jakob; Schjørring, Susanne; Pedersen, Louise; Bischoff, Anne Louise; Følsgaard, Nilofar; Carson, Charlotte G.; Chawes, Bo; Bønnelykke, Klaus; Mølgaard, Anne; Krogfelt, Karen A.; Bisgaard, Hans

2012-01-01

Background Furred pets in the household are known reservoirs for pathogenic bacteria, but it is not known if transmission of bacteria between pet and owner leads to significantly increased rate of infections. We studied whether cats and dogs living in the household of pregnant women affect the commensal vaginal flora, and furthermore the need for oral antibiotics and rate of urinary tract infections during pregnancy. Methods The novel unselected Copenhagen Prospective Study on Asthma in Childhood (COPSAC2010) pregnancy cohort of 709 women participated in this analysis. Detailed information on pet exposure, oral antibiotic prescriptions filled at pharmacy and urinary tract infection during pregnancy was obtained and verified prospectively during clinic visits. Vaginal cultures were obtained at pregnancy week 36. Results Women, who had cat or dog in the home during pregnancy, had a different vaginal flora, in particular with increased Escherichia coli (E. coli) colonization; odds ratio after adjustment for lifestyle confounders and antibiotics 2.20, 95% CI, [1.27–3.80], p = 0.005. 43% of women living with cat and/or dog in the home used oral antibiotics compared to 33% of women with no cat or dog; adjusted odds ratio 1.51, 95% CI, [1.08–2.12], p = 0.016. Women living with cat had increased frequency of self-reported urinary tract infection; adjusted odds ratio 1.57, 95% CI, [1.02–2.43], p = 0.042. Conclusions The increased vaginal E. coli colonization in women living with cat or dog suggests a clinically important transmission of pathogenic bacteria from pet to owner substantiated by increased rate of antibiotic use and urinary tract infections which, which is of particular concern during pregnancy. PMID:23049986

Reproductive history and progression of lower urinary tract symptoms in women: results from a population-based cohort study.

PubMed

Maserejian, Nancy N; Curto, Teresa; Hall, Susan A; Wittert, Gary; McKinlay, John B

2014-04-01

To examine whether reproductive history and related conditions are associated with the development and persistence of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) other than urinary incontinence in a racially and/or ethnically diverse population-based sample of women. The Boston Area Community Health Survey enrolled 3201 women aged 30-79 years of black, Hispanic, or white race and/or ethnicity. Baseline and 5-year follow-up interviews were completed by 2534 women (conditional response rate, 83.4%). The association between reproductive history factors and population-weighted estimates of LUTS progression and persistence was tested using multivariable logistic regression models. Between baseline and 5-year follow-up, 23.9% women had LUTS progression. In age-adjusted models, women who had delivered ≥2 childbirths had higher odds of LUTS progression, but the association was completely accounted for by vaginal child delivery (eg, 2 vaginal childbirths vs none, multivariable-adjusted odds ratio = 2.21; 95% CI, 1.46-3.35; P <.001). No increased odds of LUTS progression were found for women with only 1 vaginal delivery or who only had cesarean section(s). Uterine prolapse was associated with higher odds of LUTS progression (multivariable-adjusted odds ratio = 3.05; 95% CI, 1.43-6.50; P = .004). Gestational diabetes was associated with approximately twice the odds of LUTS progression, but only among younger women (interaction P = .003). In this cohort study, ≥2 vaginal child deliveries, uterine prolapse, and among younger women, gestational diabetes were robust predictors of LUTS progression. Clinicians should assess the presence of bothersome urinary frequency, urgency, and voiding symptoms among women who have had multiple vaginal childbirths or gestational diabetes. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Randomized Comparative Study of the U- and H-Type Approaches of the TVT-Secur Procedure for the Treatment of Female Stress Urinary Incontinence: One-Year Follow-Up

PubMed Central

Kim, Jung Jun; Lee, Young-Suk

2010-01-01

Purpose We compared outcomes of the U- and H-type approaches of the tension-free vaginal tape (TVT)-Secur procedure for the treatment of female stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Materials and Methods From March 2007 to July 2008, 115 women with SUI underwent TVT-Secur by a single surgeon. Patients were randomly assigned to either the U- or the H-type approach. After 12 months, postoperative changes in the Sandvik questionnaire, incontinence quality of life questionnaire (I-QoL), Bristol female lower urinary tract symptoms-scored form (BFLUTS-SF), and postoperative patient satisfaction were evaluated. Cure was regarded as no leakage on the Sandvik questionnaire. Complications were also evaluated. Results Of 115 women, 53 were treated with the U approach, and 62 women were treated with the H approach. At 12 months, 88.7% of those treated with the U approach and 87.1% of those treated with the H approach were cured (p=0.796). The I-QoL and filling, incontinence, sexual function, and QoL sum (BFLUTS-SF) scores were improved with both approaches, and there were no significant differences in the degree of improvement between approaches. Approximately 83.7% and 82.9% of the women treated with the U and H approaches, respectively, were satisfied with the outcome (p=0.858). There were 3 cases of intra-operative vaginal wall perforation in the H-type group. Immediate postoperative retention was observed in 2 women in the U-type group and 1 woman in the H-type group. One woman in the U-type group underwent tape releasing and cutting procedures for persistent large post-void residuals. Conclusions The U- and the H-type approaches of the TVT-Secur procedure provided comparable effectiveness for the treatment of female SUI. PMID:20428427

Objective and subjective cure rates after trans-obturator tape (OBTAPE) treatment of female urinary incontinence.

PubMed

Deval, Bruno; Ferchaux, Jérome; Berry, Richard; Gambino, Sandro; Ciofu, Calin; Rafii, Arash; Haab, François

2006-02-01

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a thermally bonded nonwoven polypropylene mesh in a transobturator suburethral tape procedure (OBTAPE), Mentor-Porges, Le Plessis Robinson, France) for women with stress urinary incontinence. Between January 2003 and January 2005, 129 consecutive women (mean age 57.2 years) underwent OBTAPE) in two academic centers. All the patients had stress urinary incontinence preoperatively. Detrusor instability was ruled out by cystometry. The women were evaluated 1, 6 and 12 months postoperatively. The objective cure rate was evaluated by clinical examination and the subjective cure rate was assessed using the KHQ and BFLUTS questionnaire. Mean follow-up was 17.2+/-4.7 months (range 4 to 28 months). The objective and subjective cure rates were respectively 89.9% and 77.5%. Most of the patients received general anesthesia (85.3%). Urinary retention was observed in two women (1.5%), necessitating tape adjustment. Voiding difficulties were observed in 7 cases (5.4%) necessitating intermittent self-catheterization for 4.2+/-2.4 days (range 1 to 7 days). Seven patients developed vaginal erosion (one with vaginal extrusion, and two with an obturator abscess). Complete mesh removal was necessary in 6 patients, four of whom had recurrent stress urinary incontinence. Our results suggest that the OBTAPE) is an effective treatment for women with stress urinary incontinence. However, vaginal mesh erosion occurred in 6.2% of women, and this implies the need for careful follow-up.

Comparison of three types of stress urinary incontinence rat models: electrocauterization, pudendal denervation, and vaginal distension.

PubMed

Hong, Sung-Hoo; Piao, Shuyu; Kim, In Gul; Lee, Ji Young; Cho, Hyuk Jin; Kim, Sae Woong; Hwang, Tae-Kon; Lee, Ji Youl

2013-02-01

To investigate the differences in the histopathologic and functional characteristics of 3 rat models of stress urinary incontinence. A total of 24 female, 10-week-old, Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: normal, electrocauterization, pudendal denervation, and vaginal distension. At 2 weeks after surgery, the leak point pressure was measured to detect urinary leakage. Urethral tissue samples were collected for histological examination. The smooth muscle content in the electrocauterization group was significantly decreased compared with that in all other groups, indicating that electrocauterization caused the most severe injury. A blood vessel marker, von Willebrand factor, was co-stained with α-smooth muscle actin to detect the blood vessel distribution. No significant differences were seen in von Willebrand factor expression among the 4 groups, other than in the electrocauterization group, in which we could hardly observe blood vessel expression. Protein gene product 9.5 staining was used to detect nerve fibers and cells. Protein gene product 9.5 expression was significantly lower in all the treatment groups compared with that in the normal group (P <.05), in particular, in the electrocauterization and pudendal denervation groups (P <.01). The leak point pressure was significantly lower in the electrocauterization (P <.01), pudendal denervation (P <.01), and vaginal distension (P <.05) groups than in the normal group. The vaginal distension model should mainly be used as the myogenic damage stress urinary incontinence animal model; the pudendal denervation model mainly as the neurogenic damage stress urinary incontinence animal model; and the electrocauterization model as the vasculogenic, neurogenic, and myogenic damage animal model. Copyright © 2013. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Recurrent urinary tract infections in women: How promising is the use of probiotics?

PubMed

Gupta, Varsha; Nag, Deepika; Garg, Pratibha

2017-01-01

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) currently rank amongst the most prevalent bacterial infections, representing a major health hazard. UTIs in females usually start as vaginal infections and ascend to the urethra and bladder. Recurrent UTIs (rUTIs) can be defined as at least three episodes of UTI in 1 year or two episodes in 6 months. Various antibiotics have been the mainstay of therapy in ameliorating the incidence of UTIs, but recurrent infections continue to afflict many women. It necessitates the exploitation of alternative antimicrobial therapy. Probiotics have been shown to be effective in varied clinical trials for long-term preventions of rUTI. Because Escherichia coli is the primary pathogen involved in UTIs which spreads from the rectum to vagina and then ascends up the sterile urinary tract, improving the gut or vaginal flora will thus impact the urinary tract. Since a healthy vaginal microbiota is mainly dominated by Lactobacillus species, in this context, exogenously administered probiotics containing Lactobacilli play a pivotal role in reducing the risk of rUTI. The concept of artificially boosting the Lactobacilli numbers through probiotic administration has long been conceived but has been recently shown to be possible. Lactobacilli may especially be useful for women with a history of recurrent, complicated UTIs or on prolonged antibiotic use. Probiotics do not cause antibiotic resistance and may offer other health benefits due to vaginal re-colonisation with Lactobacilli. However, more comprehensive research is still needed, to recommend for probiotics as an alternative to antibiotics.

Transient microbiota exposures activate dormant Escherichia coli infection in the bladder and drive severe outcomes of recurrent disease

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Pathogens often inhabit the body asymptomatically, emerging to cause disease in response to unknown triggers. In the bladder, latent intracellular Escherichia coli reservoirs are regarded as likely origins of recurrent urinary tract infection (rUTI), a problem affecting millions of women worldwide. However, clinically plausible triggers that activate these reservoirs are unknown. Clinical studies suggest that the composition of a woman’s vaginal microbiota influences her susceptibility to rUTI, but the mechanisms behind these associations are unclear. Several lines of evidence suggest that the urinary tract is routinely exposed to vaginal bacteria, including Gardnerella vaginalis, a dominant member of the vaginal microbiota in some women. Using a mouse model, we show that bladder exposure to G. vaginalis triggers E. coli egress from latent bladder reservoirs and enhances the potential for life-threatening outcomes of the resulting E. coli rUTI. Transient G. vaginalis exposures were sufficient to cause bladder epithelial apoptosis and exfoliation and interleukin-1-receptor-mediated kidney injury, which persisted after G. vaginalis clearance from the urinary tract. These results support a broader view of UTI pathogenesis in which disease can be driven by short-lived but powerful urinary tract exposures to vaginal bacteria that are themselves not “uropathogenic” in the classic sense. This “covert pathogenesis” paradigm may apply to other latent infections, (e.g., tuberculosis), or for diseases currently defined as noninfectious because routine culture fails to detect microbes of recognized significance. PMID:28358889

Pitfalls in diagnosis and management of distal vaginal agenesis: 10-year experience at a single centre.

PubMed

Ugur, M G; Balat, O; Ozturk, E; Bekerecioglu, M; Dikensoy, E

2012-07-01

To discuss common pitfalls in diagnosis and management of distal vaginal agenesis, and summarize 10 years of experience among 11 patients using an interposition full-thickness graft and fibrin glue. Eleven patients with distal vaginal agenesis were evaluated and managed with an interposition full-thickness graft to bridge the gap between the upper vagina and the introitus. Associated renal abnormalities and complications including infection, total lack of skin graft take, stress urinary incontinence, partial graft loss, vaginal stricture and graft uptake were all investigated. The mean age of the patients was 12.91 (standard deviation 1.22) years. All patients had primary amenorrhoea, cryptomenorrhea, and cyclical or constant pelvic pain. None of the patients had associated urological abnormalities, and there were no cases of infection, total lack of skin graft take, stress urinary incontinence, partial graft loss or vaginal stricture. Graft uptake was 100% in 10 of the 11 patients. Four patients have subsequently married and report a satisfactory sex life. Accurate diagnosis of distal vaginal agenesis and careful pre-operative set-up, including evaluation of associated anomalies, bowel preparation, available vaginal stents and a multidisciplinary approach for the potential need for grafts, may be key to success. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

No. 250-Recurrent Urinary Tract Infection.

PubMed

Epp, Annette; Larochelle, Annick

2017-10-01

To provide an update of the definition, epidemiology, clinical presentation, investigation, treatment, and prevention of recurrent urinary tract infections in women. Continuous antibiotic prophylaxis, post-coital antibiotic prophylaxis, and acute self-treatment are all efficient alternatives to prevent recurrent urinary tract infection. Vaginal estrogen and cranberry juice can also be effective prophylaxis alternatives. A search of PubMed and The Cochrane Library for articles published in English identified the most relevant literature. Results were restricted to systematic reviews, randomized control trials/controlled clinical trials, and observational studies. There were no date restrictions. This update is the consensus of the Sub-Committee on Urogynaecology of the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada. Recommendations were made according to the guidelines developed by the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care (Table 1). Recurrent urinary tract infections need careful investigation and can be efficiently treated and prevented. Different prophylaxis options can be selected according to each patient's characteristics. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Ambulatory Medical Visits among Anthrax-Vaccinated and Unvaccinated Personnel after Return from Southwest Asia

DTIC Science & Technology

2001-07-01

Diseases (001-139): candidiasis , dermatophytosis, herpes simplex, helminthosis, infectious mononucleosls. molluscom contaglosum, pityriasis. scabies...epididymitis. pelvic inflammatory disease, prostatitis, pyelonephritis, urinary tract calculi, urethritis, urinary tract infection, vaginitis

Effect of tension-free vaginal tape and TVT-obturator on lower urinary tract symptoms other than stress urinary incontinence.

PubMed

Ballert, Katie N; Kanofsky, Jamie A; Nitti, Victor W

2008-03-01

Variable effects on lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) other than stress urinary incontinence (SUI) have been reported after tension-free vaginal tape (TVT). We measured the effect of TVT on LUTS using the American Urological Association Symptom Index (AUASI). Patients undergoing TVT completed the AUASI pre- and post-operatively. Total scores (TS), storage scores (SS), and voiding scores (VS) were compared overall and among patients with SUI vs mixed urinary incontinence (MUI) and those who underwent TVT vs TVT-obturator (TVT-O). The mean change in TS and SS was -3.6 and -3.0. Mean reductions in TS and SS were significant in all patient subsets with no change in VS. There was no significant difference in the mean changes in TS between patients with SUI vs MUI or those undergoing TVT vs TVT-O. LUTS are improved after TVT in most patients. In general, voiding symptoms were not adversely affected.

Effects of probiotics on the recurrence of bacterial vaginosis: a review.

PubMed

Homayouni, Aziz; Bastani, Parvin; Ziyadi, Somayeh; Mohammad-Alizadeh-Charandabi, Sakineh; Ghalibaf, Morad; Mortazavian, Amir Mohammad; Mehrabany, Elnaz Vaghef

2014-01-01

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common cause of genital discomfort in women in reproductive ages, which causes many complications. Bacterial vaginosis is usually treated by metronidazole and clindamycin. However, this protocol does not prevent its recurrence, which is a main complaint of the patients. The number of lactobacilli in the vagina of women with BV is significantly lower than that in healthy women. Hence, efforts have been made to normalize vaginal flora by oral or vaginal administration of lactobacilli. The objective of the present study was to review clinical evidences available regarding the efficacy of probiotics in the prevention and treatment of BV. Published randomized controlled trials were searched in PubMed, Science Direct, and the Cochrane Database between 1990 and 2011. Search terms included bacterial vaginosis, urinary tract infection, lactobacillus, and probiotics. Orally consumed probiotics are believed to ascend to the vaginal tract after they are excreted from the rectum; vaginal administration allows for direct replacement of the probiotics for unhealthy vaginal microbiota and occupation of specific adhesion sites at the epithelial surface of the urinary tract, which consequently results in maintenance of a low pH and production of antimicrobial substances like acids and hydrogen peroxide. Receiving Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1, and Lactobacillus fermentum RC-14 at a dose of at least 10 CFU/day for 2 months has been shown to present the patients with better results. Although the results of different studies are controversial, most studies have been in favor of the probiotics in the prevention or treatment of BV, and no adverse effects have been reported. Therefore, it may be helpful to recommend daily consumption of probiotic products to improve public health among women.

Surgical management of stress urinary incontinence in women: safety, effectiveness and cost-utility of trans-obturator tape (TOT) versus tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) five years after a randomized surgical trial

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background We recently completed a randomized clinical trial of two minimally invasive surgical procedures for stress urinary incontinence, the retropubic tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) versus the trans-obturator tape (TOT) procedure. At one year postoperatively, we were concerned to find that a significant number of women had tape that was palpable when a vaginal examination was undertaken. Because the risk factors for adverse outcomes of tape surgery are not clearly understood, we are unable to say whether palpable tapes will lead to vaginal erosions or whether they merge into vaginal tissue. We do not know whether patients go on to have further adverse consequences of surgery, leading to additional cost to patients and healthcare system. Our current study is a 5 year follow-up of the women who took part in our original trial. Methods/Design All 199 women who participated in our original trial will be contacted and invited to take part in the follow-up study. Consenting women will attend a clinic visit where they will have a physical examination to identify vaginal erosion or other serious adverse outcomes of surgery, undertake a standardized pad test for urinary incontinence, and complete several health-related quality of life questionnaires (15D, UDI-6, IIQ-7). Analyses will compare the outcomes for women in the TOT versus TVT groups. The cost-effectiveness of TOT versus TVT over the 5 years after surgery, will be assessed with the use of disease-specific health service administrative data and an objective health outcome measure. A cost-utility analysis may also be undertaken, based on economic modeling, data from the clinical trial and inputs obtained from published literature. Discussion This study is needed now, because TOT and TVT are among the most frequently conducted surgical procedures for stress urinary incontinence in Canada. Because stress urinary incontinence is so common, the impact of selecting an approach that causes more adverse events, or is less effective, will have a significant impact on individual quality of life, and societal and health care costs. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00234754. Registered October 2005. PMID:21781314

TVT-Secur mini-sling for stress urinary incontinence: a review of outcomes at 12 months.

PubMed

Walsh, Colin A

2011-09-01

• Synthetic mid-urethral slings (MUSs) are considered the first choice surgical procedure for stress urinary incontinence. Recent publications have raised concerns about the efficacy of third generation single-incision mini-slings. The present paper is a systematic review of studies reporting 12-month outcomes after the TVT-Secur (TVT-S) procedure. • Pubmed/Medline online databases, abstracts from recent International Continence Society and International Urogynecological Association annual scientific meetings and the Clinicaltrials.gov and Controlled-trials.com online trial registries were searched for English-language articles containing the terms 'TVT-Secur', 'TVT Secur' or 'mini-sling'. The primary outcomes were objective and subjective cure rates at 12 months. Secondary outcomes included peri-operative (vaginal perforation, urinary retention, urinary tract infection [UTI]) and postoperative (mesh exposure, de novo overactive bladder (OAB), dyspareunia and return to theatre) complication rates. • Among 1178 women undergoing the TVT-S procedure, from 10 studies, both objective and subjective cure rate at 12 months was 76%, with objective cure significantly higher in women undergoing the 'U-type' approach. Vaginal perforation was a complication in 1.5% of cases, with a 2.4% incidence of mesh exposure in the first year. The incidence of de novo OAB symptoms was 10%. Rates of urinary retention (2.3%), UTI (4.4%), dyspareunia (1%) and return to theatre for complications (0.8%) were low. In the first year after a TVT-S procedure 5% of women required repeat continence surgery. • Longer-term studies and randomized comparisons with more established MUSs are required before TVT-S should be routinely used in the surgical treatment of stress urinary incontinence. © 2011 THE AUTHOR. BJU INTERNATIONAL © 2011 BJU INTERNATIONAL.

Randomized, placebo-controlled phase 2 trial of a Lactobacillus crispatus probiotic given intravaginally for prevention of recurrent urinary tract infection.

PubMed

Stapleton, Ann E; Au-Yeung, Melissa; Hooton, Thomas M; Fredricks, David N; Roberts, Pacita L; Czaja, Christopher A; Yarova-Yarovaya, Yuliya; Fiedler, Tina; Cox, Marsha; Stamm, Walter E

2011-05-01

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common among women and frequently recur. Depletion of vaginal lactobacilli is associated with UTI risk, which suggests that repletion may be beneficial. We conducted a double-blind placebo-controlled trial of a Lactobacillus crispatus intravaginal suppository probiotic (Lactin-V; Osel) for prevention of recurrent UTI in premenopausal women. One hundred young women with a history of recurrent UTI received antimicrobials for acute UTI and then were randomized to receive either Lactin-V or placebo daily for 5 d, then once weekly for 10 weeks. Participants were followed up at 1 week and 10 weeks after intervention and for UTIs; urine samples for culture and vaginal swabs for real-time quantitative 16S ribosomal RNA gene polymerase chain reaction for L. crispatus were collected. Recurrent UTI occurred in 7/48 15% of women receiving Lactin-V compared with 13/48 27% of women receiving placebo (relative risk [RR], .5; 95% confidence interval, .2-1.2). High-level vaginal colonization with L. crispatus (≥10(6) 16S RNA gene copies per swab) throughout follow-up was associated with a significant reduction in recurrent UTI only for Lactin-V (RR for Lactin-V, .07; RR for placebo, 1.1; P < .01). Lactin-V after treatment for cystitis is associated with a reduction in recurrent UTI. Larger efficacy trials of this novel preventive method for recurrent UTI are warranted. CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION. NCT00305227.

The role of Gardnerella vaginalis in nonspecific vaginitis in intra uterine contraceptive device users.

PubMed

Gupta, B K; Kumar, R; Sofat, R; Khurana, S; Deepinder

1998-01-01

Two Hundred Forty patients who had Intra Uterine Contraceptive Device (IUCD) and manifested of nonspecific vaginitis were investigated for the presence of G. vaginalis. Pure growth of this organism was obtained in 14(5.8%) cases while 116(48.3%) cases showed this organism in association with other organisms e.g. Esch. coli (11.7%), Klebsiella (9.2%), Candida (9.2%), Strept. faecalis (7.3%), Proteus species (5.8%) and Staph. albus (5%).

Advanced topical drug delivery system for the management of vaginal candidiasis.

PubMed

Johal, Himmat Singh; Garg, Tarun; Rath, Goutam; Goyal, Amit Kumar

2016-01-01

Vaginal candidiasis or vulvovaginal candidiasis (VC) is a common mucosal infection of vagina, mainly caused by Candida species. The major symptoms of VC are dyspareunia, pruritis, itching, soreness, vagina as well as vulvar erythema and edema. Most common risk factors that lead to the imbalance in the vaginal micro biota are the use of antibiotics, pregnancy, diabetes mellitus, immuno suppression as in AIDS or HIV patients, frequent sexual intercourse, spermicide and intra-uterine devices and vaginal douching. Various anti-fungal drugs are available for effective treatment of VC. Different conventional vaginal formulations (creams, gels, suppositories, powder, ointment, etc.) for VC are available today but have limited efficacy because of lesser residence time on vaginal epithelium due to self-cleansing action of vagina. So to overcome this problem, an extended and intimate contact with vaginal mucosa is desired; which can be accomplished by utilizing mucoadhesive polymers. Mucoadhesive polymers have an excellent binding capacity to mucosal tissues for considerable period of time. This unique property of these polymers significantly enhances retention time of different formulations on mucosal tissues. Currently, various novel formulations such as liposomes, nano- and microparticles, micro-emulsions, bio-adhesive gel and tablets are used to control and treat VC. In this review, we focused on current status of vaginal candidiasis, conventional and nanotechnology inspired formulation approaches.

[Laparoscopic approach for artificial urinary sphincter implantation in women with severe urinary stress incontinence].

PubMed

Trolliet, S; Mandron, E; Lang, H; Jacqmin, D; Saussine, C

2013-09-01

To evaluate, feasibility, efficacy and morbidity of laparoscopic artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) implantation in women with severe stress urinary incontinence. Twenty-six women with severe stress urinary incontinence were treated between October 2007 and January 2012 by laparoscopic implantation of an AUS AMS 800 (American medical Systems, Inc., Minnetonka, Minnesota). For 18 patients AUS was primary implanted and, for eight, AUS was revised for a mechanical failure. Three patients had a concomitant laparoscopic vaginal prolapse repair. Mean value was for age 64 years, BMI 27.8kg/m2, and mean maximal urethral closure pressure was 26.75cm of water. Most of the patients (88%) had a history of pelvic or incontinence surgery. The study was a retrospective analysis of operative parameters, complications and functional results. Three conversions in open surgery and five bladder injuries were described. Mean operative time was 149 minutes. Bladder catheter was removed at a mean of day 3.8. Mean post-operative stay was 5 days. Early postoperative complications consist in eight acute transient urinary retentions, two pump migrations, and one vaginal injury. Late post-operative complications consist in one vaginal erosion. Explantation of AUS was performed for these last two patients. Mean follow-up was 20 months. Sixteen patients are totally continent, five have a social continence (1 pad/day) and three need more than one pad/day. Our results compare favorably to literature either for laparoscopic or conventional approach with a limited learning curve. Laparoscopic implantation of AUS in women with severe stress urinary incontinence was feasible and efficient. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Physical and cultural determinants of postpartum pelvic floor support and symptoms following vaginal delivery: a protocol for a mixed-methods prospective cohort study

PubMed Central

Nygaard, Ingrid E; Clark, Erin; Clark, Lauren; Egger, Marlene J; Hitchcock, Robert; Hsu, Yvonne; Norton, Peggy; Sanchez-Birkhead, Ana; Shaw, Janet; Sheng, Xiaoming; Varner, Michael

2017-01-01

Introduction Pelvic floor disorders (PFDs), including pelvic organ prolapse (POP), stress and urgency urinary incontinence, and faecal incontinence, are common and arise from loss of pelvic support. Although severe disease often does not occur until women become older, pregnancy and childbirth are major risk factors for PFDs, especially POP. We understand little about modifiable factors that impact pelvic floor function recovery after vaginal birth. This National Institutes of Health (NIH)-funded Program Project, ‘Bridging physical and cultural determinants of postpartum pelvic floor support and symptoms following vaginal delivery’, uses mixed-methods research to study the influences of intra-abdominal pressure, physical activity, body habitus and muscle fitness on pelvic floor support and symptoms as well as the cultural context in which women experience those changes. Methods and analysis Using quantitative methods, we will evaluate whether pelvic floor support and symptoms 1 year after the first vaginal delivery are affected by biologically plausible factors that may impact muscle, nerve and connective tissue healing during recovery (first 8 weeks postpartum) and strengthening (remainder of the first postpartum year). Using qualitative methods, we will examine cultural aspects of perceptions, explanations of changes in pelvic floor support, and actions taken by Mexican-American and Euro-American primipara, emphasising early changes after childbirth. We will summarise project results in a resource toolkit that will enhance opportunities for dialogue between women, their families and providers, and across lay and medical discourses. We anticipate enrolling up to 1530 nulliparous women into the prospective cohort study during the third trimester, following those who deliver vaginally 1 year postpartum. Participants will be drawn from this cohort to meet the project's aims. Ethics and dissemination The University of Utah and Intermountain Healthcare Institutional Review Boards approved this study. Data are stored in a secure password-protected database. Papers summarising the primary results and ancillary analyses will be published in peer-reviewed journals. PMID:28073797

Resolution of Rectal Prolapse by Vaginal Reconstruction.

PubMed

Devakumar, Hemikaa; Chandrasekaran, Neeraja; Alas, Alexandriah; Martin, Laura; Davila, G Willy; Hurtado, Eric

Rectal prolapse is a disorder of the pelvic floor in which the layers of the rectal mucosa protrude outward through the anus. Surgical repair is the mainstay of treatment. Options include intra-abdominal procedures such as rectopexy and perineal procedures such as the Delorme and Altemeier perineal rectosigmoidectomy. Rectal and vaginal prolapse can often coexist. However, to our knowledge, there are no reported cases of rectal prolapse resolved by the repair of a compressive enterocele abutting the anterior rectal wall through a vaginal approach alone. We present a novel case of rectal prolapse that resolved by correction of the vaginal defect. A 53-year-old female with prior history of abdominal hysterectomy, presented to the urogynecology clinic with complaints of vaginal bulge, urge urinary incontinence, and rectal bulge on straining with no fecal incontinence for several years. On physical examination, she was found to have stage 2 anterior, posterior, and apical vaginal prolapse and reducible rectal prolapse. Colorectal surgery (CRS) evaluation was requested, which revealed minimal anterior mucosal prolapse on Valsalva with no full-thickness prolapse. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) defecogram was performed, which demonstrated a large rectocele, enterocele, and small bowel prolapsing between the rectum and vagina during the evacuation phase, with no rectal prolapse. The decision to proceed with vaginal prolapse surgery without concomitant rectal prolapse repair was made, as the patient had no fecal incontinence, and the degree of rectal prolapse was minimal. On the day of surgery, which was 2 months later, she presented with a 2-cm anterior rectal prolapse with no incontinence. Colorectal surgery was consulted again, but unavailable. After counseling, the patient wished to proceed with her planned surgery. It was felt that correcting the anterior rectocele and enterocele, thereby eliminating the descent of the bowel on the anterior rectal wall, might cause resolution of the rectal prolapse. She then underwent a sacrospinous ligament fixation with mesh through an anterior vaginal approach, enterocele repair, Moschcowitz culdoplasty, and posterior colporraphy. She had an uneventful postoperative course and noted resolution of both vaginal and rectal prolapse. At 54 weeks, she continues without any complaints of rectal prolapse, which was confirmed on physical examination. Usually, the choice of surgical approach is tailored to each individual based on anatomy, age, comorbidity, and patient factors. Correcting both vaginal and rectal prolapse at the same time with a minimally invasive approach is an advantage to the patient. Restoring the apical, anterior, and posterior vaginal wall anatomy and an enterocele repair through the vaginal route caused resolution of the rectal prolapse. Further research is required as to whether rectal prolapse caused by anterior rectal compression needs an additional procedure or repair of the vaginal prolapse and enterocele alone will suffice.

Integrating Targeted MedlinePlus Health Prescriptions Into Clinic Practice Workflow

ClinicalTrials.gov

2016-09-29

Allergic Rhinitis; Asthma; Back Pain; Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy; Bursitis; Depression; Anxiety; Diabetes Mellitus; Esophageal Reflux; HIV Infections; Hyperlipidemia; Hypertension; Insomnia; Irritable Bowel Syndrome; Obesity; Osteoporosis (Senile); Shoulder Pain; Sinusitis; Symptomatic Menopause; Urinary Incontinence; Urinary Tract Infection; Vaginitis

Comparison between three mini-sling surgical procedures and the traditional transobturator vaginal tape technique for female stress urinary incontinence

PubMed Central

LEANZA, V.; INTAGLIATA, E.; LEANZA, A.; FERLA, F.; LEANZA, G.; VECCHIO, R.

2014-01-01

Objectives To compare mini-sling and traditional tension-free operations for female stress urinary incontinence. Study design A systematic review of articles in the Literature published between 2002 and 2012, was conducted. A Pubmed search was performed. Primary outcomes were subjective and objective cure rates at 12 months comparing the three single-incision mini-slings techniques (TVT-Secur, MiniArc and Monarc systems) with the standard mid-urethral sling procedure TOT (Transobturator Vaginal Tape). Secondary outcomes included peri-operative (vaginal and/or bladder perforation, urine retention, urinary tract infection, bleeding, pain) and post-operative (mesh exposure, de novo urgency, and dyspareunia) complications. Results In term of objective cure rate at 12 month after surgery, it is evident that TOT at first, and MiniArc are the most effective procedures. The incidence of post-operative urgency and UTI was lower in TOT technique, while vaginal perforation was described in equal frequency both in TOT and in MiniArc procedures. The advantages of the three above described mini-invasive techniques seem to consist into lower cases of urinary retention, pain and bleeding. Furthermore, bladder perforation and bleeding are not described in the Literature for TVT-Secur and Monarc systems. Conclusions Some single-incision slings look promising and as effective as conventional sub-urethral slings at short term evaluation. However, at this moment a clear statement in favor of the widespread use of single-incision slings cannot be made. More studies must define the efficacy of these techniques. PMID:24841685

Fast track vaginal surgery.

PubMed

Ottesen, Marianne; Sørensen, Mette; Rasmussen, Yvonne; Smidt-Jensen, Steen; Kehlet, Henrik; Ottesen, Bent

2002-02-01

Our aim was to describe the need for postoperative hospitalization after vaginal surgery for utero-vaginal prolapse with well-defined charts for postoperative care. A prospective, descriptive study. Consecutive women admitted for first-time vaginal surgery for utero-vaginal prolapse at a public university hospital in Copenhagen, Denmark, underwent surgery and postoperative care in a fast track setting from September 15, 1999 to June 15 2000. A multimodal rehabilitation model with emphasis on information, standardized general anesthesia, reduced surgical distress, optimized pain-relief, early oral nutrition and ambulation, minimal use of indwelling catheter and vaginal packing. Postoperative hospital stay, complications, re-admission, success rate, patients' satisfaction and acceptability. Forty-one women with a median age of 69 years (range, 44-88 years) were included. All underwent anterior and/or posterior vaginal repair. Nineteen (46.3%) underwent vaginal hysterectomy, and eight (19.5%) underwent the Manchester procedure. Postoperative hospital stay was median 24 hr. Only three (7.3%) were discharged later than 48 hr. No re-admissions occurred. The most frequent complications were urinary retention exceeding 450 ml, and urinary tract infection (12.2%, and 9.8%, respectively). Short-term success rate was 97.6%. Patients' satisfaction rates were 85.4-95.1%. The median score of acceptability was 10 on a 0-10 points scale. The need for postoperative hospitalization was median 24 hr after vaginal surgery in a fast track setting, independently of the complexity of the procedure performed. Short-term success rate, satisfaction rates, and acceptability were all excellent. Follow up has been established to evaluate long-term success rates and recurrence.

Laparoscopic promontofixation for pelvic organ prolapse: a 10-year single center experience in a series of 501 patients.

PubMed

Bacle, Julien; Papatsoris, Athanasios G; Bigot, Pierre; Azzouzi, Abdel-Rahmene; Brychaet, Pierre-Emmanuel; Piussan, Jean; Mandron, Eric

2011-12-01

To assess the long-term outcomes of laparoscopic promontofixation (LP) for the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse (POP). A total of 501 consecutive patients with POP were included in this prospective study. The patients' mean age was 63.23 (36-90) years, their mean body mass index was 25.14 (15-36) and their mean number of deliveries was 3.3 (0-14). A POP grade ≥3 was diagnosed in 70.4% of the patients and 38.9% of them had a history of abdominal surgery. The patients underwent a Bonney test and urodynamic study. In cases of stress urinary incontinence (SUI), the patients underwent the simultaneous insertion of a tension-free vaginal tape. A prolapse quality of life questionnaire was sent to all patients. The mean operative time was 97.4 min (50-210) and there were 1.7% cases of intra-operative complications. The mean hospitalization time was 3.7 days (1-13 days). During the mean follow-up of 20.7 months (3-120), 91 (17.8%) complications were recorded, including constipation (5.5%), SUI (3.5%), vaginal erosion (2.4%), and urge incontinence (2%). Recurrences were recorded in 11.5% of the patients within an average time of 37.2 months. Risk factors for recurrence were the use of the polypropylene mesh compared with the polyester mesh (P<0.0001), an intra-operative hysterectomy (P=0.02), and bleeding (P=0.049). There was a statistical significant (P<0.001) improvement in most of the symptoms in the prolapse quality of life questionnaire. LP is safe with effective long-term results, with low recurrence and morbidity rates, and a good quality of life. © 2011 The Japanese Urological Association.

Decreased rates of nosocomial endometritis and urinary tract infection after vaginal delivery in a French surveillance network, 1997-2003.

PubMed

Ayzac, Louis; Caillat-Vallet, Emmanuelle; Girard, Raphaële; Chapuis, Catherine; Depaix, Florence; Dumas, Anne-Marie; Gignoux, Chantal; Haond, Catherine; Lafarge-Leboucher, Joëlle; Launay, Carine; Tissot-Guerraz, Françoise; Vincent, Agnès; Fabry, Jacques

2008-06-01

To identify independent risk factors for endometritis and urinary tract infection (UTI) after vaginal delivery, and to monitor changes in nosocomial infection rates and derive benchmarks for prevention. Prospective study. We analyzed routine surveillance data for all vaginal deliveries between January 1997 and December 2003 at 66 maternity units participating in the Mater Sud-Est surveillance network. Adjusted odds ratios for risk of endometritis or UTI were obtained using a logistic regression model. The overall incidence rates were 0.5% for endometritis and 0.3% for UTI. There was a significant decrease in the incidence and risk of endometritis but not of UTI during the 7-year period. Significant risk factors for endometritis were fever during labor, parity of 1, and instrumental delivery and/or manual removal of the placenta. Significant risk factors for UTI were urinary infection on admission, premature rupture of membranes (more than 12 hours before admission), blood loss of more than 800 mL, parity of 1, instrumental delivery, and receipt of more than 5 vaginal digital examinations. Each maternity unit received a poster showing graphs of the number of expected and observed cases of UTI and endometritis associated with vaginal deliveries, which enabled each maternity unit to determine their rank within the network and to initiate prevention programs. Although routine surveillance means additional work for maternity units, our results demonstrate the usefulness of regular targeted monitoring of risk factors and of the most common nosocomial infections in obstetrics. Most of the information needed for monitoring is already present in the patients' records.

Intra- and inter-individual variations of blood and urinary water-soluble vitamins in Japanese young adults consuming a semi-purified diet for 7 days.

PubMed

Shibata, Katsumi; Fukuwatari, Tsutomu; Watanabe, Toshiaki; Nishimuta, Mamoru

2009-12-01

We have previously reported the levels of water-soluble vitamins in the blood and urine of Japanese young adults. In the present paper, to assess the variations in these water-soluble vitamin markers during the above experiment, we comprehensively determined the intra- and inter-individual variations of blood and urinary water-soluble vitamins to exactly the same amount of water-soluble vitamin intakes in the same experiment. The blood samples before breakfast and the 24-h urine samples were periodically collected from Japanese college male (n=10) and female (n=10) students consuming a semi-purified diet with water-soluble vitamins based on Japanese Dietary Reference Intakes for 7 d, and the intra- and inter-individual variations of blood and urinary water-soluble vitamins or their metabolites in blood and urine samples after adaptation were calculated. Although urinary excretion of vitamin B(12) and vitamin C showed high intra-individual variations in both males and females, other urinary vitamins and all blood vitamins showed less than 20% of within-subject coefficients of variance in either male or female. Those showing more than 20% of between-subject coefficients of variances in both male and female were blood vitamin B(6), vitamin B(12) and folate levels, and urinary vitamin B(1), vitamin B(2), vitamin B(12), nicotinamide metabolites, pantothenic acid, biotin and vitamin C. These results showed that oral administration of constant of water-soluble vitamins generally decreased intra-individual variation, while individual differences in urinary vitamin excretion were observed.

Use of intra-arterial nitroglycerin during uterine artery embolization for severe postpartum hemorrhage with uterine artery vasospasm.

PubMed

Wang, Liangcheng; Horiuchi, Isao; Mikami, Yukiko; Takagi, Kenjiro; Okochi, Tomohisa; Hamamoto, Kohei; Chiba, Emiko; Matsuura, Katsuhiko

2015-04-01

Uterine artery embolization (UAE) is a standard method for treating postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), although uterine artery vasospasm during UAE may lead to failure of hemostasis. Here, we report our experience with a case of PPH in which the bleeding was successfully controlled by intra-arterial administration of nitroglycerin during the second UAE. A 30-year-old woman experienced PPH following a successful cesarean section, and a UAE was performed. However, 6 hours later, vaginal bleeding restarted; the reason for unsuccessful embolization during the first UAE was vasoconstriction due to hypovolemic shock. We performed a second UAE, but uterine bleeding continued. After intra-arterial administration of nitroglycerin, hemostasis was confirmed, and there was no reperfusion of the uterine artery. After these two UAE procedures, no recurrence of bleeding was observed. Thus, use of intra-arterial nitroglycerin was effective for controlling uterine artery vasospasm during UAE. However, larger studies are required to confirm these findings. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Phase 2 Trial of a Lactobacillus crispatus Probiotic Given Intravaginally for Prevention of Recurrent Urinary Tract Infection

PubMed Central

Au-Yeung, Melissa; Hooton, Thomas M.; Fredricks, David N.; Roberts, Pacita L.; Czaja, Christopher A.; Yarova-Yarovaya, Yuliya; Fiedler, Tina; Cox, Marsha; Stamm, Walter E.

2011-01-01

Background. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common among women and frequently recur. Depletion of vaginal lactobacilli is associated with UTI risk, which suggests that repletion may be beneficial. We conducted a double-blind placebo-controlled trial of a Lactobacillus crispatus intravaginal suppository probiotic (Lactin-V; Osel) for prevention of recurrent UTI in premenopausal women. Methods. One hundred young women with a history of recurrent UTI received antimicrobials for acute UTI and then were randomized to receive either Lactin-V or placebo daily for 5 d, then once weekly for 10 weeks. Participants were followed up at 1 week and 10 weeks after intervention and for UTIs; urine samples for culture and vaginal swabs for real-time quantitative 16S ribosomal RNA gene polymerase chain reaction for L. crispatus were collected. Results. Recurrent UTI occurred in 7/48 15% of women receiving Lactin-V compared with 13/48 27% of women receiving placebo (relative risk [RR], .5; 95% confidence interval, .2–1.2). High-level vaginal colonization with L. crispatus (≥106 16S RNA gene copies per swab) throughout follow-up was associated with a significant reduction in recurrent UTI only for Lactin-V (RR for Lactin-V, .07; RR for placebo, 1.1; P < .01). Conclusions. Lactin-V after treatment for cystitis is associated with a reduction in recurrent UTI. Larger efficacy trials of this novel preventive method for recurrent UTI are warranted. Clinical Trials Registration. NCT00305227. PMID:21498386

Risk factors for postoperative urinary tract infection following midurethral sling procedures.

PubMed

Doganay, Melike; Cavkaytar, Sabri; Kokanali, Mahmut Kuntay; Ozer, Irfan; Aksakal, Orhan Seyfi; Erkaya, Salim

2017-04-01

To identify the potential risk factors for urinary tract infections following midurethral sling procedures. 556 women who underwent midurethral sling procedure due to stress urinary incontinence over a four-year period were reviewed in this retrospective study. Of the study population, 280 women underwent TVT procedures and 276 women underwent TOT procedures. Patients were evaluated at 4-8 weeks postoperatively and were investigated for the occurrence of a urinary tract infection. Patients who experienced urinary tract infection were defined as cases, and patients who didn't were defined as controls. All data were collected from medical records. Multivariate logistic regression model was used to identify the risk factors for urinary tract infection. Of 556 women, 58 (10.4%) were defined as cases while 498 (89.6%) were controls. The mean age of women in cases (57.8±12.9years) was significantly greater than in controls (51.8±11.2years) (p<0.001). The presence of menopausal status, previous abdominal surgery, preoperative antibiotic treatment due to urinary tract infection, concomitant vaginal hysterectomy and cystocele repair, TVT procedure and postoperative postvoiding residual bladder volume ≥100ml were more common in cases than in controls. However, in multivariate regression analysis model presence of preoperative urinary tract infection [OR (95% CI)=0.1 (0.1-0.7); p=0.013], TVT procedure [OR (95% CI)=8.4 (3.1-22.3); p=0.000] and postoperative postvoiding residual bladder volume ≥100ml [OR (95% CI)=4.6 (1.1-19.2); p=0.036] were significant independent risk factors for urinary tract infection following midurethral slings CONCLUSION: Urinary tract infection after midurethral sling procedures is a relatively common complication. The presence of preoperative urinary tract infection, TVT procedure and postoperative postvoiding residual bladder volume ≥100ml may increase the risk of this complication. Identification of these factors could help surgeons to minimize this complicationby developing effective strategies. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

High rate of vaginal erosions associated with the mentor ObTape.

PubMed

Yamada, Brian S; Govier, Fred E; Stefanovic, Ksenija B; Kobashi, Kathleen C

2006-08-01

The transobturator tape method is a newer surgical technique for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence. Limited data exist related to complications with this approach or the types of mesh products used. We report our experience with vaginal erosions associated with the Mentor ObTape and American Medical Systems Monarc transobturator slings. Beginning in December 2003 selected female patients with anatomic urinary incontinence were prospectively followed after placement of the Mentor ObTape. Beginning in January 2004 we also began using the American Medical Systems Monarc in similar patients. Patients were admitted overnight after surgery, discharged on oral antibiotics, and seen in the clinic at 6 weeks postoperatively. A total of 67 patients have undergone placement of the Mentor ObTape and 9 of those patients (13.4%) have had vaginal extrusions of the sling. Eight patients reported a history of persistent vaginal discharge. One patient presented initially to an outside facility with a left thigh abscess tracking to the left inguinal incision site. Each patient was taken back to the operating room for mesh removal. A total of 56 patients have undergone placement of the AMS Monarc and none have had any vaginal erosions. Our high rate of vaginal extrusion using the ObTape has led us to discontinue the use of this product in our institution. Continued followup of all of these patients will be of critical importance.

In vitro effect of vaginal lactobacilli on the growth and adhesion abilities of uropathogenic Escherichia coli.

PubMed

Leccese Terraf, María Cecilia; Juarez Tomás, María Silvina; Rault, Lucie; Le Loir, Yves; Even, Sergine; Nader-Macías, María Elena Fátima

2017-07-01

Escherichia coli is one of the main causes of uncomplicated urinary tract infections and responsible of vaginal infections. Lactobacilli can inhibit this pathogen by the production of antimicrobial substances as organic acids, hydrogen peroxide and/or bacteriocins. The aim of this work was to study the effects of beneficial vaginal lactobacilli on E. coli through in vitro experiments. The inhibitory activity of three vaginal Lactobacillus strains against E. coli was assessed using the agar plate diffusion. Moreover, the effect of Lactobacillus reuteri CRL (Centro de Referencia para Lactobacilos Culture Collection) 1324 on the adhesion and internalization capabilities of E. coli was studied on HeLa cells. Two Lactobacillus strains inhibited the growth of the pathogens by production of organic acids. L. reuteri CRL 1324 reduced the adhesion and internalization of E. coli 275 into HeLa cells. The results obtained suggest that L. reuteri CRL 1324 can be considered as a probiotic candidate for further in vivo studies for the prevention or treatment of urinary tract infections caused by E. coli.

The urinary microbiota of men and women and its changes in women during bacterial vaginosis and antibiotic treatment.

PubMed

Gottschick, Cornelia; Deng, Zhi-Luo; Vital, Marius; Masur, Clarissa; Abels, Christoph; Pieper, Dietmar H; Wagner-Döbler, Irene

2017-08-14

The urinary microbiota is similarly complex as the vaginal and penile microbiota, yet its role as a reservoir for pathogens and for recurrent polymicrobial biofilm diseases like bacterial vaginosis (BV) is not clear. Here, we analysed the urinary microbiota of healthy men and women and compared it with that of women during BV and after antibiotic treatment using next-generation sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene V1-V2 regions. Eight different community types, so called urotypes (UT), were identified in healthy humans, all of which were shared between men and women, except UT 7, dominated in relative abundance by Lactobacillus crispatus, which was found in healthy women only. Orally applied metronidazole significantly reduced Shannon diversity and the mean relative abundance of Gardnerella vaginalis, Atopobium vaginae, and Sneathia amnii, while L. iners increased to levels twofold higher than those found in healthy women. Although individual urine microbial profiles strongly responded to the antibiotic, the healthy community could not be restored. The correlation between urinary and vaginal fluid microbiota was generally weak and depending on UT and BV status. It was highest in UT 1 in acute BV (59% of samples), but after metronidazole treatment, only 3 out of 35 women showed a significant correlation between their urinary and vaginal microbiota composition. Urethra and bladder thus harbor microbial communities distinct from the vagina. The high abundance of BV related species in the urine of both men and women suggests that urine may act as a reservoir of pathogens and contribute to recurrence. ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02687789.

Randomized controlled trial of postoperative belladonna and opium rectal suppositories in vaginal surgery.

PubMed

Butler, Kristina; Yi, John; Wasson, Megan; Klauschie, Jennifer; Ryan, Debra; Hentz, Joseph; Cornella, Jeffrey; Magtibay, Paul; Kho, Roseanne

2017-05-01

After vaginal surgery, oral and parenteral narcotics are used commonly for pain relief, and their use may exacerbate the incidence of sedation, nausea, and vomiting, which ultimately delays convalescence. Previous studies have demonstrated that rectal analgesia after surgery results in lower pain scores and less intravenous morphine consumption. Belladonna and opium rectal suppositories may be used to relieve pain and minimize side effects; however, their efficacy has not been confirmed. We aimed to evaluate the use of belladonna and opium suppositories for pain reduction in vaginal surgery. A prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial that used belladonna and opium suppositories after inpatient or outpatient vaginal surgery was conducted. Vaginal surgery was defined as (1) vaginal hysterectomy with uterosacral ligament suspension or (2) posthysterectomy prolapse repair that included uterosacral ligament suspension and/or colporrhaphy. Belladonna and opium 16A (16.2/60 mg) or placebo suppositories were administered rectally immediately after surgery and every 8 hours for a total of 3 doses. Patient-reported pain data were collected with the use of a visual analog scale (at 2, 4, 12, and 20 hours postoperatively. Opiate use was measured and converted into parenteral morphine equivalents. The primary outcome was pain, and secondary outcomes included pain medication, antiemetic medication, and a quality of recovery questionnaire. Adverse effects were surveyed at 24 hours and 7 days. Concomitant procedures for urinary incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse did not preclude enrollment. Ninety women were randomly assigned consecutively at a single institution under the care of a fellowship-trained surgeon group. Demographics did not differ among the groups with mean age of 55 years, procedure time of 97 minutes, and prolapse at 51%. Postoperative pain scores were equivalent among both groups at each time interval. The belladonna and opium group used a mean of 57 mg morphine compared with 66 mg for placebo (P=.43) in 24 hours. Patient satisfaction with recovery was similar (P=.59). Antiemetic and ketorolac use were comparable among groups. Subgroup analyses of patients with prolapse and patients <50 years old did not reveal differences in pain scores. The use of belladonna and opium suppositories was uncomplicated, and adverse effects, which included constipation and urinary retention, were similar among groups. Belladonna and opium suppositories are safe for use after vaginal surgery. Belladonna and opium suppositories did not reveal lower pain or substantially lower narcotic use. Further investigation may be warranted to identify a population that may benefit optimally from belladonna and opium use. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Surgical removal of a large vaginal calculus formed after a tension-free vaginal tape procedure.

PubMed

Zilberlicht, Ariel; Feiner, Benjamin; Haya, Nir; Auslender, Ron; Abramov, Yoram

2016-11-01

Vaginal calculus is a rare disorder which has been reported in association with urethral diverticulum, urogenital sinus anomaly, bladder exstrophy and the tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) procedure. We report a 42-year-old woman who presented with persistent, intractable urinary tract infection (UTI) following a TVT procedure. Cystoscopy demonstrated an eroded tape with the formation of a bladder calculus, and the patient underwent laser cystolithotripsy and cystoscopic resection of the tape. Following this procedure, her UTI completely resolved and she remained asymptomatic for several years. Seven years later she presented with a solid vaginal mass. Pelvic examination followed by transvaginal ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a large vaginal calculus located at the lower third of the anterior vaginal wall adjacent to the bladder neck. This video presents the transvaginal excision and removal of the vaginal calculus.

Urinary retention in female OAB after intravesical Botox injection: who is really at risk?

PubMed

Miotla, Pawel; Cartwright, Rufus; Skorupska, Katarzyna; Bogusiewicz, Michal; Markut-Miotla, Ewa; Futyma, Konrad; Rechberger, Tomasz

2017-06-01

Intravesical onabotulinumtoxinA (Botox) injections are effective for the treatment of idiopathic overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms. The aim of our study was to assess the predisposing factors for urinary retention in women with OAB after intravesical Botox injection. All participants were women of European descent with idiopathic OAB. OnabotulinumtoxinA (100 U) was administered in 20 intra-detrusor injections. Analysis was performed based on the results of safety assessments made during follow-up (FU) visits on weeks 2, 4 and 12, in 208 women who were treated with Botox injections for refractory OAB and who completed all FU visits. Women who required clean intermittent self-catheterisation (CISC) and those with post-void residual (PVR) greater than 200 ml were older in comparison with patients with PVR between 50 and 200 ml. Patients who required CISC were also characterised by higher parity and particularly by a higher number of vaginal deliveries. Other factors such as body mass index or comorbidities did not significantly influence PVR and the risk of CISC. Elderly and/or multiparous women are at increased risk of urinary retention after intravesical 100-U Botox injections. The risk of new onset urine retention in our study has completely disappeared 2 weeks after Botox injections. Based on our results of the way in which the PVRs have changed over time, we can conclude that OAB patients should be optimally assessed during the first 2 weeks after Botox injections.

Chronic vaginocervical prolapse with visceral incarceration in a dog.

PubMed

McNamara, P S; Harvey, H J; Dykes, N

1997-01-01

A bitch was presented for a vaginal prolapse of five years' duration. The prolapse was confirmed by physical examination and evaluated by contrast radiography. Herniation of the uterine body, urinary bladder, and distal aspect of the colon was identified within the prolapse. The prolapse was reduced surgically, and an ovariohysterectomy, cystopexy, and colopexy were performed. Compared to other vaginal disorders, vaginal prolapse is an uncommon condition in the bitch. The secondary involvement of abdominal viscera appears to be exceptionally rare.

Chronic vaginal discharge and left leg edema after a transobturator tape procedure.

PubMed

Kim, Tae-Hee; Lee, Hae-Hyeog; Kim, Jun-Mo

2014-05-01

We report on a patient who underwent total vaginal hysterectomy for urinary incontinence 8 years previously with a sling operation using transobturator tape (TOT). She was admitted to our hospital after complaints of vaginal discharge, foul odor, and bleeding, left thigh pain, and edema. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) revealed a fistula tract from the vagina or urethra with remnant sling tape. We removed the remnant tape using intraoperative ultrasonography. This case exemplifies the rare occurrence of a vaginal fistula extending to the obturator, adductor, and pectineus muscles combined with myositis after TOT placement. It is important that urogynecologists recognize that TOT procedures may result in complications accompanied by common recurrent vaginal symptoms, such as vaginal odor and spotting, which can be identified by MRI or CT.

Post Anesthesia Care Unit Patient Classification System: The Direct Care Nursing Time Component

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-07-18

Removal 1304 Enema - Cleansing 1305 Enema - Retention 1306 Colostomy - Irrigation 1307 Colostomy - Dressing Change 1308 Lavage 1309 Paracentesis 1310...Curettage 1910 Vaginal /Pelvic Ex,.iiination 1911 Urinary Bladder Training 1912 Condom Catheter Application 1913 Peritoneal Dialysis - Initiation 1914...Hypothermia/Hyperthermia Treatment 2101 Oral Medication 2102 Intramuscular Medication 2103 Subcutaneous Medication 2104 Suppository, Rectal/ Vaginal

A comperative study for short-term surgical outcomes of midurethral sling procedures in obese and non-obese women with stress urinary incontinence.

PubMed

Kokanalı, Mahmut Kuntay; Cavkaytar, Sabri; Kokanalı, Demet; Aksakal, Orhan; Doganay, Melike

2016-11-01

There is little data comparing the surgical outcomes of tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) and transobturator tape (TOT) procedures in obese women. Therefore, we aimed to compare the surgical outcomes of TOT and TVT procedures among obese women with a diagnosis of stress urinary incontinence (SUI). One hundred and eighty-nine women who underwent TVT or TOT procedures due to pure SUI were included. Women in whom the body mass index (BMI) was ≥30 kg/m 2 were considered as obese, while <30 kg/m 2 were non-obese. And women with BMI ≥35 kg/m 2 was defined as morbidly obese. At sixth month postoperative follow-up, neither the comparison of TVT and TOT results in obese women nor the comparison of TVT or TOT results between obese and non-obese women showed any significant differences in terms of objective and subjective cure rates, quality of life improvements, or intra/postoperative complications. TVT and TOT procedures also have similar effectiveness among morbidly obese women. We have concluded that TVT and TOT operations seem to be equally effective and safe surgical treatment procedures for female SUI regardless of BMI.

Innovative non-surgical management of pelvic and anterior vaginal wall abscess following vaginal surgery.

PubMed

Singh, Nisha; Negi, Neha; Kumar, Namrata

2016-08-29

Surgical site infections remain a common cause of morbidity following gynaecological surgery. The widespread implementation of antibiotic prophylaxis prior to surgery, as well as cognizance of modifiable risk factors for postoperative infection, has led to a significant reduction in postoperative infection rates. However, in low resource settings where sepsis and infections are common, surgical site infections following vaginal hysterectomy are sometimes encountered. It is a challenge to treat these infections with minimal intervention avoiding repeat surgery. We report here a unique situation following vaginal hysterectomy and then laparotomy; where a pelvic abscess communicated with the vesicovaginal space and drained through an opening into the anterior vaginal wall. An innovative technique was used to drain this anterior vaginal wall abscess connecting to pelvic cavity using a 40 cm long disposable urinary catheter (made of polyvinyl chloride), which was inserted into the vaginal opening under ultrasound guidance. 2016 BMJ Publishing Group Ltd.

Vaginal-sparing ventral buccal mucosal graft urethroplasty for female urethral stricture: A novel modification of surgical technique.

PubMed

Hoag, Nathan; Gani, Johan; Chee, Justin

2016-07-01

To present a novel modification of surgical technique to treat female urethral stricture (FUS) by a vaginal-sparing ventral buccal mucosal urethroplasty. Recurrent FUS represents an uncommon, though difficult clinical scenario to manage definitively. A variety of surgical techniques have been described to date, yet a lack of consensus on the optimal procedure persists. We present a 51-year-old female with urethral stricture involving the entire urethra. Suspected etiology was iatrogenic from cystoscopy 17 years prior. Since then, the patient had undergone at least 25 formal urethral dilations and periods of self-dilation. In lithotomy position, the urethra was dilated to accommodate forceps, and ventral urethrotomy carried out sharply, exposing a bed of periurethral tissue. Buccal mucosa was harvested, and a ventral inlay technique facilitated by a nasal speculum, was used to place the graft from the proximal urethra/bladder neck to urethral meatus without a vaginal incision. Graft was sutured into place, and urethral Foley catheter inserted. The vaginal-sparing ventral buccal mucosal graft urethroplasty was deemed successful as of last follow-up. Flexible cystoscopy demonstrated patency of the repair at 6 months. At 10 months of follow-up, the patient was voiding well, with no urinary incontinence. No further interventions have been required. This case describes a novel modification of surgical technique for performing buccal mucosal urethroplasty for FUS. By avoiding incision of the vaginal mucosa, benefits may include reduced: morbidity, urinary incontinence, and wound complications including urethro-vaginal fistula.

Optical clearing of vaginal tissues, ex vivo, for minimally invasive laser treatment of female stress urinary incontinence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chang, Chun-Hung; Myers, Erinn M.; Kennelly, Michael J.; Fried, Nathaniel M.

2017-01-01

Near-infrared laser energy in conjunction with applied tissue cooling is being investigated for thermal remodeling of the endopelvic fascia during minimally invasive treatment of female stress urinary incontinence. Previous computer simulations of light transport, heat transfer, and tissue thermal damage have shown that a transvaginal approach is more feasible than a transurethral approach. However, results were suboptimal, and some undesirable thermal insult to the vaginal wall was still predicted. This study uses experiments and computer simulations to explore whether application of an optical clearing agent (OCA) can further improve optical penetration depth and completely preserve the vaginal wall during subsurface treatment of the endopelvic fascia. Several different mixtures of OCA's were tested, and 100% glycerol was found to be the optimal agent. Optical transmission studies, optical coherence tomography, reflection spectroscopy, and computer simulations [including Monte Carlo (MC) light transport, heat transfer, and Arrhenius integral model of thermal damage] using glycerol were performed. The OCA produced a 61% increase in optical transmission through porcine vaginal wall at 37°C after 30 min. The MC model showed improved energy deposition in endopelvic fascia using glycerol. Without OCA, 62%, 37%, and 1% of energy was deposited in vaginal wall, endopelvic fascia, and urethral wall, respectively, compared with 50%, 49%, and 1% using OCA. Use of OCA also resulted in 0.5-mm increase in treatment depth, allowing potential thermal tissue remodeling at a depth of 3 mm with complete preservation of the vaginal wall.

Risk factors for obstetric anal sphincter injuries and postpartum anal and urinary incontinence: a case-control trial.

PubMed

Burrell, Madeline; Dilgir, Sapna; Patton, Vicki; Parkin, Katrina; Karantanis, Emmanuel

2015-03-01

Obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS) cause serious maternal morbidity for mothers. A clearer understanding of aetiological factors is needed. We aimed to determine the risk factors for OASIS . Birth details of 222 primiparous women sustaining OASIS were compared with 174 women who did not sustain OASIS (controls) to determine the relevant risk factors. The data underwent univariate analysis and logistic regression analysis. Asian or Indian ethnicity, operative vaginal birth (p = 0.00), persistent occipito-posterior position (p = 0.038) and rapid uncontrolled delivery of the head were identified as risk factors for OASIS. Pushing time, use of epidural, episiotomy and head circumference were not predictors of OASIS. Women with Asian or Indian ethnicity, operative vaginal birth, persistent occipito-posterior position and rapid uncontrolled delivery of the fetal head were likely to sustain OASIS. Awareness of these factors may help to minimise the incidence of OASIS.

The role of lactobacilli and probiotics in maintaining vaginal health.

PubMed

Borges, Sandra; Silva, Joana; Teixeira, Paula

2014-03-01

The vaginal microbiota of healthy women consists typically of a diversity of anaerobic and aerobic microorganisms. Lactobacilli are the most prevalent and often numerically dominant microorganisms and are relevant as a barrier to infection. The capacity of lactobacilli to adhere and compete for adhesion sites in the vaginal epithelium and the capacity to produce antimicrobial compounds (hydrogen peroxide, lactic acid, bacteriocin-like substances), are important in the impairment of colonization by pathogens. This review summarizes the role of lactic acid bacteria in preventing illness of the host, including bacterial vaginosis, yeast vaginitis, urinary tract infection and sexually transmitted diseases. The administration of probiotics that colonize the vaginal tract can be important in maintaining a normal urogenital health and also to prevent or treat infections.

Physical and cultural determinants of postpartum pelvic floor support and symptoms following vaginal delivery: a protocol for a mixed-methods prospective cohort study.

PubMed

Nygaard, Ingrid E; Clark, Erin; Clark, Lauren; Egger, Marlene J; Hitchcock, Robert; Hsu, Yvonne; Norton, Peggy; Sanchez-Birkhead, Ana; Shaw, Janet; Sheng, Xiaoming; Varner, Michael

2017-01-10

Pelvic floor disorders (PFDs), including pelvic organ prolapse (POP), stress and urgency urinary incontinence, and faecal incontinence, are common and arise from loss of pelvic support. Although severe disease often does not occur until women become older, pregnancy and childbirth are major risk factors for PFDs, especially POP. We understand little about modifiable factors that impact pelvic floor function recovery after vaginal birth. This National Institutes of Health (NIH)-funded Program Project, 'Bridging physical and cultural determinants of postpartum pelvic floor support and symptoms following vaginal delivery', uses mixed-methods research to study the influences of intra-abdominal pressure, physical activity, body habitus and muscle fitness on pelvic floor support and symptoms as well as the cultural context in which women experience those changes. Using quantitative methods, we will evaluate whether pelvic floor support and symptoms 1 year after the first vaginal delivery are affected by biologically plausible factors that may impact muscle, nerve and connective tissue healing during recovery (first 8 weeks postpartum) and strengthening (remainder of the first postpartum year). Using qualitative methods, we will examine cultural aspects of perceptions, explanations of changes in pelvic floor support, and actions taken by Mexican-American and Euro-American primipara, emphasising early changes after childbirth. We will summarise project results in a resource toolkit that will enhance opportunities for dialogue between women, their families and providers, and across lay and medical discourses. We anticipate enrolling up to 1530 nulliparous women into the prospective cohort study during the third trimester, following those who deliver vaginally 1 year postpartum. Participants will be drawn from this cohort to meet the project's aims. The University of Utah and Intermountain Healthcare Institutional Review Boards approved this study. Data are stored in a secure password-protected database. Papers summarising the primary results and ancillary analyses will be published in peer-reviewed journals. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

Treatment of postmenopausal vaginal atrophy with 10-μg estradiol vaginal tablets.

PubMed

Panay, Nick; Maamari, Ricardo

2012-03-01

Postmenopausal estrogen deficiency can lead to symptoms of urogenital atrophy. Individuals with urogenital atrophy have symptoms that include vaginal dryness, vaginal and vulval irritation, vaginal soreness, pain and burning during urination (dysuria), increased vaginal discharge, vaginal odour, vaginal infections, recurrent urinary tract infections, pain associated with sexual activity (dyspareunia) and vaginal bleeding associated with sexual activity. Despite the frequency and effects of vaginal atrophy symptoms, they are often under-reported and, consequently, under-treated. Therefore, care of a menopausal woman should include a physical assessment of vaginal atrophy and a dialogue between the physician and the patient that explores existing symptoms and their effect on vulvovaginal health, sexuality and quality-of-life issues. The development of the ultra-low-dose 10-µg estradiol vaginal tablets is in line with the requirements of regulatory agencies and women's health societies regarding the use of the lowest effective hormonal dose. Because of its effectiveness and safety profiles, in addition to its minimal systemic absorption, the 10-µg estradiol vaginal tablet can offer greater reassurance to health-care providers and postmenopausal women with an annual estradiol administration of only 1.14 mg.

Characteristics of women with continued use of vaginal pessaries.

PubMed

Lewthwaite, Barbara J; Staley, Doug; Girouard, Lise; Maslow, Ken

2013-01-01

Vaginal pessaries have been shown to be a safe, effective treatment for pelvic organ prolapse, and in some cases, female urinary incontinence. There are limited data that predict long-term pessary use; therefore, the aim of this retrospective, exploratory study was to describe selected characteristics of women using a pessary for 12 months or longer in a nurse-run clinic.

[Treatment of stress urinary incontinence with perineal biofeedback by using superficial electrodes].

PubMed

Lorenzo Gómez, M F; Silva Abuín, J M; García Criado, F J; Geanini Yagüez, A; Urrutia Avisrror, M

2008-06-01

We analyze the pelvic floor muscles treatment outcomes by using biofeedback (BFB) with electromyography with superficial electrodes in women diagnosed as having stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Besides, we compare this treatment with pelvic floor muscle exercises (PFME) plus vaginal electrostimulation. 85 women with stress urinary incontinence, aged 42 - 74 years. We divided the patients in two groups: Group 1 (N = 50): This patients carry out a perineal biofeedback with superficial electrodes without electrostimulation, and Group 2 (N = 35): This patients were treated with pelvis floor muscle exercices and vaginal electrostimulation. All patients carry out two session per week (of 30 minutes each one) during ten weeks. We assess the outcomes through international urinary incontinence questionnaires (IU-5 and ICIQ-SF) and urinary incontinence related quality of life test (King's questionnaire). Student t-test and Fisher Exact test were used, p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. No difference was found in the age average of both groups. 84% of patients of group 1 and 80% of patients of group 2 were cured with the treatment. We assumed they were cured when incontinence episodes not happened or they do not need to use absorbent materials. In the Group 1, 50% of patients in the fourth week and 84% in the tenth week were cured. In the Group 2, 71.42% of patients in the fourth week and 80% in the tenth week were cured. In the Group 2, eight patients (22.85%) complained side effects. Both groups improved the quality of life similarly. Grade 1 and grade 2 stress urinary incontinence treatment by using perineal biofeedback with superficial electrodes electromyography is better or similar to more invasive treatments. Also pelvic floor muscle exercices plus vaginal electrostimulation have good outcomes although some patients complain side effects. Both conservative treatments are effective and feasible.

Transfascial vaginal tape (TFT): a simple, safe and cost-effective procedure for stress urinary incontinence. A preliminary study.

PubMed

Foglia, Giovanni; Mistrangelo, Emanuela; Lijoi, Davide; Alessandri, Franco; Ragni, Nicola

2007-07-01

To analyse prospectively the effectiveness of a new simple, minimally invasive, and cost-effective technique for the treatment of female urinary stress incontinence: the transfascial vaginal tape (TFT). In a prospective study, we enrolled 45 women undergoing TFT with or without hysterectomy and/or another pelvic reconstructive procedure between 1st December 2003 and 31st December. TFT consists of a tension-free urethrosuspension using a sling located at the mid-urethral level and placed laterally in the endopelvic fascia previously perforated. Follow-up evaluations were established at 3 and 6 months and at 1 year after the operation. During each follow-up, women underwent cough stress test and they answered to the "Incontinence quality of life questionnaire" (I-QOL), to the Patient Global Impression of Severity (PGI-S) and of Improvement (PGI-I) questions. Thirty-nine patients (88.9%) had a follow-up examination 1 year after surgery. Of these, 30 (76.9%) were defined cured, 6 (15.4%) improved and 3 (7.7%) failed. TFT procedure can be considered a simple, safe and cost-effective procedure for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence and can be an alternative to tension-free vaginal tape or transobturator route for sub-urethral tape procedures.

[Effect of pelvic floor exercise during pregnancy and puerperium on prevention of urinary stress incontinence].

PubMed

Gorbea Chávez, Viridiana; Velázquez Sánchez, María del Pilar; Kunhardt Rasch, Jorge R

2004-12-01

The main factor for the appearance of urinary stress incontinence in almost all women is pregnancy and vaginal childbirth. The pelvic floor exercises have been described for the treatment of urinary stress incontinence. To determine with a randomized controlled trial if the pelvic floor exercises during pregnancy and late puerperium diminish the prevalence of urinary stress incontinence at 28 and 35 gestational week and at 6 weeks after childbirth. The study was made with nulliparous, pregnant women who realized pelvic floor exercises during pregnancy and after birth. 72 women were studied, 52.7% realized pelvic floor exercises and 47.2% did not. The urinary stress incontinence frequency at the 28 gestational week in the no exercises group was 17.2%, and at the 35 gestational week of 47% and at 6 weeks after childbirth was of 47%, while in the exercises group was 0, 0 and 15%, respectively. Moreover there were statistically significant differences between both groups regarding the presence of urinary stress incontinence, that is, the group that realized exercises presented less incontinence at the 28 and 35 gestational weeks and at 6 weeks after childbirth. The results of this study concluded that the pelvic floor exercises during pregnancy and after childbirth prevent the urinary stress incontinence at this time.

Atrophic Vaginitis in Breast Cancer Survivors: A Difficult Survivorship Issue

PubMed Central

Lester, Joanne; Pahouja, Gaurav; Andersen, Barbara; Lustberg, Maryam

2015-01-01

Management of breast cancer includes systematic therapies including chemotherapy and endocrine therapy can lead to a variety of symptoms that can impair the quality of life of many breast cancer survivors. Atrophic vaginitis, caused by decreased levels of circulating estrogen to urinary and vaginal receptors, is commonly experienced by this group. Chemotherapy induced ovarian failure and endocrine therapies including aromatase inhibitors and selective estrogen receptor modulators can trigger the onset of atrophic vaginitis or exacerbate existing symptoms. Symptoms of atrophic vaginitis include vaginal dryness, dyspareunia, and irritation of genital skin, pruritus, burning, vaginal discharge, and soreness. The diagnosis of atrophic vaginitis is confirmed through patient-reported symptoms and gynecological examination of external structures, introitus, and vaginal mucosa. Lifestyle modifications can be helpful but are usually insufficient to significantly improve symptoms. Non-hormonal vaginal therapies may provide additional relief by increasing vaginal moisture and fluid. Systemic estrogen therapy is contraindicated in breast cancer survivors. Continued investigations of various treatments for atrophic vaginitis are necessary. Local estrogen-based therapies, DHEA, testosterone, and pH-balanced gels continue to be evaluated in ongoing studies. Definitive results are needed pertaining to the safety of topical estrogens in breast cancer survivors. PMID:25815692

Atrophic vaginitis in breast cancer survivors: a difficult survivorship issue.

PubMed

Lester, Joanne; Pahouja, Gaurav; Andersen, Barbara; Lustberg, Maryam

2015-03-25

Management of breast cancer includes systematic therapies including chemotherapy and endocrine therapy can lead to a variety of symptoms that can impair the quality of life of many breast cancer survivors. Atrophic vaginitis, caused by decreased levels of circulating estrogen to urinary and vaginal receptors, is commonly experienced by this group. Chemotherapy induced ovarian failure and endocrine therapies including aromatase inhibitors and selective estrogen receptor modulators can trigger the onset of atrophic vaginitis or exacerbate existing symptoms. Symptoms of atrophic vaginitis include vaginal dryness, dyspareunia, and irritation of genital skin, pruritus, burning, vaginal discharge, and soreness. The diagnosis of atrophic vaginitis is confirmed through patient-reported symptoms and gynecological examination of external structures, introitus, and vaginal mucosa. Lifestyle modifications can be helpful but are usually insufficient to significantly improve symptoms. Non-hormonal vaginal therapies may provide additional relief by increasing vaginal moisture and fluid. Systemic estrogen therapy is contraindicated in breast cancer survivors. Continued investigations of various treatments for atrophic vaginitis are necessary. Local estrogen-based therapies, DHEA, testosterone, and pH-balanced gels continue to be evaluated in ongoing studies. Definitive results are needed pertaining to the safety of topical estrogens in breast cancer survivors.

Correlation of pelvic organ prolapse quantification system scores with obstetric parameters and lower urinary tract symptoms in primiparae postpartum.

PubMed

Liang, Ching-Chung; Tseng, Ling-Hong; Horng, Shang-Gwo; Lin, I-wen; Chang, Shuenn-Dhy

2007-05-01

This study investigated the correlation between results of the pelvic organ prolapse quantification (POPQ) system at 3 days and at 2 months postpartum with obstetric parameters and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in 125 primiparae with vaginal delivery. The clinical characteristics, prevalence of pregnancy-related LUTS, and POPQ scores were evaluated. Regarding the relationship of obstetric parameters with POPQ scoring, the gh was found positively correlated with the body mass index and vaginal laceration at 2 months postpartum. The POPQ evaluation did not find the LUTS to be significantly related to the prolapse score. The mean scores of points C and D were significantly increased, and gh, pb, and tvl were significantly decreased between the initial and 2-month follow-up scores. Our results revealed that a decrease in vaginal size is the principal change during the first 2 months postpartum and that with the exception of gh, neither the obstetric parameters nor the LUTS were associated with the POPQ scoring system.

Post-traumatic female urethral reconstruction.

PubMed

Blaivas, Jerry G; Purohit, Rajveer S

2008-09-01

Post-traumatic urethral damage resulting in urethrovaginal fistulas or strictures, though rare, should be suspected in patients who have unexpected urinary incontinence or lower urinary tract symptoms after pelvic surgery, pelvic fracture, a long-term indwelling urethral catheter, or pelvic radiation. Careful physical examination and cystourethroscopy are critical to diagnose and assess the extent of the fistula. A concomitant vesicovaginal or ureterovaginal fistula should also be ruled out. The two main indications for reconstruction are sphincteric incontinence and urethral obstruction. Surgical correction intends to create a continent urethra that permits volitional, painless, and unobstructed passage of urine. An autologous pubovaginal sling, with or without a Martius flap at time of reconstruction, should be considered. The three approaches to urethral reconstruction are anterior bladder flaps, posterior bladder flaps, and vaginal wall flaps. We believe vaginal flaps are usually the best option. Options for vaginal repair of fistula include primary closure, peninsula flaps, bilateral labial pedicle flaps, and labial island flaps. Outcomes are optimized by using exacting surgical principles during repair and careful postoperative management by an experienced reconstructive surgeon.

Is vaginal mesh a stimulus of autoimmune disease?

PubMed

Chughtai, Bilal; Sedrakyan, Art; Mao, Jialin; Eilber, Karyn S; Anger, Jennifer T; Clemens, J Quentin

2017-05-01

Polypropylene mesh has been used as a means of reinforcing weak tissues in women with pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence. We sought to investigate a potential link between the development of systemic/autoimmune disorders and synthetic polypropylene mesh repairs. New York State Department of Health Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System data were utilized to conduct this retrospective cohort study. Adult women undergoing surgery for pelvic organ prolapse with vaginally implanted mesh from January 2008 through December 2009 in inpatient and ambulatory surgery settings in New York State were identified. Two separate control cohorts were created to compare outcomes, including a screening colonoscopy cohort and a vaginal hysterectomy cohort for benign gynecologic conditions (without pelvic organ prolapse repair or sling). Patients in the mesh cohort were individually matched to the control cohorts based on demographics, comorbidities, and procedure date. The development of systemic/autoimmune disease was determined before and after matching for 1-year, 2-year, 3-year, and entire follow-up (up to 6 years until December 2014) and differences between groups were evaluated. A total of 2102 patients underwent mesh-based pelvic organ prolapse surgery from January 2008 through December 2009. In the control cohorts, 37,298 patients underwent colonoscopy and 7338 underwent vaginal hysterectomy. When patients were matched based on demographics, comorbidities, and procedure time, mesh-based surgery was not associated with an increased risk of developing autoimmune disease at any of the evaluated time periods. Mesh-based vaginal surgery was not associated with the development of systemic/autoimmune diseases. These data refute claims against mesh as a cause of systemic disease. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Vibrating vaginal balls to improve pelvic floor muscle performance in women after childbirth: a protocol for a randomised controlled feasibility trial.

PubMed

Oblasser, Claudia; McCourt, Christine; Hanzal, Engelbert; Christie, Janice

2016-04-01

This paper presents a feasibility trial protocol the purpose of which is to prepare for a future randomised controlled trial to determine the effectiveness of vibrating vaginal pelvic floor training balls for postpartum pelvic floor muscle rehabilitation. Vibrating vaginal pelvic floor training balls are available in Austria to enhance women's pelvic floor muscles and thus prevent or treat urinary incontinence and other pelvic floor problems following childbirth. Nonetheless, there is currently little empirical knowledge to substantiate their use or assess their relative effectiveness in comparison to current standard care, which involves pelvic floor muscle exercises. Single blind, randomised controlled feasibility trial with two parallel groups. It is planned to recruit 56 postpartum women in Vienna, who will be randomised into one of two intervention groups to use either vibrating vaginal balls or a comparator pelvic floor muscle exercises for 12 weeks. As this is a feasibility study, study design features (recruitment, selection, randomisation, intervention concordance, data collection methods and tools) will be assessed and participants' views and experiences will be surveyed. Tested outcome measures, collected before and after the intervention, will be pelvic floor muscle performance as reported by participants and measured by perineometry. Descriptive and inferential statistics and content analysis will serve the preparation of the future trial. The results of this feasibility trial will inform the design and conduct of a full randomised controlled trial and provide insight into the experiences of women regarding the interventions and study participation. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Is pelvic floor muscle training effective when taught in a general fitness class in pregnancy? A randomised controlled trial.

PubMed

Bø, Kari; Haakstad, Lene Anette Hagen

2011-09-01

Pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) following vaginal assessment of correct contraction can prevent and treat urinary incontinence in the peripartum period. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of PFMT instructed in a general fitness class for pregnant women. Single-blind randomised controlled trial. University-conducted primary care study. One hundred and five sedentary primiparous women randomised to a general fitness class including PFMT (n=52) or a control group (n=53). Ten and 11 women were lost to follow-up in the exercise and control groups, respectively. Twelve weeks of training comprising twice-weekly 1-hour fitness classes including three sets of eight to 12 maximal pelvic floor muscle contractions. The control group received usual care. Number of women reporting urinary, flatus or anal incontinence. No significant differences were found in the number of women reporting urinary, flatus or anal incontinence between the exercise group and the control group during pregnancy or at 6 weeks post partum. No effect of PFMT was found when the exercises were taught in a general fitness class for pregnant women without individual instruction of correct PFM contraction. Low adherence and the small sample size may have contributed to the negative results. Further studies are warranted to assess the effect of population-based PFMT in the prevention of urinary and fecal incontinence. Copyright © 2010 Chartered Society of Physiotherapy. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

LASER treatment for women with high-grade vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia: A propensity-matched analysis on the efficacy of ablative versus excisional procedures.

PubMed

Bogani, Giorgio; Ditto, Antonino; Martinelli, Fabio; Mosca, Lavinia; Chiappa, Valentina; Rossetti, Diego; Leone Roberti Maggiore, Umberto; Sabatucci, Ilaria; Lorusso, Domenica; Raspagliesi, Francesco

2018-05-14

To investigate the long-term effectiveness of LASER treatment in women affected by high-grade vaginal intra-epithelial neoplasia. Data of consecutive women treated for high-grade vaginal intra-epithelial neoplasia were retrieved. Efficacy and long-term effectiveness of ablative and excisional procedures were tested using a propensity-matched algorithm. Risk of recurrence over the time was assessed using Kaplan-Meier and Cox models. Overall, 204 patients met the inclusion criteria. LASER ablation and exicision were performed in 169 (82.8%) and 35 (17.2%) patients. A total of 41 (20%) patients developed high-grade vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia at a median follow-up of 65 (range, 6-120) months. We observed that only HPV persistence (HR: 2.37 [95%CI:1.03, 5.42]; P = 0.04) was associated with the risk of recurrence at multivariate analysis. Seven (3.4%) invasive cancers of the lower genital tract were observed in our population. Considering the efficacy of type of procedure (after we applied the propensity-matched analysis), we observed that type of procedure did not influence persistence of HPV infection (22.8% after excision and 15.7% after ablation; P = 0.424). Similarly, recurrence (17.1% vs. 18.6%; P = 1.00) and lower genital tract (2.8% vs. 1.4%; P = 1.00) rates were similar between groups. Women affected by high-grade vaginal intra-epithelial neoplasia are at high risk of recurrence. LASER ablation seems to be equivalent to excision in term of long-term effectiveness. Lasers Surg. Med. 9999:1-7, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Long-term micturition problems of asymptomatic postpartum urinary retention: a prospective case-control study.

PubMed

Mulder, Femke E M; Hakvoort, Robert A; de Bruin, Jan-Peter; Janszen, Erica W; van der Post, Joris A M; Roovers, Jan-Paul W R

2018-04-01

Covert (asymptomatic) postpartum urinary retention (PUR) is defined as post-void residual volume (PVRV) ≥150 mL. Although often supposed to be a common and harmless phenomenon, no data are available on the potential long-term micturition problems of increased PVRV after vaginal delivery. After the first spontaneous void post-vaginal delivery, PVRV was measured using a portable scanning device. Micturition symptoms were compared using validated questionnaires between women with PVRV < 150 mL and those with PVRV ≥150 mL until 1 year after delivery. Women with PVRV ≥ 150 mL were followed until complete bladder emptying was achieved. Data of 105 patients with PVRV < 150 mL and 119 with PVRV ≥ 150 mL were available for analysis. 75% of all patients included had PVRV ≥ 250 mL. More primiparous patients had PVRV ≥ 150 mL (p < 0.02). 92% of women with PVRV ≥ 150 mL after delivery were able to adequately empty their bladder within 4 days. One year after delivery, no statistically significant differences were found. Covert PUR according to the definition of PVRV ≥ 150 mL, is a common and transient phenomenon that does not result in more lower urinary tract symptoms 1 year after delivery. Although the current definition is not useful in identifying postpartum women with a pathological condition, we suggest that the definition of covert PUR should be change to: "PVRV≥500 mL after the first spontaneous void after (vaginal) delivery." This cut-off value is the value at which some women do need more time to normalise emptying of the bladder. The exact clinical implications of covert PUR need to be further studied in this subcategory of women.

Ureterovaginal fistula: A complication of a vaginal foreign body.

PubMed

Lo, Tsia-Shu; Jaili, Sukanda Bin; Ibrahim, Rami; Kao, Chuan Chi; Uy-Patrimonio, Ma Clarissa

2018-02-01

To know the diagnostic tools and proper management of ureterovaginal fistula following neglected vaginal foreign body in order to achieve optimal outcome. A case of ureterovaginal fistula associated with a neglected vaginal foreign body. The patient was complaining of a foul-smelling vaginal discharge and lower abdominal pain. On vaginal examination, a hard and large foreign body was found. Examination under anesthesia was performed, and an aerosol cap was removed from her vagina. The patient developed urinary incontinence after removal of the foreign body. Subsequent work-up demonstrated the presence of a right ureterovaginal fistula. The patient underwent an abdominal ureteroneocystostomy. At one year follow up, the patient had fully recovered. Ureterovaginal fistula following neglected vaginal foreign body is a serious condition. Early diagnosis, treatment of infection and proper surgical management can improve the outcome and decrease complications. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Optical clearing of vaginal tissues, ex vivo, for minimally invasive laser treatment of female stress urinary incontinence

PubMed Central

Chang, Chun-Hung; Myers, Erinn M.; Kennelly, Michael J.; Fried, Nathaniel M.

2017-01-01

Abstract. Near-infrared laser energy in conjunction with applied tissue cooling is being investigated for thermal remodeling of the endopelvic fascia during minimally invasive treatment of female stress urinary incontinence. Previous computer simulations of light transport, heat transfer, and tissue thermal damage have shown that a transvaginal approach is more feasible than a transurethral approach. However, results were suboptimal, and some undesirable thermal insult to the vaginal wall was still predicted. This study uses experiments and computer simulations to explore whether application of an optical clearing agent (OCA) can further improve optical penetration depth and completely preserve the vaginal wall during subsurface treatment of the endopelvic fascia. Several different mixtures of OCA’s were tested, and 100% glycerol was found to be the optimal agent. Optical transmission studies, optical coherence tomography, reflection spectroscopy, and computer simulations [including Monte Carlo (MC) light transport, heat transfer, and Arrhenius integral model of thermal damage] using glycerol were performed. The OCA produced a 61% increase in optical transmission through porcine vaginal wall at 37°C after 30 min. The MC model showed improved energy deposition in endopelvic fascia using glycerol. Without OCA, 62%, 37%, and 1% of energy was deposited in vaginal wall, endopelvic fascia, and urethral wall, respectively, compared with 50%, 49%, and 1% using OCA. Use of OCA also resulted in 0.5-mm increase in treatment depth, allowing potential thermal tissue remodeling at a depth of 3 mm with complete preservation of the vaginal wall. PMID:28301637

Vaginal-sparing ventral buccal mucosal graft urethroplasty for female urethral stricture: A novel modification of surgical technique

PubMed Central

Gani, Johan; Chee, Justin

2016-01-01

Purpose To present a novel modification of surgical technique to treat female urethral stricture (FUS) by a vaginal-sparing ventral buccal mucosal urethroplasty. Recurrent FUS represents an uncommon, though difficult clinical scenario to manage definitively. A variety of surgical techniques have been described to date, yet a lack of consensus on the optimal procedure persists. Materials and Methods We present a 51-year-old female with urethral stricture involving the entire urethra. Suspected etiology was iatrogenic from cystoscopy 17 years prior. Since then, the patient had undergone at least 25 formal urethral dilations and periods of self-dilation. In lithotomy position, the urethra was dilated to accommodate forceps, and ventral urethrotomy carried out sharply, exposing a bed of periurethral tissue. Buccal mucosa was harvested, and a ventral inlay technique facilitated by a nasal speculum, was used to place the graft from the proximal urethra/bladder neck to urethral meatus without a vaginal incision. Graft was sutured into place, and urethral Foley catheter inserted. Results The vaginal-sparing ventral buccal mucosal graft urethroplasty was deemed successful as of last follow-up. Flexible cystoscopy demonstrated patency of the repair at 6 months. At 10 months of follow-up, the patient was voiding well, with no urinary incontinence. No further interventions have been required. Conclusions This case describes a novel modification of surgical technique for performing buccal mucosal urethroplasty for FUS. By avoiding incision of the vaginal mucosa, benefits may include reduced: morbidity, urinary incontinence, and wound complications including urethro-vaginal fistula. PMID:27437540

Do female patients with nonpathological vaginal discharge need the same evaluation as for Dhat syndrome in males?

PubMed Central

Grover, Sandeep; Avasthi, Ajit; Gupta, Sunil; Hazari, Nandita; Malhotra, Nidhi

2016-01-01

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the concept of female Dhat syndrome characterized by the complaint of nonpathological vaginal discharge in association with somatic, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. Materials and Methods: A total of 26 female subjects with nonpathological vaginal discharge along with depressive and somatic complaints were assessed on a self-rated questionnaire modified from Comprehensive Questionnaire for Assessment of Dhat Syndrome designed for males. They were also assessed for psychiatric comorbidity as per ICD-10. Results: All female subjects received an ICD-10 psychiatric diagnosis, with somatoform/dissociative disorder (57.7%) being the most common. The mean age of onset of vaginal discharge was 24.6 (standard deviation - 7.0) years, noted every day or for 2–3 times per week by more than two-third of the participants. Two-fifth (61.5%) of the women described it as a milky discharge. The most common reason reported for passage of vaginal discharge was that of urinary infection or problems of urinary tract infections (42.3%) followed by vaginal infection/disease (34.6%). More than half (53.8%) of the subjects considered vaginal discharge to be responsible for weakness in the body, weakness in stamina and thinness of physique, while slightly more than two-third (69.2%) of them reported bodily weakness and sleep disturbances. Overall the clinical picture in females was similar to male patients with Dhat syndrome on most of the account. Conclusions: Subgroup of patients with vaginal discharge attribute their somatic and mental symptoms to the passage of whitish vaginal discharge and are distressed due to the same. The clinical picture is similar to Dhat syndrome in males. There is a need to recognize female variant of Dhat syndrome as a culture-bound syndrome. Identification of the same may help in managing this subgroup of patients seeking help from the gynecologists for their nonpathological vaginal discharge or from mental health professionals for their symptoms of common mental disorders. PMID:26985107

The management of urinary tract infections in octogenarian women.

PubMed

Robinson, Dudley; Giarenis, Ilias; Cardozo, Linda

2015-07-01

Urinary Tract Infections are common in women of all ages and the incidence increases with age. Whilst they are a common cause of lower urinary tract symptoms in all women they may be associated with increased morbidity in the elderly. Appropriate investigation and treatment in primary and secondary care are essential to effectively manage urinary tract infection and decrease morbidity and hospitalisation rates. Loss of endogenous oestrogen at the time of the menopause is associated with the urogenital atrophy and an increased incidence of urinary tract infection. Consequently vaginal oestrogen therapy may offer a rationale for treatment and prevent of urinary tract infection. The aim of this paper is to review the clinical management of elderly women presenting with primary and recurrent urinary tract infection. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

A novel approach to mesh revision after sacrocolpopexy.

PubMed

Dawson, Melissa L; Rebecca, Rinko; Shah, Nima M; Whitmore, Kristene E

2016-01-01

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is the herniation of pelvic organs to or beyond the vaginal walls. POP affects 50% of parous women; of those women, 11% will need surgery based on bothersome symptoms. Transvaginal mesh has been used for vaginal augmentation since the 1990s. Complications from mesh use are now more prominent, and include chronic pelvic pain, dyspareunia, vaginal mesh erosion, and urinary and defecatory dysfunction. Presently, there is no consensus regarding treatment of these complications. Reported herein are two cases of women with defecatory dysfunction and pain after sacrocolpopexy who underwent mesh revision procedures performed with both urogynecologic and colorectal surgery.

Optical clearing of vaginal tissues in cadavers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chang, Chun-Hung; Hardy, Luke A.; Peters, Michael G.; Bastawros, Dina A.; Myers, Erinn M.; Kennelly, Michael J.; Fried, Nathaniel M.

2018-02-01

A nonsurgical laser procedure is being developed for treatment of female stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Previous studies in porcine vaginal tissues, ex vivo, as well as computer simulations, showed the feasibility of using near-infrared laser energy delivered through a transvaginal contact cooling probe to thermally remodel endopelvic fascia, while preserving the vaginal wall from thermal damage. This study explores optical properties of vaginal tissue in cadavers as an intermediate step towards future pre-clinical and clinical studies. Optical clearing of tissue using glycerol resulted in a 15-17% increase in optical transmission after 11 min at room temperature (and a calculated 32.5% increase at body temperature). Subsurface thermal lesions were created using power of 4.6 - 6.4 W, 5.2-mm spot, and 30 s irradiation time, resulting in partial preservation of vaginal wall to 0.8 - 1.1 mm depth.

Foreign Body in Vagina: An Uncommon Cause of Vaginitis in Children

PubMed Central

Chinawa, JM; Obu, HA; Uwaezuoke, SN

2013-01-01

Vaginal discharge in children may result from a variety of causes. A long-standing intra-vaginal foreign body can pose both diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in children. Treatment failure may occur because of alteration of the normal vaginal flora. A 6-year-old girl, who lived with her parents, presented with a foul-smelling, blood-stained vaginal discharge as well as dysuria for 2 years. There was no history of sexual abuse. Initial evaluation that excluded gynecologic examination revealed lower abdominal tenderness. Vaginal swab and urine cultures yielded Staphylococcus aureus sensitive to ceftriaxone only. She was commenced on this antibiotic for 2 weeks, but the discharge persisted, necessitating referral to the gynecologist. Examination under anesthesia by the gynecologist revealed shreds of toilet tissue paper extracted from the vagina and slight excoriations on the wall of the vagina. Vaginal foreign body can present with diverse symptoms. It should be considered in any young female patient presenting with recurrent or persistent vaginal discharge. PMID:23634340

Graft and mesh use in vaginal surgery.

PubMed

Rizvi, Raheela Mohsin; Chughtai, Novera Ghayoor

2017-12-01

Pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence are among the most common chronic disorders in women. These are common problems whose pathogenesis remains unclear. As life expectancy increases, significantly greater number of women now present with pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence requiring surgical intervention. Currently, the lifetime risk of undergoing prolapse or continence surgery is one in 11, and up to 30% of patients will require repeat reconstructive surgery and repeat surgery for incontinence in 10%. In an attempt to improve surgical outcomes and to preserve vaginal capacity and coital function, a number of synthetic and biological prostheses have been developed. This review aims to look at the role of graft and mesh in vaginal surgery. We conducted a search for English-language articles published during 1997 to 2016, using MEDLINE, PubMed and United States' National Library of Medicine databases. We reviewed around 50 papers but referenced only 30 for this article. The literature review provided us a new insight regarding safety of mesh. Polypropylene mesh is safe for vaginal surgery if used by experienced surgeons. The safety of mesh becomes compromised in the hands of commercial surgical kit providers. All the new mesh tailored kits should undergo evidence-based trials and then can be safely used worldwide.

Multimodal vaginal toning for bladder symptoms and quality of life in stress urinary incontinence.

PubMed

de la Torre, Sarah; Miller, Larry E

2017-08-01

Treatment options for women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) have limitations. We hypothesized that multimodal vaginal toning therapy would improve bladder symptoms and quality of life in women with postpartum SUI and sexual function complaints. Patients self-administered 24 sessions of multimodal vaginal toning therapy lasting 10 min each over 50 days. Outcomes included 1-h pad weight test, Urogenital Distress Inventory Short Form (UDI-6), Incontinence Impact Questionnaire-Short Form (IIQ-7), Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised 2005 (FSDS-R), Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), pelvic floor muscle strength, patient satisfaction, and adverse events. Of the 55 patients enrolled (safety population), 48 completed the study per-protocol (PP population). A total of 38 (79%) patients had a positive 1-h pad weight test at baseline. In this group, urine leakage was moderate or severe in 82% of patients at baseline, but in only 18% after treatment. Treatment success was 84%, defined as >50% improvement in pad weight relative to baseline. In the PP population, mean UDI-6 score improved by 50% (p < 0.001) and IIQ-7 score improved by 69% (p < 0.001). Sexual function quality of life improved by 54% for FSDS-R and 15% for FSFI (both p < 0.001). Pelvic floor muscle strength significantly improved (p < 0.001). Patient satisfaction with therapy was reported in 83% of patients. In the safety population, 2 (3.6%) adverse events were reported-1 urinary tract infection and 1 report of discomfort due to excessive warmth. Multimodal vaginal toning therapy yields clinically meaningful improvements in bladder symptoms, pelvic floor muscle strength, and quality of life in women with SUI.

Is vaginal reflux associated with urinary tract infection in female children under the age of 36 months?

PubMed

Kim, Yu Bin; Tang, Chih Lung; Koo, Ja Wook

2018-01-01

To determine the relationship between vaginal reflux (VR) and urinary tract infection (UTI) in female children aged <36 months. A single center retrospective study was performed for 191 girls aged <36 months, with a diagnosis of febrile UTI, who underwent a voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) for assessment of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) at Sanggye Paik Hospital. Fifty-one girls, who underwent VCUG for assessment of congenital hydronephrosis or renal pelvis dilatation, without a UTI, formed the control group. The correlation between the presence and grade of VR and UTI was evaluated. The prevalence rate of VR was higher in the UTI (42.9%) than control (13.7%) group ( P <0.05), with a higher VR severity grade in the UTI (mean, 0.64) than control (mean, 0.18) group ( P <0.05). On subanalysis with age-matching (UTI group: n=126, age, 5.28±2.13 months; control group: n=22, age, 4.79±2.40 months; P =0.33), both VR prevalence (43.65% vs. 18.18%, P <0.05) and grade (0.65 vs. 0.22, P <0.05) remained higher in the UTI than control group. Presence and higher grade of VR were associated with UTI recurrence ( P <0.05). VR was correlated to urosepsis ( P <0.05). The renal defect rate of patients with VR (VR [+]/VUR [+]) was not different from that of patients without VR (74% vs. 52%, P =0.143) in the VUR group; however, it was higher than that of VR (+)/VUR (-) patients (74% vs. 32%, P =0.001). If a child with VR (+)/VUR (+) is exposed to a UTI, the risk of renal defect increases. Occurrence of VR is associated with UTI recurrence and urosepsis in pediatric female patients.

Is vaginal reflux associated with urinary tract infection in female children under the age of 36 months?

PubMed Central

Kim, Yu Bin; Tang, Chih Lung

2018-01-01

Purpose To determine the relationship between vaginal reflux (VR) and urinary tract infection (UTI) in female children aged <36 months. Methods A single center retrospective study was performed for 191 girls aged <36 months, with a diagnosis of febrile UTI, who underwent a voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) for assessment of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) at Sanggye Paik Hospital. Fifty-one girls, who underwent VCUG for assessment of congenital hydronephrosis or renal pelvis dilatation, without a UTI, formed the control group. The correlation between the presence and grade of VR and UTI was evaluated. Results The prevalence rate of VR was higher in the UTI (42.9%) than control (13.7%) group (P<0.05), with a higher VR severity grade in the UTI (mean, 0.64) than control (mean, 0.18) group (P<0.05). On subanalysis with age-matching (UTI group: n=126, age, 5.28±2.13 months; control group: n=22, age, 4.79±2.40 months; P=0.33), both VR prevalence (43.65% vs. 18.18%, P<0.05) and grade (0.65 vs. 0.22, P<0.05) remained higher in the UTI than control group. Presence and higher grade of VR were associated with UTI recurrence (P<0.05). VR was correlated to urosepsis (P<0.05). The renal defect rate of patients with VR (VR [+]/VUR [+]) was not different from that of patients without VR (74% vs. 52%, P=0.143) in the VUR group; however, it was higher than that of VR (+)/VUR (−) patients (74% vs. 32%, P=0.001). If a child with VR (+)/VUR (+) is exposed to a UTI, the risk of renal defect increases. Conclusion Occurrence of VR is associated with UTI recurrence and urosepsis in pediatric female patients. PMID:29441108

Does vaginal closure force differ in the supine and standing positions?

PubMed

Morgan, Daniel M; Kaur, Gurpreet; Hsu, Yvonne; Fenner, Dee E; Guire, Kenneth; Miller, Janis; Ashton-Miller, James A; Delancey, John O L

2005-05-01

This study was undertaken to quantify resting vaginal closure force (VCF(REST)), maximum vaginal closure force (VCF(MAX)), and augmentation of vaginal closure force augmentation (VCF(AUG)) when supine and standing and to determine whether the change in intra-abdominal pressure associated with change in posture accounts for differences in VCF. Thirty-nine asymptomatic, continent women were recruited to determine, when supine and standing, the vaginal closure force (eg, the force closing the vagina in the mid-sagittal plane) and bladder pressures at rest and at maximal voluntary contraction. VCF was measured with an instrumented vaginal speculum and bladder pressure was determined with a microtip catheter. VCF(REST) was the resting pelvic floor tone, and VCF(MAX) was the peak pelvic floor force during a maximal voluntary contraction. VCF(AUG) was the difference between VCF(MAX) and VCF(REST). T tests and Pearson correlation coefficients were used for analysis. VCF(REST) when supine was 3.6 +/- 0.8 N and when standing was 6.9 +/- 1.5 N--a 92% difference (P < .001). The VCF(MAX) when supine was 7.5 +/- 2.9 N and when standing was 10.1 +/- 2.4 N--a 35% difference (P < .001). Bladder pressure when supine (10.5 +/- 4.7 cm H2O) was significantly less (P < .001) than when standing (31.0 +/- 6.4 cm H2O). The differences in bladder pressure when either supine or standing did not correlate with the corresponding differences in VCF at rest or at maximal voluntary contraction. The supine VCF(AUG) of 3.9 +/- 2.7 N, was significantly greater than the standing VCF(AUG) of 3.3+/-1.9 N. With change in posture, vaginal closure force increases because of higher intra-abdominal pressure and greater resistance in the pelvic floor muscles.

Sexual response in patients treated with sacral neuromodulation for lower urinary tract symptoms or fecal incontinence.

PubMed

van Voskuilen, A C; Oerlemans, D J; Gielen, N; Lansen-Koch, S M P; Weil, E H J; van Lankveld, J J D M; van den Hombergh, U; Baeten, C G M I; van Kerrenbroeck, P E V

2012-01-01

To determine whether sacral neuromodulation (SNM) for urinary symptoms or fecal incontinence gives improvement of female sexual function and whether improvement is due to physiological or psychological factors. Between 2002 and 2008, 8 patients had an array of questionnaires before and after SNM implantation. The questionnaires were: the Questionnaire for Screening for Sexual Dysfunctions, the Golombok Rust Inventory of Sexual Satisfaction, the Symptom Checklist-90, the Maudsley Marital Questionnaire and the McGill-Mah Orgasm Questionnaire. Three of these 8 patients underwent vaginal plethysmography before and after implantation. No statistically significant changes were found, although there seems to be a trend toward improvement in orgasm scores. In plethysmography all 3 patients showed increased vaginal pulse amplitude with the stimulator turned on with both erotic and non-erotic stimuli. This study does not show a clear effect of SNM on sexual function, although there seems to be an improvement in orgasm scores. The lack of response on psychological questionnaires and the increase in vaginal pulse amplitude after SNM implantation indicate that there might be a physiological response. Copyright © 2012 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Clinical Characteristics of Patients Who Underwent Surgery for Genital Tract Malformations at Peking Union Medical College Hospital across 31 Years.

PubMed

Wang, Guang-Han; Zhu, Lan; Liu, Ai-Ming; Xu, Tao; Lang, Jing-He

2016-10-20

Female genital malformations represent miscellaneous deviations from normal anatomy. This study aimed to explore the clinical characteristics of patients who underwent surgery for genital tract malformations at Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH) during a 31-year period. We retrospectively reviewed surgical cases of congenital malformation of the female genital tract at PUMCH for a 31-year period, analyzed the clinical characteristics of 1634 hospitalized patients, and investigated their general condition, diagnosis, and treatment process. The average patient age was 27.6 ± 9.9 years. The average ages of patients who underwent surgery for uterine malformation and vaginal malformation were 31.9 ± 8.8 years and 24.7 ± 9.0 years, respectively; these ages differed significantly (P < 0.01). Among patients with genital tract malformation, the percentages of vaginal malformation, uterine malformation, vulva malformation, cervical malformation, and other malformations were 43.9%, 43.5%, 7.4%, 2.3%, and 2.8%, respectively. Among patients with uterine malformation, 34.5% underwent surgery for the genital tract malformation, whereas in patients with vaginal malformation, the proportion is 70.6%; the difference between the two groups was statistically significant (P < 0.01). The percentage of complications of the urinary system in patients with vaginal malformations was 10.2%, which was statistically significantly higher than that (5.3%) in patients with uterine malformations (P < 0.01). Compared to patients with uterine malformations, patients with vaginal malformations displayed more severe clinical symptoms, a younger surgical age, and a greater need for attention, early diagnosis, and treatment. Patients with genital tract malformations, particularly vaginal malformations, tend to have more complications of the urinary system and other malformations than patients with uterine malformations.

Comparison of polypropylene mesh and porcine-derived, cross-linked urinary bladder matrix materials implanted in the rabbit vagina and abdomen.

PubMed

Fan, Xuemei; Wang, Yanzhou; Wang, Yu; Xu, Huicheng

2014-05-01

Our aim was to compare histological and biomechanical effects of polypropylene (PP) mesh and porcine-derived, cross-linked urinary bladder matrix (cUBM) graft materials using a rabbit vaginal and abdominal model. Forty rabbits were implanted with PP mesh (n = 20) or cUBM (n = 20) in the vagina and abdomen. Two grafts (PP or cUBM) of the same type were placed into each site, so each rabbit had four grafts. Grafts were harvested 12 weeks later and processed for histologic analysis and biomechanical testing. There were high rates of two types of grafts missing in the vagina. Vaginal PP was associated with erosion reaction (67%), whereas abdominal PP and cUBM showed no sign of erosion. All patches adhered to rectus abdominis or vaginal mucosa and shrank to varying degrees, especially for PP grafts. Compared with vaginal PP, vaginal cUBM induced milder chronic inflammation response, had lower scores (P = 0.000) for inflammation response, and showed higher scores for neovascularization (P = 0.000) and fibroblastic proliferation (P = 0.002). In the abdomen, both histopathological parameters were insignificantly different (P > 0.05) between cUBM and PP. The mechanical properties of UBM did not deteriorate following implantation, whereas the ultimate tensile strength and elastic modulus of vaginal PP increased. PP had higher scores for tensile and break strength than did cUBM (P < 0.05). The cUBM has good biocompatibility, high ability to integrate with the vagina, and maintains mechanical properties in vivo. It may be a promising material for pelvic floor reconstruction.

[Sacrospinous colpopexy complications].

PubMed

Estrade, J-P; Agostini, A; Roger, V; Dallay, D; Blanc, B; Cravello, L

2004-10-01

To evaluate complications of sacrospinous ligament fixation. Monocentric retrospective study. Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, La Conception University Hospital, Marcella. Between January 1991 and September 2002, 277 women (mean age 64.9 years, range 37 to 92 years) underwent a sacrospinous ligament fixation; 91% had a menopausal status, and 15.5% used hormone replacement therapy. 33.2% of the patients had prior hysterectomy, 28.9% had a history of surgery for prolapse, and 18.8% had associated symptoms of stress urinary incontinence. In all cases, sacrospinous ligament fixation was performed under visual control using conventional stitch. Sacrospinous ligament fixation was combined with the following procedures: anterior vaginal repair (N =137), additional incontinence surgery (N =31), vaginal hysterectomy (N =137), levator myorraphy (N =203). Intraoperative complications, postoperative complications, long-term painful symptoms. Intraoperative complications were represented by 1 case of vascular wound and four rectal injuries. Main postoperative complications were vaginal haematomas (N =6) and abscesses (N =2). Long-term symptoms were perineal pain, sciatic neuralgia, and dyspareunia. There was no surgical mortality, and we noted low rates of major complications. Sacrospinous ligament fixation assumes high priority in our therapeutic regimen.

The effect of an oral probiotic containing lactobacillus, bifidobacterium, and bacillus species on the vaginal microbiota of spayed female dogs.

PubMed

Hutchins, R G; Bailey, C S; Jacob, M E; Harris, T L; Wood, M W; Saker, K E; Vaden, S L

2013-01-01

Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) are often difficult to treat. Vaginal colonization with lactic acid-producing bacteria (LAB) is associated with reduced frequency of recurrent UTIs in women. Oral probiotics might help increase the prevalence of vaginal LAB and decrease the frequency of recurrent UTIs in dogs. Administration of an oral probiotic supplement containing Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Bacillus species will increase the prevalence of LAB in the vagina of dogs. Thirty-five healthy, spayed female dogs without history of recurrent UTIs. Prospective, controlled study. Enrolled dogs received an oral probiotic supplement for 14 or 28 days. A vaginal tract culture was obtained from each dog before and after oral probiotic administration. Twenty-three dogs received the oral probiotic supplement daily for a period of 14 days and 12 dogs received the oral probiotic supplement daily for a period of 28 days. Lactic acid-producing bacteria were isolated from 7 of 35 dogs prior to probiotic administration. After the treatment course, 6 of 35 dogs had LAB isolated. Only one of these dogs had LAB (Enterococcus canintestini) isolated for the first time. Enterococcus canintestini was the most common LAB isolated from all dogs in this study, although it was not included in the probiotic supplement. Lactic acid-producing bacteria are not a common isolate from the vaginal vault of dogs. Administration of this oral probiotic supplement for a 2- or 4-week period did not increase the prevalence of vaginal LAB in dogs. Copyright © 2013 by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

Medium-term clinical outcomes following surgical repair for vaginal prolapse with tension-free mesh and vaginal support device.

PubMed

Sayer, T; Lim, J; Gauld, J M; Hinoul, P; Jones, P; Franco, N; Van Drie, D; Slack, M

2012-04-01

This study was designed to evaluate clinical outcomes ≥2 years following surgery with polypropylene mesh and vaginal support device (VSD) in women with vaginal prolapse, in a prospective, multi-center setting. Patients re-consented for this extended follow-up (n = 110), with anatomic evaluation using Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POP-Q) and validated questionnaires to assess pelvic symptoms and sexual function. Complications were recorded (safety set; n = 121). Median length of follow-up was 29 months (range 24-34 months). The primary anatomic success, defined as POP-Q 0-I, was 69.1%; however, in 84.5% of the cases, the leading vaginal edge was above the hymen. Pelvic symptoms and sexual function improved significantly from baseline (p < 0.01). Mesh exposure rate was 9.1%. Five percent reported stress urinary incontinence and 3.3% required further prolapse surgery. These results indicate this non-anchored mesh repair is a safe and effective treatment for women with symptomatic vaginal prolapse in the medium term.

Impact of a Hormone-Releasing Intrauterine System on the Vaginal Microbiome: A Prospective Baboon Model

PubMed Central

Hashway, Sara A.; Bergin, Ingrid L.; Bassis, Christine M.; Uchihashi, Mayu; Schmidt, Kelsey C.; Young, Vincent B.; Aronoff, David M.; Patton, Dorothy L.; Bell, Jason D.

2014-01-01

Background Use of a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) in humans may alter vaginal microbial populations and susceptibility to pathogens. This study evaluated the time-dependent effects of an LNG-IUS on the vaginal microbiome of the baboon, a useful animal model for reproductive studies. Methods LNG-IUS were inserted into three reproductively mature, female baboons. The animals were evaluated for six months by physical examination and Gram-stained cytology. The vaginal microbiota was characterized at each timepoint by culture-independent analysis of the16S rRNA-encoding gene. Results Each baboon harbored a diverse vaginal microbiome. Inter-individual variation exceeded intra-individual variation. Diversity declined over time in one baboon and showed mild fluctuations in the other two. There were no significant community differences from early to late post LNG-IUS placement. Conclusions The baboon vaginal microbiome is unique to each individual and is polymicrobial. In this pilot study, the vaginal microbiome remained stable from early to late post LNG-IUS placement. PMID:24266633

Neuromodulation for the Treatment of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms.

PubMed

Yamanishi, Tomonori; Kaga, Kanya; Fuse, Miki; Shibata, Chiharu; Uchiyama, Tomoyuki

2015-09-01

Neuromodulation therapy incorporates electrical stimulation to target specific nerves that control lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). The objectives of this article are to review the mechanism of action, the type of neuromodulation, and the efficacy of neuromodulation mainly according to the results of randomized controlled trials. Neuromodulation includes pelvic floor electrical stimulation (ES) using vaginal, anal and surface electrodes, interferential therapy (IF), magnetic stimulation (MS), percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation, and sacral nerve stimulation (SNS). The former four stimulations are used for external periodic (short-term) stimulation, and SNS are used for internal, chronic (long-term) stimulation. All of these therapies have been reported to be effective for overactive bladder or urgency urinary incontinence. Pelvic floor ES, IF, and MS have also been reported to be effective for stress urinary incontinence. The mechanism of neuromodulation for overactive bladder has been reported to be the reflex inhibition of detrusor contraction by the activation of afferent fibers by three actions, i.e., the activation of hypogastric nerve, the direct inhibition of the pelvic nerve within the sacral cord and the supraspinal inhibition of the detrusor reflex. The mechanism of neuromodulation for stress incontinence is contraction of the pelvic floor muscles through an effect on the muscle fibers as well as through the stimulation of pudendal nerves. Overall, cure and improvement rates of these therapies for urinary incontinence are 30-50, and 60-90% respectively. MS has been considered to be a technique for stimulating nervous system noninvasively. SNS is indicated for patients with refractory overactive bladder and urinary retention. © 2015 Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.

Fee-Based Versus Fixed Income Reimbursement: A Comparative Analysis of Staff Physicians and Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Uniformed Services (CHAMPUS) Partnership Physicians at Blanchfield Army Community Hospital, Fort Campbell, Kentucky.

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-07-01

vaginitis and vulvovaginitis , appeared a total of 117 times in the data set. While 616.1 was overall ranked as the tenth most frequently used ICD-9...124) 9. 462 Acute Pharyngitis (n-118) 10. 616.1 Vaginitis and Vulvovaginitis (n-117) 11. 692.9 Contact Dermatitis and other Eczema, Unspecified Cause...Urethra and Urinary Tract Comparative Analy3is 60 (n-17) 33. 464.1 Acute Tracheitis (n-16) 34. 616.1 Vaginitis and Vulvovaginitis (n-15) 35. 910.5

Characterization of an immortalized human vaginal epithelial cell line.

PubMed

Rajan, N; Pruden, D L; Kaznari, H; Cao, Q; Anderson, B E; Duncan, J L; Schaeffer, A J

2000-02-01

Adherence of type 1 piliated Escherichia coli to vaginal mucosa plays a major role in the pathogenesis of ascending urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women. Progress in understanding the mechanism of adherence to the vaginal surface could be enhanced by the utilization of well-characterized vaginal epithelial cells. The objective of this study was to immortalize vaginal epithelial cells and study their bacterial adherence properties. Primary vaginal cells were obtained from a normal post-menopausal woman, immortalized by infection with E6/E7 genes from human papillomavirus 16 (HPV 16) and cultured in serum free keratinocyte growth factor medium. Positive immunostaining with a pool of antibodies to cytokeratins 1, 5, 10 and 14 (K1, K5, K10 and K14) and to K13 confirmed the epithelial origin of these cells. The immortalized cells showed binding of type 1 piliated E. coli in a pili specific and mannose sensitive manner. This model system should facilitate studies on the interaction of pathogens with vaginal mucosal cells, an essential step in the progression of ascending UTIs in women.

Premature ejaculation results from partners' mismatch: development and validation of index of intra-vaginal ejaculation latency time.

PubMed

Cai, L; Wen, Y; Jiang, M; Zeng, M; Zhang, B

2016-05-01

Mismatch of partners in premature ejaculation (PE) regarding intra-vaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT) is usually neglected. Here we proposed the concept and evaluated the use of index of IELT (IIELT) as an objective diagnostic tool for PE. Data from 103 self-reporting PE patients and 59 normal controls were collected. The expected IELTs of both the male and female partners were provided by each participating couple in two questionnaires. IIELT=stopwatch IELT/(1/2 the male's expected IELT+1/2 the female's expected IELT). The stopwatch IELTs were 1.74±1.4 min (PE group) and 14.45±11.0 min (control group), P<0.05. The expected IELTs were 15.65±8.7 min (men) and 14.16±6.9 min (women) in the PE group, and 21.3±16.1 min (men) and 20.04±13.47 min (women) in the control group, P<0.05. The calculated IIELTs were 0.14±0.12 (PE group) and 0.83±0.60 (control group), P<0.05. The best cut-off point was 0.658, the Youden index was 0.652, sensitivity was 0.991, specificity was 0.661, positive predictive probability was 83.46% and negative predictive probability was 97.6%. We concluded that IIELT was an integrated measurement of the couples' sexual equilibrium and demonstrated that it provided a simple and objective screening indicator for diagnosing self-reported PE.

Analysis of 1,000 cases of synthetic midurethral slings used for treatment of female urinary incontinence – a single-center experience

PubMed Central

Kasyan, George; Gvozdev, Michail; Sosnowski, Roman

2011-01-01

Introduction This study summarized our experience in the treatment of 1,081 women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) using mid-urethral slings. Material and methods The study included 1,081 operated patients. Pure SUI was diagnosed in 77.80% (841) of the patients; another 18.68% (202) had mixed symptoms. The remaining 3.52% (38) suffered from recurrent SUI. Group 1 included the SUI patients treated with TVT. Group 2 – SUI managed with TVT-O. In Group 3, mixed urinary incontinent (MUI) patients were treated with TVT-O. Results Retropubic TVT was used in 273 patients (25.25%) and TVT-O in 740 (68.45%). Other slings were used in 68 patients (6.3%). Mean follow-up for the groups was 50.1, 31.1, and 32.6 months respectively. For objective evaluation of cure rate we used the cough stress test. Subjective efficacy was studied via a visual analog scale. The complication rate in each group of the patients was used as a secondary end point. A negative cough test was found in 85.58% of patients in Group 1. For the TVT-O group, the objective cure rate was 84.36%. Intra-operative complications for TVT and TVT-O were not related to age, BMI, or parity. Bladder perforation and pelvic hematoma developed more frequently in the TVT group. There is a higher risk of vaginal perforation for TVT-O. The objective and subjective cure rates for MUI patients were 86.15% and 87.69% respectively. Conclusions TVT and TVT-O are equally effective and safe methods of treatment for women suffering from SUI and MUI. PMID:24578904

One-Year Surgical Outcomes and Quality of Life after Minimally Invasive Sling Procedures for the Treatment of Female Stress Urinary Incontinence: TVT SECUR® vs. CureMesh®

PubMed Central

Joo, Young Min; Choe, Jin Ho

2010-01-01

Purpose We compared the efficacy and safety of two minimally invasive sling procedures used to treat female stress urinary incontinence (SUI), tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) SECUR® and CureMesh®, and assessed the 1-year surgical outcomes. Materials and Methods Sixty women with SUI were assigned to undergo either the TVT SECUR (n=38) or CureMesh (n=22) procedures between April 2007 and June 2008. Patients were monitored via outpatient visits at 1 month, 3 months, and 1 year after surgery. The efficacy of these procedures was evaluated by the cough test or by a urodynamic study. At these postoperative visits, the patients also completed several questionnaires, including incontinence quality of life, patient's perception of urgency severity, the scored form of the Bristol Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms, visual analog scale, and questions about perceived benefit, satisfaction, and willingness to undergo the same operation again. The objective cure rate was defined as no leakage during the cough test with a full bladder. The subjective cure rate was evaluated by self-assessment of goal achievement performed 1 year postoperatively. Results The two groups were similar in preoperative characteristics and urodynamic parameters. The objective cure rates were similar between TVT SECUR and CureMesh (68.4% vs. 77.3%). All respondents reported improvement after surgery. There were no intra-operative complications. Conclusions Our results showed that the TVT SECUR and CureMesh procedures are both safe and simple to perform and have no significant differences in efficacy. Comparative studies with long-term follow-up are warranted to determine the true efficacy of these procedures. PMID:20495697

Short-term clinical and quality-of-life outcomes in women treated by the TVT-Secur procedure.

PubMed

Lim, Jeanette L; de Cuyper, Eva M J; Cornish, Ann; Frazer, Malcolm

2010-04-01

The TVT-Secur (Ethicon, Somerville, NJ, USA) is a minimally invasive suburethral synthetic sling used in the treatment of female stress urinary incontinence. It claims to cause less postoperative pain and to enable performing in an office setting. However, this may be at the expense of a significant learning curve and a higher early failure rate. To assess objectively the success rate of the TVT-Secur procedure in the 'U' configuration at six months. Secondary outcomes focussed on subjective success rates, complications, patient satisfaction and quality-of-life (QOL). A prospective observational study was undertaken at two tertiary referral urogynaecology centres. A cohort of 42 consecutive patients with urodynamic stress incontinence who underwent the TVT-Secur procedure in the 'U' configuration between November 2006 and August 2007 were followed up for six months. Three standardised QOL questionnaires were completed preoperatively and at six months. A urogenital history, visual analogue score (VAS) for patient satisfaction, uroflow and urinary stress test were performed at six months. Recruitment was ceased prematurely because of a high number of early failures. Objective and subjective success rates at six months were 58.3% and 51.3% respectively. Complications included urinary tract infections, voiding difficulty, groin discomfort, haematoma, vaginal pain, tape erosion and intra-operative dislodgement of tape. Prevalence of de novo urge incontinence was 10.3%. Only symptom-specific QOL scores improved and only 48.6% indicated a high level satisfaction (VAS > or = 80%) with TVT-Secur. On the basis of this limited study, we are hesitant to recommend the 'U' configuration of the TVT-Secur over its more established counterparts, the TVT and TVT-O.

Efficacy and safety of TVT-O and TVT-Secur in the treatment of female stress urinary incontinence: 1-year follow-up.

PubMed

Tommaselli, Giovanni A; Di Carlo, Costantino; Gargano, Virginia; Formisano, Carmen; Scala, Mariamaddalena; Nappi, Carmine

2010-10-01

To reduce complications of transobturator tension-free vaginal tape, single-incision devices were introduced in the last years. We here report a comparison between the tension-free vaginal tape-obturator (TVT-O) and the TVT-Secur techniques in terms of efficacy and safety. Eighty-four patients with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) were scheduled to undergo TVT-O or TVT-Secur. Duration of the procedure, subjective estimate of blood loss, intraoperative and postoperative complications, postoperative postvoidal residue (PVR), time to first voiding, and pain level were recorded. Urodynamic tests, PVR, Incontinence Questionnaire Short Form (ICIQ-SF), King's Health Questionnaire, and a urinary diary were performed before and 12 months after procedure. No differences in terms of cure rate were observed between the two groups (81.6% vs. 83.8%). Complication rate in the TVT-Secur group was lower (8.1%) than in the TVT-O group (15.8%), but not significant. Both techniques seem to be effective and safe, with a low incidence of complications in both groups.

Surgery for stress urinary incontinence in women: A 2006 review

PubMed Central

Blok, Bertil F. M.; Corcos, Jacques

2007-01-01

The surgical treatment of female stress urinary incontinence is a rapidly changing field. This review discusses recent advances in various injectables, minimally invasive techniques and open procedures. It particularly evaluates data from long-term outcome studies and describes peri- and postoperative complications from several procedures, such as bulking agents, tension-free vaginal tape and its modifications (TOT, TVT-O) as well as open and laparoscopic colposuspension. PMID:19675792

MedlinePlus Health Prescriptions: Developing a Pragmatic Approach for Clinic Use

ClinicalTrials.gov

2016-09-29

Acne Vulgaris; Allergic Rhinitis; Anxiety; Asthma; Back Pain; Prostatic Hyperplasia; Bursitis; Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease; Cough; Coronary Artery Disease; Depression; Diabetes Mellitus; Diarrhea; Gastroesophageal Reflux; Fibromyalgia; Headache; HIV Infections; Hypothyroidism; Hyperlipidemia; Hypertension; Influenza; Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders; Irritable Bowel Syndrome; Migraine Disorders; Obesity; Obstructive Sleep Apnea; Osteoarthritis; Senile Osteoporosis; Shoulder Pain; Sinusitis; Smoking Cessation; Tobacco Use Cessation; Menopause; Urinary Incontinence; Urinary Tract Infection; Vaginitis; Vertigo

Does clinical examination aid in the diagnosis of urinary tract infections in women? A systematic review and meta-analysis

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Clinicians should be aware of the diagnostic values of various symptoms, signs and antecedents. This information is particularly important in primary care settings, where sophisticated diagnostic approaches are not always feasible. The aim of the study is to determine the probability that various symptoms, signs, antecedents and tests predict urinary tract infection (UTI) in women. Methods We conducted a systematic search of the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases to identify articles published in all languages through until December 2008. We particularly focused on studies that examined the diagnostic accuracy of at least one symptom, sign or patient antecedent related to the urinary tract. We included studies where urine culture, a gold standard, was preformed by primary care providers on female subjects aged at least 14 years. A meta-analysis of the likelihood ratio was performed to assess variables related to the urinary tract symptoms. Results Of the 1, 212 articles identified, 11 met the selection criteria. Dysuria, urgency, nocturia, sexual activity and urgency with dysuria were weak predictors of urinary tract infection, whereas increases in vaginal discharge and suprapubic pain were weak predictors of the absence of infection. Nitrites or leukocytes in the dipstick test are the only findings that clearly favored a diagnosis of UTI. Conclusions Clinical findings do not aid in the diagnosis of UTI among women who present with urinary symptoms. Vaginal discharge is a weak indicator of the absence of infection. The urine dipstick test was the most reliable tool for detecting UTI. PMID:21985418

Urinary tract infection in postmenopausal women.

PubMed

Raz, Raul

2011-12-01

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is the most common bacterial infection in women in general and in postmenopausal women in particular. Two groups of elderly women with recurrent UTI should be differentiated regarding age and general status: healthy, young postmenopausal women aged 50 to 70 years who are neither institutionalized or catheterized and elderly institutionalized women with or without a catheter. Bacteriuria occurs more often in elderly functionally impaired women, but in general it is asymptomatic. However, the risk factors associated with recurrent UTI in elderly women are not widely described. In a multivariate analysis it was found that urinary incontinence, a history of UTI before menopause, and nonsecretor status were strongly associated with recurrent UTI in young postmenopausal women. Another study described the incidence and risk factors of acute cystitis among nondiabetic and diabetic postmenopausal women. Independent predictors of infection included insulin-treated patients and a lifetime history of urinary infection. Borderline associations included a history of vaginal estrogen cream use in the past month, kidney stones, and asymptomatic bacteriuria at baseline. Another important factor in postmenopausal women is the potential role that estrogen deficiency plays in the development of bacteriuria. There are at least two studies showing a beneficial effect of estrogen in the management of recurrent bacteriuria in elderly women. One of these studies showed that vaginal estrogen cream reduced vaginal pH from 5.5±0.7 to 3.6±1.0, restored lactobacillus, and decreased new episodes of UTI. Another study reported similar results using an estriol vaginal ring. However, contradictory results are found in the literature. For example, additional studies found that the use of estriol-containing vaginal pessaries was less effective than oral nitrofurantoin macrocrystals in preventing UTI in postmenopausal women. Two other studies also did not find any benefit in the reduction of UTI by oral estrogen therapy. Unfortunately, the use of estrogen in preventing UTI in postmenopausal women remains questionable. New strategies have been researched for reducing the use of antibiotics in the prevention and treatment of UTI. Two of them are probiotics and cranberry juice or capsules. Although several studies regarding probiotics and cranberry juice or capsules have reported a reduction of episodes of UTI, there is no conclusive evidence that they are useful in the prevention of UTI in postmenopausal women. As for the optimal drug, dosage, and length of treatment for UTI in the elderly, there are no studies comparing these data with the treatment for young women.

Effect of systematic local infiltration analgesia on postoperative pain in vaginal hysterectomy: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial.

PubMed

Hristovska, Ana-Marija; Kristensen, Billy B; Rasmussen, Marianne A; Rasmussen, Yvonne H; Elving, Lisbeth B; Nielsen, Christian V; Kehlet, Henrik

2014-03-01

To assess the effect of systematic local infiltration analgesia on postoperative pain in vaginal hysterectomy, and describe the technique in detail. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study following the CONSORT criteria. A university hospital. Thirty-seven patients undergoing vaginal hysterectomy. Patients received high-volume (50 mL) ropivacaine 0.50% (n = 20) or saline (n = 17) infiltration using a systematic technique ensuring uniform delivery to all tissues incised, handled or instrumented during the procedure. Pain, nausea, vomiting and opioid requirements were assessed for 32 h as well as time spent in the post-anesthesia care unit and time to first mobilization. Pain at rest was significantly reduced after one, four and eight hours in the ropivacaine group (p ≤ 0.001-0.01). Pain during coughing was significantly reduced after one and four hours (p ≤ 0.001 and p ≤ 0.003), and pain during movement was significantly reduced after four hours (p ≤ 0.02). Opioid requirements and time spent in the post-anesthesia care unit were significantly reduced in the ropivacaine group (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively), as well as the time to first mobilization (p < 0.001). Intra-operative systematic local infiltration analgesia reduces postoperative pain in patients undergoing vaginal hysterectomy, facilities mobilization and improves early recovery. © 2013 Nordic Federation of Societies of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

[Physicopharmaceutical characteristics of ulinastatin vaginal suppositories prepared in a hospital].

PubMed

Satake, Kiyoshi; Nakajima, Takanori; Iwata, Masanori; Fujikake, Yoshio; Kimura, Masayuki

2011-01-01

We studied a locally applied vaginal preparation (vaginal suppositories) of ulinastatin (urinary trypsin inhibitor, UTI), designed to threatened premature delivery and maintain pregnancy. Witepsol S55 was chosen as the basic component of the vaginal suppositories based on the physical pharmaceutical characteristics of three kinds of hard fats. The average particle size of the UTI aqueous injection was approximately 70% as compared with that of the UTI lyophilized product, used as the base material for the preparation of UTI vaginal suppositories. We compared the physical pharmaceutical properties of UTI vaginal suppositories with water contents of 2.5%, 5.0%, and 7.5%, respectively. Preparation strength negatively correlated with the water content. The coefficient of viscosity positively correlated with the water content of the preparation. UTI vaginal suppositories with a water content of 5.0% had the highest average drug release rate on moment analysis. A comprehensive evaluation of the properties of UTI vaginal suppositories, including high strength due to disintegration resistance, the coefficient of viscosity and its influence on local retention, and drug release and its influence on the duration of effect, indicated that a 5.0% UTI aqueous solution for injection combined with Witepsol S55 as the base was the optimal formulation for the hospital preparation of vaginal suppositories.

Comparison between Measurements Obtained with three Different Perineometers

PubMed Central

Barbosa, Patrícia Brentegani; Franco, Maíra Menezes; de Oliveira Souza, Flaviane; Antônio, Flávia Ignácio; Montezuma, Thaís; Ferreira, Cristine Homsi Jorge

2009-01-01

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the results obtained in the evaluation of intra-vaginal pressure using three different brands of perineometers in nulliparous volunteers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty nulliparous women with no anatomical alterations and/or dysfunction of the pelvic floor were enrolled in our study. All the women had the ability to voluntarily contract their PFM (Pelvic Floor Muscles), as assessed by digital palpation. The intra-vaginal pressure was assessed using three different brands of perineometer (Neurodyn Evolution™, SensuPower™ and Peritron™). Each volunteer was evaluated on three alternate days by a single examiner using a single brand of perineometer on each day. In the assessment, the volunteers were required to pull (contract) their PFM in and up as strongly as possible 3 times and to sustain the contraction for 5 seconds, with an interval of 30 seconds between each pull. For the statistical analysis, a concordance correlation coefficient was used to compare the values that were obtained with each brand of perineometer. RESULTS: A moderate concordance (0.51) was found between the results from the Peritron™ and Neurodyn™ perineometers, a fair concordance (0.21) between the Peritron™ and SensuPower™ brands and a poor concordance (0.19) between the Neurodyn™ and SensuPower™ brands. CONCLUSION: The concordance of the measurements of the intra-vaginal pressure ranged from poor to moderate, suggesting that perineometers of different brands generate different results. PMID:19578656

Neuroanatomic and behavioral correlates of urinary dysfunction induced by vaginal distension in rats.

PubMed

Palacios, J L; Juárez, M; Morán, C; Xelhuantzi, N; Damaser, M S; Cruz, Y

2016-05-01

The aim of the present study was to use a model of simulated human childbirth in rats to determine the damage to genitourinary structures and behavioral signs of urinary dysfunction induced by vaginal distension (VD) in female rats. In experiment 1, the length of the genitourinary tract and the nerves associated with it were measured immediately after simulated human delivery induced by VD or sham (SH) procedures. Electroneurograms of the dorsal nerve of the clitoris (DNC) were also recorded. In experiment 2, histological characteristics of the bladder and major pelvic ganglion of VD and SH rats were evaluated. In experiment 3, urinary parameters were determined in conscious animals during 6 h of dark and 6 h of light before and 3 days after VD or SH procedures. VD significantly increased distal vagina width (P < 0.001) and the length of the motor branch of the sacral plexus (P < 0.05), DNC (P < 0.05), and vesical nerves (P < 0.01) and decreased DNC frequency and amplitude of firing. VD occluded the pelvic urethra, inducing urinary retention, hematomas in the bladder, and thinness of the epithelial (P < 0.05) and detrusor (P < 0.01) layers of the bladder. Major pelvic ganglion parameters were not modified after VD. Rats dripped urine in unusual places to void, without the stereotyped behavior of micturition after VD. The neuroanatomic injuries after VD occur alongside behavioral signs of urinary incontinence as determined by a new behavioral tool for assessing micturition in conscious animals.

Effect of intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis against group B streptococcal infection on comparisons of rates of endometritis and urinary tract infection in multicenter surveillance.

PubMed

Dumas, Anne-Marie; Girard, Raphaëlle; Ayzac, Louis; Beaumont, Geneviève; Caillat-Vallet, Emmanuelle; Depaix, Florence; Gignoux, Chantal; Haond, Catherine; Pral, Noelle; Robert, Jacqueline; Tissot-Guerraz, Françoise; Vincent-Bouletreau, Agnès; Berland, Michel; Fabry, Jacques

2008-04-01

To establish whether antibiotic prophylaxis against group B streptococcal infection may be a confounding factor in comparisons of rates of endometritis and urinary tract infection after vaginal delivery. Prospective study. Maternity units at 48 hospitals in a regional surveillance network in France during 2001-2004. The maternity units used a common protocol to establish whether antibiotic prophylaxis was indicated. Risk factors for endometritis and urinary tract infections were evaluated using multiple logistic regression. We analyzed 49,786 vaginal deliveries. The percentage of women receiving antibiotic prophylaxis varied widely and significantly among the maternity units (range, 4.4%-26.0%; median, 15.8%; 25th percentile, 12.1%; 75th percentile, 19.0%) (P < .001, by Mantel-Haenszel chi(2) test). The incidence rate of endometritis was significantly reduced from 0.25% to 0.11% by antibiotic prophylaxis (P = .001). There was a decrease in the incidence of urinary tract infection from 0.37% to 0.32%, but it was not statistically significant (P = .251). A reduction in the incidence of endometritis was observed when intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis against group B streptococcal infection was used. However, the proportion of women considered to be at risk of infection varied widely among institutions. Comparisons of rates of endometritis among maternity units, but not urinary tract infection rates, should take into account antibiotic prophylaxis as a significant confounding factor.

Conservative Management of Urinary Incontinence in Women

PubMed Central

Faiena, Izak; Patel, Neal; Parihar, Jaspreet S; Calabrese, Marc; Tunuguntla, Hari

2015-01-01

Urinary incontinence in women has a high prevalence and causes significant morbidity. Given that urinary incontinence is not generally a progressive disease, conservative therapies play an integral part in the management of these patients. We conducted a nonsystematic review of the literature to identify high-quality studies that evaluated the different components of conservative management of stress urinary incontinence, including behavioral therapy, bladder training, pelvic floor muscle training, lifestyle changes, mechanical devices, vaginal cones, and electrical stimulation. Urinary incontinence can have a severe impact on our healthcare system and patients’ quality of life. There are currently a wide variety of treatment options for these patients, ranging from conservative treatment to surgical treatment. Although further research is required in the area of conservative therapies, nonsurgical treatments are effective and are preferred by some patients. PMID:26543427

Structural Reorganization of the Vaginal Mucosa in Stress Urinary Incontinence under Conditions of Er:YAG Laser Treatment.

PubMed

Lapii, G A; Yakovleva, A Yu; Neimark, A I

2017-02-01

Structural characteristics of the vaginal mucosa in stress incontinence and its correction by IncontiLase technology were studied. Studies of vaginal biopsy specimens before the exposure showed degenerative and atrophic changes in the stratified squamous epithelium, disorganization of fibrillar structures of the intercellular matrix, and microcirculatory disorders. Studies after Er:YAG laser exposure showed signs of neocollagenogenesis and elastogenesis, foci of neoangiogenesis, reduction of epithelial degeneration and atrophy, and an increase of the fibroblast population. Morphometry showed that the volume density of blood capillaries and the thickness of the epithelial layer increased by 61.1 and 64.5%, respectively. The use of IncontiLase technology in stress incontinence led to structural reorganization of the vaginal mucosa, improving its morphology and function and alleviating the symptoms of incontinence.

Chronic Bladder Infection: Is There a Cure?

MedlinePlus

... to get recurrent bladder infections, a type of urinary tract infection (UTI). These factors include: Kidney or bladder stones Bacteria ... your doctor at the first sign of a UTI Vaginal estrogen therapy — if you don't already ...

A new reconstructive technique for posterior vaginal wall defects, a case report.

PubMed

Zetlitz, Elisabeth; Manook, Miriam; MacLeod, Alison; Hamilton, Stuart

2013-10-01

Post-partum vaginal laxity is a problem encountered by many women. More uncommon is a resulting vaginal defect. In most cases of laxity, a period of extensive physiotherapy can strengthen the pelvic muscles enough for symptoms to be minimized. However, this is not the case once there is a tissue defect. To present a new reconstructive method for patients with posterior vaginal wall defects. We present a case of a 38-year-old female who, 12 years prior to presentation, had a vaginal delivery. Due to complications during the delivery, she sustained pelvic trauma and developed a posterior vaginal wall defect. She had a sizable soft tissue defect, causing sexual, urinary, and confidence problems. Fat was harvested from the patient's abdomen and injected into the defect after more conservative treatment options were exhausted. The defect was corrected successfully using the minimally invasive Coleman fat grafting technique. This is to our knowledge the first case in the literature where a posterior vaginal defect has been corrected using Coleman fat grafting, and we believe that this treatment method may be of benefit to more patients. © 2013 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

Vaginal prolapse repair with or without a midurethral sling in women with genital prolapse and occult stress urinary incontinence: a randomized trial.

PubMed

van der Ploeg, J Marinus; Oude Rengerink, Katrien; van der Steen, Annemarie; van Leeuwen, Jules H Schagen; van der Vaart, C Huub; Roovers, Jan-Paul W R

2016-07-01

We compared pelvic organ prolapse (POP) repair with and without midurethral sling (MUS) in women with occult stress urinary incontinence (SUI). This was a randomized trial conducted by a consortium of 13 teaching hospitals assessing a parallel cohort of continent women with symptomatic stage II or greater POP. Women with occult SUI were randomly assigned to vaginal prolapse repair with or without MUS. Women without occult SUI received POP surgery. Main outcomes were the absence of SUI at the 12-month follow-up based on the Urogenital Distress Inventory and the need for additional treatment for SUI. We evaluated 231 women, of whom 91 randomized as follows: 43 to POP surgery with and 47 without MUS. A greater number of women in the MUS group reported absence of SUI [86 % vs. 48 %; relative risk (RR) 1.79; 95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.29-2.48]. No women in the MUS group received additional treatment for postoperative SUI; six (13 %) in the control group had a secondary MUS. Women with occult SUI reported more urinary symptoms after POP surgery and more often underwent treatment for postoperative SUI than women without occult SUI. Women with occult SUI had a higher risk of reporting SUI after POP surgery compared with women without occult SUI. Adding a MUS to POP surgery reduced the risk of postoperative SUI and the need for its treatment in women with occult SUI. Of women with occult SUI undergoing POP-only surgery, 13 % needed additional MUS. We found no differences in global impression of improvement and quality of life.

Persistent stress urinary incontinence during pregnancy and one year after delivery; its prevalence, risk factors and impact on quality of life in Taiwanese women: An observational cohort study.

PubMed

Lin, Yi-Hao; Chang, Shuenn-Dhy; Hsieh, Wu-Chiao; Chang, Yao-Lung; Chueh, Ho-Yen; Chao, An-Shine; Liang, Ching-Chung

2018-06-01

The study was to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and its impact on the quality of life during pregnancy and 12 months after delivery. 866 women delivering their newborns at a tertiary hospital were recruited. All women were asked to complete several questionnaires including demographic and obstetric data, Short Form 12 health survey (SF-12), Urogenital Distress Inventory Short Form (UDI-6), and Incontinence Impact Questionnaire Short Form (IIQ-7). All women were interviewed via telephone to answer the same questionnaires at 12 months postpartum. There were 446 (51.5%) self-reported SUI women during pregnancy. Out of 560 women delivered vaginally, 70 (12.5%) had SUI at 12 months postpartum; in 306 women undergoing Cesarean delivery, 22 (7.2%) experienced SUI 12 months after delivery. Risk factors of SUI during pregnancy included body weight and body mass index at first visit. At 12 months postpartum, parity stood out as the risk factor of persistent SUI in vaginal delivery group, but no significant risk factor was found in Cesarean group. Women with SUI during pregnancy featured worse mental component summary (MCS) score of SF-12, compared to women without SUI. At 12 months postpartum, women with persistent SUI in vaginal delivery group had higher mean UDI-6 and IIQ-7 scores than those without SUI. Persistent SUI is more prevalent in the vaginal delivery group than Cesarean group. Both SUI during pregnancy and after childbirth have negative impact on the quality of life in women undergoing vaginal delivery. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Self-sampling with HPV mRNA analyses from vagina and urine compared with cervical samples.

PubMed

Asciutto, Katrin Christine; Ernstson, Avalon; Forslund, Ola; Borgfeldt, Christer

2018-04-01

In order to increase coverage in the organized cervical screening program, self-sampling with HPV analyses has been suggested. The aim was to compare human papillomavirus (HPV) mRNA detection in vaginal and urine self-collected samples with clinician-taken cervical samples and the corresponding clinician-taken histological specimens. Self-collected vaginal, urine and clinician-taken cervical samples were analyzed from 209 women with the Aptima mRNA assay (Hologic Inc, MA, USA). Cervical cytology, colposcopy, biopsy and/or the loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) were performed in every examination. The sensitivity of the HPV mRNA test in detecting high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL)/adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS)/cancer cases was as follows: for the vaginal self-samples 85.5% (95% CI; 75.0-92.8), the urinary samples 44.8% (95% CI; 32.6-57.4), and for routine cytology 81.7% (95% CI; 70.7-89.9). For the clinician-taken cervical HPV samples the sensitivity of the HPV mRNA test in detecting HSIL/AIS/cancer was 100.0% (95% CI; 94.9-100.0). The specificity of the HPV mRNA was similar for the clinician-taken cervical HPV samples and the self-samples: 49.0% vs. 48.1%. The urinary HPV samples had a specificity of 61.9% and cytology had a specificity of 93.3%. The sensitivity of the Aptima HPV mRNA test in detecting HSIL/AIS/cancer from vaginal self-samples was similar to that of routine cytology. The Aptima HPV mRNA vaginal self-sampling analysis may serve as a complement in screening programs. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

[The modification in surgical technique of incision and closure vault of the vagina during vaginal hysterectomy on the incidence of vault haematoma].

PubMed

Malinowski, Andrzej; Mołas, Justyna; Maciołek-Blewniewska, Grazyna; Cieślak, Jarosław

2006-02-01

Vault haematoma is one of the most common complication of vaginal hysterectomy. The aim of this work was to analyse the effects of a modification of incision and closure technique of the vaginal vault on the incidence of vault haematoma after vaginal hysterectomy. The study group consisted of 333 women of whom 49 (group A) underwent vaginal hysterectomy traditional technique of incision and closure of the vaginal vault, an 284 (group B) modified technique. Following parameters were evaluated: number of vault haematomas, blood loss, postoperative fever, required antibiotics, length of hospital stay. The risk of vault haematoma was significantly lower in the group B (1,06% vs 12,4%). Loss of blood was higher in group A (310 ml vs 206 ml). Incidence of postoperative fever was in 12,2% patients from group A, and 1,4% from group B. The length of hospitalization was lower for women in group B (4,3 days compared with 7,3 days). The modification of incision and closure technique of the vaginal vault during vaginal hysterectomy is recommended to minimise intra- and postoperative complications.

1-Hydroxypyrene concentrations in first morning voids and 24-h composite urine: intra- and inter-individual comparisons.

PubMed

Han, In-Kyu; Duan, Xiaoli; Zhang, Lin; Yang, Hongbiao; Rhoads, George G; Wei, Fusheng; Zhang, Junfeng

2008-09-01

Urinary 1-hydroxypyrene (1-OHP) has been suggested as an exposure biomarker for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). However, it remains unknown whether a first morning urine sample can be used to reflect average exposure. In this paper, we examine intra-individual differences and inter-individual associations between first morning voids and 24-h composite urine samples. The analysis was performed using data collected from 100 adults who had a wide range of PAH exposure due to differences in their occupation, e.g., coke oven workers vs. non-coke oven workers. For each subject, all the urine voids within each of two 24-h measurement periods were collected. Results showed a significant (40% to 62%) intra-individual difference between first morning voids and 24-h urinary 1-OHP concentrations (in ng/ml urine). Creatinine adjustments of 1-OHP concentrations (in micromol/mol urinary creatinine) reduced the intra-individual difference by approximately 10%. Across all the subjects, a high overall correlation (r=0.76) was observed between first morning and 24-h average 1-OHP concentrations. Work environment and sampling season were found to significantly affect the relationship between first morning and 24-h 1-OHP concentrations. An increase of 1 ng/ml of first morning urinary 1-OHP predicted an increase of 0.5 and 0.25 ng/ml of 24-h urinary 1-OHP for coke oven workers and non-coke oven workers, respectively. Data collected in a winter season showed a higher correlation between first morning and 24-h concentrations than data collected in a fall season. Creatinine adjustments did not significantly improve overall correlations between first morning void and 24-h measurements, but increased total variances for 24-h urines explained by first morning urines in coke workers.

The Role of Chronic Mesh Infection in Delayed-Onset Vaginal Mesh Complications or Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections: Results From Explanted Mesh Cultures.

PubMed

Mellano, Erin M; Nakamura, Leah Y; Choi, Judy M; Kang, Diana C; Grisales, Tamara; Raz, Shlomo; Rodriguez, Larissa V

2016-01-01

Vaginal mesh complications necessitating excision are increasingly prevalent. We aim to study whether subclinical chronically infected mesh contributes to the development of delayed-onset mesh complications or recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs). Women undergoing mesh removal from August 2013 through May 2014 were identified by surgical code for vaginal mesh removal. Only women undergoing removal of anti-incontinence mesh were included. Exclusion criteria included any women undergoing simultaneous prolapse mesh removal. We abstracted preoperative and postoperative information from the medical record and compared mesh culture results from patients with and without mesh extrusion, de novo recurrent UTIs, and delayed-onset pain. One hundred seven women with only anti-incontinence mesh removed were included in the analysis. Onset of complications after mesh placement was within the first 6 months in 70 (65%) of 107 and delayed (≥6 months) in 37 (35%) of 107. A positive culture from the explanted mesh was obtained from 82 (77%) of 107 patients, and 40 (37%) of 107 were positive with potential pathogens. There were no significant differences in culture results when comparing patients with delayed-onset versus immediate pain, extrusion with no extrusion, and de novo recurrent UTIs with no infections. In this large cohort of patients with mesh removed for a diverse array of complications, cultures of the explanted vaginal mesh demonstrate frequent low-density bacterial colonization. We found no differences in culture results from women with delayed-onset pain versus acute pain, vaginal mesh extrusions versus no extrusions, or recurrent UTIs using standard culture methods. Chronic prosthetic infections in other areas of medicine are associated with bacterial biofilms, which are resistant to typical culture techniques. Further studies using culture-independent methods are needed to investigate the potential role of chronic bacterial infections in delayed vaginal mesh complications.

Pelvic floor symptoms and severity of pelvic organ prolapse in women seeking care for pelvic floor problems.

PubMed

Espuña-Pons, Montserrat; Fillol, Manuel; Pascual, María A; Rebollo, Pablo; Mora, Ana M

2014-06-01

The aim of the study was to estimate whether POP severity is related to lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and symptoms of sexual difficulties, when evaluated with validated questionnaires. Multicentric cross-sectional study of 521 women seeking care for PFD in 35 specialized urogynecological clinics. Patients answered the EPIQ to detect symptoms of PFD. The severity of urinary incontinence and the OAB symptoms were measured by ICIQ-UI SF and BSAQ. POP anatomic severity was measured by the anatomic stage of each compartment, determined in pelvic examination in accordance with the IUGA-ICS terminology. A maximum POP stage (M-POP-S) was assigned to each patient: Group A, patients with no POP (stage 0-I); group B, M-POP-S stage II; and group C, M-POP-S stage III-IV. Pelvic examination demonstrated anatomic POP in 224 patients (stage from II to IV). 288 women (56.25%) were classified in group A (no prolapse); 102 (19.92%) group B (stage II); and 122 (28.83%) group C (stage III-IV). Several associations were found between studied variables and M-POP-S (age<55 years, menopause, number of vaginal deliveries, symptom of vaginal bulge, feeling of a bulge makes it difficult to have sexual relations, symptoms of stress urinary incontinence, nocturia and voiding difficulties), but the only variables independently associated were age, symptom of vaginal bulge and difficulty in having sexual relations due to feeling of a bulge. In patients seeking care for PFD, LUTS are not independently associated to the prolapse stage. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.

Pelvic floor muscles training to reduce symptoms and signs of vulvovaginal atrophy: a case study.

PubMed

Mercier, Joanie; Morin, Mélanie; Lemieux, Marie-Claude; Reichetzer, Barbara; Khalifé, Samir; Dumoulin, Chantale

2016-07-01

Vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA), caused by decreased levels of estrogen, is a common problem in aging women. Main symptoms of VVA are vaginal dryness and dyspareunia. First-line treatment consists of the application of local estrogen therapy (ET) or vaginal moisturizer. In some cases however, symptoms and signs persist despite those interventions. This case study describes a 77-year-old woman with severe VVA symptoms despite use of local ET and the addition of pelvic floor muscle (PFM) training to her treatment. A patient with stress urinary incontinence and VVA was referred to a randomized clinical trial on PFM training. On pretreatment evaluation while on local ET, she showed VVA symptoms on the ICIQ Vaginal Symptoms questionnaire and the ICIQ-Female Sexual Matters associated with lower urinary tract Symptoms questionnaire, and also showed VVA signs during the physical and dynamometric evaluation of the PFM. She was treated with a 12-week PFM training program. The patient reported a reduction in vaginal dryness and dyspareunia symptoms, as well as a better quality of sexual life after 12 weeks of PFM training. On posttreatment physical evaluation, the PFMs' tone and elasticity were improved, although some other VVA signs remained unchanged. Pelvic floor muscle training may improve some VVA symptoms and signs in women taking local ET. Further study is needed to investigate and confirm the present case findings and to explore mechanisms of action of this intervention for VVA.

Randomized clinical trial comparing TVT Secur system and trans vaginal obturator tape for the surgical management of stress urinary incontinence.

PubMed

Maslow, Ken; Gupta, Chander; Klippenstein, Peter; Girouard, Lise

2014-07-01

This prospective randomized study aimed to compare the safety and efficacy of the TVT-Secur (TVT-S) with the trans vaginal obturator tape (TVT-O) for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence. We set out to enroll 136 patients in our study. 106 patients with stress urinary incontinence were randomized to either the TVT-S (n = 56) or TVT-O (n = 50) procedure. Patients were evaluated postoperatively at 2 months and 1 year. Our primary outcome was objective cure measured by the cough test. Secondary outcomes of subjective symptoms, questionnaires, pain scores, complications, and urodynamic studies were also included. Statistical analysis was by Chi-squared, Kruskal-Wallis, Wilcoxon, and Fisher's exact tests as appropriate. P values of <0.05 were considered significant. Objective cure rates were better for TVT-O compared with TVT-S at 1 year (86 % and 63 % respectively, p = 0.01). Subjective cure rates were 88 % for TVT-O and 63 % for TVT-S. Quality of life scores through questionnaires improved in both groups and were not statistically different. Initial post-operative groin pain was more prevalent in the TVT-O group; however, this resolved quickly with time. TVT-O was superior to TVT-S in the objective cure of stress urinary incontinence at 1-year follow-up.

[Primary and secondary prevention of urinary tract infections].

PubMed

Wagenlehner, F M E; Vahlensieck, W; Bauer, H W; Weidner, W; Naber, K G; Piechota, H J

2011-10-01

Urinary tract infections (UTI) are among the most frequent bacterial infections in the community and health care setting. Mostly young and, to some extent, postmenopausal women are affected by recurrent UTI (rUTI) defined as ≥3 UTI/year. On the other hand rUTI are frequently found in patients with complicating urological factors, e.g. urinary catheters. Modifiable predisposing factors in uncomplicated rUTI in women are rare. Continuous antibiotic prophylaxis or postcoital prophylaxis, if there is close correlation with sexual intercourse, are most effective to prevent rUTI. Nitrofurantoin, trimethoprim (or cotrimoxazole), and fosfomycin trometamol are available as first-line drugs. Oral cephalosporins and quinolones should be restricted to specific indications. Antibiotic prophylaxis reduces the number of uropathogens in the gut and/or vaginal flora and reduces bacterial"fitness". Given the correct indication, the recurrence rate of rUTI can be reduced by about 90%. In postmenopausal patients vaginal substitution of oestriol should be started first. Oral or parenteral immunoprophylaxis is another option in patients with rUTI. Other possibilities with varying scientific evidence are prophylaxis with cranberries or probiotics. The prophylaxis of catheter-associated UTI or asymptomatic bacteriuria should employ strategies which result in a reduction of frequency and duration of catheter drainage of the urinary tract. The currently available catheter materials have only little influence on reducing catheter-associated rUTI.

Urinary incontinence - tension-free vaginal tape

MedlinePlus

... after surgery or the next morning if you stay overnight. You may go home on the same day if there are no problems. Follow instructions about how to care for yourself after you go home. Keep all follow-up appointments.

76 FR 41507 - Obstetrics and Gynecology Devices Panel of the Medical Devices Advisory Committee; Notice of Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-07-14

...., vaginal erosion leading to pelvic pain and dyspareunia, and available information on clinical benefit. The... consider surgical mesh used to treat stress urinary incontinence. FDA intends to make background material...

Prolonged Expression of an Anti-HIV-1 gp120 Minibody to the Female Rhesus Macaque Lower Genital Tract by AAV Gene Transfer

PubMed Central

Abdel-Motal, Ussama M.; Harbison, Carole; Han, Thomas; Pudney, Jeffrey; Anderson, Deborah J.; Zhu, Quan; Westmoreland, Susan; Marasco, Wayne A.

2014-01-01

Topical microbicides are a leading strategy for prevention of HIV mucosal infection to women, however, numerous pharmacokinetic limitations associated with coitally-related dosing strategy have contributed to their limited success. Here we test the hypothesis that adeno-associated virus (AAV) mediated delivery of the b12 human anti-HIV-1 gp120 minibody gene to the lower genital tract of female rhesus macaques (Rh) can provide prolonged expression of b12 minibodies in the cervical-vaginal secretions. Gene transfer studies demonstrated that, of various GFP-expressing AAV serotypes, AAV-6 most efficiently transduced freshly immortalized and primary genital epithelial cells (PGECs) of female Rh in vitro. In addition, AAV-6-b12 minibody transduction of Rh PGECs led to inhibition of SHIV162p4 transmigration and virus infectivity in vitro. AAV-6-GFP could also successfully transduce vaginal epithelial cells of Rh when applied intra-vaginally, including p63+ epithelial stem cells. Moreover, intra-vaginal application of AAV-6-b12 to female Rh resulted in prolonged minibody detection in their vaginal secretions throughout the 79 day study period. These data provide proof-of-principle that AAV-6-mediated delivery of anti-HIV broadly neutralizing antibody (BnAb) genes to the lower genital tract of female Rh results in persistent minibody detection for several months. This strategy offers promise that an anti-HIV-1 genetic microbicide strategy may be possible in which topical application of AAV vector, with periodic reapplication as needed, may provide sustained local BnAb expression and protection. PMID:24965083

An integral theory of female urinary incontinence. Experimental and clinical considerations.

PubMed

Petros, P E; Ulmsten, U I

1990-01-01

In this Theory paper, the complex interplay of the specific structures involved in female urinary continence are analyzed. In addition the effects of age, hormones, and iatrogenically induced scar tissue on these structures, are discussed specifically with regard to understanding the proper basis for treatment of urinary incontinence. According to the Theory stress and urge symptoms may both derive, for different reasons from the same anatomical defect, a lax vagina. This laxity may be caused by defects within the vaginal wall itself, or its supporting structures i.e. ligaments, muscles, and their connective tissue insertions. The vagina has a dual function. It mediates (transmits) the various muscle movements involved in bladder neck opening and closure through three separate closure mechanisms. It also has a structural function, and prevents urgency by supporting the hypothesized stretch receptors at the proximal urethra and bladder neck. Altered collagen/elastin in the vaginal connective tissue and/or its ligamentous supports may cause laxity. This dissipates the muscle contraction, causing stress incontinence, and/or activation of an inappropriate micturition reflex, ("bladder instability") by stimulation of bladder base stretch receptors. The latter is manifested by symptoms of frequency, urgency, nocturia with or without urine loss.

Between suffering and hope: rehabilitation from urinary incontinence as an intervening component.

PubMed

Delarmelindo, Rita de Cássia Altino; Parada, Cristina Maria Garcia de Lima; Rodrigues, Rosalina Aparecida Partezani; Bocchi, Silvia Cristina Mangini

2013-07-01

This is a qualitative study seeking to understand Brazilian women's experience of urinary incontinence (UI) and design a representative theoretical model for the experience. Theoretical saturation occurred after analysis of the 18th non-directive interview in accordance with Grounded Theory. Two phenomena emerged: living with the challenges of UI and experiencing the hope and disappointment of rehabilitation from UI. Upon re-alignment of the components, the core category emerged, namely: between suffering and hope--rehabilitation from urinary incontinence as an intervening component. From the analysis in light of symbolic interactionism, pregnancy and vaginal birth were observed to be symbols of women's vulnerability to the suffering from living with the moral and physio-psychosocial challenges of UI. It is also inferred that the lack of consideration of the Unified Health System (SUS) in investing in the process of rehabilitation from UI may be having a negative effect on the incentive programs for promoting vaginal birth. Most of all, it reveals the ongoing suffering of women with UI, most of whom do not have access to rehabilitation due to the lack of programs geared to the real needs of these users of the Unified Health System.

[Prevalence and risk factors of urinary incontinence in female workers of hotels].

PubMed

Fontana, L; Falconi, G; Di Martino, T; Iavicoli, I

2007-01-01

The International Continence Society defines urinary incontinence (UI) as "a condition in which involuntary loss of urine is a social or hygienic problem and is objectively demonstrable". There are three different jorms of UI. stress urinary incontinence, urge urinary incontinence and mixed incontinence. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of UI in a group of female workers in the hotel sector. The International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Urinary Incontinence short form (ICIQ-UI Short Form) was administered to all female workers and data were collected about age, body mass index, number of vaginal and Caesarean delivery. Results showed a prevalence of UI widely bigger in the plans waitress than in video display terminal workers and suggest the hypothesis that manual handling of loads representing a possible occupational risk for UI.

Toileting behaviours and lower urinary tract symptoms among female nurses: A cross-sectional questionnaire survey.

PubMed

Wan, Xiaojuan; Wu, Chen; Xu, Dongjuan; Huang, Liqun; Wang, Kefang

2016-10-21

Unhealthy toileting behaviours exist among women, and lower urinary tract symptoms have a high prevalence and significant effects on quality of life. However, the relationship between toileting behaviours and lower urinary tract symptoms is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of lower urinary tract symptoms among female nurses, and the association between toileting behaviours and lower urinary tract symptoms. A cross-sectional stratified cluster sampling study. A total of 636 female clinical nurses from tertiary hospitals in Jinan (the capital city of Shandong Province, China). The Toileting Behaviour-Women's Elimination Behaviours and the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms scales were used to assess the participants' toileting behaviours and lower urinary tract symptoms, respectively. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between toileting behaviours and lower urinary tract symptoms. Unhealthy toileting behaviours were common among the female nurses, with delayed voiding being the unhealthiest toileting behaviour, which was followed by place and position preference for voiding. Nearly 68% of the female nurses had at least one lower urinary tract symptom, nearly 50% had incontinence symptoms, 40% had filling symptoms, and 18% had voiding symptoms. Unhealthy toileting behaviours (premature voiding, delayed voiding, and straining to void) were positively associated with lower urinary tract symptoms. However, lower urinary tract symptoms were not significantly associated with voiding place or position preference. Among the control variables, being married or having a history of a urinary tract infection was associated with lower urinary tract symptoms. Having a higher income and regular menstrual period were negatively associated with lower urinary tract symptoms. Compared with vaginal delivery, caesarean delivery had a protective association with lower urinary tract symptoms. Lower urinary tract symptoms among female nurses should not be overlooked, because their prevalence among female clinical nurses exceeded that among the general population of women. These findings highlight the importance of avoiding unhealthy toileting behaviours (especially premature voiding, delayed voiding, and straining to void), as these unhealthy toileting behaviours were significantly associated with susceptibility to lower urinary tract symptoms. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Impact of Parturition on Chemokine Homing Factor Expression in the Vaginal Distention Model of Stress Urinary Incontinence

PubMed Central

Lenis, Andrew T.; Kuang, Mei; Woo, Lynn L.; Hijaz, Adonis; Penn, Marc S.; Butler, Robert S.; Rackley, Raymond; Damaser, Margot S.; Wood, Hadley M.

2015-01-01

Purpose Human childbirth simulated by vaginal distention is known to increase the expression of chemokines and receptors involved in stem cell homing and tissue repair. We hypothesized that pregnancy and parturition in rats contributes to the expression of chemokines and receptors after vaginal distention. Materials and Methods We used 72 age matched female Lewis rats, including virgin rats with and without vaginal distention, and delivered rats with and without vaginal distention. Each rat was sacrificed immediately, or 3 or 7 days after vaginal distention and/or parturition, and the urethra was harvested. Relative expression of chemokines and receptors was determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Mixed models were used with the Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons. Results Vaginal distention up-regulated urethral expression of CCL7 immediately after injury in virgin and postpartum rats. Hypoxia inducible factor-1α and vascular endothelial growth factor were up-regulated only in virgin rats immediately after vaginal distention. CD191 expression was immediately up-regulated in postpartum rats without vaginal distention compared to virgin rats without vaginal distention. CD195 was up-regulated in virgin rats 3 days after vaginal distention compared to virgin rats without vaginal distention. CD193 and CXCR4 showed delayed up-regulation in virgin rats 7 days after vaginal distention. CXCL12 was up-regulated in virgin rats 3 days after vaginal distention compared to immediately after vaginal distention. Interleukin-8 and CD192 showed no differential expression. Conclusions Vaginal distention results in up-regulation of the chemokines and receptors expressed during tissue injury, which may facilitate the spontaneous functional recovery previously noted. Pregnancy and delivery up-regulated CD191 and attenuated the expression of hypoxia inducible factor-1α and vascular endothelial growth factor in the setting of vaginal distention, likely by decreasing hypoxia. PMID:23022009

Virtual reality: a proposal for pelvic floor muscle training.

PubMed

Botelho, Simone; Martinho, Natalia Miguel; Silva, Valéria Regina; Marques, Joseane; Carvalho, Leonardo C; Riccetto, Cássio

2015-11-01

This video's proposal was to present one of the pelvic floor muscle (PFM) training programs, used in our research, that we designed as a virtual reality intervention protocol and investigated its effects on PFM contractility. Two clinical, controlled and prospective studies were conducted, one with 19 nulliparous women without urinary symptoms, who were evaluated by both electromyography and digital palpation (DP) and another with 27 postmenopausal women with mixed urinary symptoms (assessed by both ICIQ UI-SF and ICIQ-OAB), evaluated by vaginal dynamometry and DP, with a total of 46 women in both studies. This protocol was designed so that the participant would play a video game, seated on a pressure base platform, while commanding it through her pelvic movements. Using a virtual reality game, five activities were performed during 30 min, twice a week, with a total of 10 sessions. A significant increase in PFM strength was found in both the nulliparous (p = 0.0001) and the postmenopausal (p = 0.0001) groups of women, as ascertained by DP. A significant increase in postmenopausal women's muscle strength and endurance assessed by dynamometry (p = 0.05) and a concomitant decrease in their urinary symptoms, were observed. This virtual reality program promoted an increase in PFM contractility and a decrease in postmenopausal urinary symptoms.

Effects of physiotherapy treatment for urinary incontinence in patient with multiple sclerosis.

PubMed

Pereira, Carla Maria de Abreu; Castiglione, Mariane; Kasawara, Karina Tamy

2017-07-01

[Purpose] The aim of the study was to evaluate the benefits of physical therapy for urinary incontinence in patients with multiple sclerosis and to verify the impact of urinary incontinence on the patient's quality of life. [Subject and Methods] A case study of a 55-year-old female patient diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and mixed urinary incontinence was conducted. Physical therapy sessions were conducted once a week, in total 15 sessions, making use of targeted functional electrical vaginal stimulation, along with active exercises for the pelvic floor muscles and electrical stimulation of the posterior tibial nerve, behavioral rehabilitation and exercise at home. [Results] After 15 physical therapy sessions, a patient diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and mixed urinary incontinence showed continued satisfactory results after five months. She showed better quality of life, higher strength of pelvic floor muscle and reduced urinary frequency without nocturia and enuresis. [Conclusion] The physical therapy protocol in this patient with multiple sclerosis and mixed urinary incontinence showed satisfactory results reducing urinary incontinence symptomatology and improving the patient's quality of life.

[Reconstructive treatment of female urethral estenosis secondary to erosion by suburethral tape].

PubMed

Angulo, J C; Mateo, E; Lista, F; Andrés, G

2011-04-01

Female urethral stricture secondary to erosión by suburethral sling is an unfrequent problem of difficult solution. Ventral vaginal rotation flaps or buccal mucosa dorsal grafts are not useful because this type of stricture is very proximal (close to the bladder neck) and the vagina is thinned. We present our experience to manage this problem using excision of disease urethral tract, associated to bladder mucosa flap and vaginal sling using transverse vaginal flap to repair the weakened vaginal wall. Three females with urethral stricture secondary to urethral erosion of their sling were treated with a technique of combined urethroplasty with bladder flap and vaginal reinforcement with pediculated vaginal flap transferred in a mini-sling fashion. Two of the patients suffered chronic urinary retention and preoperative placement of urethral catheter was not possible. The patients were evaluated 12, 36 and 55 months after surgery, respectively. Surgery was performed without complications. Results were satisfactory in all the patients, reaching good micturition postoperative caliber and being without incontinence at follow-up. Patients with suburethral erosion by a synthetic sling and secondary severe urethral stricture need total extirpation of the mesh and complete reconstruction of the urethro-vaginal septum. Tension-free urethral suture and use of vaginal sling with the technique here described are two useful technical tips for this problem. Copyright © 2011 AEU. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

Protective role of Nrf2 against mechanical-stretch-induced apoptosis in mouse fibroblasts: a potential therapeutic target of mechanical-trauma-induced stress urinary incontinence.

PubMed

Li, Qiannan; Li, Bingshu; Liu, Cheng; Wang, Linlin; Tang, Jianming; Hong, Li

2018-01-10

We investigated the protective effect and underlying molecular mechanism of nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) against mechanical-stretch-induced apoptosis in mouse fibroblasts. Normal cells, Nrf2 silencing cells, and Nrf2 overexpressing cells were respectively divided into two groups-nonintervention and cyclic mechanical strain (CMS)-subjected to CMS of 5333 μ (1.0 Hz for 4 h), six groups in total (control, CMS, shNfe212, shNfe212 + CMS, LV-shNfe212, and LV-shNfe212 + CMS). After treatment, cell apoptosis; cell-cycle distribution; expressions of Nrf2, Bax, Bcl-2, Cyt-C, caspase-3, caspase-9, cleaved-caspase-3, and cleaved-caspase-9; mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm); reactive oxygen species (ROS); and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured. Thirty virgin female C57BL/6 mice were divided into two groups: control (without intervention) and vaginal distension (VD) groups, which underwent VD for 1 h with an 8-mm dilator (0.3 ml saline). Leak-point pressure (LPP) was tested on day 7 after VD; Nrf2 expression, apoptosis, and MDA levels were then measured in urethra and anterior vaginal wall. Mechanical stretch decreased Nrf2 messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expressions. Overexpression of Nrf2 alleviated mechanical-stretch-induced cell apoptosis; S-phase arrest of cell cycle; up-regulation of Bax, cytochrome C (Cyt-C), ROS, MDA, ratio of cleaved-caspase-3/caspase-3 and cleaved-caspase-9/caspase-9; and exacerbated the decrease of Bcl2 and ΔΨm in L929 cells. On the contrary, silencing of Nrf2 showed opposite effects. Besides, VD reduced LPP levels and Nrf2 expression and increased cell apoptosis and MDA generation in the urethra and anterior vaginal wall. Nrf2 exhibits a protective role against mechanical-stretch -induced apoptosis on mouse fibroblasts, which might indicate a potential therapeutic target of mechanical-trauma-induced stress urinary incontinence (SUI).

Differences in microbiological profile between community-acquired, healthcare-associated and hospital-acquired infections.

PubMed

Cardoso, Teresa; Ribeiro, Orquídea; Aragão, Irene; Costa-Pereira, Altamiro; Sarmento, António

2013-01-01

Microbiological profiles were analysed and compared for intra-abdominal, urinary, respiratory and bloodstream infections according to place of acquisition: community-acquired, with a separate analysis of healthcare-associated, and hospital-acquired. Prospective cohort study performed at a university tertiary care hospital over 1 year. Inclusion criteria were meeting the Centers for Disease Control definition of intra-abdominal, urinary, respiratory and bloodstream infections. A total of 1035 patients were included in the study. More than 25% of intra-abdominal infections were polymicrobial; multi-drug resistant gram-negatives were 38% in community-acquired, 50% in healthcare-associated and 57% in hospital-acquired. E. coli was the most prevalent among urinary infections: 69% in community-acquired, 56% in healthcare-associated and 26% in hospital-acquired; ESBL producers' pathogens were 10% in healthcare-associated and 3% in community-acquired and hospital-acquired. In respiratory infections Streptococcus pneumoniae was the most prevalent in community-acquired (54%) and MRSA in healthcare-associated (24%) and hospital-acquired (24%). A significant association was found between MRSA respiratory infection and hospitalization in the previous year (adjusted OR = 6.3), previous instrumentation (adjusted OR = 4.3) and previous antibiotic therapy (adjusted OR = 5.7); no cases were documented among patients without risk factors. Hospital mortality rate was 10% in community-acquired, 14% in healthcare-associated and 19% in hospital-acquired infection. This study shows that healthcare-associated has a different microbiologic profile than those from community or hospital acquired for the four main focus of infection. Knowledge of this fact is important because the existing guidelines for community-acquired are not entirely applicable for this group of patients.

Postoperative Course and Complications after Pull-through Vaginoplasty for Distal Vaginal Atresia.

PubMed

Mansouri, Roshanak; Dietrich, Jennifer E

2015-12-01

To report the usual postoperative course and complications after pull-through vaginoplasty for isolated distal vaginal atresia. Retrospective chart review at Texas Children's Hospital of all patients who were diagnosed with isolated distal vaginal atresia and underwent pull-through vaginoplasty during the study time frame. None. Postoperative complications such as vaginal stenosis or infection and postoperative vaginal diameter. Sixteen patients were identified and charts were reviewed. Patients were initially evaluated by pelvic magnetic resonance imaging and found to have distended hematometrocolpos with distal vaginal atresia. All patients underwent pull-through vaginoplasty with similar operative techniques. The average distance from the perineum to the level of the obstruction was 1.84 ± 1.2 cm. Two patients, both with obstructions at greater than 3 cm, experienced stricture formation postoperatively. Four patients (25%) experienced postoperative vaginitis. One patient (6.25%) experienced a postoperative urinary tract infection. Two groups (3 cm or less versus greater than 3 cm) were compared, and the presence of stricture was statistically different based on mean centimeters from perineum prior to pull-through vaginoplasty (P = .038). Distal vaginal atresia is managed with pull-through vaginoplasty. Atresias that extend greater than 3 cm from the perineum are at increased risk for vaginal stricture formation and should be followed to monitor for their formation. Other complications are infrequent and minor. Copyright © 2015 North American Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Immunological tools for the assessment of both humoral and cellular immune responses in Foxes (Vulpes vulpes) using ovalbumin and cholera toxin B as an antigenic model.

PubMed

Rolland-Turner, Magali; Farre, Guillaume; Muller, Delphine; Rouet, Nelly; Boue, Franck

2004-10-22

The immune response in the fox (Vulpes vulpes), despite the success of the oral rabies vaccine is not well characterized, and specific immunological tools are needed. To investigate both the humoral and cellular immune response, we used ovalbumin (OVA) and cholera toxin B (CTB) as an antigenic model to set-up ELISA and ELISPOT antibodies secreting cells (ASC) assays in the fox model. Identification of antibodies that cross-react with fox immunoglobulin was performed by Western blot, and their use was adapted for both the ELISA and ELISPOT ASC assay. The humoral and cellular specific immune responses were assessed after intra-muscular or intra-nasal immunization. Intra-muscular immunization resulted in the development of both cellular and humoral anti-OVA and anti-CTB responses in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Immunization via the intra-nasal route resulted in the development of a cellular and humoral response against CTB in PBMCs. This immune response was confirmed using splenocytes from immunized animals by ELISPOT assay at euthanasia. Females immunized via the intra-nasal route developed specific anti-CTB IgM, IgA and IgG in vaginal fluids after the initial boost (day 26) showing that mucosal immunization produces a vaginal immune response in foxes. These immunological tools developed here are now available to be adapted to other antigenic models to facilitate further immune studies in foxes.

Vaginal Approaches Using Synthetic Mesh to Treat Pelvic Organ Prolapse.

PubMed

Moon, Jei Won; Chae, Hee Dong

2016-02-01

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a very common condition in elderly women. In women with POP, a sacrocolpopexy or a vaginal hysterectomy with anterior and posterior colporrhaphy has long been considered as the gold standard of treatment. However, in recent decades, the tendency to use a vaginal approach with mesh for POP surgery has been increasing. A vaginal approach using mesh has many advantages, such as its being less invasive than an abdominal approach and easier to do than a laparoscopic approach and its having a lower recurrence rate than a traditional approach. However, the advantages of a vaginal approach with mesh for POP surgery must be weighed against the disadvantages. Specific complications that have been reported when using mesh in POP procedures are mesh erosion, dyspareunia, hematomas, urinary incontinence and so on, and evidence supporting the use of transvaginal surgery with mesh is still lacking. Hence, surgeons should understand the details of the surgical pelvic anatomy, the various surgical techniques for POP surgery, including using mesh, and the possible side effects of using mesh.

Assessment of posterior vaginal wall prolapse: comparison of physical findings to cystodefecoperitoneography.

PubMed

Altman, Daniel; López, Annika; Kierkegaard, Jonas; Zetterström, Jan; Falconer, Christian; Pollack, Johan; Mellgren, Anders

2005-01-01

The aim of the present study was to compare clinical and radiological findings when assessing posterior vaginal wall prolapse. Defecography can be used to complement the clinical evaluation in patients with posterior vaginal wall prolapse. Further development of the defecography technique, using contrast medium in the urinary bladder and intraperitoneally, have resulted in cystodefecoperitoneography (CDP). Thirty-eight women underwent clinical examination using the pelvic organ prolapse quantification system (POP-Q) followed by CDP. All patients answered a standardized bowel function questionnaire. Statistical analysis measuring correlation between POP-Q and CDP using Pearson's correlation coefficient (r) and Spearman's rank order correlation coefficient (rs) demonstrated a poor to moderate correlation, r=0.49 and rs=0.55. Although there was a strong association between large rectoceles (>3 cm) at CDP and symptoms of rectal emptying difficulties (p<0.001), severity and prevalence of bowel dysfunction showed poor coherence with clinical prolapse staging and findings at radiological imaging. Vaginal topography and POP-Q staging predict neither radiological size nor visceral involvement in posterior vaginal wall prolapse. Radiological evaluation may therefore be a useful complement in selected patients.

Women's attitude and perceptions towards menopause in different cultures. Cross-cultural and intra-cultural comparison of pre-menopausal and post-menopausal women in Germany and in Papua New Guinea.

PubMed

Kowalcek, Ingrid; Rotte, Doerte; Banz, Constanze; Diedrich, Klaus

2005-07-16

To study cross-cultural and intra-cultural differences between the perception and the experience of menopause in pre-menopausal and post-menopausal German and Papua New Guineas women. Concepts concerning menopause and the experience of the menopause were assessed by the symptom categories (i.e. hot flashes, cardiac or sleeping disorders, depression, irritability, lack of drive, vaginal dryness, painful joints or muscles) according to the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS). In addition to the translated English version, a questionnaire in Pidgin-English was offered. Questions about positive and negative expectations of menopause and the acceptance of hormonal replacement therapy were included. Statistical analysis was performed using Chi-square test and the Mann-Whitney U-test as indicated. One hundred and one pre-menopausal and 40 post-menopausal women in Germany as well as 36 pre-menopausal and 41 post-menopausal women in Papua New Guinea were questioned. The expectations regarding the menopause differed significantly in favor of a higher trait intensity concerning the item of hot flashes in Germany and a significantly higher trait intensity in the items cardiac trouble, lack of drive, urological symptoms, vaginal dryness, joint and muscle symptoms in Papua New Guinea. In the menopause experience, significant differences between the cultures are confirmed in favor of a higher trait intensity in Papua New Guinea concerning experienced depression, drop in performance, sexual disturbances and vaginal dryness. The intra-cultural comparison between the concepts concerning menopause and the menopause experience in Germany shows a significantly higher trait intensity with regard to the expected disturbance from hot flashes, depression, agitation, lack of drive and sexual problems as compared to the experienced disturbances. In Papua New Guinea, the survey showed a difference in expected and experienced vaginal dryness. Perception and concepts concerning illness and health are based on culturally produced patterns.

[Immediate fetal-maternal morbidity of first instrumental vaginal delivery using Thierry's spatulas. A prospective continuous study of 195 fetal extractions].

PubMed

Parant, O; Simon-Toulza, C; Capdet, J; Fuzier, V; Arnaud, C; Rème, J-M

2009-10-01

To investigate the immediate fetal-maternal morbidity related to Thierry's spatula for first instrumental vaginal delivery. We conducted a prospective observational study in Toulouse university hospital, including primiparas who vaginally delivered a live singleton cephalic infant>36 WG, between December 2005 and June 2006. Instrumental deliveries were performed using short spatulas in all cases. Outcome measures were: perineal complications (episiotomy, laceration and associated lesions, urinary retention, pain at H48), neonatal morbidity (cutaneous injuries, neonatal transfer, cord pH, Apgar score). Instrumental deliveries were compared with spontaneous vaginal deliveries (SVD). Six hundred and eight primiparas were included, distributed in 195 extractions (32%) and 413 SVD (68%). Spatulas allowed fetal extraction in all cases. Main differences between the two groups were: length of labour, occiput posterior position (12.8% for spatulas vs 1.7% for SVD; p<0.0001), episiotomy rate (97.9% vs 51.3%; p<0.0001), severe perineal lacerations (3.6% vs 0.2%; p=0.0007), post-partum morbidity (pain, hematoma, and urinary retention). No case of early severe neonatal complication was related to the use of the spatulas. Perineal complications (severe lacerations) associated with spatulas are increased with regard to SVD, but comparable to that reported with forceps. The main disadvantage is the high frequency of episiotomy, which should not be systematic. Neonatal morbidity is reduced. Comparative studies (spatulas vs. other procedures) are needed to confirm these data, but spatulas remain a multipurpose instrument which should continue to be taught.

The role of lactobacillus probiotics in the treatment or prevention of urogenital infections--a systematic review.

PubMed

Abad, C L; Safdar, N

2009-06-01

Probiotics are increasingly being used to treat and prevent urogenital infections. However, a critical assessment of their efficacy in major urogenital infections is lacking. We report the results of a systematic review to determine the efficacy of probiotics for prevention or treatment of three major urogenital infections: bacterial vaginosis, vulvovaginal candidiasis, and urinary tract infection. Using multiple computerized databases, we extracted data from clinical trials using a lactobacillus-containing preparation to either prevent or treat a urogenital infection. Of 25 included studies, 18 studies used lactobacillus preparations for treatment or prevention of urogenital infections and seven studies focused solely on vaginal colonization. Four studies included patients with vaginal candidiasis, five included patients with urinary tract infections, and eight included patients with bacterial vaginosis. One included several types of genitourinary infections. Overall, lactobacilli were beneficial for the treatment of patients with bacterial vaginosis. No clear benefit was seen for candidiasis or urinary tract infection. Studies were heterogeneous, with some limited by a small population size. In conclusion, the use of certain lactobacillus strains such as L. rhamnosus GR-1 and L. reuteri for prevention and treatment of recurrent urogenital infection is promising, especially for recurrent bacterial vaginosis. Scant data on the use of probiotics for urinary tract infection and vulvovaginal candidiasis precludes definitive recommendations. Further research and larger studies on types of lactobacilli strains, dosage of lactobacilli, optimal route and vehicle of administration are needed.

Urinary incontinence - vaginal sling procedures

MedlinePlus

... you are numb and feel no pain. A catheter (tube) is placed in your bladder to drain urine from your bladder. The doctor ... to urinate more often More difficulty emptying your bladder, and the need to use a catheter Worsening of urine leakage Before the Procedure Tell ...

The Menopause Time of Life.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Inst. on Aging (DHHS/NIH), Bethesda, MD.

This pamphlet examines menopause and the changes associated with it. Menopause is briefly described, surgical menopause is explained, and the relationship between menopause and the reproductive cycle is discussed. Signs of menopause are described, including hot flashes and vaginal and urinary tract changes. Postmenopausal osteoporosis is explained…

TVT-O vs. TVT for the treatment of SUI: a non-inferiority study.

PubMed

Yang, Xiang; Jiang, Min; Chen, Xinliang; Tong, Xiaowen; Li, Huaifang; Qiu, Jin; Shao, Lingyun

2012-01-01

This study aimed to prospectively compare, in terms of efficacy and safety, the tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) and the transobturator vaginal tape inside-out (TVT-O) procedure for stress urinary incontinence. A cough stress test was applied to the objective outcomes, while urinary incontinence-specific quality of life questionnaire was applied to the subjective outcomes. A test for non-inferiority was carried out for detecting the success rate between the two groups. The objective success rates were found to be 95.4% (62/65) in the TVT group and 96.4% (108/112) in the TVT-O group. No significant difference was found between these two groups in the success rate by non-inferiority test (P < 0.0005), with significant improvement in quality of life and no significant difference in patient satisfaction rates in the two groups (P > 0.05). In the study, the TVT-O procedure could be defined to be identical to the TVT approach in success rate by non-inferiority test.

Parturition Events and Risk of Urinary Incontinence in Later Life

PubMed Central

Thom, David H.; Brown, Jeanette S.; Schembri, Michael; Ragins, Arona I.; Creasman, Jennifer M.; Van Den Eeden, Stephen K.

2011-01-01

Aims To examine the association between specific events during vaginal deliveries and urinary incontinence later in life. Methods A retrospective cohort study of 1521 middle-aged and older women with at least 1 vaginal delivery who were long-term members of an integrated health delivery system. Age, race/ethnicity, current incontinence status, medical, surgical history, pregnancy and parturition history, menopausal status, hormone replacement, health habits, and general health were obtained by questionnaire. Labor and delivery records, archived since 1948, were abstracted by professional medical record abstractors to obtain parturition events including induction, length of labor stages, type of anesthesia, episiotomy, instrumental delivery, and birth weight. The primary dependent variable was current weekly urinary incontinence (once per week or more often) vs urinary incontinence less than monthly (including no incontinence) in past 12 months. Associations of parturition events and later incontinence were assessed in multivariate analysis with logistic regression. Results The mean age of participants was 56 years. After adjustment for multiple risk factors, weekly urinary incontinence significantly associated with age at first birth (p=.036), greatest birth weight (p=.005), and ever having been induced for labor (OR=1.51; 95% CI=1.06–2.16, p=.02). Risk of incontinence increased from OR=1.35 (95% CI=0.92–1.97, p=0.12) for women with one induction to OR=2.67 (95% CI= 1.25–5.71, p=.01) for women with 2 or more inductions (p=0.01 for trend). No other parturition factors were associated with incontinence. Conclusions Younger age at first birth, greatest birth weight, and induction of labor were associated with an increased risk of incontinence in later life. PMID:21780171

Parturition events and risk of urinary incontinence in later life.

PubMed

Thom, David H; Brown, Jeanette S; Schembri, Michael; Ragins, Arona I; Creasman, Jennifer M; Van Den Eeden, Stephen K

2011-11-01

To examine the association between specific events during vaginal deliveries and urinary incontinence later in life. A retrospective cohort study of 1,521 middle-aged and older women with at least one vaginal delivery who were long-term members of an integrated health delivery system. Age, race/ethnicity, current incontinence status, medical, surgical history, pregnancy and parturition history, menopausal status, hormone replacement, health habits, and general health were obtained by questionnaire. Labor and delivery records, archived since 1948, were abstracted by professional medical record abstractors to obtain parturition events including induction, length of labor stages, type of anesthesia, episiotomy, instrumental delivery, and birth weight. The primary dependent variable was current weekly urinary incontinence (once per week or more often) versus urinary incontinence less than monthly (including no incontinence) in past 12 months. Associations of parturition events and later incontinence were assessed in multivariate analysis with logistic regression. The mean age of participants was 56 years. After adjustment for multiple risk factors, weekly urinary incontinence significantly associated with age at first birth (P = 0.036), greatest birth weight (P = 0.005), and ever having been induced for labor (OR = 1.51; 95%CI = 1.06-2.16, P = 0.02). Risk of incontinence increased from OR = 1.35 (95%CI = 0.92-1.97, P = 0.12) for women with one induction to OR = 2.67 (95%CI = 1.25-5.71, P = 0.01) for women with two or more inductions (P = 0.01 for trend). No other parturition factors were associated with incontinence. Younger age at first birth, greatest birth weight, and induction of labor were associated with an increased risk of incontinence in later life. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Abdominopelvic kinesiotherapy for pelvic floor muscle training: a tested proposal in different groups.

PubMed

Botelho, Simone; Martinho, Natalia Miguel; Silva, Valéria Regina; Marques, Joseane; Alves, Fabiola Kenia; Riccetto, Cássio

2015-12-01

This video's proposal was to present one of the pelvic floor muscle (PFM) training programs used in our research, and to study the effects of abdominopelvic kinesiotherapy on female PFM function. A total of 82 women participated in this study, 11 nulliparous, 13 primiparous pregnant, 20 primiparous postpartum and 38 postmenopausal women, who were evaluated first by digital palpation, then by either electromyography or vaginal dynamometry to investigate their PFM strength, followed by ICIQ UI-SF and ICIQ-OAB to evaluate urinary symptoms. This intervention protocol lasted for 60 min, three times a week, with a total of 10 sessions, and was supervised by a physiotherapist, using a gym ball, according to Marques and collaborators. A significant increase in PFM strength was observed by digital palpation in all groups. This finding was confirmed by electromyography in both pregnant (p = 0.0001) and postpartum (p = 0.0001) groups, as well as in 20 of the 38 women from the postmenopausal group (p = 0.003) then by vaginal dynamometry (p = 0.02) in the rest of the women (18) from the same group, with a concomitant decrease in urinary symptoms (p < 0.05). The abdominopelvic kinesiotherapy program promotes an increase in pelvic floor muscle strength and a decrease in urinary symptoms.

360-degree 3D transvaginal ultrasound system for high-dose-rate interstitial gynaecological brachytherapy needle guidance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rodgers, Jessica R.; Surry, Kathleen; D'Souza, David; Leung, Eric; Fenster, Aaron

2017-03-01

Treatment for gynaecological cancers often includes brachytherapy; in particular, in high-dose-rate (HDR) interstitial brachytherapy, hollow needles are inserted into the tumour and surrounding area through a template in order to deliver the radiation dose. Currently, there is no standard modality for visualizing needles intra-operatively, despite the need for precise needle placement in order to deliver the optimal dose and avoid nearby organs, including the bladder and rectum. While three-dimensional (3D) transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) imaging has been proposed for 3D intra-operative needle guidance, anterior needles tend to be obscured by shadowing created by the template's vaginal cylinder. We have developed a 360-degree 3D transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) system that uses a conventional two-dimensional side-fire TRUS probe rotated inside a hollow vaginal cylinder made from a sonolucent plastic (TPX). The system was validated using grid and sphere phantoms in order to test the geometric accuracy of the distance and volumetric measurements in the reconstructed image. To test the potential for visualizing needles, an agar phantom mimicking the geometry of the female pelvis was used. Needles were inserted into the phantom and then imaged using the 3D TVUS system. The needle trajectories and tip positions in the 3D TVUS scan were compared to their expected values and the needle tracks visualized in magnetic resonance images. Based on this initial study, 360-degree 3D TVUS imaging through a sonolucent vaginal cylinder is a feasible technique for intra-operatively visualizing needles during HDR interstitial gynaecological brachytherapy.

Regular exercisers have stronger pelvic floor muscles than nonregular exercisers at midpregnancy.

PubMed

Bø, Kari; Ellstrøm Engh, Marie; Hilde, Gunvor

2018-04-01

Today all healthy pregnant women are encouraged to be physically active throughout pregnancy, with recommendations to participate in at least 30 minutes of aerobic activity on most days of the week in addition to performing strength training of the major muscle groups 2-3 days per week and also pelvic floor muscle training. There is, however, an ongoing debate whether general physical activity enhances or declines pelvic floor muscle function. The objectives of the study were to compare vaginal resting pressure, pelvic floor muscle strength, and endurance in regular exercisers (exercise ≥30 minutes 3 or more times per week) and nonexercisers at midpregnancy. Furthermore, another objective was to assess whether regular general exercise or pelvic floor muscle strength was associated with urinary incontinence. This was a cross-sectional study at mean gestational week 20.9 (±1.4) including 218 nulliparous pregnant women, with a mean age of 28.6 years (range, 19-40 years) and prepregnancy body mass index of 23.9 kg/m 2 (SD, 4.0). Vaginal resting pressure, pelvic floor muscle strength, and pelvic floor muscle endurance were measured by a high-precision pressure transducer connected to a vaginal balloon. The International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Urinary Incontinence Short Form was used to assess urinary incontinence. Differences between groups were analyzed using an independent-sample Student t test. Linear regression analysis was conducted to adjust for prepregnancy body mass index, age, smoking during pregnancy, and regular pelvic floor muscle training during pregnancy. The significance value was set to P ≤ .05. Regular exercisers had statistically significant stronger (mean 6.4 cm H 2 O [95% confidence interval, 1.7-11.2]) and more enduring (mean 39.9 cm H 2 Osec [95% confidence interval, 42.2-75.7]) pelvic floor muscles. Only pelvic floor muscle strength remained statistically significant, when adjusting for possible confounders. Pelvic floor muscle strength and not regular general exercise was associated with urinary continence (adjusted B, -6.4 [95% confidence interval, -11.5 to -1.4]). Regular exercisers at midpregnancy have stronger pelvic floor muscles than their sedentary counterparts. However, pelvic floor muscle strength and not regular general exercise was associated with urinary incontinence. There is a need for additional studies in elite athletes and women performing more strenuous exercise regimens. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Inter- and intra-individual variation in urinary biomarker concentrations over a 6-day sampling period. Part 1: metals.

PubMed

Smolders, Roel; Koch, Holger M; Moos, Rebecca K; Cocker, John; Jones, Kate; Warren, Nick; Levy, Len; Bevan, Ruth; Hays, Sean M; Aylward, Lesa L

2014-12-01

The aim of the current HBM-study is to further the understanding of the impact of inter- and intra-individual variability in HBM surveys as it may have implications for the design and interpretation of the study outcomes. As spot samples only provide a snapshot in time of the concentrations of chemicals in an individual, it remains unclear to what extent intra-individual variability plays a role in the overall variability of population-wide HBM surveys. The current paper describes the results of an intensive biomonitoring study, in which all individual urine samples of 8 individuals were collected over a 6-day sampling period (a total of 352 unique samples). By analyzing different metals (As, Cd, Mn, Ni) in each individual sample, inter- and intra-individual variability for these four metals could be determined, and the relationships between exposure, internal dose, and sampling protocol assessed. Although the range of biomarker values for different metals was well within the normal range reported in large-scale population surveys, large intra-individual differences over a 6-day period could also be observed. Typically, measured biomarker values span at least an order of magnitude within an individual, and more if specific exposure episodes could be identified. Fish consumption for example caused a twenty- to thirty-fold increase in urinary As-levels over a period of 2-6h. Intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC) were typically low for uncorrected biomarker values (between 0.104 and 0.460 for the 4 metals), but improved when corrected for creatinine or specific gravity (SG). The results show that even though urine is a preferred matrix for HBM studies, there are certain methodological issues that need to be taken into account in the interpretation of urinary biomarker data, related to the intrinsic variability of the urination process itself, the relationship between exposure events and biomarker quantification, and the timing of sampling. When setting up HBM-projects, this expected relationship between individual exposure episode and urinary biomarker concentration needs to be taken into account. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.

Hydronephrosis and utero-vaginal prolapse in postmenopausal women: management and treatment

PubMed Central

LEANZA, V.; CIOTTA, L.; VECCHIO, R.; ZANGHÌ, G.; MAIORANA, A.; LEANZA, G.

2015-01-01

Introduction Pelvic organ prolapse is a multifactorial disease. Aim was to evaluate the effect of the whole surgical correction of pelvic floor on hydronephrosis due to severe prolapse. Patients and Methods A retrospective case study on 250 patients presenting with severe uterovaginal prolapse was carried out. Results Hydronephrosis was found in 32/234 (13.7 %). All patients underwent hysterectomy, vaginal apex axial suspension, posterior and anterior repair, vaginally. Prepubic TICT (Tension free Incontinence Cystocoele Treatment) was done in 38 cases (3 with hydronephrosis). Of the 32/234 (13.7 %) patients with hydronephrosis, 18/32 (56.25%) had complete resolution of hydronephrosis after treatment, 14/32 (43.75%) had a reduction of calico-pyelic dilatation, among them 8 patients had a second degree and 6 a first degree of hydronephrosis. Conclusions Vaginal-hysterectomy, axial apex suspension, anterior and posterior repair resulted in either complete resolution or improvement of hydronephrosis. Prepubic TICT did not interfere on mechanical obstruction and maintained postoperative continence in the event of occult Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI). PMID:26888700

Hydronephrosis and utero-vaginal prolapse in postmenopausal women: management and treatment.

PubMed

Leanza, V; Ciotta, L; Vecchio, R; Zanghì, G; Maiorana, A; Leanza, G

2015-01-01

Pelvic organ prolapse is a multifactorial disease. Aim was to evaluate the effect of the whole surgical correction of pelvic floor on hydronephrosis due to severe prolapse. A retrospective case study on 250 patients presenting with severe uterovaginal prolapse was carried out. Hydronephrosis was found in 32/234 (13.7 %). All patients underwent hysterectomy, vaginal apex axial suspension, posterior and anterior repair, vaginally. Prepubic TICT (Tension free Incontinence Cystocoele Treatment) was done in 38 cases (3 with hydronephrosis). Of the 32/234 (13.7 %) patients with hydronephrosis, 18/32 (56.25%) had complete resolution of hydronephrosis after treatment, 14/32 (43.75%) had a reduction of calico-pyelic dilatation, among them 8 patients had a second degree and 6 a first degree of hydronephrosis. Vaginal-hysterectomy, axial apex suspension, anterior and posterior repair resulted in either complete resolution or improvement of hydronephrosis. Prepubic TICT did not interfere on mechanical obstruction and maintained postoperative continence in the event of occult Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI).

Growth hormone in intra-uterine growth retarded newborns.

PubMed

Setia, Sajita; Sridhar, M G; Bhat, Vishnu; Chaturvedula, Latha

2007-11-01

To study growth hormone levels in IUGR and healthy controls and its association with birth weight and ponderal index. We studied 50 Intra uterine growth retarded (IUGR) and 50 healthy newborns born at term by vaginal delivery in JIPMER, Pondicherry, India. Cord blood was collected at the time of delivery for measurement of growth hormone. When compared with healthy newborns, IUGR newborns had higher growth hormone levels (mean +/- SD, 23.5 +/- 15.6 vs 16.2 +/- 7.61 ngm/ml, P = 0.019). A negative correlation was identified between growth hormone levels and birth weight (r2 = - 0.22, P = 0.03) and ponderal index (r2 = - 0.36, P = 0.008). Correlation of growth hormone levels was much more confident with ponderal index than with birth weight. At birth IUGR infants display increased growth hormone levels which correlate with ponderal index much more confidently than with birth weight.

Electrical stimulation with non-implanted devices for stress urinary incontinence in women.

PubMed

Stewart, Fiona; Berghmans, Bary; Bø, Kari; Glazener, Cathryn Ma

2017-12-22

Several treatment options are available for stress urinary incontinence (SUI), including pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT), drug therapy and surgery. Problems exist such as adherence to PFMT regimens, side effects linked to drug therapy and the risks associated with surgery. We have evaluated an alternative treatment, electrical stimulation (ES) with non-implanted devices, which aims to improve pelvic floor muscle function to reduce involuntary urine loss. To assess the effects of electrical stimulation with non-implanted devices, alone or in combination with other treatment, for managing stress urinary incontinence or stress-predominant mixed urinary incontinence in women. Among the outcomes examined were costs and cost-effectiveness. We searched the Cochrane Incontinence Specialised Register, which contains trials identified from the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, MEDLINE In-Process, MEDLINE Epub Ahead of Print, CINAHL, ClinicalTrials.gov, WHO ICTRP and handsearches of journals and conference proceedings (searched 27 February 2017). We also searched the reference lists of relevant articles and undertook separate searches to identify studies examining economic data. We included randomised or quasi-randomised controlled trials of ES with non-implanted devices compared with any other treatment for SUI in women. Eligible trials included adult women with SUI or stress-predominant mixed urinary incontinence (MUI). We excluded studies of women with urgency-predominant MUI, urgency urinary incontinence only, or incontinence associated with a neurologic condition. We would have included economic evaluations had they been conducted alongside eligible trials. Two review authors independently screened search results, extracted data from eligible trials and assessed risk of bias, using the Cochrane 'Risk of bias' tool. We would have performed economic evaluations using the approach recommended by Cochrane Economic Methods. We identified 56 eligible trials (3781 randomised participants). Eighteen trials did not report the primary outcomes of subjective cure, improvement of SUI or incontinence-specific quality of life (QoL). The risk of bias was generally unclear, as most trials provided little detail when reporting their methods. We assessed 25% of the included trials as being at high risk of bias for a variety of reasons, including industry funding and baseline differences between groups. We did not identify any economic evaluations.For subjective cure of SUI, we found moderate-quality evidence that ES is probably better than no active treatment (risk ratio (RR) 2.31, 95% CI 1.06 to 5.02). We found a similar result for cure or improvement of SUI (RR 1.73, 95% CI 1.41 to 2.11), but the quality of evidence was lower. We are very uncertain if there is a difference between ES and sham treatment in terms of subjective cure because of the very low quality of evidence (RR 2.21, 95% CI 0.38 to 12.73). For subjective cure or improvement, ES may be better than sham treatment (RR 2.03, 95% CI 1.02 to 4.07). The effect estimate was 660/1000 women cured/improved with ES compared to 382/1000 with no active treatment (95% CI 538 to 805 women); and for sham treatment, 402/1000 women cured/improved with ES compared to 198/1000 with sham treatment (95% CI 202 to 805 women).Low-quality evidence suggests that there may be no difference in cure or improvement for ES versus PFMT (RR 0.85, 95% CI 0.70 to 1.03), PFMT plus ES versus PFMT alone (RR 1.10, 95% CI 0.95 to 1.28) or ES versus vaginal cones (RR 1.09, 95% CI 0.97 to 1.21).Electrical stimulation probably improves incontinence-specific QoL compared to no treatment (moderate quality evidence) but there may be little or no difference between electrical stimulation and PFMT (low quality evidence). It is uncertain whether adding electrical stimulation to PFMT makes any difference in terms of quality of life, compared with PFMT alone (very low quality evidence). There may be little or no difference between electrical stimulation and vaginal cones in improving incontinence-specific QoL (low quality evidence). The impact of electrical stimulation on subjective cure/improvement and incontinence-specific QoL, compared with vaginal cones, PFMT plus vaginal cones, or drugs therapy, is uncertain (very low quality evidence).In terms of subjective cure/improvement and incontinence-specific QoL, the available evidence comparing ES versus drug therapy or PFMT plus vaginal cones was very low quality and inconclusive. Similarly, comparisons of different types of ES to each other and of ES plus surgery to surgery are also inconclusive in terms of subjective cure/improvement and incontinence-specific QoL (very low-quality evidence).Adverse effects were rare: in total nine of the women treated with ES in the trials reported an adverse effect. We identified insufficient evidence to compare the risk of adverse effects in women treated with ES compared to any other treatment. We were unable to identify any economic data. The current evidence base indicated that electrical stimulation is probably more effective than no active or sham treatment, but it is not possible to say whether ES is similar to PFMT or other active treatments in effectiveness or not. Overall, the quality of the evidence was too low to provide reliable results. Without sufficiently powered trials measuring clinically important outcomes, such as subjective assessment of urinary incontinence, we cannot draw robust conclusions about the overall effectiveness or cost-effectiveness of electrical stimulation for stress urinary incontinence in women.

Reproductive functional anatomy and oestrous cycle pattern of the female brush-tailed porcupine (Atherurus africanus, Gray 1842) from Gabon.

PubMed

Mayor, P; López-Béjar, M; Jori, F; Fenech, M; López-Gatius, F

2003-07-15

In the present study, we examined certain features of the functional anatomy of the female genital tract of the wild brush-tailed porcupine (Atherurus africanus) to obtain data on the reproductive biology of this African forest rodent. Two consecutive experiments were performed. The aim of the first was to establish macroscopic and microscopic features of the genital organs, and to explore correlations between predominant ovarian structures and vaginal contents in 20 wild, mature females. In the second experiment, we inspected the external genitalia and vaginal smears of a further 10 females in captivity on a daily basis for 90 days. The uterus of the brush-tailed porcupine is bicornuate and composed of two separated uterine horns, a uterine body and cervix. The genital tract does not present a vaginal vestibule. Thus, there is no portion common to genital and urinary tracts. Females in the follicular phase of the oestrous cycle showed increased cornification of the vaginal epithelium and a high density of eosinophilic cells in vaginal smears. The vulva and vaginal opening were open, reddish and tumefacted. In luteal phase or in pregnancy, epithelial cornification and eosinophilic features were notably reduced and the vagina presented a pale, non-tumefacted vulva and a vaginal closure membrane. Females in captivity showed spontaneous cycles, a polyoestrous reproduction pattern and, based on features of the external genitalia and vaginal smears, their oestrous cycle length was 27.1+/-6.4 days (n=12).

Outcomes and complications of trans-vaginal mesh repair using the Prolift™ kit for pelvic organ prolapse at 4 years median follow-up in a tertiary referral centre.

PubMed

Khan, Zainab A; Thomas, Lee; Emery, Simon J

2014-12-01

To evaluate the anatomical, functional and post-operative outcomes of polypropylene mesh (Prolift™) in the surgical management of pelvic organ prolapse (POP). A single-centre observational study of 106 successive patients, who underwent Prolift™ mesh repair (POP ≥ 2) with a median follow-up of 4 years, was performed. Outcomes of interest measured included patient demographics, intra and post-operative complications, concomitant procedures for POP or urinary incontinence. Using the Baden-Walker classification, grade ≥2 prolapses in the operated compartment were deemed as surgical failure. Validated questionnaires including ICIQ-VS and ICIQ-UI were used to assess functional outcome. Of the 106 patients, 56 had an anterior, 36 a posterior and 14 a total Prolift™. 101 patients were available for follow-up (median 4 years). 82 women underwent a clinical follow-up whilst 19 underwent a telephonic follow-up. Peri-operative bladder injury was noted in 2 (1.9 %) cases. Six (5.6 %) patients developed mesh exposure post-operatively. Re-operation rates for recurrent prolapse in the operated compartment were 2.8 % (n = 3). At follow-up, prolapse recurrence in the operated compartment was noted in another 7.3 % (n = 6) patients. Combining re-operations for POP and recurrences noted during follow-up, the revised failure rate was 10.1 % (n = 9). De novo prolapse in the non-operated compartment occurred in 19.5 % (n = 16) women. Our study demonstrates that Prolift™ vaginal mesh surgery offers anatomical cure rates of 89.9 %. A higher rate of de novo recurrence in the non-operated compartment was noted suggesting that surgical correction in one compartment may exacerbate recurrence in other compartments.

Graft-versus-Host Disease-Associated Vulvovaginal Symptoms after Bone Marrow Transplantation.

PubMed

Chung, Christopher P; Sargent, Rachel E; Chung, Nadia T; Lacey, James V; Wakabayashi, Mark T

2016-02-01

We conducted a retrospective review to assess the prevalence of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD)-associated gynecologic conditions among bone marrow transplantation (BMT) patients at City of Hope Medical Center. We calculated the associations among the estimated risks of various gynecologic complications, including vaginal stenosis, by performing chi-square tests and t-test statistics. Between 2010 and 2014, 180 patients were referred to the gynecologic clinic after their BMT. One hundred twenty-four patients (69%) had GVHD; among these patients, 51 (41%) experienced dyspareunia and 43 (35%) had vaginal stenosis. GVHD patients were significantly more likely to have vaginal stenosis (P < .0001), more likely to have used a vaginal dilator (P = .0008), and less likely to have urinary incontinence (UI) than those without GVHD (P < .001). There was no difference in developing pelvic organ prolapse (POP) in patients with or without GVHD (P = .4373). GVHD was a common complication after allogenic BMT. Patients with BMT were more likely to have vulvovaginal symptoms, such as dyspareunia and pelvic pain. Patients with GVHD are at high risk for vaginal stenosis requiring the use of a vaginal dilator. However, they are at low risk for developing UI and POP. Copyright © 2016 American Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Vaginal prolapse repair using the Prolift kit: a registry of 100 successive cases.

PubMed

Simon, Marie; Debodinance, Philippe

2011-09-01

To evaluate anatomical, functional outcomes and complications inherent to the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse by implantation of polypropylene mesh, using the Prolift kit. Single-center observational study of 100 successive patients enrolled in a registry, who underwent Prolift prolapse repair. Data on prior treatments, associated procedures and per- and post-operative complications were collected and the patients were seen after 2, 6 and 12 months. Anatomical outcomes were assessed using the International Continence Society Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (ICS POP-Q) system. Function was assessed in terms of urinary and digestive problems, and impact on sex life. Failure was defined as relapse of POP-Q Grade 2 or more. Of the 100 patients, 32 had an anterior, 14 a posterior, 54 a total Prolift; 53 had concomitant urinary incontinence surgery. At 6 and 12 months respectively, 8% and 12% of the patients were lost to follow-up. Mean operating time was 39.8 min. With respect to peri-operative complications, there was no bladder or rectal damage but three patients experienced bleeding (≥ 300 ml) without needing transfusion. POP-Q Grades before surgery were: Grades III-IV cystocele in 65.7% of the anterior Prolift patients; Grades II-III rectocele in the posterior; and 77.8% of total were Grade III and 11.1% Grade IV. The incidence of recurrence was 3.6% at Month 6 and 10.2% at Month 12. Significant (p<0.05) improvements were seen in median scores for the various POP-Q items. With respect to functional problems, stress urinary incontinence was cured in 92% of the patients but 7.7% reported new-onset urinary incontinence after one year. One case of vaginal exposure after one year was observed and major or symptomatic mesh retraction was observed in 8%. New-onset dyspareunia was reported by 11.1% of the patients. These results confirm the feasibility of using the Prolift kit in the repair of prolapse via a vaginal approach and the low per- and post-operative morbidity associated with that technique. Nevertheless, longer-term evaluation is required to confirm the results. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

[The risk of infection to the mother prior, during and after delivery. A registration of nosocomial infections].

PubMed

Hirsch, H A; Niehues, U

1982-09-01

During 5 1/2 years all infections arising in the hospital (nosocomial infections) were registered prospectively by an infection control nurse. The incidence of all nosocomial infections in 3192 maternity patients was 2.1%. In 10,569 women following vaginal deliveries 2.6% and in 1,353 women following Caesarean section 21.1%. The commonest infections were urinary tract infections, endometritis, infections of the abdominal wound or the episiotomy, and a phlebitis of the intravenous infusion site. Measures to prevent infection resulted in a steadily decreasing incidence of infections during the 6 years of registration of nosocomial infections.

Postpartum surveillance of bacteriuria in term vaginal deliveries.

PubMed Central

Orrett, F. A.; Premanand, N.

1998-01-01

This study examined the prevalence of bacteriuria in early postpartum period after term vaginal delivery in Trinidad, West Indies. Asymptomatic bacteriuria occurred in 58 (34.5%) of 168 patients tested. The prevalence of bacteriuria was significantly higher in non-catheterized patients than in catheterized patients and occurred more commonly in patients who were 20 to 29 years old and who were primigravida rather than multigravida. Forty-four patients had a history of urinary tract infection; 18 (40.9%) of these patients had positive urine cultures. Although 10 patients had a vaginal discharge in the late third trimester, none presented with postpartum bacteriuria. Because of the high prevalence of postpartum bacteriuria and the potential to progress to pyelonephritis and chronic renal disease, quantitative urine cultures for all postnatal patients and curative treatment for all positive cultures are recommend. PMID:9549982

Exploratory urinary metabolomics of type 1 leprosy reactions.

PubMed

Mayboroda, Oleg A; van Hooij, Anouk; Derks, Rico; van den Eeden, Susan J F; Dijkman, Karin; Khadge, Saraswoti; Thapa, Pratibha; Kunwar, Chhatra B; Hagge, Deanna A; Geluk, Annemieke

2016-04-01

Leprosy is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae that affects the skin and nerves. Although curable with multidrug therapy, leprosy is complicated by acute inflammatory episodes called reactions, which are the major causes of irreversible neuropathy in leprosy that occur before, during, and even after treatment. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment of reactions reduces the risk of permanent disability. This exploratory study investigated whether urinary metabolic profiles could be identified that correlate with early signs of reversal reactions (RR). A prospective cohort of leprosy patients with and without reactions and endemic controls was recruited in Nepal. Urine-derived metabolic profiles were measured longitudinally. Thus, a conventional area of biomarker identification for leprosy was extended to non-invasive urine testing. It was found that the urinary metabolome could be used to discriminate endemic controls from untreated patients with mycobacterial disease. Moreover, metabolic signatures in the urine of patients developing RR were clearly different before RR onset compared to those at RR diagnosis. This study indicates that urinary metabolic profiles are promising host biomarkers for the detection of intra-individual changes during acute inflammation in leprosy and could contribute to early treatment and prevention of tissue damage. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Treatment of stress urinary incontinence with adipose tissue-derived stem cells.

PubMed

Lin, Guiting; Wang, Guifang; Banie, Lia; Ning, Hongxiu; Shindel, Alan W; Fandel, Thomas M; Lue, Tom F; Lin, Ching-Shwun

2010-01-01

Effective treatment for stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is lacking. This study investigated whether transplantation of adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ADSC) can treat SUI in a rat model. Rats were induced to develop SUI by postpartum vaginal balloon dilation and bilateral ovariectomy. ADSC were isolated from the peri-ovary fat, examined for stem cell properties, and labeled with thymidine analog BrdU or EdU. Ten rats received urethral injection of saline as a control. Twelve rats received urethral injection of EdU-labeled ADSC and six rats received intravenous injection of BrdU-labeled ADSC through the tail vein. Four weeks later, urinary voiding function was assessed by conscious cystometry. The rats were then killed and their urethras harvested for tracking of ADSC and quantification of elastin, collagen and smooth muscle contents. Cystometric analysis showed that eight out 10 rats in the control group had abnormal voiding, whereas four of 12 (33.3%) and two of six (33.3%) rats in the urethra-ADSC and tail vein-ADSC groups, respectively, had abnormal voiding. Histologic analysis showed that the ADSC-treated groups had significantly higher elastin content than the control group and, within the ADSC-treated groups, rats with normal voiding pattern also had significantly higher elastin content than rats with voiding dysfunction. ADSC-treated normal-voiding rats had significantly higher smooth muscle content than control or ADSC-treated rats with voiding dysfunction. Transplantation of ADSC via urethral or intravenous injection is effective in the treatment and/or prevention of SUI in a pre-clinical setting.

The effect of luteal-phase support with vaginal progesterone on pregnancy rates in gonadotropin and clomiphene citrate/intra-uterine insemination cycles in unexplained infertility: A prospective randomised study.

PubMed

Karadag, Burak; Dilbaz, Berna; Karcaaltincaba, Deniz; Sahin, Elif Gulsah; Ercan, Fedi; Karasu, Yetkin; Tonyalı, Nazan Vanlı

2016-08-01

The purpose of this study is to analyse the effect of luteal-phase support on pregnancy rates in gonadotropin + intra-uterine insemination (Gn/IUI) and clomiphene citrate (CC) +IUI (CC/IUI) cycles in patients with unexplained infertility. Equal numbers of patients were recruited in two treatment arms (CC/IUI and Gn/IUI) (n = 100, n = 100, respectively). In each group, 50 patients received vaginal progesterone for 14 days (Crinone 8% vaginal gel, 90 mg per day) for luteal-phase support from the day after IUI and continued until menstruation or the 10th week of gestation if pregnant. There were 29 clinical pregnancies among 200 patients. Pregnancy rates were 12% in CC/IUI cycles, 10% in luteal-phase-supported CC/IUI cycles 16% in Gn/IUI cycles and 20% in luteal-phase-supported Gn/IUI cycles. Although pregnancy rates were higher in Gn/IUI cycles compared to CC/IUI cycles, luteal-phase support did not significantly affect the pregnancy rates in both groups. This study implies that luteal-phase support with progesterone has no pronounced beneficial effect on pregnancy rates in either CC/IUI or Gn/IUI cycles in patients with unexplained infertility.

Bladder function after sacrospinous hysteropexy and vaginal wall repair in women with uterovaginal prolapse.

PubMed

Sayed Ahmed, Waleed A; Taha, Omima T; Hamdy, Mostafa A; Ibrahim, Zakia M; Elshahat, Amal M

2018-05-01

To evaluate the impact of repair of uterovaginal prolapse using sacrospinous hysteropexy and vaginal wall repair on the bladder function. The study was conducted at the urogynecology clinic of Suez Canal University Hospitals, Ismailia from January 2014 to March 2016. This study included women with a diagnosis of uterovaginal prolapse and wishing to preserve their uteri. Bladder function was evaluated through assessment of urological symptoms using a standardized questionnaire - the urogenital distress inventory (UDI-6) - in addition to urodynamic studies just before and six-months after the sacrospinous hysteropexy ± associated vaginal wall repair operation. Twenty-seven patients completed the study with a mean age of 36.5 ± 4 years. Only 3 women had sacrospinous hysteropexy with no additional procedures. Other procedures included anterior colporrhaphy (12), posterior colporrhaphy (9) and perineorrhaphy (15). Based on UDI-6, there was no significant difference between the pre- and post-operative symptoms of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) [8/27 (29.6%) vs. 9/27 (33.3%) respectively; p value = 0.7]. The pre- and post-operative symptoms of urge urinary incontinence were also insignificantly different [13/27 (48.1%) vs. 15/27 (55.5%); p value = 0.5]. The total score of UDI-6 increased from 24.5 ± (14.2) to 32.8 ± (29.4) which was not statistically significant (p value = 0.12). Urodynamically, voiding dysfunction was found less frequently after the operation, however the difference was statistically insignificant [9/27 (33.3%) vs. 8/27 (29.6%); p value = 0.7]. Sacrospinous hysteropexy and associated vaginal wall repair do not affect the bladder function either subjectively or objectively. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Effects of estrogen administration on the colonization capability of lactobacilli and Escherichia coli in the urinary tracts of mice.

PubMed

Silva, Clara; Rey, Rosario; Elena Nader-Macías, María

2004-01-01

The use of probiotic microorganisms has been widely promoted in the last 20 yr. They have been used in the gastrointestinal tract as capsules or as fermented milks. The characteristics of the strains proposed as probiotics have been published or patented under an elaboration process. The first step in designing a probiotic product is to isolate and characterize strains with some beneficial properties. The second step is to determine the optimal conditions to obtain the highest amount of viable microorganisms, together with the study of the best conditions to produce antagonistic substances. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) constitute a common cause of illness in pre- and postmenopausal women. It was estimated that 40-50% of adult women suffer a cystitis during their life. Ninety percent of acquired ambulatory UTIs and 30% of nosocomial infections are produced by Escherichia coli. The healthy human urinary tract is free of microorganisms, except for the anterior urethra, which is colonized by indigenous microbiota. The vaginal environment is a dynamic and complex ecological system with a highly heterogeneous microflora; thus favorable conditions exist for the colonization process, which is also affected by factors external to the tissues. The distal urethra and periurethral areas are separated ecological niches, both covered by the vaginal secretions that contain approx 109 microorganisms/mL. In these secretions, members of the genus Lactobacillus are predominant. Bacterial colonization does not increase because of the urinary flux, which clears the bacterial cells from the outer surfaces, as well as other factors such as pH, osmolarity, and urea concentration.

Interactions among urogenital, intestinal, skin, and oral infections in pregnant and lactating Panamanian Ngäbe women: a neglected public health challenge.

PubMed

González-Fernández, Doris; Koski, Kristine G; Sinisterra, Odalis Teresa; Del Carmen Pons, Emérita; Murillo, Enrique; Scott, Marilyn E

2015-06-01

Interrelationships among bacteria, protozoa, helminths, and ectoparasites were explored in a cross-sectional survey of 213 pregnant and 99 lactating indigenous women. Prevalences in pregnancy and lactation, respectively, were: vaginitis (89.2%; 46.8%), vaginal trichomoniasis (75.3%; 91.1%), bacterial vaginosis (BV; 60.6%; 63.3%), hookworm (56.6%; 47.8%), asymptomatic bacteriuria/urinary tract infection (AB/UTI; 56.2%; 36.2%), cervicitis (33.3%; 6.3%), vaginal yeast (24.9%; 11.4%), Ascaris (32.5%; 17.4%), vaginal diplococci (20.4%; 31.6%), caries (19.7%; 18.2%), scabies (17.4%; 8.1%), and Trichuris (12.5%; 8.7%). Multiple regressions revealed positive associations during pregnancy (trichomoniasis and AB/UTI; diplococci and Ascaris) and lactation (yeast and scabies). Negative associations were detected in pregnancy (BV and trichomoniasis; hookworm and diplococci) and lactation (BV and yeast). Vaginal Lactobacillus reduced odds of diplococci in pregnancy and lactation, but increased Ascaris eggs per gram (epg) and odds of trichomoniasis in pregnancy and yeast in lactation. These associations raised a concern that treatment of one condition may increase the risk of another. © The American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene.

Interactions among Urogenital, Intestinal, Skin, and Oral Infections in Pregnant and Lactating Panamanian Ngäbe Women: A Neglected Public Health Challenge

PubMed Central

González-Fernández, Doris; Koski, Kristine G.; Sinisterra, Odalis Teresa; del Carmen Pons, Emérita; Murillo, Enrique; Scott, Marilyn E.

2015-01-01

Interrelationships among bacteria, protozoa, helminths, and ectoparasites were explored in a cross-sectional survey of 213 pregnant and 99 lactating indigenous women. Prevalences in pregnancy and lactation, respectively, were: vaginitis (89.2%; 46.8%), vaginal trichomoniasis (75.3%; 91.1%), bacterial vaginosis (BV; 60.6%; 63.3%), hookworm (56.6%; 47.8%), asymptomatic bacteriuria/urinary tract infection (AB/UTI; 56.2%; 36.2%), cervicitis (33.3%; 6.3%), vaginal yeast (24.9%; 11.4%), Ascaris (32.5%; 17.4%), vaginal diplococci (20.4%; 31.6%), caries (19.7%; 18.2%), scabies (17.4%; 8.1%), and Trichuris (12.5%; 8.7%). Multiple regressions revealed positive associations during pregnancy (trichomoniasis and AB/UTI; diplococci and Ascaris) and lactation (yeast and scabies). Negative associations were detected in pregnancy (BV and trichomoniasis; hookworm and diplococci) and lactation (BV and yeast). Vaginal Lactobacillus reduced odds of diplococci in pregnancy and lactation, but increased Ascaris eggs per gram (epg) and odds of trichomoniasis in pregnancy and yeast in lactation. These associations raised a concern that treatment of one condition may increase the risk of another. PMID:25825387

Towards rebuilding vaginal support utilizing an extracellular matrix bioscaffold.

PubMed

Liang, Rui; Knight, Katrina; Easley, Deanna; Palcsey, Stacy; Abramowitch, Steven; Moalli, Pamela A

2017-07-15

As an alternative to polypropylene mesh, we explored an extracellular matrix (ECM) bioscaffold derived from urinary bladder matrix (MatriStem™) in the repair of vaginal prolapse. We aimed to restore disrupted vaginal support simulating application via transvaginal and transabdominal approaches in a macaque model focusing on the impact on vaginal structure, function, and the host immune response. In 16 macaques, after laparotomy, the uterosacral ligaments and paravaginal attachments to pelvic side wall were completely transected (IACUC# 13081928). 6-ply MatriStem was cut into posterior and anterior templates with a portion covering the vagina and arms simulating uterosacral ligaments and paravaginal attachments, respectively. After surgically exposing the correct anatomical sites, in 8 animals, a vaginal incision was made on the anterior and posterior vagina and the respective scaffolds were passed into the vagina via these incisions (transvaginal insertion) prior to placement. The remaining 8 animals underwent the same surgery without vaginal incisions (transabdominal insertion). Three months post implantation, firm tissue bands extending from vagina to pelvic side wall appeared in both MatriStem groups. Experimental endpoints examining impact of MatriStem on the vagina demonstrated that vaginal biochemical and biomechanical parameters, smooth muscle thickness and contractility, and immune responses were similar in the MatriStem no incision group and sham-operated controls. In the MatriStem incision group, a 41% decrease in vaginal stiffness (P=0.042), a 22% decrease in collagen content (P=0.008) and a 25% increase in collagen subtypes III/I was observed vs. Sham. Active MMP2 was increased in both Matristem groups vs. Sham (both P=0.002). This study presents a novel application of ECM bioscaffolds as a first step towards the rebuilding of vaginal support. Pelvic organ prolapse is a common condition related to failure of the supportive soft tissues of the vagina; particularly at the apex and mid-vagina. Few studies have investigated methods to regenerate these failed structures. The overall goal of the study was to determine the feasibility of utilizing a regenerative bioscaffold in prolapse applications to restore apical (level I) and lateral (level II) support to the vagina without negatively impacting vaginal structure and function. The significance of our findings is two fold: 1. Implantation of properly constructed extracellular matrix grafts promoted rebuilding of level I and level II support to the vagina and did not negatively impact the overall functional, morphological and biochemical properties of the vagina. 2. The presence of vaginal incisions in the transvaginal insertion of bioscaffolds may compromise vaginal structural integrity in the short term. Copyright © 2017 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Case Report: A Rare Cause of Complicated Urinary Tract Infection in a Woman with Herlyn-Werner-Wunderlich Syndrome.

PubMed

Tsai, Jun-Li; Tsai, Shang-Feng

2016-11-01

Urinary tract infection is a common disease in the general population. However, in patients with frequent urinary tract infection, it is important to determine any treatable cause to avoid recurrence. Herlyn-Werner-Wunderlich syndrome or OHVIRA syndrome is a very rare congenital anomaly with uterus didelphys, obstructed hemivagina, and ipsilateral renal agenesis. The earliest presentation of this syndrome is hematocolpos that develops during menstruation and results in dysmenorrhea and a pelvic mass shortly after menarche. Herein, we report a patient with Herlyn-Werner-Wunderlich syndrome manifested with unusual symptoms, delayed onset and without surgery. The unique point of this patient is the partial obstruction of cervico-vaginal junction. Early diagnosis and timely treatment of OHVIRA syndrome can prevent long-term complications, such as recurrent urinary tract infection and infertility. A high index of suspicion is required, even though OHVIRA syndrome is extremely rare and may have an atypical presentation.

Robotic partial nephrectomy for duplex kidney with ectopic ureter draining in the vagina in an adult patient with urinary incontinence.

PubMed

Mahmood, Humza; Hadjipavlou, Marios; Das, Raj; Anderson, Chris

2017-02-06

A duplex kidney system with an ectopic ureter draining into the vagina is a congenital malformation that typically presents as refractory urinary incontinence. Diagnosis is often difficult to establish and delayed due to a low incidence. We present the case of a patient aged 26 years with a life-long history of persistent urinary incontinence. Initial presentation was at childhood; however, the diagnosis went undetermined for 22 years. CT urography revealed a duplex kidney with an atrophic upper pole associated with an ectopic ureter that drained into the vaginal vault. This is the first description of such a case being managed successfully via a robot-assisted partial nephrectomy approach. Ectopic ureteral duplication should be considered in the differential diagnosis for young women with refractory urinary incontinence. Robotic partial nephrectomy is a safe and effective technique to manage such cases. 2017 BMJ Publishing Group Ltd.

Reliability and validity of urinary nerve growth factor measurement in women with lower urinary tract symptoms.

PubMed

Vijaya, Gopalan; Cartwright, Rufus; Bhide, Alka; Derpapas, Alexandros; Fernando, Ruwan; Khullar, Vik

2016-11-01

The validity and reliability of measurement of urinary NGF as a diagnostic biomarker in women with lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) is uncertain. We aimed to evaluate both the diagnostic and discriminant validity, and the test-retest reliability of urinary NGF measurement in women with LUTD. Urinary NGF was measured in women with LUTD (n = 205) and asymptomatic subjects (n = 31). Urinary NGF was assayed using an ELISA method and normalized against urinary creatinine. NGF/creatinine ratios were compared between symptom subgroups using Mann-Whitney U test, and between different urodynamic diagnoses using the Kruskal-Wallis test. Receiver Operator Characteristic (ROC) analysis was employed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of urinary NGF. Test-retest reliability of NGF measurement was assessed using intra-class correlation (ICC). Urinary NGF was significantly but non-specifically increased in symptomatic patients when compared to controls (13.33 vs. 2.05 ng NGF/g Cr, P < 0.001). On multivariate logistic regression NGF was a good predictor of patients having OAB or not, however, the adjusted odds ratio only 1.006. ROC analysis demonstrated poor discriminant ability between different symptomatic groups and urodynamic groups. Using a cut off of 13.0 ng NGF/g creatinine the test provides a sensitivity of 81%, but a specificity of only 39% for overactive bladder. The assays demonstrated good test-retest reliability with ICC of 0.889. Although urinary NGF can be reliably assayed, and is increased in various LUTDs, it discriminates poorly between these disorders therefore has very limited potential as a biomarker. Neurourol. Urodynam. 35:944-948, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Randomized controlled study of MONARC® vs. tension-free vaginal tape obturator (TVT-O®) in the treatment of female urinary incontinence: comparison of 3-year cure rates.

PubMed

Park, Yoo Jun; Kim, Duk Yoon

2012-04-01

Transobturator approaches to midurethral sling surgery are one of the most commonly performed operations for female stress urinary incontinence throughout the world. However, very few results of randomized clinical trials of transobturator midurethral sling surgery (MONARC vs. TVT-O) for the treatment of female urinary incontinence have been reported. In this study, we compared the 3-year follow-up cure rates of these two procedures. From July 2006 to June 2008, 74 patients who had undergone MONARC (35 patients) or TVT-O (39 patients) were included in the study and were analyzed prospectively. The mean follow-up duration of both groups was 39.2 months. Preoperative and postoperative evaluations included physical examination, uroflowmetry and postvoid residual measurement, involuntary urine loss with physical activity, and urinary symptoms. Cure of female urinary incontinence was defined as patient report of no loss of urine upon physical activity. The patients' satisfaction after treatment was rated as very satisfied, satisfied, equivocal, and unsatisfied. Very satisfied and satisfied were considered as the satisfied rate. There were no significant differences in preoperative patient characteristics, postoperative complications, or success rate between the two groups. The cure rate of the MONARC and TVT-O groups was 85.7% and 84.6%, respectively. The patient satisfaction (very satisfied, satisfied) rate of the MONARC and TVT-O groups was 82.8% and 82.1%, respectively. The MONARC and TVT-O procedures were equally efficient for the treatment of female urinary incontinence, with maintenance of high cure rates for 3 years. Longer follow-up is needed to confirm these results.

Randomized Controlled Study of MONARC® vs. Tension-free Vaginal Tape Obturator (TVT-O®) in the Treatment of Female Urinary Incontinence: Comparison of 3-Year Cure Rates

PubMed Central

Park, Yoo Jun

2012-01-01

Purpose Transobturator approaches to midurethral sling surgery are one of the most commonly performed operations for female stress urinary incontinence throughout the world. However, very few results of randomized clinical trials of transobturator midurethral sling surgery (MONARC vs. TVT-O) for the treatment of female urinary incontinence have been reported. In this study, we compared the 3-year follow-up cure rates of these two procedures. Materials and Methods From July 2006 to June 2008, 74 patients who had undergone MONARC (35 patients) or TVT-O (39 patients) were included in the study and were analyzed prospectively. The mean follow-up duration of both groups was 39.2 months. Preoperative and postoperative evaluations included physical examination, uroflowmetry and postvoid residual measurement, involuntary urine loss with physical activity, and urinary symptoms. Cure of female urinary incontinence was defined as patient report of no loss of urine upon physical activity. The patients' satisfaction after treatment was rated as very satisfied, satisfied, equivocal, and unsatisfied. Very satisfied and satisfied were considered as the satisfied rate. Results There were no significant differences in preoperative patient characteristics, postoperative complications, or success rate between the two groups. The cure rate of the MONARC and TVT-O groups was 85.7% and 84.6%, respectively. The patient satisfaction (very satisfied, satisfied) rate of the MONARC and TVT-O groups was 82.8% and 82.1%, respectively. Conclusions The MONARC and TVT-O procedures were equally efficient for the treatment of female urinary incontinence, with maintenance of high cure rates for 3 years. Longer follow-up is needed to confirm these results. PMID:22536469

Is home-based pelvic floor muscle training effective in treatment of urinary incontinence after birth in primiparous women? A randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Ahlund, Susanne; Nordgren, Birgitta; Wilander, Eva-Lotta; Wiklund, Ingela; Fridén, Cecilia

2013-08-01

To assess the effect of pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) on pelvic floor muscle strength and urinary incontinence (UI) in primiparous women who underwent a home training program between three and 9 months after delivery. Randomized controlled trial. One hundred primiparous women were consecutively recruited from four different antenatal clinics in the urban area of Stockholm, Sweden. Women with UI who had undergone normal term singleton vaginal delivery, 10-16 weeks postpartum were randomly allocated to either intervention or control group. Maximally voluntary contraction (MVC) and endurance were measured with a perionometer. The Oxford grading scale was used to manually estimate the strength of the pelvic floor muscle and self-reported symptoms of UI was registered through the Bristol Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Module (ICIQ FLUTS) questionnaire. Maximally voluntary contraction of the pelvic floor muscle measured with a perionometer. Maximally voluntary contraction increased significantly in both groups between baseline and follow up (p < 0.05). The median MVC in cmHg for the intervention and control group was 16.2 and 12.1 at baseline and 26.0 and 18.2 at follow up, respectively. The median endurance, in seconds, for the intervention and control group was 9.6 and 12.0 at baseline and 26.7 and 23.4 at follow up, respectively. Pelvic floor muscle strength measured with the Oxford Scale increased significantly in both groups between baseline and follow up (p < 0.05). The results indicate that home-based PFMT is effective. However, written training instructions were as efficient as home-based training with follow up visits every sixth week. © 2013 Nordic Federation of Societies of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Preventing urinary tract infections after menopause without antibiotics.

PubMed

Caretto, Marta; Giannini, Andrea; Russo, Eleonora; Simoncini, Tommaso

2017-05-01

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the most common bacterial infections in women, and increase in incidence after the menopause. It is important to uncover underlying abnormalities or modifiable risk factors. Several risk factors for recurrent UTIs have been identified, including the frequency of sexual intercourse, spermicide use and abnormal pelvic anatomy. In postmenopausal women UTIs often accompany the symptoms and signs of the genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). Antimicrobial prophylaxis has been demonstrated to be effective in reducing the risk of recurrent UTIs in women, but this may lead to drug resistance of both the causative microorganisms and the indigenous flora. The increasing prevalence of Escherichia coli (the most prevalent uropathogen) that is resistant to antimicrobial agents has stimulated interest in novel non-antibiotic methods for the prevention of UTIs. Evidence shows that topical estrogens normalize vaginal flora and greatly reduce the risk of UTIs. The use of intravaginal estrogens may be reasonable in postmenopausal women not taking oral estrogens. A number of other strategies have been used to prevent recurrent UTIs: probiotics, cranberry juice and d-mannose have been studied. Oral immunostimulants, vaginal vaccines and bladder instillations with hyaluronic acid and chondroitin sulfate are newer strategies proposed to improve urinary symptoms and quality of life. This review provides an overview of UTIs' prophylaxis without antibiotics, focusing on a practical clinical approach to women with UTIs. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Advances in basic science methodologies for clinical diagnosis in female stress urinary incontinence.

PubMed

Abdulaziz, Marwa; Deegan, Emily G; Kavanagh, Alex; Stothers, Lynn; Pugash, Denise; Macnab, Andrew

2017-06-01

We provide an overview of advanced imaging techniques currently being explored to gain greater understanding of the complexity of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) through better definition of structural anatomic data. Two methods of imaging and analysis are detailed for SUI with or without prolapse: 1) open magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with or without the use of reference lines; and 2) 3D reconstruction of the pelvis using MRI. An additional innovative method of assessment includes the use of near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), which uses non-invasive photonics in a vaginal speculum to objectively evaluate pelvic floor muscle (PFM) function as it relates to SUI pathology. Advantages and disadvantages of these techniques are described. The recent innovation of open-configuration magnetic resonance imaging (MRO) allows images to be captured in sitting and standing positions, which better simulates states that correlate with urinary leakage and can be further enhanced with 3D reconstruction. By detecting direct changes in oxygenated muscle tissue, the NIRS vaginal speculum is able to provide insight into how the oxidative capacity of the PFM influences SUI. The small number of units able to provide patient evaluation using these techniques and their cost and relative complexity are major considerations, but if such imaging can optimize diagnosis, treatment allocation, and selection for surgery enhanced imaging techniques may prove to be a worthwhile and cost-effective strategy for assessing and treating SUI.

Measurement of the thickness of the urethrovaginal space in women with or without vaginal orgasm.

PubMed

Gravina, Giovanni Luca; Brandetti, Fulvia; Martini, Paolo; Carosa, Eleonora; Di Stasi, Savino M; Morano, Susanna; Lenzi, Andrea; Jannini, Emmanuele A

2008-03-01

The physiology and anatomy of female sexual function are poorly understood. The differences in sexual function among women may be partly attributed to anatomical factors. The purpose of this study was to use ultrasonography to evaluate the anatomical variability of the urethrovaginal space in women with and without vaginal orgasm. Twenty healthy, neurologically intact volunteers were recruited from a population of women who were a part of a previous published study. All women underwent a complete urodynamic evaluation and those with clinical and urodynamic urinary incontinence, idiopathic detrusor overactivity, or micturition disorders, as well as postmenopausal women and those with sexual dysfunction were excluded. The reported experience of vaginal orgasm was investigated. The urethrovaginal space thickness as measured by ultrasound was chosen as the indicator of urogenital anatomical variability. Designated evaluators carried out the measurements in a blinded fashion. The urethrovaginal space and distal, middle, and proximal urethrovaginal segments were thinner in women without vaginal orgasm. A direct correlation between the presence of vaginal orgasm and the thickness of urethrovaginal space was found. Women with a thicker urethrovaginal space were more likely to experience vaginal orgasm (r = 0.884; P = 0.015). A direct and significant correlation between the thickness of each urethrovaginal segment and the presence of vaginal orgasm was found, with the best correlation observed for the distal segment (r = 0.863; P < 0.0001). Interobserver agreement between the designated evaluators was excellent (r = 0.87; P < 0.001). The measurement of the space within the anterior vaginal wall by ultrasonography is a simple tool to explore anatomical variability of the human clitoris-urethrovaginal complex, also known as the G-spot, which can be correlated to the ability to experience the vaginally activated orgasm.

Spontaneous puerperal extraperitoneal bladder wall rupture in young woman with diagnostic dilemma

PubMed Central

Sabat, Debabrat Kumar; Panigrahi, Pradeep Kumar; Sahoo, Ranjan Kumar; Acharya, Mousumi; Sahu, Mahesh Ch

2015-01-01

A young female presented with an acute abdominal pain and oliguria for 1 week following normal vaginal delivery. No history of hematuria was present. Patient was having lochia rubra. Sealed uterine rupture was suspected clinically. Initial ultrasound of the patient showed distended urinary bladder containing Foley catheter ballon with clamping of Foley catheter and particulate ascites. Abdominal paracentesis revealed hemorrhagic fluid. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography of abdomen revealed ascites, distended urinary bladder and no extraluminal contrast extravasation in delayed scan. As patient condition deteriorated, repeat ultrasound guided abdominal paracentesis was done which revealed transudative peritoneal collection with distended bladder. Cystoscopy revealed urinary bladder ruptures with exudate sealing the rupture site. Exploratory laparotomy was done and a diagnosis of extraperitoneal bladder rupture was confirmed. The rent was repaired in layers. She was put on continuous bladder drainage for 3 weeks followed by bladder training. It presented in a unique way as there was hemorrhagic peritoneal tap, no macroscopic hematuria and urinary bladder was distended in spite of urinary bladder wall rupture which delayed the diagnosis and treatment. Complete emptying of urinary bladder before second stage of labor and during postpartum period with perineal repair is mandatory to prevent urinary bladder rupture. PMID:26985426

Spontaneous puerperal extraperitoneal bladder wall rupture in young woman with diagnostic dilemma.

PubMed

Sabat, Debabrat Kumar; Panigrahi, Pradeep Kumar; Sahoo, Ranjan Kumar; Acharya, Mousumi; Sahu, Mahesh Ch

2015-01-01

A young female presented with an acute abdominal pain and oliguria for 1 week following normal vaginal delivery. No history of hematuria was present. Patient was having lochia rubra. Sealed uterine rupture was suspected clinically. Initial ultrasound of the patient showed distended urinary bladder containing Foley catheter ballon with clamping of Foley catheter and particulate ascites. Abdominal paracentesis revealed hemorrhagic fluid. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography of abdomen revealed ascites, distended urinary bladder and no extraluminal contrast extravasation in delayed scan. As patient condition deteriorated, repeat ultrasound guided abdominal paracentesis was done which revealed transudative peritoneal collection with distended bladder. Cystoscopy revealed urinary bladder ruptures with exudate sealing the rupture site. Exploratory laparotomy was done and a diagnosis of extraperitoneal bladder rupture was confirmed. The rent was repaired in layers. She was put on continuous bladder drainage for 3 weeks followed by bladder training. It presented in a unique way as there was hemorrhagic peritoneal tap, no macroscopic hematuria and urinary bladder was distended in spite of urinary bladder wall rupture which delayed the diagnosis and treatment. Complete emptying of urinary bladder before second stage of labor and during postpartum period with perineal repair is mandatory to prevent urinary bladder rupture.

Cervical HSV-2 infection causes cervical remodeling and increases risk for ascending infection and preterm birth.

PubMed

McGee, Devin; Smith, Arianna; Poncil, Sharra; Patterson, Amanda; Bernstein, Alison I; Racicot, Karen

2017-01-01

Preterm birth (PTB), or birth before 37 weeks gestation, is the leading cause of neonatal mortality worldwide. Cervical viral infections have been established as risk factors for PTB in women, although the mechanism leading to increased risk is unknown. Using a mouse model of pregnancy, we determined that intra-vaginal HSV2 infection caused increased rates of preterm birth following an intra-vaginal bacterial infection. HSV2 infection resulted in histological changes in the cervix mimicking cervical ripening, including significant collagen remodeling and increased hyaluronic acid synthesis. Viral infection also caused aberrant expression of estrogen and progesterone receptor in the cervical epithelium. Further analysis using human ectocervical cells demonstrated a role for Src kinase in virus-mediated changes in estrogen receptor and hyaluronic acid expression. In conclusion, HSV2 affects proteins involved in tissue hormone responsiveness, causes significant changes reminiscent of premature cervical ripening, and increases risk of preterm birth. Studies such as this improve our chances of identifying clinical interventions in the future.

Cervical HSV-2 infection causes cervical remodeling and increases risk for ascending infection and preterm birth

PubMed Central

McGee, Devin; Poncil, Sharra; Patterson, Amanda

2017-01-01

Preterm birth (PTB), or birth before 37 weeks gestation, is the leading cause of neonatal mortality worldwide. Cervical viral infections have been established as risk factors for PTB in women, although the mechanism leading to increased risk is unknown. Using a mouse model of pregnancy, we determined that intra-vaginal HSV2 infection caused increased rates of preterm birth following an intra-vaginal bacterial infection. HSV2 infection resulted in histological changes in the cervix mimicking cervical ripening, including significant collagen remodeling and increased hyaluronic acid synthesis. Viral infection also caused aberrant expression of estrogen and progesterone receptor in the cervical epithelium. Further analysis using human ectocervical cells demonstrated a role for Src kinase in virus-mediated changes in estrogen receptor and hyaluronic acid expression. In conclusion, HSV2 affects proteins involved in tissue hormone responsiveness, causes significant changes reminiscent of premature cervical ripening, and increases risk of preterm birth. Studies such as this improve our chances of identifying clinical interventions in the future. PMID:29190738

[Indications of mesh in surgical treatment of pelvic organ prolapse by vaginal route: expert consensus from the French College of Gynecologists and Obstetricians (CNGOF)].

PubMed

Deffieux, X; Sentilhes, L; Savary, D; Letouzey, V; Marcelli, M; Mares, P; Pierre, F

2013-11-01

To determine the indications and contraindications concerning prosthetic surgery by vaginal route for pelvic organ prolapse. Literature review and rating of proposals using a formal consensus method. Before surgery for genital prolapse, the patient should be counselled about the different existing techniques (abdominal and vaginal surgery with and without mesh), the reasons why the surgeon offered her the placement of a synthetic mesh and also other nonsurgical treatments (pelvic floor rehabilitation and pessary). The intervention must be preceded by an assessment of bothersome pelvic, urinary, digestive and sexual symptoms. For the surgical treatment of cystocele, the use of a synthetic mesh placed by vaginal route is not recommended routinely. It should be discussed on a case by case considering the risk/benefit ratio. In patients presenting with cystocele recurrence, the placement of a synthetic mesh is a reasonable option, in order to reduce the risk of cystocele recurrence. With the exception of a few situations (rectocele recurrence), the placement of a synthetic mesh is not recommended as first-line therapy for the surgical treatment of rectocele by vaginal route. In case of uterine or vaginal vault prolapse, repositioning the vaginal vault or uterus using synthetic mesh arms is not recommended as first-line surgical therapy. Surgeons should implement established preventive recommendations that may reduce the risk of complications. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Interaction of vaginal Lactobacillus strains with HeLa cells plasma membrane.

PubMed

Calonghi, N; Parolin, C; Sartor, G; Verardi, L; Giordani, B; Frisco, G; Marangoni, A; Vitali, B

2017-08-24

Vaginal lactobacilli offer protection against recurrent urinary and vaginal infections. The precise mechanisms underlying the interaction between lactobacilli and the host epithelium remain poorly understood at the molecular level. Deciphering such events can provide valuable information on the mode of action of commensal and probiotic bacteria in the vaginal environment. We investigated the effects exerted by five Lactobacillus strains of vaginal origin (Lactobacillus crispatus BC1 and BC2, Lactobacillus gasseri BC9 and BC11 and Lactobacillus vaginalis BC15) on the physical properties of the plasma membrane in a cervical cell line (HeLa). The interaction of the vaginal lactobacilli with the cervical cells determined two kinds of effects on plasma membrane: (1) modification of the membrane polar lipid organisation and the physical properties (L. crispatus BC1 and L. gasseri BC9); (2) modification of α5β1 integrin organisation (L. crispatus BC2, L. gasseri BC11 and L. vaginalis BC15). These two mechanisms can be at the basis of the protective role of lactobacilli against Candida albicans adhesion. Upon stimulation with all Lactobacillus strains, we observed a reduction of the basal oxidative stress in HeLa cells that could be related to modifications in physical properties and organisation of the plasma membrane. These results confirm the strictly strain-specific peculiarities of Lactobacillus and deepen the understanding of the mechanisms underlying the health-promoting role of this genus within the vaginal ecosystem.

Uterine rupture disguised by urinary retention following a second trimester induced abortion: a case report.

PubMed

Jiang, Qiaoying; Yang, Liwei; Ashley, Charles; Medlin, Erin E; Kushner, David M; Zheng, Yanmei

2015-01-22

Uterine rupture classically presents with severe abdominal pain, loss of fetal station, vaginal bleeding, and shock. We present a case of uterine rupture presenting as significant urinary retention that occurred following a second trimester abortion induced with mifepristone and misoprostol. Uterine rupture was discovered unexpectedly on diagnostic laparoscopy. The uterine rupture was contained by dense adhesions between the omentum and bladder with the previous uterine cesarean hysterotomy scar. This case highlights the difficulties in diagnosis of abnormal placentation and an unusual presentation of uterine rupture. This case was managed successfully laparoscopically.

[Suburethral bands in women urinary stress incontinence: a review of the various techniques].

PubMed

Hermieu, J F

2005-01-01

With more than 1,000,000 procedures in the world and the good results that have been published (85% recovery rate, low morbidity), Tension free Vaginal Tape (TVT) is now considered the gold standard for the treatment of female urinary stress incontinence. Currently, advances are noticed concerning the material used (monofilament, multifilament or extruded cross-linked polypropylene), the surgical access (ascending or descending retropubic, transobturator approach), and the ancillary instruments. The surgeon's vigilance is essential in selecting the most adapted material and access to obtain good results and the lower morbidity rate.

[Pelvic floor and pregnancy].

PubMed

Fritel, X

2010-05-01

Congenital factor, obesity, aging, pregnancy and childbirth are the main risk factors for female pelvic floor disorders (urinary incontinence, anal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, dyspareunia). Vaginal delivery may cause injury to the pudendal nerve, the anal sphincter, or the anal sphincter. However the link between these injuries and pelvic floor symptoms is not always determined and we still ignore what might be the ways of prevention. Of the many obstetrical methods proposed to prevent postpartum symptoms, episiotomy, delivery in vertical position, delayed pushing, perineal massage, warm pack, pelvic floor rehabilitation, results are disappointing or limited. Caesarean section is followed by less postnatal urinary incontinence than vaginal childbirth. However this difference tends to disappear with time and following childbirth. Limit the number of instrumental extractions and prefer the vacuum to forceps could reduce pelvic floor disorders after childbirth. Ultrasound examination of the anal sphincter after a second-degree perineal tear is useful to detect and repair infra-clinic anal sphincter lesions. Scientific data is insufficient to justify an elective cesarean section in order to avoid pelvic floor symptoms in a woman without previous disorders. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

A Review of Ten Years of the Study for Monitoring Antimicrobial Resistance Trends (SMART) from 2002 to 2011.

PubMed

Morrissey, Ian; Hackel, Meredith; Badal, Robert; Bouchillon, Sam; Hawser, Stephen; Biedenbach, Douglas

2013-11-01

Surveillance of antimicrobial agent resistance provides important information to guide microbiologists and infectious disease specialists understanding of the control and the spread of resistance mechanisms within the local environment. Continued monitoring of antimicrobial resistance patterns in the community and in local hospital environments is essential to guide effective empiric therapy. The Study for Monitoring Antimicrobial Resistance Trends (SMART) has monitored the in vitro susceptibility patterns of clinical Gram-negative bacilli to antimicrobial agents collected worldwide from intra-abdominal infections since 2002 and urinary tract infections since 2009. Resistance trends, with a particular focus on carbapenem resistance and the rate of extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs), were analyzed. Isolates from intra-abdominal infections (n = 92,086) and urinary-tract infections (n = 24,705) were collected and tested using Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute methods. This review presents carbapenem susceptibility and ESBL rates over ten years of SMART study analysis, including key publications during this period. The SMART study has proved to be a valuable resource in determining pathogen prevalence and antibiotic susceptibility over the last ten years and continues to provide evidence for regulatory susceptibility breakpoints and clinical decision making.

On the Biomechanics of Vaginal Birth and Common Sequelae

PubMed Central

Ashton-Miller, James A.; DeLancey, John O.L.

2010-01-01

Approximately 11% of U.S. women undergo surgery for pelvic floor dysfunction, including genital organ prolapse and urinary and fecal incontinence. The major risk factor for developing these conditions is giving vaginal birth. Vaginal birth is a remarkable event about which little is known from a biomechanical perspective. We first review the functional anatomy of the female pelvic floor, the normal loads acting on the pelvic floor in activities of daily living, and the functional capacity of the pelvic floor muscles. Computer models show that the stretch ratio in the pelvic floor muscles can reach an extraordinary 3.26 by the end of the second stage of labor. Magnetic resonance images provide evidence that show that the pelvic floor regions experiencing the most stretch are at the greatest risk for injury, especially in forceps deliveries. A conceptual model suggests how these injuries may lead to the most common form of pelvic organ prolapse, a cystocele. PMID:19591614

Local Oestrogen for Pelvic Floor Disorders: A Systematic Review

PubMed Central

Weber, M. A.; Kleijn, M. H.; Langendam, M.; Limpens, J.; Heineman, M. J.; Roovers, J. P.

2015-01-01

Objective The decline in available oestrogen after menopause is a possible etiological factor in pelvic floor disorders like vaginal atrophy (VA), urinary incontinence (UI), overactive bladder (OAB) and pelvic organ prolapse (POP). This systematic review will examine the evidence for local oestrogen therapy in the treatment of these pelvic floor disorders. Evidence Acquisition We performed a systematic search in MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and the non-MEDLINE subset of PubMed from inception to May 2014. We searched for local oestrogens and VA (I), UI/OAB (II) and POP (III). Part I was combined with broad methodological filters for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and secondary evidence. For part I and II two reviewers independently selected RCTs evaluating the effect of topical oestrogens on symptoms and signs of VA and UI/OAB. In part III all studies of topical oestrogen therapy in the treatment of POP were selected. Data extraction and the assessment of risk of bias using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool was undertaken independently by two reviewers. Evidence Synthesis The included studies varied in ways of topical application, types of oestrogen, dosage and treatment durations. Objective and subjective outcomes were assessed by a variety of measures. Overall, subjective and urodynamic outcomes, vaginal maturation and vaginal pH changed in favor of vaginal oestrogens compared to placebo. No obvious differences between different application methods were revealed. Low doses already seemed to have a beneficial effect. Studies evaluating the effect of topical oestrogen in women with POP are scarce and mainly assessed symptoms and signs associated with VA instead of POP symptoms. Conclusion Topical oestrogen administration is effective for the treatment of VA and seems to decrease complaints of OAB and UI. The potential for local oestrogens in the prevention as well as treatment of POP needs further research. PMID:26383760

Menarche? A Case of Abdominal Pain and Vaginal Bleeding in a Preadolescent Girl.

PubMed

Riney, Lauren C; Reed, Jennifer L; Kruger, Laura L; Brody, Alan J; Pomerantz, Wendy J

2015-11-01

Abdominal pain is one of the most common complaints in the pediatric ED. Because of the broad range of potential diagnoses, it can pose challenges in diagnosis and therapy in the preadolescent girl. An 11-year-old previously healthy girl presented to our pediatric ED with fever, decreased appetite, vaginal bleeding, and abdominal pain. Initial evaluation yielded elevated creatinine levels, leukocytosis with bandemia, elevated inflammatory markers, and urine concerning for a urinary tract infection. She began receiving antibiotics for presumed pyelonephritis and was admitted to the hospital. After worsening respiratory status and continued abdominal pain, a computed tomography scan was obtained and a pelvic foreign body and abscess were identified. Adolescent gynecology was consulted for examination under anesthesia for abscess drainage and foreign body removal. A foreign body in the vagina or uterus can present as vaginal discharge, vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain, dysuria, or hematuria. Because symptoms can be diverse, an intravaginal or uterine foreign body should be considered in the preteen female patient presenting to the ED with abdominal pain. Copyright © 2015 American College of Emergency Physicians. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Surgical Treatment of Persistent Vaginal Granulation Tissue Using CO2 Laser Vaporization Under Colposcopic and Laparoscopic Guidance

PubMed Central

Mapp, Tiffany; Mama, Saifuddin; Echols, Karolynn T.

2012-01-01

Introduction: There have been many reports in the literature on vaginal mesh erosion as a complication of pelvic floor reconstructive surgery. Several reports describe successful surgical excision of the exposed mesh as a resolution. However, in rare cases of mesh erosion, poor surgical outcomes and multiple resection failures have been reported. We describe an innovative surgical approach to persistent vaginal mesh erosion using CO2 laser vaporization under colposcopic and laparoscopic guidance. Case Description: A 58-y-old postmenopausal woman first presented with a 3-y history of vaginal discharge and spotting after undergoing a Mentor ObTape transobturator sling (Mentor Corp, Santa Barbara, CA), for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence. Despite surgical removal of the mesh and multiple attempts at cauterization of persistent granulation tissue, her symptoms persisted. Discussion: Using a CO2 laser under colposcopic and laparoscopic guidance, we were able to safely expose and remove the remaining portion of retained mesh. To our knowledge, this is the first report describing CO2 laser vaporization as a surgical approach for the successful treatment of recurrent mesh erosion. PMID:23318081

An in-house Composix™-based pubovaginal sling trial for female stress urinary incontinence: Five-year comparative followup to tension-free and transobturator vaginal tapes

PubMed Central

Ben-Zvi, Tal; Moore, Katherine; Haidar, Nadim; Gregoire, Mireille

2017-01-01

Introduction We compared the efficacy of three slings in the long-term treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI): tension-free vaginal tape (TVT), vaginal tape-obturator (TVT-O), and an in-house two-layered polypropylene mesh with a submicronic polytetrafluoroethylene (Composix™). Our primary endpoint was the objective measurement of continence (24-hour pad test). Secondarily, we measured the satisfaction and complication rates. Methods This prospective, non-randomized study included 128 patients with SUI. Preoperative evaluation included medical history, physical exam, 24-hour pad test, Urinary Incontinence Quality of Life Scale (IQOL), FPSUND, and global satisfaction questionnaires. Patients were followed at one month postoperative, biannually for two years, and then annually for a total of five years. Followup visits included a focused questionnaire, physical exam, satisfaction questionnaire, 24-hour pad test, IQOL, and FPSUND questionnaires. Results Composix, TVT, and TVT-O groups included 60, 34, and 34 patients, respectively. No significant differences were found in baseline characteristics except for the pad test. Length of catheterization was the only immediate operative significant parameter (Composix 4.7 days vs. TVT 1.1 days vs. TVT-O 2.6 days; p=0.03). The entire cohort had significant improvements in their IQOL, FPSUND, and pad test at one and four years (p<0.01). The cohort-wide 24-hour pad test average weight was 30.4 g preoperatively vs. 5 g at 12 months (p<0.00001) (Composix 37 to 5 g, TVT 83 to 4 g, and TVT-O 55 to 5 g). The Composix group had a higher number of minor complications (Clavien I, II) and secondary procedures. Conclusions This single-surgeon cohort with five-year followup demonstrated a large improvement and maintenance of continence in all three surgical groups. The Composix-based sling provided comparable continence outcomes at a fraction of the cost; however, its increased morbidity and higher complication rate raise concerns over future use PMID:28798831

The pharmacology of gynaecology.

PubMed

Tothill, A

1980-09-01

Focus in this discussion of the pharmacology of gynecology is on the following: vaginal infections; genital herpes; genital warts; pelvic inflammatory disease; urinary infections; pruritus vulvae; menstrual problems; infertility; oral contraception; and hormone replacement therapy. Doctors in England working in Local Authority Family Planning Clinics are debarred from prescribing, and any patient with a vaginal infection has to be referred either to a special clinic or to her general practitioner which is often preferable as her medical history will be known. Vaginal discharge is a frequent complaint, and it is necessary to obtain full details. 1 of the most common infections is vaginal candidosis. Nystatin pessaries have always been a useful 1st-line treatment and are specific for this type of infection. Trichomonas infection also occurs frequently and responds well to metronidazole in a 200 mg dosage, 3 times daily for 7 days. It is necessary to treat the consort at the same time. Venereal diseases such as syphilis and gonorrhea always require vigorous treatment. Patients are now presenting with herpes genitalis far more often. The only treatment which is currently available, and is as good as any, is the application of warm saline to the vaginal area. Genital warts may be discovered on routine gynecological examination or may be reported to the doctor by the patient. 1 application of a 20% solution of podophyllum, applied carefully to each wart, usually effects a cure. Pelvic inflammatory disease seems to be on the increase. Provided any serious disease is ruled out a course of systemic antibiotics is often effective. Urinary infections are often seen in the gynecologic clinic, and many of these will respond well to 2 tablets of co-trimoxazole, 2 times daily for 14 days. In pruritus vulvae it is important to determine whether the cause is general or local. Menstrual problems regularly occur and have been increased by the IUD and the low-dose progesterone pill. Infertility necessitates investigation. It is helpful to use the temperature chart method to determine whether the patient is ovulating. Oral contraception merits only passing mention, i.e., the introduction of a new sequential pill containing ethynloestradiol and levonorgestrol. There is always the question of a possible relationship between long-term OC use and the development of endometrial cancer. There are certain definite indications for hormone replacement therapy, i.e., hot flushes, sweating and atrophic vaginitis.

Prevention of recurrent urinary tract infections.

PubMed

Wagenlehner, F M E; Vahlensieck, W; Bauer, H W; Weidner, W; Piechota, H J; Naber, K G

2013-03-01

Urinary tract infections (UTI) are among the most frequent bacterial infections in the community and health care setting. Mostly young and, to some extent, postmenopausal women are affected by recurrent UTI (rUTI) defined as ≥3 UTI/year or ≥2 UTI/half year. In contrast, rUTI is rare in healthy men. On the other hand, rUTI are frequently found in female and male patients with complicating urological factors, e.g. urinary catheters, infection stones. Remediable predisposing factors in uncomplicated rUTI in women are rare. In complicated rUTI the success depends mainly on the possibility to eliminate or at leastimprove the complicating risk factors. Continuous antibiotic prophylaxis or postcoital prophylaxis, if there is close correlation with sexual intercourse, are most effective to prevent rUTI. Nitrofurantoin, trimethoprim (or cotrimoxazole), and fosfomycin trometamol are available as first-line drugs. Oral cephalosporins and quinolones should be restricted to specific indications. Antibiotic prophylaxis reduces the number of uropathogens in the gut and/or vaginal flora and reduces bacterial "fitness". Given the correct indication, the recurrence rate of rUTI can be reduced by about 90%. Due to possible adverse events and the concern of selecting resistant pathogens, according to the guidelines of the European Association of Urology antimicrobial prophylaxis should be considered only after counselling, behavioural modification and non-antimicrobial measures have been attempted. In postmenopausal patients vaginal substitution of oestriol should be started first. Oral or parenteral immunoprophylaxis is another option in patients with rUTI. Other possibilities with varying scientific evidence are prophylaxis with cranberry products, specific plant combinations or probiotics. The prophylaxis of catheter-associated UTI should employ strategies which result in a reduction of frequency and duration of catheter drainage of the urinary tract. The currently available catheter materials have only little influence on reducing catheter-associated rUTI.

[The Life Impacts and Symptom Distress in Women With Pelvic Organ Prolapse Syndrome Before Pelvic Reconstruction Surgery].

PubMed

Ko, I-Chen; Lo, Tsia-Shu; Lu, Yu-Ying; Tsao, Lee-Ing

2017-02-01

The decision whether or not to undergo pelvic reconstructive surgery is difficult for women suffering from pelvic organ prolapse. However, little research has examined the symptom distress and life impacts that these women face prior to this surgery. Thus, it is crucial that gynecology nurses learn about these life impacts and symptom distresses in order to help these women make the best decisions with regard to surgery. To explore the life impacts and degree of symptom distress in pre-surgery women with pelvic organ prolapse; to explore the relationships between demographic data and the variables of life impact and degree of symptom distress; and to identify the factors that relate to the explainable variance in the life impacts of these women. A cross-sectional and correlational research design was used and a total of 110 women with pelvic organ prolapse who had not yet undergone pelvic reconstruction surgery were recruited in the gynecological clinics of one medical center in Taiwan. Daytime urination frequency was the most prevalent urinary tract symptom noted by the participants; vaginal protrusion was the most prevalent pelvis-related symptom noted; and depression and anxiety were the most prevalent life impacts noted. Moreover, greater lower-urinary-tract symptom distress was associated with greater pelvic-symptom distress. Furthermore, greater lower urinary tract and pelvic symptom distresses were associated with a greater negative impact on life. Education background and pelvis-related symptoms were the explained variances in pre-surgery life impacts. Women with pelvic organ prolapse should pay particular attention to symptoms that include: daytime urinary frequency, vaginal protrusion, and emotional problems including depression and anxiety. Education background and level of symptom distress should be taken into consideration when caring for the life impacts of this vulnerable group of women.

A Novel Rapid MALDI-TOF-MS-Based Method for Measuring Urinary Globotriaosylceramide in Fabry Patients

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alharbi, Fahad J.; Geberhiwot, Tarekegn; Hughes, Derralynn A.; Ward, Douglas G.

2016-04-01

Fabry disease is an X-linked lysosomal storage disorder caused by deficiency of α-galactosidase A, resulting in the accumulation of glycosphingolipids in various organs. Globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) and its isoforms and analogues have been identified and quantified as biomarkers of disease severity and treatment efficacy. The current study aimed to establish rapid methods for urinary Gb3 extraction and quantitation. Urine samples from 15 Fabry patients and 21 healthy control subjects were processed to extract Gb3 by mixing equal volumes of urine, methanol containing an internal standard, and chloroform followed by sonication and centrifugation. Thereafter, the lower phase was analyzed by MALDI-TOF MS and the relative peak areas of the internal standard and four major species of Gb3 determined. The results showed high reproducibility with intra- and inter-assay coefficients variation of 9.9% and 13.7%, respectively. The limit of detection was 0.15 ng/μL and the limit of quantitation was 0.30 ng/μL. Total urinary Gb3 levels in both genders of classic Fabry patients were significantly higher than in healthy controls (p < 0.0001). Gb3 levels in Fabry males were higher than in Fabry females (p = 0.08). We have established a novel assay for urinary total Gb3 that takes less than 15 min from start to finish.

Renal blood flow, fractional excretion of sodium and acute kidney injury: time for a new paradigm?

PubMed

Prowle, John; Bagshaw, Sean M; Bellomo, Rinaldo

2012-12-01

Global renal blood flow is considered pivotal to renal function. Decreased global renal blood flow (decreased perfusion) is further considered the major mechanism of reduced glomerular filtration rate responsible for the development of acute kidney injury (AKI) in critically ill patients. Additionally, urinary biochemical tests are widely taught to allow the differential diagnosis of prerenal (functional) AKI and intrinsic [structural AKI (so-called acute tubular necrosis)]. In this review we will examine recent evidence regarding these two key clinical paradigms. Recent animal experiments and clinical studies in humans using cine-phase contrast magnetic resonance technology are not consistent with the decreased perfusion paradigm. They suggest instead that changes in the intra-renal circulation including modification in efferent arteriolar function and intra-renal shunting are much more likely to be responsible for AKI, especially in sepsis. Similarly, recent human studies indicate the urinary biochemistry has limited diagnostic or prognostic ability and is dissociated form biomarker and microscopic evidence of tubular injury. Intra-renal microcirculatory changes are likely more important than changes in global blood flow in the development of AKI. Urinary biochemistry is not a clinically useful diagnostic or prognostic tool in critically ill patients at risk of or with AKI.

Technological and Probiotic Traits of the Lactobacilli Isolated From Vaginal Tract of the Healthy Women for Probiotic Use.

PubMed

Bouridane, Hamida; Sifour, Mohamed; Idoui, Tayeb; Annick, Lejeune; Thonard, Philip

2016-09-01

For biotechnological application, selected lactic acid bacteria strains belonging to the genera Lactobacillus (Lb) are proposed as an alternative to the antibiotics for the prevention and treatment of urogenital tract infections. Isolating and selecting vaginal lactobacilli strains for probiotic use based on their technological and probiotic aptitudes. The vaginal isolates were examined for their essential characteristics as the potential probiotic such as low pH tolerance, bile-salt and simulated human intestinal fluid (SIF) resistance, adhesion to the vaginal epithelial cells (VECs), aggregation and coaggregation, surface hydrophobicity, antimicrobial activity, acid production, antibiotic resistance, and resistance to spermicides. The best strain was identified by PCR. From 70 lactobacilli isolates and according to the 16 rDNA sequences, isolates B6 and B10 showed the closest homology (99%) to the Lb. gasseri and Lb. plantarum respectively. They produced hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ), tolerant to acid, bile, simulated human intestinal fluid, present a strong adhesion, highest percentages of aggregation, and antibacterial activity. These strains are resistant to the spermicide and actively acidify the growth medium. Strains Lb. plantarum B10 and Lb. gasseri B6 have a strong potential probiotic confirming their value as a tool for prevention against urinary and vaginal infections.

Technological and Probiotic Traits of the Lactobacilli Isolated From Vaginal Tract of the Healthy Women for Probiotic Use

PubMed Central

Bouridane, Hamida; Sifour, Mohamed; Idoui, Tayeb; Annick, Lejeune; Thonard, Philip

2016-01-01

Background For biotechnological application, selected lactic acid bacteria strains belonging to the genera Lactobacillus (Lb) are proposed as an alternative to the antibiotics for the prevention and treatment of urogenital tract infections. Objectives Isolating and selecting vaginal lactobacilli strains for probiotic use based on their technological and probiotic aptitudes. Materials and Methods The vaginal isolates were examined for their essential characteristics as the potential probiotic such as low pH tolerance, bile-salt and simulated human intestinal fluid (SIF) resistance, adhesion to the vaginal epithelial cells (VECs), aggregation and coaggregation, surface hydrophobicity, antimicrobial activity, acid production, antibiotic resistance, and resistance to spermicides. The best strain was identified by PCR. Results From 70 lactobacilli isolates and according to the 16 rDNA sequences, isolates B6 and B10 showed the closest homology (99%) to the Lb. gasseri and Lb. plantarum respectively. They produced hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), tolerant to acid, bile, simulated human intestinal fluid, present a strong adhesion, highest percentages of aggregation, and antibacterial activity. These strains are resistant to the spermicide and actively acidify the growth medium. Conclusions Strains Lb. plantarum B10 and Lb. gasseri B6 have a strong potential probiotic confirming their value as a tool for prevention against urinary and vaginal infections. PMID:28959336

Preoperative vaginal preparation with baby shampoo compared with povidone-iodine before gynecologic procedures.

PubMed

Lewis, Linda A; Lathi, Ruth B; Crochet, Patrice; Nezhat, Camran

2007-01-01

The objective of this study was to compare the postoperative infection rates between patients receiving either povidone-iodine (PI) or baby shampoo vaginal preparations before gynecologic surgery. Cohort study (Canadian Task Force classification II-2). University referral center for gynecologic endoscopy. All patients underwent minimally invasive gynecologic surgery including hysteroscopy or laparoscopy. The agents used for vaginal preparation were either baby shampoo in a 1:1 dilution with sterile normal saline solution or PI 7.5% scrub solution. Charts were reviewed for evidence of infection within 30 days of surgery (symptoms of urinary tract infection, abdominal or vaginal wound infections, temperature > 100.4 degrees F, and fungal or bacterial vaginitis). A total of 249 cases were collected; 96 subjects underwent surgery before the change to baby shampoo and 153 subjects after. Both groups were well matched for the types of surgery performed, age, risk factors for postoperative infections, and the postoperative diagnosis. The infection rates were 14/96 (14.6%) with PI preparation versus 18/153 (11.8%) with baby shampoo (p = .52). Baby shampoo should be studied as an alternative to PI because it is a nonirritating, inexpensive mild detergent. This preliminary study suggests that baby shampoo is as effective as PI in preventing postoperative infection.

Optical clearing of vaginal tissues

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chang, Chun-Hung; Myers, Erinn M.; Kennelly, Michael J.; Fried, Nathaniel M.

2017-02-01

Near-IR laser energy in conjunction with applied tissue cooling is being investigated for thermal remodeling of endopelvic fascia during minimally invasive treatment of female stress urinary incontinence. Previous simulations of light transport, heat transfer, and tissue thermal damage have shown that a transvaginal approach is more feasible than a transurethral approach. However, undesirable thermal insult to vaginal wall was predicted. This study explores whether an optical clearing agent (OCA) can improve optical penetration depth and completely preserve vaginal wall during subsurface treatment of endopelvic fascia. Several OCA mixtures were tested, and 100% glycerol was found to be optimal. Optical transmission studies, optical coherence tomography, reflection spectroscopy, and computer simulations of thermal damage to tissue using glycerol were performed. The OCA produced a 61% increase in optical transmission through porcine vaginal wall at 37 °C after 30 min. Monte Carlo (MC) light transport, heat transfer, and Arrhenius integral thermal damage simulations were performed. MC model showed improved energy deposition in endopelvic fascia using OCA. Without OCA, 62, 37, and 1% of energy was deposited in vaginal wall, endopelvic fascia, and urethral wall, compared with 50, 49, and 1% with OCA. Use of OCA also yielded 0.5 mm increase in treatment depth, allowing potential thermal tissue remodeling at 3 mm depth.

Microplate magnetic chemiluminescence immunoassay for detecting urinary survivin in bladder cancer.

PubMed

Chang, Yanli; Xu, Jianjun; Zhang, Qingyun

2017-10-01

Survivin is a tumor marker for bladder cancer; however the role of urinary survivin levels has not been fully elucidated due to the limitations of current detection methods. Based on two survivin-specific monoclonal antibodies (McAbs) already confirmed through enzyme linked immunosorbent assays, the present study aimed to establish a microplate magnetic chemiluminescence immunoassay (CLIA) for the detection of urinary survivin levels and evaluate its application for the diagnosis of patients with bladder cancer. Horseradish peroxidase and biotin conjugates were used to label two different anti-survivin McAbs, respectively. The labeled antibodies combined with survivin to form a sandwiched immune complex. The streptavidin magnetic particles (MPs) served as the solid phase and the separator. The relevant parameters involved in the immunoassay, including the immunoassay reagents used and the physicochemical parameters were optimized. Then, urine samples from 130 patients with bladder cancer and 113 healthy controls were detected, and analyzed using the established method. The method was linear to 1,000 ng/ml survivin with a detection limit of 0.83 ng/ml. The intra- and inter-assay coefficients of variation were <8, and <11%, respectively. The concentration of diluted survivin and the dilution ratios gave a linear correlation of 0.9989. The results demonstrated that the urinary survivin levels in patients with bladder cancer were significantly higher (P<0.001) compared with that in healthy controls. At a survivin concentration of 2.0884 ng/ml, the sensitivity and specificity were 86.9 and 61.9%, respectively. Furthermore, the urinary survivin levels were positively correlated with metastatic stage, histological stage and recurrence (P<0.01). In conclusion, the present study preliminarily proposed a microplate magnetic CLIA for survivin detection and further evaluated the value of urinary survivin as a diagnostic marker for bladder cancer.

Microplate magnetic chemiluminescence immunoassay for detecting urinary survivin in bladder cancer

PubMed Central

Chang, Yanli; Xu, Jianjun; Zhang, Qingyun

2017-01-01

Survivin is a tumor marker for bladder cancer; however the role of urinary survivin levels has not been fully elucidated due to the limitations of current detection methods. Based on two survivin-specific monoclonal antibodies (McAbs) already confirmed through enzyme linked immunosorbent assays, the present study aimed to establish a microplate magnetic chemiluminescence immunoassay (CLIA) for the detection of urinary survivin levels and evaluate its application for the diagnosis of patients with bladder cancer. Horseradish peroxidase and biotin conjugates were used to label two different anti-survivin McAbs, respectively. The labeled antibodies combined with survivin to form a sandwiched immune complex. The streptavidin magnetic particles (MPs) served as the solid phase and the separator. The relevant parameters involved in the immunoassay, including the immunoassay reagents used and the physicochemical parameters were optimized. Then, urine samples from 130 patients with bladder cancer and 113 healthy controls were detected, and analyzed using the established method. The method was linear to 1,000 ng/ml survivin with a detection limit of 0.83 ng/ml. The intra- and inter-assay coefficients of variation were <8, and <11%, respectively. The concentration of diluted survivin and the dilution ratios gave a linear correlation of 0.9989. The results demonstrated that the urinary survivin levels in patients with bladder cancer were significantly higher (P<0.001) compared with that in healthy controls. At a survivin concentration of 2.0884 ng/ml, the sensitivity and specificity were 86.9 and 61.9%, respectively. Furthermore, the urinary survivin levels were positively correlated with metastatic stage, histological stage and recurrence (P<0.01). In conclusion, the present study preliminarily proposed a microplate magnetic CLIA for survivin detection and further evaluated the value of urinary survivin as a diagnostic marker for bladder cancer. PMID:28943911

Providing lipid-based nutrient supplement during pregnancy does not reduce the risk of maternal P falciparum parasitaemia and reproductive tract infections: a randomised controlled trial.

PubMed

Nkhoma, Minyanga; Ashorn, Per; Ashorn, Ulla; Dewey, Kathryn G; Gondwe, Austrida; Mbotwa, John; Rogerson, Stephen; Taylor, Steve M; Maleta, Kenneth

2017-01-17

Maternal infections are associated with maternal and foetal adverse outcomes. Nutrient supplementation during pregnancy may reduce the occurrence of infections by improving maternal immunity. We aimed to investigate the impact of small-quantity lipid-based nutrient supplement (SQ-LNS) on the occurrence of Plasmodium falciparum parasitaemia during pregnancy and trichomoniasis, vaginal candidiasis and urinary tract infection (UTI) after delivery. Pregnant Malawian women enrolled in the iLiNS-DYAD trial receiving daily supplementation with SQ-LNS, multiple micronutrients (MMN) or iron & folic acid (IFA) from <20 gestation weeks (gw) were assessed for P. falciparum parasitaemia at 32 gw using rapid diagnostic testing (RDT), at 36 gw using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and at delivery using both RDT and PCR; and at one week after delivery for trichomoniasis and vaginal candidiasis using wet mount microscopy and for UTI using urine dipstick analysis. The prevalence of each infection by intervention group was estimated at the prescribed time points and the global null hypothesis was tested using logistic regression. Adjusted analyses were performed using preselected covariates. The prevalence of P. falciparum parasitaemia was 10.7% at 32 gw, 9% at 36 gw, and 8.3% by RDT and 20.2% by PCR at delivery. After delivery the prevalence of trichomoniasis was 10.5%, vaginal candidiasis was 0.5%, and UTI was 3.1%. There were no differences between intervention groups in the prevalence of any of the infections. In this population, SQ-LNS did not influence the occurrence of maternal P. falciparum parasitaemia, trichomoniasis, vaginal candidiasis or UTI. Identifier: NCT01239693 (10 November 2010).

Single incision device (TVT Secur) versus retropubic tension-free vaginal tape device (TVT) for the management of stress urinary incontinence in women: a randomized clinical trial.

PubMed

Ross, Sue; Tang, Selphee; Schulz, Jane; Murphy, Magnus; Goncalves, Jose; Kaye, Stephen; Dederer, Lorel; Robert, Magali

2014-12-22

In 2006, Ethicon Inc. introduced a new minimally invasive single incision sling device for the surgical treatment of stress urinary incontinence, the Gynecare TVT Secur®. For device licensing, no new evidence of TVT Secur efficacy and safety was needed: rather evidence was provided of the long-term follow-up of patients who had a procedure using a predecate retropubic tension-free vaginal tape device. Before adopting TVT Secur into our routine clinical practice, we decided to evaluate it. The objective of our Canadian multi-centre pragmatic randomized controlled trial was to compare the effectiveness of the new single-incision device, TVT Secur, to the established TVT device, in terms of objective cure of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) at 12 months postoperatively. Other outcomes included: complications, symptoms, and incontinence-related quality of life. The sample size estimate for our trial was 300, but the trial stopped early because of poor recruitment. 74 women participated (40 allocated to TVT Secur, 34 to TVT). At 12 months postoperatively, 27/33(82%) of TVT Secur group were cured, compared with 25/28(89%) of the TVT group (relative risk 0.92, 95% confidence interval 0.75 to 1.13, p=0.49). Most women reported little or no SUI symptoms (35/37(95%) vs 29/30(97%), >0.999). Quality of life improved significantly from baseline for both groups (IIQ-7 mean change -25 for both groups) but did not differ between groups (p=0.880). Our small randomized trial did not find statistically significant differences in outcomes between women allocated to the TVT Secur device versus those allocated to the TVT device for stress urinary incontinence. Despite the discontinuation of TVT Secur in March 2013 for commercial reasons, the importance of our study lies in making evidence available for the many women who had a TVT Secur device implanted and their physicians who may be considering alternative treatments. Our experience illustrates the difficulty of undertaking research on new licensed devices in a rapidly changing surgical specialty, and further highlights the need for research before licensing if surgeons and their patients are to be confident in the effectiveness and safety of new surgical devices. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00685217, 22 May 2008.

Bicornuate uterine horns with complete cervical-vaginal agenesis and congenital vesicouterine fistula.

PubMed

Kumar, Santosh; Singh, S K; Mavuduru, Ravi; Naveen, A; Agarwal, M M; Vanita, Jain; Mandal, A K

2008-05-01

We present a case of bicornuate uterine horns with complete cervico-vaginal agenesis and associated congenital uterovaginal fistula. The patient presented with cyclical hematuria, amenorrhea, and abdominal lump. The vagina was blind-ending. The cystoscopic examination during cyclical hematuria revealed bloody efflux through a small fistula on the posterior wall of the urinary bladder. The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed bicornuate uterus and cervical agenesis. Hysterectomy and repair of the uterovesical fistula was done. The vagina was reconstructed using an amniotic mould. The report underlies the importance of MRI in diagnosing complexity of such rare anomalies. It also stresses for the need of hysterectomy if cervicovaginal agenesis is present.

Under what circumstances should stress incontinence surgery be performed at the same time as prolapse surgery? ICI-RS 2015.

PubMed

Khullar, Vik; Anding, Ralf; Robinson, Dudley; Castro-Diaz, David; Dmochowski, Roger; Cardozo, Linda

2017-04-01

An International Consultation on Incontinence-Research Society (ICI-RS) Think Tank in 2015 discussed and evaluated the evidence of when stress incontinence surgery should be performed with prolapse surgery and highlighted evidence gaps, with the aim of recommending further clinical and research proposals. A review of the literature assessing randomized studies where women with vaginal prolapse have been randomized to vaginal prolapse surgery with or without continence surgery were evaluated. The different clinical presentations were also evaluated and their impact on outcome was critically reviewed. There are three symptomatic groups of women with vaginal prolapse who are treated. The first group is continent women with vaginal prolapse. The second group has stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and vaginal prolapse. The last group has vaginal prolapse and have been found through testing to have occult SUI. The studies have reported a range of outcomes for each of these groups. There are different outcomes based on the surgical method used to correct the prolapse and also the different continence surgical techniques. There are insufficient studies to allow firm conclusions to be drawn. The economic impact of the different management pathways is also discussed although costs vary according to different national medical funding systems. There is considerable uncertainty about the optimal method of managing women with vaginal prolapse and stress incontinence due to the different surgical techniques available. In particular the group of women with occult SUI are a challenge as the optimal diagnostic method has not yet been defined. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

[POP-Q indication points, Aa and Ba, involve in diagnosis and prognosis of occult stress urinary incontinence complicated with pelvic organ prolapse].

PubMed

Liu, Cheng; Wu, Wenying; Yang, Qing; Hu, Ming; Zhao, Yang; Hong, Li

2015-06-01

To investigate the correlation between pelvic organ prolapse quantitation (POP-Q) indication points and the incidence of occult stress urinary incontinence (OSUI) and its impact on prognosis. Retrospective study medical records of 93 patients with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) staged at III-IV, of which underwent pelvic reconstruction operations with Prolift system from Jan. 2007 to Sept. 2012. None of these patients had clinical manifestations of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) before surgery, and in which 44 patients were included in study group (POP complicated with OSUI) because they were identified with OSUI, another 49 patients as control group (simple POP). Follow-up and collecting datas including POP-Q, stress test, urodynamic recordings, incidence of de novo SUI, statistic analyzing by logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC). (1) The study group had a much higher incidence of 30% (13/44) on de novo SUI than that of control group (4%, 2/49; P < 0.01). (2) Vaginal delivery (OR = 5.327, 95% CI: 1.120-25.347), constipation (OR = 5.789, 95% CI: 1.492-22.459), preoperative OSUI (OR = 13.695, 95% CI: 2.980-62.944), anterior vaginal wall prolapse (OR = 6.115, 95% CI: 1.231-30.379) were identified as dependent risk factors for de novo SUI by logistic regression analysis. (3) For POP patients that complicated with OSUI, we chose a cutoff value of +1.5 cm for Aa point as the threshold to predicting incidence of de novo SUI according to ROC curve, area under the curve (AUC) was 0.889 (P < 0.05), the sensitivity reached 88.9% and specificity was 73.9%. According to ROC curve of Ba point, a cutoff value of +2.5 cm was chosen as the threshold to predicting incidence of de novo SUI post-operation, it had a sensitivity of 66.7% and specificity of 82.6%, AUC was 0.766 (P < 0.05). Pre-operative OSUI is a dependent risk factor of de novo SUI for advanced POP patients. Aa and Ba points are correlated with preoperative OSUI, and it is worthy to be considered as a risk predictor on forecasting the incidence of de novo SUI post pelvic reconstruction surgery.

A disposable adhesive patch for stress urinary incontinence.

PubMed

North, B B

1998-04-01

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) affects 5 million women in the United States. Current surgical and pharmacological management options are often unsuccessful, forcing many sufferers to rely on bulky and uncomfortable sanitary protection. This study evaluated the safety, efficacy, and acceptability of a small, disposable adhesive patch designed to seal the urethral opening and prevent urine leakage. Thirty-seven women with mild-to-moderate SUI were recruited from a suburban community. Each volunteer participated in a 21-week protocol that included a 1-week qualifying period, 4-week (pretest) control period, 12-week patch-use period, and 4-week (posttest) control period. Patch efficacy was evaluated with quantitative (leakage into sanitary napkin) and qualitative (voiding diary) measures of urine leakage. Symptom questionnaires were also completed. Overall leakage was reduced by 60%, from 1.1 +/- .3 standard error of the mean (SEM) to .44 +/- .11 (SEM) grams of urine per hour. Perception of dryness, measured by voiding diaries, improved 67%, from 13.3 +/- 1.9 (SEM) to 4.3 +/- 0.9 (SEM) leakage episodes per week. Safety evaluation included peri-urethral cytology, urinalysis and urine culture, and vaginal cultures. All measures were unaffected by 3 months of patch use. Acceptability was assessed with questionnaires that measured the impact of patch use on activities of daily living and overall quality of life. Women reported a significant improvement in both measures. All but one volunteer found that the patch was comfortable and were able to place it correctly between the inner labia with written instructions only. The disposable patch significantly reduced urine leakage resulting from SUI in community-based women. Dryness improved significantly, both by measurement of actual leakage and by the subject's perception of dryness. The maturation index of the vestibular tissues showed an increase in the number of superficial cells during patch use. Otherwise, there were no significant changes in vulvar tissues, urine composition, or microbial flora (in vaginal and urine samples). Volunteers reported that the patch improved their overall quality of life.

Efficacy of tension-free vaginal tape compared with transobturator tape in the treatment of stress urinary incontinence in women: analysis of learning curve, perioperative changes of voiding function

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background In this study, by comparing TVT surgery and TOT surgery for stress urinary incontinence in women, the characteristics and learning curves of both operative methods were studied. Methods A total of 83 women with stress urinary incontinence treated with tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) (n = 38) or transobturator tape (TOT) (n = 45) at Saiseikai Central Hospital between April 2004 and September 2009 were included. We compare the outcomes and learning curves between TVT surgery and TOT surgery. In statistical analysis, Student's t test, Fisher's exact test, and Mann-Whitney's U test were used. Results The surgical durations were 37.4 ± 15.7 minutes with TVT surgery and 31.0 ± 8.3 minutes with TOT surgery. A longer period of time was required for TVT surgery (p = 0.025). The residual urine at post-operative day 1 was higher in TVT surgery (25.9 ± 44.2 ml) than in TOT surgery (10.6 ± 19.2 ml) (p = 0.0452). The surgical duration of TVT surgery was shortened after the operator had performed 15 operations (p = 0.019). Conclusions In comparison of TVT surgery and TOT surgery, the surgical duration of TVT surgery was longer and the residual urine of TVT surgery was higher at post-operative day 1. Surgical experience could shorten the duration of TVT surgery. PMID:21726448

[Female stress urinary incontinence. Surgical repair with pubovaginal sling techniques].

PubMed

Escribano Patiño, Gregorio; Hernández Fernández, Carlos; Subirá Ríos, David; Castaño González, Irene; Moralejo Gárate, Mercedes; Martinez Salamanca, Juan Ignacio

2002-11-01

To review the treatment of female stress urinary incontinence by new systems of tension-free urethral sling TVT type (Tension free vaginal tape) or IVS (intravaginal slingplasty), and the bone anchoring trasvaginal sling procedure Infast. We describe the surgical techniques of the various procedures and perform a bibliographic review on the topic. The pubovaginal sling has become the gold standard in the treatment of female stress urinary incontinence, mainly if there is sphincter intrinsic dysfunction. The concept of tension free medium urethra support has been the most important contribution, that questions the classification of incontinence in types I, II and III, because the pubocervical tension free sling can correct all three. Tension free urethral sling techniques have demonstrated to be effective, minimally invasive with a low complication rate, easily reproducible, and with good continence results in the mid-term.

[Decrease in nosocomial infection based on continuous monitoring and control. 7 years' experience in a women's clinic].

PubMed

Hirsch, H A; Niehues, U; Decker, K

1985-12-13

During a seven-year programme of surveillance and control of infection data were collected by a specialist hygiene nurse on 47 551 gynaecological, obstetric and post-partum patients. The infection rate was highest (40.5%) after major surgical procedures. Infection rate after cesarian section was 16%, eight times the rate after vaginal delivery (2%). The most frequent type of infection was of the urinary tract (70%), usually asymptomatic bacteriuria. Next most frequent were pelvic infections, abdominal wound infections, and phlebitis via an intravenous entry in long-term parenteral nutrition. During the period of observation bacteriuria rate decreased by 75%, the other nosocomial infections by 64%, febrile standard morbidity by 81%. The decrease is largely due to the infection surveillance programme with the employment of a specialist hygiene nurse.

[Meta-analysis of clinical efficacy of TVT-S versus TVT-O/TOT in the treatment of stress urinary incontinence].

PubMed

Zhou, Quan; Song, Yan-feng; Chen, Jie; Qiu, Lin-lin; Yuan, Xiao-dong

2012-10-09

To assess the current evidence of effectiveness and safety of Single-incision mini-slings (TVT-S) versus transobturator tension-free vaginal tapes (TVT-O/TOT) in the management of female stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Literature searches were conducted for all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing TVT-S and TVT-O/TOT from CNKI, CBM, VIP, MEDLINE, OVID, FMJS and Cochrane Library between November 1996 and November 2011. The Revman 5.1.0 software was used for Meta-analysis according to Cochrane system evaluation method. A total of 1545 females in 7 RCTs were included. Meta-analysis showed that no statistical differences existed in the rate of postoperative voiding dysfunction and dyspareunia between TVT-S and TVT-O/TOT (P > 0.05). But the rate of objective cure, re-operation, inner thigh and groin pain and de novo urgency were statistically significant (P < 0.05). As compared with TVT-O/TOT, TVT-S procedure is associated with less postoperative inner thigh and groin pain, but a lower objective cure rate and relatively higher rates of de novo urgency and re-operation.

Pelvic floor muscle training to improve urinary incontinence in young, nulliparous sport students: a pilot study.

PubMed

Da Roza, Thuane; de Araujo, Maíta Poli; Viana, Rui; Viana, Sara; Jorge, Renato Natal; Bø, Kari; Mascarenhas, Teresa

2012-08-01

Urinary incontinence (UI) is prevalent in sport students. We hypothesized that pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) can improve pelvic floor muscle (PFM) strength and symptoms of UI in this group of physically active women. Sixteen sport students with UI participated in this pre-post test pilot study. However, only seven of them, mean age 20.0 ± 0.8 years, completed the 8-week program. Activity level was measured by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF). The outcome measure was the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ UI SF). PFM strength was measured by manometry as maximum voluntary contraction (MVC). Vaginal resting pressure improved by 17.4 cmH(2)O (SD 6.7), p = 0.04 and MVC by 16.4 cmH(2)O (SD 5.8), p = 0.04. ICIQ UI SF score, frequency, and amount of leakage showed statistically significant improvement. PFMT increased PFM strength and reduced frequency and amount of UI episodes in sport students that completed an 8-week PFMT program. Randomized controlled trials are warranted to confirm these results.

Efficacy and Safety of Tension-Free Vaginal Tape-Secur Mini-Sling Versus Standard Midurethral Slings for Female Stress Urinary Incontinence: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

PubMed Central

Wang, Tao; Zhang, Yong

2015-01-01

Purpose: To assess the efficacy and safety of tension-free vaginal tape (TVT)-Secur for stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Methods: A literature review was performed to identify all published trials of TVT-Secur. The search included the following databases: MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Controlled Trial Register. Results: Seventeen publications involving a total of 1,879 patients were used to compare TVT-Secur with tension-free obturator tape (TVT-O) and TVT. We found that TVT-Secur had significant reductions in operative time, visual analog score for pain, and postoperative complications compared with TVT-O. Even though TVT-Secur had a significantly lower subjective cure rate (P<0.00001), lower objective cure rate (P<0.00001), and higher intraoperative complication rate, compared with TVT-O at 1 to 3 years, there was no significant difference between TVT-Secur and TVT-O in the subjective cure rate (odds ratio [OR], 0.49; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.22–1.08; P=0.08), objective cure rate (OR, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.22–1.09; P=0.08), or complications at 3 to 5 years. Moreover, TVT-Secur had significantly lower subjective and objective cure rates compared with TVT. Conclusions: This meta-analysis indicates that TVT-Secur did not show an inferior efficacy and safety compared with TVT-O for SUI in 3 to 5 years, even though displaying a clear tread toward a lower efficacy in 1 to 3 years. Considering that the safety is similar, there are no advantages in using TVT-Secur. PMID:26739179

One-year follow-up of tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) and trans-obturator suburethral tape from inside to outside (TVT-O) for surgical treatment of female stress urinary incontinence: a prospective randomised trial.

PubMed

Zullo, Marzio Angelo; Plotti, Francesco; Calcagno, Marco; Marullo, Elettra; Palaia, Innocenza; Bellati, Filippo; Basile, Stefano; Muzii, Ludovico; Angioli, Roberto; Panici, Pierluigi Benedetti

2007-05-01

To compare tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) and trans-obturator suburethral tape from inside to outside (TVT-O) for surgical treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) for complications (primary end point) and success rate (secondary end point). Seventy-two consecutive patients, with a mean age of 53.2 yr (range: 38-69 yr) and affected by SUI, were included in this randomised controlled trial. After preoperative assessment, patients were randomly allocated to the TVT or TVT-O procedure. Operative time, perioperative complications, and hospital stay were prospectively recorded. Cure of SUI was defined as no leakage of urine during the stress test at urodynamic testing at the 12-mo evaluation. The Wilcoxon signed rank sum test, Mann-Whitney U test, McNemar test, and Fisher exact test were used to verify statistical significance, set at p<0.05. All patients were evaluable at the 12-mo follow-up. The characteristics of patients were well balanced between groups after randomisation. The mean operative time was significantly shorter in the TVT-O group. Perioperative complications were significantly more common after the retropubic approach (5% and 27% in TVT-O and TVT groups, respectively, p<0.04). The groups did not differ significantly in intraoperative blood loss, hospital stays, and time to return to normal activities. Sixty-five patients (90%) were successfully treated for SUI 12 mo after the operation (89% and 91% for TVT-O and TVT groups, respectively). Both techniques appear to be equally effective in the surgical treatment of SUI. However, TVT-O had a shorter operative time and lower overall perioperative complication rate.

Intra-abdominal pressure during Pilates: unlikely to cause pelvic floor harm.

PubMed

Coleman, Tanner J; Nygaard, Ingrid E; Holder, Dannielle N; Egger, Marlene J; Hitchcock, Robert

2015-08-01

The objective was to describe the intra-abdominal pressures (IAP) generated during Pilates Mat and Reformer activities, and determine whether these activities generate IAP above a sit-to-stand threshold. Twenty healthy women with no symptomatic vaginal bulge, median age 43 (range 22-59 years), completed Pilates Mat and Reformer exercise routines each consisting of 11 exercises. IAP was collected by an intra-vaginal pressure transducer, transmitted wirelessly to a base station, and analyzed for maximal and area under the curve (AUC) IAP. There were no statistically significant differences in the mean maximal IAP between sit-to-stand and any of the Mat or Reformer exercises in the study population. Six to twenty-five percent of participants exceeded their individual mean maximal IAP sit-to-stand thresholds for 10 of the 22 exercises. When measuring AUC from 0 cm H2O, half the exercises exceeded the mean AUC of sit-to-stand, but only Pilates Reformer and Mat roll-ups exceeded the mean AUC of sit-to-stand when calculated from a threshold of 40 cm H2O (consistent with, for example, walking). Our results support recommending this series of introductory Pilates exercises, including five Mat exercises and six Reformer exercises to women desiring a low IAP exercise routine. More research is needed to determine the long-term effects of Pilates exercise on post-surgical exercise rehabilitation and pelvic floor health.

Intra-abdominal Pressure during Pilates: Unlikely to Cause Pelvic Floor Harm

PubMed Central

Coleman, Tanner J.; Holder, Dannielle N.; Egger, Marlene J.; Hitchcock, Robert

2015-01-01

Aims To describe intra-abdominal pressures (IAP) generated during Pilates Mat and Reformer activities, and determine whether these activities generate IAP above a sit-to-stand threshold. Methods Twenty healthy women with no symptomatic vaginal bulge, median age 43 (range 22 – 59 years), completed Pilates Mat and Reformer exercise routines each consisting of 11 exercises. IAP was collected by an intra-vaginal pressure transducer, transmitted wirelessly to a base station, and analyzed for maximal and area under the curve (AUC) IAP. Results There were no statistically significant differences in mean max IAP between sit-to-stand and any of the Mat or Reformer exercises in the study population. Six to twenty-five percent of participants exceeded their individual mean max IAP sit-to-stand thresholds for 10 of the 22 exercises. When measuring AUC from 0 cm H2O, half the exercises exceeded the mean AUC of sit-to-stand but only Pilates Reformer and Mat roll-ups exceeded the mean AUC of sit-to-stand when calculated from a threshold of 40 cm H2O (consistent with, for example, walking). Conclusion Our results support recommending this series of introductory Pilates exercises including five Mat exercises and six Reformer exercises to women desiring a low IAP exercise routine. More research is needed to determine the long term effects of Pilates exercise on post-surgical exercise rehabilitation and pelvic floor health. PMID:25672647

Comparison of abdominal, vaginal, and laparoscopic hysterectomies in a tertiary care hospital in Turkey.

PubMed

Inal, Z O; Inal, H A

2018-05-01

The aim of this retrospective study was to assess and compare the clinical results of three hysterectomy techniques: abdominal hysterectomy (AH), vaginal hysterectomy (VH), and laparoscopic hysterectomy (LH). A total of 2163 patients having undergone AH (n = 1226), VH (n = 426), and LH (n = 511) procedures were analyzed. The mean age, body mass index (BMI), parity, uterus weight, operation time, blood loss, duration of hospitalization, analgesic needs, intra- and postoperative complications, and indications for hysterectomy were analyzed and compared. There were no differences between the groups with respect to the BMI, parity, and intra- or postoperative major and minor complications. The operation time was significantly shorter in the VH group than in the other two groups (p < 0.001), and the blood loss was significantly lower in the LH group than in the others (p < 0.001). The duration of hospitalization and analgesic needs were the shortest in the LH group (p < 0.001), while the uterus weight and previous intra-abdominal surgery rate were the lowest in the VH group (p < 0.001). Despite the fact that the LH exhibited a longer operation time than the VH, the LH was considered to be a safe and effective surgical procedure due to the lesser blood loss, hospital stay, and analgesic needs.

Stress urinary incontinence in women: Current and emerging therapeutic options

PubMed Central

Shamout, Samer; Campeau, Lysanne

2017-01-01

Surgical management of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is most commonly achieved by midurethral synthetic sling (MUS) insertion as a first-line surgical option. A great deal of research continues to evolve new management strategies to reach an optimal balance of high efficacy and minimal adverse events. This expert opinion review provides a brief and comprehensive discussion of recent advances and ongoing research in the management of SUI, with an emphasis on single-incision mini-slings, vaginal laser treatment, and cell-based therapy. It is based on data obtained from numerous published meta-analyses and original studies identified through literature search. Single-incision mini-slings appear equally effective initially compared with standard MUS (retropubic or transobturator) for the treatment of female SUI; however, this efficacy lacks durability evidence beyond one-year followup. There is a lack of sufficient clinical evidence to currently confirm long-term safety and effectiveness of cell-therapy and non-ablative vaginal laser therapy, besides suggestion of apparent initial safety. There are still significant challenges to overcome before widespread clinical practice of the latter two modalities. Future research should be aimed at identifying groups of patients who might benefit from these minimally invasive therapeutic options. PMID:28616118

Non-Antibiotic Prophylaxis for Urinary Tract Infections

PubMed Central

Beerepoot, Mariëlle; Geerlings, Suzanne

2016-01-01

Increasing antimicrobial resistance has stimulated interest in non-antibiotic prophylaxis of recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs). Well-known steps in the pathogenesis of UTIs are urogenital colonization and adherence of uropathogens to uroepithelial cell receptors. To prevent colonization in postmenopausal women, vaginal, but not oral, estrogens have been shown to restore the vagina lactobacilli flora, reduce vaginal colonization with Enterobacteriaceae, and reduce the number of UTIs compared to placebo. Different lactobacilli strains show different results in the prevention of recurrent UTIs. Intravaginal suppositories with Lactobacillus crispatus in premenopausal women and oral capsules with Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 and Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14 in postmenopausal women are promising. Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) cannot be recommended for the prevention of UTIs. Cranberries are thought to contain proanthocyanidins that can inhibit adherence of P-fimbriated E. coli to the uroepithelial cell receptors. Cranberry products decreased UTI recurrences about 30%–40% in premenopausal women with recurrent UTIs, but are less effective than low-dose antimicrobial prophylaxis. However, the optimal dose of cranberry product has still to be determined. Initially OM-89, a vaccine with 18 heat-killed E. coli extracts, seemed promising, but this was not confirmed in a recently randomized trial. PMID:27092529

[Physics of materials and female stress urinary continence: New concepts: I) Elasticity under bladder].

PubMed

Guerquin, B

2015-09-01

Improving the understanding of the adaptation to stress of urinary continence. A transversal analysis between physics of materials and the female anatomy. Laws of physics of the materials and of their viscoelastic behavior are applied to the anatomy of the anterior vaginal wall. The anterior vaginal wall may be divided into two segments of different viscoelastic behavior, the vertical segment below the urethra and the horizontal segment below the bladder. If the urethra gets crushed on the first segment according to the hammock theory, the crushing of the bladder on the second segment is, on the other hand, damped by its important elasticity. The importance of this elasticity evokes an unknown function: damping under the bladder that moderates and delays the increase of intravesical pressure. This damping function below the bladder is increased in the cystocele, which is therefore a continence factor; on the other hand, it is impaired in obesity, which is therefore a factor of SUI. It is necessary to include in the theory of stress continence, the notion of a damping function below the bladder. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Vaginal rupture and evisceration in a dog.

PubMed

Prassinos, Nikitas N; Adamama-Moraitou, Katerina K; Ververidis, Haralabos N; Anagnostou, Tilemachos L; Kladakis, Stefanos E

2010-09-01

A 1.5-year-old German Shepherd mixed breed dog was admitted with mild haemorrhage from the vulva and a perineal mass of 24-hour duration, which had been first observed immediately after parturition. Parturition had occurred at low ambient temperature, and only one puppy survived out of the seven oversized fetuses. The dog was in poor body condition, dehydrated, hypothermic, depressed, non-ambulatory and in a state of shock. Intestinal loops, the urinary bladder and the uterine horns and body were protruding from the vulva. A true vaginal prolapse was also observed. The abdominal viscera were flushed with warm sterile saline solution, protected and maintained wet. The laboratory findings included moderate anaemia, leukocytosis, hypoalbuminaemia, azotaemia and elevated liver enzyme activities. Stabilisation of the dog's general condition was attempted before surgery. Antimicrobial and analgesic drugs were also administered. After exploratory laparotomy the protruding organs, which were in good condition, were reduced. A recent rupture in the vaginal wall, approximately 6 cm long, was observed. Ovariohysterectomy and partial vaginectomy were performed. The preoperative course of therapy was continued, but the bitch died 12 hours later. The probable cause of vaginal rupture and evisceration in this bitch was tenesmus and/or trauma due to the oversized fetuses.

Anterior vaginal wall tenderness (AVWT) as a physical symptom in chronic pelvic pain.

PubMed

Paulson, John D; Paulson, Joseph N

2011-01-01

Chronic pelvic pain is often difficult to diagnose and treat properly. Physicians called on to treat this problem may not be able to give a specific diagnosis. The aim of this study was to see whether the physical presence of anterior vaginal wall tenderness could help narrow down and elucidate diagnoses in a practice focusing on diagnosis and treatment of chronic pelvic pain. The study cohort comprised 284 patients with chronic pelvic pain limited to gynecologic and lower urinary problems. Histories, physical examinations, and endoscopic procedures were performed on each patient. An analysis of this information was conducted. Of the chronic pelvic pain patients, 78% had endometriosis, 81% had interstitial cystitis, and 61% had both concurrently. The sensitivity of anterior vaginal wall tenderness (AVWT) in patients with interstitial cystitis was 95%, and in those with only endometriosis and no interstitial cystitis, the sensitivity was 17%. The positive predictive value for interstitial cystitis was 85%, and for endometriosis it was 67%. Examination of the anterior vaginal wall with an empty bladder at the initial examination can lead one to suspect interstitial cystitis and possibly either concomitant or singular endometriosis and allow the physician to approach the workup accordingly.

[Prevalence and associated factors of female urinary incontinence in Hebei province].

PubMed

Jiang, Y; Yan, L; Du, F D; Zheng, P T; Zhang, L; Jiang, L; Huang, X H

2016-12-25

Objective: To estimate the prevalence and associated factors of adult female urinary incontinence in Hebei province. Methods: Stratified and multistage sampling method was used, between January 2016 to May 2016, to investigate the target population in Hebei province. While, logistic regression was used to analyse datas. Results: A population-based survey was conducted in 2 450 women in Hebei province, there were 2 408 effective questionnaires after deleting 48 invalid questionnaires. According to the results, the average age of subjects was (56±15) years old, and the urinary incontinence prevalence of adult female in Hebei province was 27.70% (667/2 408). Stress urinary incontinence, urge urinary incontinence and mixed urinary incontinence were diagnosed as 23.13% (557/2 408), 1.58% (38/2 408) and 2.99% (72/2 408), respectively. There were only 2.85% (19/667) urinary incontinence patients seeking medical help. The results of logistic regression analysis showed that age, daily water intake, pulmonary diseases, urinary tract infection, hypertension, chronic low back pain, dysmenorrhea, vaginitis, abortion, mode of delivery, postpartum infection were statistically significant (all P ≤0.05). Among these factors, cesarean section was the protective factor for urinary incontinence ( OR= 0.365, 95 % CI: 0.195-0.685, P <0.01). Conclusions: The prevalence of urinary incontinence in adult female in Hebei province is high, and there are few patients seeking medical help. It is a common disorder in women and is associated with many factors; among these factors, cesarean section is the protective factor for urinary incontinence.

Comparison of three mid-urethral tension-free tapes (TVT, TVT-O, and TVT-Secur) in the treatment of female stress urinary incontinence: 1-year follow-up.

PubMed

Wang, Yi-jun; Li, Fei-ping; Wang, Qian; Yang, Sen; Cai, Xian-guo; Chen, Ying-he

2011-11-01

The purpose of the study was to evaluate and compare the clinical values of tension-free vaginal tape (TVT), tension-free vaginal tape-transobturator (TVT-O), or tension-free vaginal tape-Secur (TVT-Secur) as treatment for female stress urinary incontinence. The pre-operative and 1-year post-operative follow-up protocols for patients who were treated with serial mid-urethral tension-free tape procedures in two hospitals from October 2008 to December 2009 were prospectively studied. These patients were randomly allocated to TVT, TVT-O, or TVT-Secur. A total of 102 women participated. At the 1-year follow-up, complications were not statistically different across the three groups except for pain in the thigh, which was more common in the TVT-O group. The overall efficacy and cure rate were similar between the TVT and TVT-O groups, but were significantly lower in the TVT-Secur group. A comparison of the three procedures shows that TVT-O is easy to operate and is as safe as TVT-Secur, and it has similar long-term efficacy to TVT, though, as one of the third-generation mid-urethral tension-free tapes, TVT-Secur is still being evaluated. Basing on the outcome of our study, it had rare complications but unsatisfactory efficacy, and we suggest that TVT-Secur is not fit for severe cases. However, observation and comparison of these groups in a larger sample size on a longer term are needed.

Individual and co-operative roles of lactic acid and hydrogen peroxide in the killing activity of enteric strain Lactobacillus johnsonii NCC933 and vaginal strain Lactobacillus gasseri KS120.1 against enteric, uropathogenic and vaginosis-associated pathogens.

PubMed

Atassi, Fabrice; Servin, Alain L

2010-03-01

The mechanism underlying the killing activity of Lactobacillus strains against bacterial pathogens appears to be multifactorial. Here, we investigate the respective contributions of hydrogen peroxide and lactic acid in killing bacterial pathogens associated with the human vagina, urinary tract or intestine by two hydrogen peroxide-producing strains. In co-culture, the human intestinal strain Lactobacillus johnsonii NCC933 and human vaginal strain Lactobacillus gasseri KS120.1 strains killed enteric Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium SL1344, vaginal Gardnerella vaginalis DSM 4944 and urinary tract Escherichia coli CFT073 pathogens. The cell-free culture supernatants (CFCSs) produced the same reduction in SL1344, DSM 4944 and CFT073 viability, whereas isolated bacteria had no effect. The killing activity of CFCSs was heat-stable. In the presence of Dulbecco's modified Eagle's minimum essential medium inhibiting the lactic acid-dependent killing activity, CFCSs were less effective at killing of the pathogens. Catalase-treated CFCSs displayed a strong decreased activity. Tested alone, hydrogen peroxide triggered a concentration-dependent killing activity against all three pathogens. Lactic acid alone developed a killing activity only at concentrations higher than that present in CFCSs. In the presence of lactic acid at a concentration present in Lactobacillus CFCSs, hydrogen peroxide displayed enhanced killing activity. Collectively, these results demonstrate that for hydrogen peroxide-producing Lactobacillus strains, the main metabolites of Lactobacillus, lactic acid and hydrogen peroxide, act co-operatively to kill enteric, vaginosis-associated and uropathogenic pathogens.

Ovarian cycling and reproductive state shape the vaginal microbiota in wild baboons.

PubMed

Miller, Elizabeth A; Livermore, Joshua A; Alberts, Susan C; Tung, Jenny; Archie, Elizabeth A

2017-01-19

The vaginal microbiome is an important site of bacterial-mammalian symbiosis. This symbiosis is currently best characterized for humans, where lactobacilli dominate the microbial community and may help defend women against infectious disease. However, lactobacilli do not dominate the vaginal microbiota of any other mammal studied to date, raising key questions about the forces that shape the vaginal microbiome in non-human mammals. We used Illumina sequencing of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene to investigate variation in the taxonomic composition of the vaginal microbiota in 48 baboons (Papio cynocephalus), members of a well-studied wild population in Kenya. Similar to prior studies, we found that the baboon vaginal microbiota was not dominated by lactobacilli. Despite this difference, and similar to humans, reproductive state was the dominant predictor of baboon vaginal microbiota, with pregnancy, postpartum amenorrhea, and ovarian cycling explaining 18% of the variance in community composition. Furthermore, among cycling females, a striking 39% of variance in community composition was explained by ovarian cycle phase, with an especially distinctive microbial community around ovulation. Periovulatory females exhibited the highest relative abundance of lactic acid-producing bacteria compared to any other phase, with a mean relative abundance of 44%. To a lesser extent, sexual behavior, especially a history of shared sexual partners, also predicted vaginal microbial similarity between baboons. Despite striking differences in their dominant microbes, both human and baboon vaginal microbiota exhibit profound changes in composition in response to reproductive state, ovarian cycle phase, and sexual behavior. We found major shifts in composition during ovulation, which may have implications for disease risk and conception success. These findings highlight the need for future studies to account for fine-scale differences in reproductive state, particularly differences between the various phases of the ovarian cycle. Overall, our work contributes to an emerging understanding of the forces that explain intra- and inter-individual variation in the mammalian vaginal microbiome, with particular emphasis on its role in host health and disease risk.

Phaeochromocytoma in pregnancy: safe vaginal delivery, is it possible?

PubMed

Kapoor, Garima; Salhan, Sudha; Sarda, Nivedita; Sarda, A K; Aggarwal, Deepika

2013-04-01

Pheochromocytoma in pregnancy is rare (1 in 50,000 full term pregnancies). Recognition of the condition is central to improving outcome (maternal and foetal mortality is reduced from 58% and 56%, respectively to 2% and 11-15%, respectively). An antenatal patient in third trimester diagnosed as pheochromocytoma has been described. Diagnosis of pheochromocytoma was confirmed by urinary VMA levels and demonstration of right adrenal mass on ultrasound. A multidisciplinary approach was used and the patient received antihypertensives for 10 days. Vaginal delivery was conducted under epidural analgesia and the patient was kept under close surveillance. She delivered a healthy baby girl weighing 2.5 kg. The intrapartum and the postpartum period were uneventful. Adrenalectomy was done at 6 weeks postpartum. Using multidisciplinary approach and individualised management decreases both maternal and foetal morbidity and mortality. Selected multigravidae cases and those with previous history of short uncomplicated labour, may be considered for vaginal delivery under epidural analgesia and with back up facilities available to manage hypertensive crisis.

[Laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy after multiple abdominal surgeries--case study].

PubMed

Malinowski, Andrzej; Wiecka-Płusa, Monika; Mołas, Justyna

2009-11-01

At present the laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy (LAVH) is the most widespread and most frequently executed variation of hysterectomy. It is an effective and safe operating alternative for the traditional way--abdominal hysterectomy. Good cosmetic effects, short post-operative stay at hospital and, first of all, a small risk of intra- and postoperative complications are the major driving factors justifying the choice of this method of surgery. In the following article we describe a case of a 43-year-old woman who underwent many interventions in the peritoneal cavity (abdominal surgery) and was shortlisted for the laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy. The cause of the operation was recurrent bilateral ovary cystis that could not be treated neither conservatively nor surgically, as well as the uterus myoma leading to abnormal uterus bleeding and hypermenorrhoea. Surgery in patients who have previously undergone abdominal operations is always difficult and the risk of complications is high indeed. In this case, while selecting the method of the next surgical procedure, surgeons must not exclude the vaginal and laparoscopic methods, or use them simultaneously. Experiences of other surgeons, as well as the unique case of a treated patient, show that previous abdominal surgical procedures are not a contraindication for either vaginal or laparoscopic procedures, and in some cases they might be safer than yet another laparotomy.

Umbilical vein oxytocin in the management of retained placenta: an alternative to manual removal of placenta?

PubMed

Lim, Pei Shan; Singh, Surinder; Lee, Alice; Muhammad Yassin, Muhammad Abdul Jamil

2011-11-01

Retained placenta is potentially life threatening due to possible complications associated with manual removal. Our aim was to determine whether umbilical vein injection of oxytocin in saline reduces the need for manual removal of placenta. This was a randomised controlled trial conducted at a tertiary hospital from December 2002 to March 2004. A total of 61 women delivering singletons, who had no sign of placental separation 20 min after vaginal delivery, were randomised to receive either intra-umbilical oxytocin 100 IU diluted in 30 ml of saline or controlled cord traction only. Manual removal was done if the placenta was not expelled in another 30 min in both arms. There was a significant reduction in the rate of subsequent manual removal of placenta (30 vs. 67.7%, p < 0.05), incidence of uterine atony (3.3 vs. 25.8%, p < 0.05) and the need for uterotonic agents (33.3 vs. 64.5%, p < 0.05) in the oxytocin group when compared with the control group. No significant differences were found in the need for blood transfusion, uterine curettage, incidence of postpartum haemorrhage and haemoglobin level reduction. Intra-umbilical vein oxytocin injection is clinically effective for the management of a retained placenta.

Determinants of health-related quality of life in the postpartum period after obstetric complications.

PubMed

Prick, Babette W; Bijlenga, Denise; Jansen, A J Gerard; Boers, Kim E; Scherjon, Sicco A; Koopmans, Corine M; van Pampus, Marielle G; Essink-Bot, Marie-Louise; van Rhenen, Dick J; Mol, Ben W; Duvekot, Johannes J

2015-02-01

To determine the influence of socio-demographic, clinical parameters and obstetric complications on postpartum health-related quality of life (HRQoL). We used data of three randomized controlled trials to investigate HRQoL determinants in women after an obstetric complication. The DIGITAT and HYPITAT trials compared induction of labor and expectant management in women with intra-uterine growth restriction (IUGR) and hypertensive disorders. The WOMB trial randomized anemic women after postpartum hemorrhage to red blood cell transfusion or expectant management. The HRQoL-measure Short-Form36 was completed at six weeks postpartum. Multivariable analyses were used to identify which parameters affected the Short-Form36 physical component score (PCS) and mental component score (MCS). HRQoL analyses included 1391 women (60%) of the 2310 trial participants. HYPITAT and DIGITAT participants had significantly lower MCS than WOMB participants. In multivariable analysis, PCS after elective and emergency cesarean section was 5-6 points lower than after vaginal delivery. Gestational hypertension, neonatal admission and delivery in an academic hospital had a small negative effect on PCS. No effect was found for randomization status, maternal age, BMI, country of birth, education, parity, induction of labor, analgesics, birth weight, perineal laceration, delivery of placenta, postpartum hemorrhage, congenital anomaly, urinary tract infection, thromboembolic event or endometritis. MCS was influenced only mildly by these parameters. IUGR and hypertensive disorders lead to lower HRQoL scores postpartum than PPH. In a heterogeneous obstetric population, only mode of delivery by cesarean section has a profound, negative impact, on physical HRQoL (PCS). No profound impacts on MCS were detected. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Recurrent paediatric pinworm infection of the vagina as a potential reservoir for Enterobius vermicularis.

PubMed

Kashyap, B; Samantray, J C; Kumar, S; Jhamb, R; Singh, A K; Kaur, I R

2014-09-01

Enterobius vermicularis infection remains one of the most common parasitic infections, particularly prevalent in children. Enterobiasis, although not usually dangerous, may cause significant morbidity. Elimination of the parasite from a family or an institution often poses problems, either because of an incomplete cure or re-infection. While there have been limited reports of ectopic enterobiasis throughout the world, ours is probably one of the rarest reports of recurrent vaginal E. vermicularis infection in the absence of any gastrointestinal symptoms despite complete treatment. A 4-year-old girl presented with recurrent episodes of vulval itching on 3-4 occasions over 2 years. There was no pruritis ani nor urinary/gastrointestinal complaints. The vulva was inflamed with 4-5 living worms, 6-7 mm in length, emerging from the anterior vaginal fornix, but with no vaginal discharge. Direct microscopic examination of vaginal swabs revealed adult worms of Enterobius but no eggs. Repeated stool samples from the patient, parents and a sibling were negative. The patient was treated orally with 100 mg of mebendazole for 3 days followed by two more courses at 3-week intervals over a period of 3 months. Recurrent vaginal enterobiasis despite complete treatment and in the absence of any gastrointestinal involvement suggests that the vagina is a potential reservoir for E. vermicularis, which supports the theory of rare ectopic enterobiasis through the ascending pathway of the female genital tract.

Correlates of the molecular vaginal microbiota composition of African women.

PubMed

Gautam, Raju; Borgdorff, Hanneke; Jespers, Vicky; Francis, Suzanna C; Verhelst, Rita; Mwaura, Mary; Delany-Moretlwe, Sinead; Ndayisaba, Gilles; Kyongo, Jordan K; Hardy, Liselotte; Menten, Joris; Crucitti, Tania; Tsivtsivadze, Evgeni; Schuren, Frank; van de Wijgert, Janneke H H M

2015-02-21

Sociodemographic, behavioral and clinical correlates of the vaginal microbiome (VMB) as characterized by molecular methods have not been adequately studied. VMB dominated by bacteria other than lactobacilli may cause inflammation, which may facilitate HIV acquisition and other adverse reproductive health outcomes. We characterized the VMB of women in Kenya, Rwanda, South Africa and Tanzania (KRST) using a 16S rDNA phylogenetic microarray. Cytokines were quantified in cervicovaginal lavages. Potential sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical correlates were also evaluated. Three hundred thirteen samples from 230 women were available for analysis. Five VMB clusters were identified: one cluster each dominated by Lactobacillus crispatus (KRST-I) and L. iners (KRST-II), and three clusters not dominated by a single species but containing multiple (facultative) anaerobes (KRST-III/IV/V). Women in clusters KRST-I and II had lower mean concentrations of interleukin (IL)-1α (p < 0.001) and Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor (G-CSF) (p = 0.01), but higher concentrations of interferon-γ-induced protein (IP-10) (p < 0.01) than women in clusters KRST-III/IV/V. A lower proportion of women in cluster KRST-I tested positive for bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs; ptrend = 0.07) and urinary tract infection (UTI; p = 0.06), and a higher proportion of women in clusters KRST-I and II had vaginal candidiasis (ptrend = 0.09), but these associations did not reach statistical significance. Women who reported unusual vaginal discharge were more likely to belong to clusters KRST-III/IV/V (p = 0.05). Vaginal dysbiosis in African women was significantly associated with vaginal inflammation; the associations with increased prevalence of STIs and UTI, and decreased prevalence of vaginal candidiasis, should be confirmed in larger studies.

Vaginal anomalies and atresia associated with imperforate anus: diagnosis and surgical management.

PubMed

Pandya, Kartikey A; Koga, Hiroyuki; Okawada, Manabu; Coran, Arnold G; Yamataka, Atsuyuki; Teitelbaum, Daniel H

2015-03-01

The association of vaginal atresia (or Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser Syndrome) with imperforate anus is rare and can present significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. This study describes clinical characteristics, surgical treatment and outcomes in this group of complex children. Records of 20 patients were retrospectively analyzed from two pediatric surgical centers. Five patients were excluded from the long-term analysis due to inadequate information, leaving long-term follow-up in 15 patients. Mean follow-up was 10 years (range 1-31.1 years). The diagnosis of vaginal atresia was made pre-operatively in 12 out of 15 patients, and in three patients it was identified during the anoplasty. The anorectal malformations were rectoperineal (N=2), rectovestibular (N=6), recto-bladder neck (N=1) and imperforate anus without fistula (N=6). Satisfactory surgical repair was performed in 13 patients, while one continues to stool through a low perineal fistula awaiting definitive surgery and another underwent a colostomy and mucous fistula. Delayed vaginal reconstruction was due to a failure to identify the problem prior to anoplasty (N=3). Long-term results demonstrated that anorectal continence was much worse than initially appreciated, and many had associated urinary incontinence. Overall stooling score was far lower than in a separate group of children with imperforate anus without vaginal atresia (Levitt and Peña, 2007). Vaginal atresia with imperforate anus is a rare and an extensive pre-operative workup of females with imperforate anus must include assessment of vagina patency. Vaginal reconstruction and anorectal continuity can be performed in a variety of approaches, but long-term continence is often not optimal. We propose a pathway for management of this difficult genito-anorectal disorder. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Feminizing genitoplasty in adult transsexuals: early and long-term surgical results.

PubMed

Goddard, Jonathan C; Vickery, Richard M; Qureshi, Assad; Summerton, Duncan J; Khoosal, Deenesh; Terry, Tim R

2007-09-01

To examine the early and late surgical outcomes of feminizing genitoplasty (FG) in adult transsexuals in a UK single surgeon practice over a 10-year period. Computerized and manual databases were searched over the period 1994-2004 to identify patients who had undergone male to female FG. Case-notes were retrieved and analysed to identify epidemiological data, the number and type of perioperative problems, early results at outpatient review, late occurring problems and patient satisfaction. A telephone questionnaire was then conducted targeting all FG patients in our series. The questions were directed at identifying surgical complications, outcome and patient satisfaction. In all, 233 case-notes were identified and 222 (95%) were retrieved. All patients had penectomy, urethroplasty and labiaplasty, 207 (93%) had formation of a neoclitoris, and 202 (91%) had a skin-lined neovagina. The median (range) age was 41 (19-76) years. The median hospital stay was 10 (6-21) days. A record of the first outpatient visit was available in 197 (84.5%) cases. The median time to follow up was 56 (8-351) days. Over all, 82.2% had an adequate vaginal depth, with a median depth of 13 (5-15) cm and 6.1% had developed vaginal stenosis. Three (1.7%) patients had had a vaginal prolapse, two (1.1%) had a degree of vaginal skin flap necrosis and one (0.6%) was troubled with vaginal hair growth. In 86.3% of the patients the neoclitorizes were sensitive. There was urethral stenosis in 18.3% of the patients and 5.6% complained of spraying of urine. Minor corrective urethral surgery was undertaken in 36 patients including 42 urethral dilatations, and eight meatotomies were performed. At the first clinic visit 174 (88.3%) patients were 'happy', 13 (6.6%) were 'unhappy' and 10 (5.1%) made no comment. Of the 233 patients, we successfully contacted 70 (30%). All had had penectomy and labioplasty, 64 (91%) had a clitoroplasty and 62 (89%) a neovagina. The median age was 43 (19-76) years and the median follow up was 36 (9-96) months. Overall, 63 (98%) had a sensate neoclitoris, with 31 (48%) able to achieve orgasm; nine (14%) were hypersensitive. Vaginal depth was considered adequate by 38 (61%) and 14 (23%) had or were having regular intercourse. Vaginal hair growth troubled 18 (29%), four (6%) had a vaginal prolapse and two (3%) had vaginal necrosis. Urinary problems were reported by 19 (27%) patients, of these 18 (26%) required revision surgery, 14 (20%) complained of urinary spraying, 18 (26%) had an upward directed stream and 16 (23%) had urethral stenosis. The patients deemed the cosmetic result acceptable in 53 (76%) cases and 56 (80%) said the surgery met with their expectations. This is largest series of early results after male to female FG. Complications are common after this complex surgery and long-term follow-up is difficult, as patients tend to re-locate at the start of their 'new life' after FG. There were good overall cosmetic and functional results, with a sustained high patient satisfaction.

Outcomes of a comprehensive nonsurgical approach to pelvic floor rehabilitation for urinary symptoms, defecatory dysfunction, and pelvic pain.

PubMed

Starr, Julie A; Drobnis, Erma Z; Lenger, Stacy; Parrot, Jessica; Barrier, Breton; Foster, Raymond

2013-01-01

The authors' intent was to determine the clinical efficacy of comprehensive pelvic floor rehabilitation among women with symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD). We performed a retrospective analysis of women referred to an academic female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery practice for PFD. Data were gathered from the records of 778 women referred for pelvic floor therapy for urinary, bowel, pelvic pain, and sexual symptoms over the course of 4 years. Patients who completed at least 5 therapy sessions reported a mean symptom improvement of 80% in each of the 3 main categories analyzed, namely, urinary incontinence, defecatory dysfunction, and pelvic pain. Comprehensive, nonoperative management of PFD including pelvic floor muscle training, biofeedback, electrogalvanic stimulation, constipation management, behavioral modification, incontinence devices, and pharmacotherapy including vaginal estrogen is effective in the treatment of women with PFD.

Association Between the Amount of Vaginal Mesh Used With Mesh Erosions and Repeated Surgery After Repairing Pelvic Organ Prolapse and Stress Urinary Incontinence.

PubMed

Chughtai, Bilal; Barber, Matthew D; Mao, Jialin; Forde, James C; Normand, Sharon-Lise T; Sedrakyan, Art

2017-03-01

Mesh, a synthetic graft, has been used in pelvic organ prolapse (POP) repair and stress urinary incontinence (SUI) to augment and strengthen weakened tissue. Polypropylene mesh has come under scrutiny by the US Food and Drug Administration. To examine the rates of mesh complications and invasive reintervention after the placement of vaginal mesh for POP repair or SUI surgery. This investigation was an observational cohort study at inpatient and ambulatory surgery settings in New York State. Participants were women who underwent transvaginal repair for POP or SUI with mesh between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2012, and were followed up through December 31, 2013. They were divided into the following 4 groups based on the amount of mesh exposure: transvaginal POP repair surgery with mesh and concurrent sling use (vaginal mesh plus sling group), transvaginal POP repair with mesh and no concurrent sling use (vaginal mesh group), transvaginal POP repair without mesh but concurrent sling use for SUI (POP sling group), and sling for SUI alone (SUI sling group). The primary outcome was the occurrence of mesh complications and repeated invasive intervention within 1 year after the initial mesh implantation. A time-to-event analysis was performed to examine the occurrence of mesh erosions and subsequent reintervention. Secondary analyses of an age association (<65 vs ≥65 years) were conducted. The study identified 41 604 women who underwent 1 of the 4 procedures. The mean (SD) age of women at their initial mesh implantation was 56.2 (13.0) years. The highest risk of erosions was found in the vaginal mesh plus sling group (2.72%; 95% CI, 2.31%-3.21%) and the lowest in the SUI sling group (1.57%; 95% CI, 1.41%-1.74%). The risk of repeated surgery with concomitant erosion diagnosis was also the highest in the vaginal mesh plus sling group (2.13%; 95% CI, 1.76%-2.56%) and the lowest in the SUI sling group (1.16%; 95% CI, 1.03%-1.31%). The combined use of POP mesh and SUI mesh sling was associated with the highest erosion and repeated intervention risk, while mesh sling alone had the lowest erosion and repeated intervention risk. There is evidence for a dose-response relationship between the amount of mesh used and subsequent mesh erosions, complications, and invasive repeated intervention.

Comparison of the efficacy of tension-free vaginal tape obturator (TVT-O) and single-incision tension-free vaginal tape (Ajust™) in the treatment of female stress urinary incontinence: a 1-year follow-up randomized trial.

PubMed

Masata, Jaromir; Svabik, Kamil; Zvara, Karel; Hubka, Petr; Toman, Ales; Martan, Alois

2016-10-01

The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of the tension-free vaginal tape obturator (TVT-O) and single-incision tension-free vaginal tape (Ajust™) in the treatment of stress urinary incontinence in a randomized two-arm study with a 1-year follow-up. This single-centre randomized trial compared the objective and subjective cure rates of TVT-O and Ajust using objective criteria (cough test) and subjective criteria (International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire short form, ICIQ-UI SF). The objective cure rate was defined as the number of patients with a negative cough stress test. Subjective cure was defined as no stress leakage of urine after surgery based on the ICIQ-UI SF. The primary outcome was to establish differences in objective and subjective cure rates between the TVT-O and Ajust groups. We also compared postoperative pain profiles using a visual analogue scale (VAS), improvement in quality of life using the ICIQ- UI SF and the Incontinence Quality of Life questionnaire, and overall satisfaction with the surgical procedure using a VAS and a five-item Likert scale. Inclusion criteria were age over 18 years, signed informed consent, and urodynamic stress urinary incontinence. Following a power calculation, 50 patients were enrolled into each group (Ajust and TVT-O). The mean follow-up after surgery was 445 days (SD 157.6 days) in the TVT-O group and 451.8 days (SD 127.6 days) in the Ajust group (p = 76.6 %). At 1 year, 47 patients were evaluated in the TVT-O group and 49 in the Ajust group. No differences in subjective cure rates or objective cure rates were observed. In the Ajust and TVT-O groups, the rates for no subjective stress leakage were 89.8 % and 91.5 %, respectively (p = 1.0, OR 1.22, 95 % CI 0.24 - 6.58), and the rates for a negative stress test were 89.8 % and 87.2 %, respectively (p = 0.76, OR 0.77, 95 % CI 0.17 - 3.32). In the Ajust group two patients reported de novo pain during sexual intercourse. After a 1-year-follow-up, no significant differences were found with regard to subjective and objective outcomes between the single-incision tape Ajust and TVT-O.

[Pelvic floor muscle training and pelvic floor disorders in women].

PubMed

Thubert, T; Bakker, E; Fritel, X

2015-05-01

Our goal is to provide an update on the results of pelvic floor rehabilitation in the treatment of urinary incontinence and genital prolapse symptoms. Pelvic floor muscle training allows a reduction of urinary incontinence symptoms. Pelvic floor muscle contractions supervised by a healthcare professional allow cure in half cases of stress urinary incontinence. Viewing this contraction through biofeedback improves outcomes, but this effect could also be due by a more intensive and prolonged program with the physiotherapist. The place of electrostimulation remains unclear. The results obtained with vaginal cones are similar to pelvic floor muscle training with or without biofeedback or electrostimulation. It is not known whether pelvic floor muscle training has an effect after one year. In case of stress urinary incontinence, supervised pelvic floor muscle training avoids surgery in half of the cases at 1-year follow-up. Pelvic floor muscle training is the first-line treatment of post-partum urinary incontinence. Its preventive effect is uncertain. Pelvic floor muscle training may reduce the symptoms associated with genital prolapse. In conclusion, pelvic floor rehabilitation supervised by a physiotherapist is an effective short-term treatment to reduce the symptoms of urinary incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Malignant Brenner tumor. A histologic, morphometrical, immunohistochemical, and ultrastructural study.

PubMed

Seldenrijk, C A; Willig, A P; Baak, J P; Kühnel, R; Rao, B R; Burger, C W; van der Harten, J J; Dijkhuizen, G H; Meijer, C J

1986-08-01

The histologic, morphometric, immunohistochemical, and ultrastructural study of a malignant Brenner tumor in a postmenopausal women presenting with vaginal bleeding is described. A comparison with transitional cell carcinomas is made, and the use of morphometry in grading the urothelial-like epithelium in malignant Brenner tumors is suggested. High preoperative urinary estrogen, low serum luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels and histologically confirmed atypical endometrial hyperplasia suggested a hyperestrogenism. The reduction in urinary estrogen and the increase in serum LH and FSH after tumor removal and the presence of aromatase activity detected in tumor microsomes confirmed that the tumor was synthesizing estrogen. Estrogen receptors were undetectable both by biochemical and histochemical analysis in the tumor.

Simultaneous quantification of cortisol and cortisone in urines from infants with packed-fiber solid-phase extraction coupled to HPLC-MS/MS.

PubMed

Li, Chen; Zhang, Zhao; Liu, Xiongwei; Shen, Kangwei; Gu, Pan; Kang, Xuejun

2017-09-01

Cortisol and cortisone are two important glucocorticoids in human body, their interconversion is controlled by two isotypes of 11β-hydroxy steroid dehydrogenase (11β-HSD1 and 11β-HSD2). The ratio of urinary cortisol to cortisone can be used to assess the activity of 11β-HSDs. An analytical method to quantify urinary cortisol and cortisone using high performance liquid chromatographic tandem mass spectrometry following a packed-fiber solid-phase extraction (PFSPE) was developed. The proposed method was validated and applied to determine the urinary cortisol and cortisone concentrations in infants. Linearity was observed in the range of 0.6-150ng/mL for cortisol and 0.8-200ng/mL for cortisone. The intra-day RSD was 2.4-4.5% for cortisol and 3.3-6.2% for cortisone. Inter-day RSD was 3.7-6.6% for cortisol and 4.3-8.2% for cortisone. The recovery was 97.8±4.6% for cortisol and 98.9±4.4% for cortisone. The established method is simple and efficient for the quantification of urinary cortisol and cortisone and for indirectly assessing the activity of 11β-hydroxy steroid dehydrogenase. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Does self-administered vaginal misoprostol result in cervical ripening in postmenopausal women after 14 days of pre-treatment with estradiol? Trial protocol for a randomised, placebo-controlled sequential trial.

PubMed

Oppegaard, K S; Lieng, M; Berg, A; Istre, O; Qvigstad, E; Nesheim, B-I

2008-06-01

To compare the impact of 1000 micrograms of self-administered vaginal misoprostol versus self-administered vaginal placebo on preoperative cervical ripening after pre-treatment with estradiol vaginal tablets at home in postmenopausal women prior to day-care operative hysteroscopy. Randomised double-blind placebo-controlled sequential trial. The boundaries for the sequential trial were calculated on the primary outcomes of a difference of cervical dilatation > or = 1 millimetre, with the assumption of a type 1 error of 0.05 and a power of 0.95. Norwegian university teaching hospital. Postmenopausal women referred for day-care operative hysteroscopy. The women were randomised to either 1000 micrograms of self-administered vaginal misoprostol or self-administered vaginal placebo the evening before day-care operative hysteroscopy. All women had administered a 25-microgram vaginal estradiol tablet daily for 14 days prior to the operation. Preoperative cervical dilatation (difference between misoprostol and placebo group, primary outcome), difference in dilatation before and after administration of misoprostol or placebo, number of women who achieve a preoperative cervical dilatation > or = 5 millimetres, acceptability, complications and side effects (secondary outcomes). Intra-operative findings and distribution of cervical dilatation in the two treatment groups: values are given as median (range) or n (%). Difference in dilatation before and after administration of misoprostol and placebo: values are given as median (range) of intraindividual differences. Percentage of women who achieve a cervical dilatation of > or = 5 mm, percentage of women who were difficult to dilate. Acceptability in the two treatment groups: values are given as completely acceptable n (%), fairly acceptable n (%), fairly unacceptable n (%), completely unacceptable n (%). Pain in the two treatment groups: pain was measured with a visual analogue scale ranging from 0 (no pain) to 10 (unbearable pain): values are given as median (range). Occurrence of side effects in the two treatment groups. Values are given as n (%). Complications given as n (%). No pharmaceutical company was involved in this study. A research grant from the regional research board of Northern Norway has been awarded to finance Dr K.S.O.'s leave from Hammerfest hospital as well as travel expenses between Hammerfest and Oslo, and research courses. The research grant from Prof B.I.N. (Helse Øst) funded the purchase of estradiol tablets, the manufacturing costs of misoprostol and placebo capsules from the hospital pharmacy, as well as the costs incurred for preparing the randomisation schedule and distribution of containers containing capsules to hospital. Prof B.I.N.'s research grant also funded insurance for the study participants. Estimated completion date 31 December 2008.

Primary Papillary Serous Carcinoma of the Fallopian Tube Presenting as a Vaginal Mass: A Case Report and Review of the Literature.

PubMed

Kadour-Peero, Einav; Sagi-Dain, Lena; Cohen, Gil; Korobochka, Roman; Agbarya, Abed; Bejar, Jacob; Sagi, Shlomi

2018-05-07

BACKGROUND There is now evidence to support that some cases of high-grade serous papillary carcinoma arise from the fallopian tubes rather than the ovaries. Common symptoms at presentation include abdominal pain and swelling, vomiting, altered bowel habit and urinary symptoms. To our knowledge, this is the first case of serous papillary carcinoma presenting as a vaginal mass lesion. CASE REPORT A 41-year-old woman was referred to the Bnai-Zion Medical Center with the main complaint of irregular vaginal bleeding, vaginal mucous discharge, and suspected pelvic mass. Physical examination showed a soft, painless mass, measuring about 10 cm in diameter located mainly in the recto-vaginal septum, but not involving the uterus. Ultrasound examination showed no abnormal ovarian or uterine findings. Transvaginal biopsies of the mass showed a poorly differentiated serous papillary carcinoma of ovarian, tubal, or peritoneal origin. The physical examination and imaging findings strongly indicated an inoperable tumor, and the patient was treated with neoadjuvant (pre-surgical) chemotherapy. Pre-operative computed tomography (CT) imaging showed the partial involvement of the colon, and so surgical treatment included total abdominal hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, omentectomy, partial vaginectomy, anterior rectal resection, and lymph node dissection. Histopathology of the surgical specimens showed a poorly differentiated serous carcinoma originating from the fimbria of the right fallopian tube. CONCLUSIONS To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report to describe primary fallopian tube papillary serous carcinoma presenting as a vaginal mass. Therefore, physicians should be aware of this possible diagnosis.

Vaginal hysterectomy with apical fixation and anterior vaginal wall repair for prolapse: surgical technique and medium-term results.

PubMed

Marschke, Juliane; Pax, Carlo Michael; Beilecke, Kathrin; Schwab, Frank; Tunn, Ralf

2018-03-24

Stabilization of the vaginal apex (level 1) is an important component of operations to correct pelvic organ prolapse (POP). We report functional and anatomical results and patient-reported outcomes of our technique of vaginal vault fixation at the time of vaginal hysterectomy. One hundred and nine patients-mean 69 years, range 50.4-83.8; body mass index (BMI) 26.3, range 17.7-39.5-with symptomatic stage 2-3 uterine prolapse combined with stage 3-4 cystocele underwent vaginal hysterectomy with anterior vaginal wall repair; the apex was formed with high closure of the peritoneum and incorporation of the uterosacral and round ligaments. Only absorbable sutures were used. Follow-up included clinical examination with Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification system (POP-Q) scoring, introital ultrasonography, quality of life (QoL) Likert scale, and the German Pelvic Floor Questionnaire. Seventy patients (64%) were available for a follow-up after a mean of 2.8 years (range, 1.6-4.2). At follow-up, point C was stage 0 in 55 (78.6%) women and stage 1 in 15 (21.4%). The anterior vaginal wall was stage 0 or 1 in 35 (50%), stage 2 (no cystocele beyond the hymen) in 34 (49%), and stage 3 in 1 (1.4%). Vaginal length (VL) was 9 cm. Four women (4%) were reoperated for prolapse: two for recurrent anterior compartment prolapse and two for de novo rectocele. Postvoid residuals >150 ml were seen in 21(30%) patients preoperatively and resolved postoperatively in 20. Urgency occurred in nine (13%), stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in ten (14%), and nocturia in 19 (27%). No patient had discomfort at the vaginal vault and 62 patients (87%) reported improved QoL, which did not correlate with anatomical results. Cystocele ≥ 2° at follow-up was associated with BMI >25 (p = 0.03). Our surgical technique without permanent material offers good apical support and functional and subjective results. Anatomical improvement was achieved in all cases of cystocele repair. Recurrent cystoceles are often asymptomatic.

[Effects of Electric Stimulation and Biofeedback for Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercise in Women with Vaginal Rejuvenation Women].

PubMed

Lee, Jung Bok; Choi, So Young

2015-10-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of pelvic floor muscle exercise using electric stimulation and biofeedback on maximum pressure of vaginal contraction, vaginal contraction duration and sexual function in women who have had vaginal rejuvenation. The research design was a non-equivalent control group non-synchronized design study. Participants in this study were women who had vaginal rejuvenation at C obstetrics and gynecology hospital. The 15 participants in the experimental group were given pelvic floor muscle exercise using electric stimulation and biofeedback and the 15 participants in the control group received self pelvic floor muscle exercise. For maximum pressure of vaginal contraction, the experimental group showed a statistically significant increase compared to than the control group (t=5.96, p<.001). For vaginal contraction duration, the experimental group also showed a statistically significant increase compared to the control group (t=3.23, p=.003). For women's sexual function, the experimental group showed a significant increase when compared to the control group in total sexual function scores (t=3.41, p=.002). The results indicate that pelvic floor muscle exercise with electric stimulation and biofeedback after vaginal rejuvenation is effective in strengthening vaginal contraction pressure, vaginal contraction and that it also positively functions to increase women's sexual function.

Urinary coagulation-fibrinolysis, kallirein-kinin systems and kininase in cases of preclampsia.

PubMed

Mutoh, S; Kobayashi, M; Hirata, J; Itoh, N; Maki, M; Komatsu, Y; Yoshida, A; Sasa, H; Kuroda, K; Kikuchi, Y

1992-01-01

Urinary kallikrein and kallikrein activity significantly decreased in cases of preeclampsia (u-kall./CRE.index 42.39 +/- 9.66 ng/mg, u-kall. act./CRE.index 0.26 +/- 0.06 ng/min/mg), and urinary kininase II and kininase activity significantly increased (u-kininase/CRE.index 10.91 +/- 1.26 x 10(-3) IU/min/mg, u-kininase act./CRE.index 506.37 +/- 178.45 pg/min/mg) when compared with those of normal gravidas from 28 weeks to 42 weeks of gestation (u-kall./CRE.index 189.31 +/- 14.17 ng/mg, u-kall. act./CRE index 1.08 +/- 0.10 ng/min/mg, u-kininase/CRE.index 6.24 +/- 0.31 x 10(-3) IU/min/mg, u-kininase act./CRE.index 15.64 +/- 0.10 pg/min/mg). Urinary FPA, B beta 5-42, alpha 2-PI, and alpha 2PI-plasmin-complex (PIC) significantly increased in preeclampsia (u-FPA/CRE.index 23.59 +/- 8.47 ng/mg, u-B beta/CRE.index 105.26 +/- 29.30 ng/mg, u-alpha 2PI/CRE.index 121.53 +/- 43.57 ng/mg, u-PIC/CRE index 278.39 +/- 60.50 ng/mg) when compared with those of normal control group (u-FPA/CRE.index 0.92 +/- 0.04 ng/mg, u-B beta/CRE.index 12.15 +/- 0.44 ng/mg, u-alpha 2PI/CRE.index 4.18 +/- 0.33 ng/mg, u-PIC/CRE.index 5.98 +/- 1.15 ng/mg). Urinary urokinase markedly increased and urinary D-dimer was detected in severe cases of preeclampsia (u-UK/CRE.index 58.20 +/- 43.69 ng/mg, u-D-dimer 54.76 +/- 9.89 ng/ml) when compared with those of normal control group. These findings suggest that deficiency in urinary kinin excretion may induce hypertension in addition to the changes of urinary coagulation-fibrinolysis system that represents the occurrence of either the endothelial cell injury in the glomerulus or the renal tulbular damage in mild cases of preeclampsia, eventually resulting in the intra-renal vascular coagulation.

[A comparative study on treating femal stress urinary incontinence with TVT-Abbrevo and TVT-Obturator].

PubMed

Li, W L; Lu, Z W; Li, F P; Yu, H Y

2016-07-26

To compare the effectiveness and complications of TVT-Abbrevo (tension-free vaginal tape-Abbrevo) and TVT-Obturator (tension-free vaginal tape-obturator) for the treatment of female stress urinary incontinence (SUI). From Nov.2012 to Nov.2013, 117 patients suffering from SUI were treated with TVT-Abbrebo (n=79) or TVT-Obturator (n=38) procedure, the clinical efficacy and operation-correlated complications were observed. A total of 117 cases, 107 cases of urinary incontinence symptoms disappeared completely, 10 cases were improved. 72 cases (91.1%) were cured and 7 cases (8.9%) were improved in TVT-Abbrevo group; 35 cases (92.1%) were cured and 3 cases (7.9%) were improved in TVT-Obturator group. No significant differences could be found for the curing rates between two groups (P>0.05). Compared with the TVT-Obturator group, the TVT-Abbrevo group had less patients complaining of inner thigh pain at 24 h and 1 w after surgery (P<0.05). No significant differences were observed for the incidence of inner thigh pain at 1m and 1y after surgery between TVT-Abbrevo and TVT-Obturator group (P>0.05). No intraoperative complications such as blood vessel, nerve, bladder damage were recorded and no postoperative retropubic hematoma, tape adjustment and other complications occurred in two goups. No recurrence after 1 year follow-up. The study shows that TVT-Abbrevo procedure is safe and efficacy in treatment of SUI, and associated with low incidence of recent postoperative inner thigh pain.

Long-term clinical outcomes with the retropubic tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) procedure compared to Burch colposuspension for correcting stress urinary incontinence (SUI).

PubMed

Holdø, Bjørn; Verelst, Margareta; Svenningsen, Rune; Milsom, Ian; Skjeldestad, Finn Egil

2017-11-01

The retropubic tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) procedure replaced Burch colposuspension as the primary surgical method for stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and mixed urinary incontinence (MUI) in women in our department in 1998. In this study we compared the short-term and long-term clinical outcomes of these surgical procedures. Using a case series design, we compared the last 5 years of the Burch procedure (n = 127, 1994-1999) with the first 5 years of the retropubic TVT procedure (n = 180, 1998-2002). Information from the medical records was transferred to a case report form comprising data on perioperative and long-term complications as well as recurrence of UI, defined as bothersome UI or UI in need of repeat surgery. Other endpoints were rates of perioperative and late complications and the rates of prolapse surgery after primary surgery. The data were analyzed with the chi-squared and t tests and survival analysis using SPSS. The cumulative recurrence rate of SUI in women with preoperative SUI was significantly higher after the Burch procedure, but no difference was observed in women with MUI. There were no significant differences in rates of perioperative and late complications. At 12 years there was a significant increase in rates of repeat surgery for incontinence and prolapse in women after the Burch procedure. The long-term efficacy of TVT surgery was superior to that of Burch colposuspension in women with SUI. In addition, the rate of late prolapse surgery was significantly higher after the Burch procedure.

Total pelvic exenteration: the Albert Einstein College of Medicine/Montefiore Medical Center Experience (1987 to 2003).

PubMed

Goldberg, Gary L; Sukumvanich, Paniti; Einstein, Mark H; Smith, Harriet O; Anderson, Patrick S; Fields, Abbie L

2006-05-01

To review the trends, modifications and results of 103 consecutive total pelvic exenterations (TPE) performed at the Montefiore Medical Center and Albert Einstein College of Medicine from 1987 to 2003. All patients who underwent TPE from January 1987 to December 2003 were included. The medical record, complications, follow-up, clinical status and demographic information were entered in a database. The procedure performed, the method of urinary diversion, colonic diversion, pelvic floor support and vaginal reconstruction were documented. Surviving patients were surveyed regarding their satisfaction with the urinary diversion, the vaginal reconstruction and their sexual function since the surgery. 103 pts were identified. Indications for TPE were recurrent cancers of the cervix (95), endometrium (2), colon and rectum (5), vulva (1). Overall 5-year survival was 47%. 5-year survival for pts with recurrent cervix cancer was 48%. Six pts (6%) recurred >5 years after the TPE. 14 pts (14%) had ureteral anastomotic leaks (no difference between ileal conduit 9/65 (14%) versus 5/38 (13%) continent conduit (P = 0.92). 34 pts (89%) with continent conduits were "continent." 14 pts (17%) had wound complications. 4 pts (4%) had parastomal hernias. 5/11 (46%) pts who had a low rectal reanastomosis developed recurrence in the pelvis. 21/39 (54%) of pts with continent conduits would choose an ileal conduit if they had the option again. Long-term renal function was similar in pts with ileal and continent conduits. Mesh of any type for pelvic floor reconstruction is associated with infection and bowel/urinary fistulas. VRAM flaps for neovagina fill the pelvic dead space, reduce the risk of fistulas and 20/36 pts (55%) are sexually active. Our overall 5-year survival is encouraging, and modifications in surgical technique have improved the reconstructive phase. Low rectal anastomoses at TPE adversely affects survival. Many of our pts with continent urinary diversions would not choose this method again. Mesh of any type is associated with sepsis and bowel/urinary fistulas. VRAM for neovagina reduces fistula rate and are functional in >55% of pts. TPE remains a potentially curative option for these pts.

A new device for simple and accurate urinary pH testing by the Stone-former patient.

PubMed

Grases, Felix; Rodriguez, Adrian; Berga, Francisco; Costa-Bauza, Antonia; Prieto, Rafael Maria; Burdallo, Isabel; Cadarso, Alfredo; Jimenez-Jorquera, Cecilia; Baldi, Antonio; Garganta, Rosendo

2014-01-01

Urinary pH is an important factor linked to renal stone disease and a useful marker in the treatment of urolithiasis. Although the gold standard for measuring urinary pH utilizes a glass electrode and a pH meter, at present dipstick testing is largely used to estimate urinary pH. However, the accuracy and precision of this method may be insufficient for making clinical decisions in patients with lithiasis. The aim of this study is to describe a new device for urinary pH testing. The device includes a pH sensor based on differential measurement of an ISFET-REFET pair. The drawbacks associated with this type of configuration, namely short lifetime and manual fabrication, have been overcome in the prototype. An automatic one point calibration is performed when turning on the system. Two buffer solutions were utilized to determine the intra- and inter-day precision of the device. The pH of 30 fresh human urine samples was measured using a pH-meter, a dipstick and the new electronic device. In some cases, dipstick measurements differed from those of the pH meter by more than 0.40 units, a clinically relevant discrepancy, whereas none of the measurements made with the new electronic device differed from the results of the pH-meter by more than 0.1 pH units. This new electronic device has the possibility to be used by stone-formers to control their urinary pH at home, increasing the tools available for stone prevention and prophylaxis.

Effect of lyophilized lactobacilli and 0.03 mg estriol (Gynoflor®) on vaginitis and vaginosis with disrupted vaginal microflora: a multicenter, randomized, single-blind, active-controlled pilot study.

PubMed

Donders, G G G; Van Bulck, B; Van de Walle, P; Kaiser, R R; Pohlig, G; Gonser, S; Graf, F

2010-01-01

To evaluate the efficacy of lyophilized lactobacilli in combination with 0.03 mg estriol when compared to metronidazole in the treatment of bacterial vaginal infections. Multicenter, randomized, single-blind, active-controlled pilot study in 3 independent gynecological practices in Belgium. Forty-six, 18- to 50-year-old premenopausal women with a disrupted vaginal flora due to a bacterial vaginal infection (bacterial vaginosis, aerobic vaginitis) were included, provided that fresh phase-contrast microscopy of the vaginal fluid showed lactobacillary flora grade 2B or 3. Patients were given a blinded box with either 12 vaginal tablets of Gynoflor® (study medication) or 6 vaginal suppositories containing 500 mg metronidazole (control medication). Eight efficacy variables were studied to assess the status of the vaginal flora at entry, 3-7 days (control 1), 4-6 (control 2) weeks and 4 months after the end of therapy. At control 1, the combined variables equally improved in the lactobacilli group as in the metronidazole group. At control 2, the lactobacillus preparation showed slightly inferior results when compared to metronidazole. At 4 months, this analysis could not be performed due to low numbers, but analysis of recurrence rate and extra medication needed was not different between both groups. Lyophilized lactobacilli in combination with low-dose estriol are equivalent to metronidazole in the short-term treatment of bacterial vaginal infections, but have less effect after 1 month. Further studies are required to evaluate the long-term efficacy of lactobacilli when applied repeatedly. Copyright © 2010 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Management of vaginal atrophy: a real mess. Results from the AGATA study.

PubMed

Palma, Federica; Xholli, Anjeza; Cagnacci, Angelo

2017-09-01

To investigate the management of vaginal atrophy (VA) in a population-based study. A sub-study of a cross-sectional multicenter study on 913 postmenopausal women. Management of VA was investigated on the 274 women referring having received a previous diagnosis of VA. Women had received, no therapy (9.8%), systemic hormones (9.2%), intra-vaginal estrogens (44.5%) or local non-hormonal (36.5%) therapy. There was heterogeneity of treatments. Local therapies were given in cycles, and used for a length of time ranging from 1 to 12 months. At the time of the investigation 59.5% of these women were not on treatment, either because following the physician's indication (31.1%) or because spontaneously withdrawing from treatment (68.9%). Reasons for withdrawing from therapy were insufficient symptom relief (46.6%), messiness (24.3%), difficulty in application (7.8%) and vaginal discharge (1.9%). At the time of investigation only 2.9% of treated women did not suffer from VA. This study underlines the presence of a great confusion about the therapy used for VA, along with patients' dissatisfaction with actual treatments. The emerging evidence is that in real world VA remains untreated.

Dysuria in the emergency department: missed diagnosis of Chlamydia trachomatis.

PubMed

Wilbanks, Morgan D; Galbraith, James W; Geisler, William M

2014-03-01

The clinical presentation of genital Chlamydia trachomatis infection (chlamydia) in women is often indistinguishable from a urinary tract infection. While merited in the setting of dysuria, emergency department (ED) clinicians do not routinely test for chlamydia in women. The primary aim of our study was to evaluate the frequency of chlamydia testing among women presenting to the ED with dysuria. We conducted a retrospective chart review of women 19-25 years of age presenting with dysuria to an urban ED and who had been coded with urinary tract infection (UTI) as their primary diagnosis (ICD-9 599.0) from October 2005 to March 2011. We excluded women who were pregnant, had underlying anatomical or neurological urinary system pathology, had continuation of symptoms from UTI or a sexually transmitted infection (STI) diagnosed elsewhere, or were already on antibiotics for a UTI or STI. We identified the rates of sexual history screening, pelvic examination and chlamydia assay testing and evaluated predictors using univariate and multivariate analyses. Of 280 women with dysuria and a UTI diagnosis, 17% were asked about their sexual history, with 94% reporting recent sexual activity. Pelvic examination was performed in 23%. We were unable to determine the overall chlamydia prevalence as only 20% of women in the cohort were tested. Among the 20% of women tested for chlamydia infection, 21% tested positive. Only 42% of chlamydia-positive women were prescribed treatment effective for chlamydia (azithromycin or doxycycline) at their visit; the remaining were prescribed UTI treatment not effective against chlamydia. Predictors of sexual history screening included vaginal bleeding (OR 5.4, 95% CI=1.5 to 19.6) and discharge (OR 2.8, 95% CI=1.1 to 6.9). Predictors of a pelvic examination being performed included having a complaint of vaginal discharge (OR 11.8, 95% CI=4.2 to 32.9), a sexual history performed (OR 2.5, 95% CI=1.1 to 5.8), abdominal pain (OR 2.2, 95% CI=1.1 to 4.4), or pelvic pain (OR 15.3, 95% CI=2.5 to 92.2); a complaint of urinary frequency was associated with a pelvic examination not being performed (OR 0.34, 95% CI=0.13 to 0.86). Sexual histories, pelvic examinations, and chlamydia testing were not performed in the majority of women presenting with dysuria and diagnosed with UTI in the ED. The performance of a sexual history along with the availability of self-administered vaginal swab and first-void urine-based chlamydia tests may increase identification of chlamydia infection in women with dysuria.

Falling caesarean section rate and improving intra-partum outcomes: a prospective cohort study.

PubMed

Amin, Pina; Zaher, Summia; Penketh, Richard; Cherian, Sobha; Collis, Rachel E; Sanders, Julia; Bhal, Kiron

2018-02-19

To evaluate caesarean section (CS) rates and moderate to severe hypoxaemic ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE) rates with other core intra-partum outcomes following reconfiguration of maternity services in Cardiff, South Wales, UK. Cohort study of births from 2006 to 2015. A University tertiary referral centre for foetal and maternal medicine with 6000 births/year, University Hospital of Wales, United Kingdom. Data relating to births from 1 January 2006 to 31 December 2015 were extracted from the computerized maternity database on a yearly basis. Case notes of all mothers and babies for the same duration were hand searched for documentation of HIE. HIE data was also collected prospectively by neonatologist (SC) and obstetrician (PA). Incidence of caesarean section births, babies with moderate to severe HIE, instrumental vaginal births, obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS) associated with instrumental delivery, and major post-partum haemorrhage (MPPH) of 2500 mL or more. During this 10-year period, a downward trend in emergency CS rate was seen from 15.6% in 2006 to 10.5% in 2015, reducing total CS rate from 25.5% in 2006 to 21.2% in 2015. A downward trend in the incidence of moderate and severe HIE was seen over the same period. There was an increase in operative vaginal births (OVB) from 12.8% to 15%. The rate of spontaneous vaginal births (SVB) remained stable. The incidence of OASIS remained constant and MPPH rate has fallen. Following amalgamation of two medium sized obstetric units and the opening of a Midwifery Led Unit (MLU), core intrapartum outcomes have improved. Contributing factors are the introduction of regular multidisciplinary training with enhanced team working, compulsory education for obstetricians and midwives on cardiotocograph (CTG) interpretation, increased consultant presence on delivery suite, robust risk management systems and broad multidisciplinary agreement on clinical guidelines promoting vaginal birth.

Evaluation of markers out of the steroid profile for the screening of testosterone misuse. Part I: Transdermal administration.

PubMed

Kotronoulas, Aristotelis; Gomez-Gómez, Àlex; Fabregat, Andreu; Segura, Jordi; Yang, Sheng; Xing, Yanyi; Moutian, Wu; Marcos, Josep; Joglar, Jesús; Ventura, Rosa; Pozo, Oscar J

2018-05-01

Although the introduction by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) of the steroid module of the athlete biological passport (ABP) marked an important step forward in the screening of testosterone (T) misuse, it still remains one of the most difficult challenges in doping control analysis. The urinary determination of alternative markers has been recently reported as a promising tool for improving the screening of T oral administration. However, their evaluation for other, commonly used, administration routes is still required. The main goal of this study is the evaluation of the potential of 2 groups of metabolites (cysteinyl conjugated and glucuronoconjugated) after transdermal and intramuscular administration of T. Their suitability was evaluated in individuals with both low basal (L-T/E) and medium basal (M-T/E) values of T/E. In this Part I, we evaluated the urinary excretion profile of these 2 groups of T metabolites after the administration of 3 doses of T gel to 12 volunteers (6 L-T/E and 6 M-T/E) for 3 consecutive days. For this purpose, 9 different concentration ratios (5 cysteinyl conjugated and 4 glucuronoconjugated markers) were studied. Both, the intra-individual variability and the detection windows (DW) obtained by each ratio were evaluated. Cysteinyl conjugates showed a general low intra-individual variability and DWs that were shorter than any other tested marker. Despite the relatively large intra-individual variability, the DWs reached by glucuronoconjugates (2-3 days) were similar to those obtained by markers currently included in the ABP. Overall; this evaluation advises for the introduction of additional glucuronoconjugated markers in the screening of transdermal T administration. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Evaluation of intra-operative tramadol for prevention of catheter-related bladder discomfort: a prospective, randomized, double-blind study.

PubMed

Agarwal, A; Yadav, G; Gupta, D; Singh, P K; Singh, U

2008-10-01

Catheter-related bladder discomfort (CRBD) is defined as an urge to void or discomfort in the supra-pubic region; reported postoperatively in patients who have had urinary catheterization intra-operatively. We have evaluated tramadol, a centrally acting opioid analgesic with muscarinic receptor antagonist properties for prevention of CRBD. Fifty-four adults (18-60 yr), ASA physical status I and II of either sex, undergoing elective percutaneous nephro-lithomy were randomly divided into two groups of 27 each. Control (C) group received normal saline (NS; 2 ml), whereas Tramadol (T) group received tramadol 1.5 mg kg(-1). All medications were diluted in 2 ml NS and administered 30 min before extubation. Intra-operatively, urinary catherization was performed with a 16 Fr Foley's catheter, and the balloon was inflated with 10 ml distilled water. The CRBD was assessed at 0, 1, 2, and 6 h after patient's arrival in the post-anaesthesia care unit along with total postoperative fentanyl requirement. Severity of CRBD was graded as none, mild, moderate and severe. Data were analysed by one-way ANOVA, Z-test, and Fisher's exact test. P<0.05 was considered significant. Incidence and severity of CRBD was reduced in T group compared with C group at all time points (P<0.05). Postoperative pain as assessed by visual analogue scale and total postoperative fentanyl requirement (microg kg(-1)) was also reduced in the T group [176 (SD 26.5)] compared with C group [210 (34.6)] (P<0.05). Tramadol 1.5 mg kg(-1) administered i.v. 30 min before extubation decreases the incidence and severity of CRBD and postoperative fentanyl requirement.

Laser hair removal for genital gender affirming surgery

PubMed Central

Zhang, William R.; Garrett, Giorgia L.; Arron, Sarah T.

2016-01-01

Genital gender affirming surgery (GAS) involves reconstruction of the genitals to match a patient’s identified sex. The use of hair-bearing flaps in this procedure may result in postoperative intra-vaginal and intra-urethral hair growth and associated complications, including lower satisfaction with genital GAS. Despite the significant increase in genital GAS within the past 50 years, there is limited data regarding hair removal practices in preparation for genital GAS and notable variation in hair removal techniques among dermatologists and other practitioners. We present a literature review, recommendations from our experience, and a practical laser hair removal (LHR) approach to hair removal prior to genital GAS. PMID:27298787

Operative vaginal delivery in case of persistent occiput posterior position after manual rotation failure: a 6-month follow-up on pelvic floor function.

PubMed

Guerby, Paul; Parant, Olivier; Chantalat, Elodie; Vayssiere, Christophe; Vidal, Fabien

2018-07-01

To compare the short- and long-term perineal consequences (at 6 months postpartum) and short-term neonatal consequences of instrumental rotation (IR) to those induced by assisted delivery (AD) in the occiput posterior (OP) position, in case of manual rotation failure. A prospective observational cohort study; tertiary referral hospital including all women presenting with persistent OP position who delivered vaginally after manual rotation failure with attempted IR or AD in OP position from September 2015 to October 2016. Maternal and neonatal outcomes of all attempted IR deliveries were compared with OP operative vaginal deliveries. Main outcomes measured were pelvic floor function at 6 months postpartum including Wexner score for anal incontinence and ICIQ-FLUTS for urinary symptoms. Perineal morbidity comprised severe perineal tears, corresponding to third and fourth degree lacerations. Fetal morbidity parameters comprised low neonatal Apgar scores, acidaemia, major and minor fetal injuries and neonatal intensive care unit admissions. Among 5265 women, 495 presented with persistent OP positions (9.4%) and 111 delivered after manual rotation failure followed by AD delivery: 58 in the IR group and 53 in the AD in OP group. The incidence of anal sphincter injuries was significantly reduced after IR attempt (1.7% vs. 24.5%; p < 0.001) without increasing neonatal morbidity. At 6 months postpartum, AD in OP position was associated with higher rate of anal incontinence (30% vs. 5.5%, p = 0.001) and with more urinary symptoms, dyspareunia and perineal pain. OP operative deliveries are associated with significant perineal morbidity and pelvic floor dysfunction at 6 months postpartum.

Long-term antibiotics for prevention of recurrent urinary tract infection in older adults: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised trials.

PubMed

Ahmed, Haroon; Davies, Freya; Francis, Nick; Farewell, Daniel; Butler, Christoper; Paranjothy, Shantini

2017-05-29

To address clinical uncertainties about the effectiveness and safety of long-term antibiotic therapy for preventing recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) in older adults. Systematic review andmeta-analysis of randomised trials. We searched Medline, Embase, The Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature( CINAHL), and the Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials from inception to August 2016. Eligible studies compared long-term antibiotic therapy with non-antibiotic therapy or placebo in men or women aged over 65, or in postmenopausal women, with recurrent UTIs. We did not identify any studies that included older men. Three randomised controlled trials compared long-term antibiotics with vaginal oestrogens (n=150), oral lactobacilli (n=238) and D-mannose powder (n=94) in postmenopausal women. Long-term antibiotics reduced the risk of UTI recurrence by 24% (three trials, n=482; pooled risk ratio (RR) 0.76; 95% CI 0.61 to 0.95, number needed to treat=8.5). There was no statistically significant increase in risk of adverse events (mild adverse events: pooled RR 1.52; 95% CI 0.76 to 3.03; serious adverse events: pooled RR 0.90, 95% CI 0.31 to 2.66). One trial showed 90% of urinary and faecal Escherichia coli isolates were resistant to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole after 1 month of prophylaxis. Findings from three small trials with relatively short follow-up periods suggest long-term antibiotic therapy reduces the risk of recurrence in postmenopausal women with recurrent UTI. We did not identify any evidence to inform several clinically important scenarios including, benefits and harms in older men or frail care home residents, optimal duration of prophylaxis, recurrence rates once prophylaxis stops and effects on urinary antibiotic resistance. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Innate immunity in the vagina (Part II): Anti-HIV activity and antiviral content of human vaginal secretions.

PubMed

Patel, Mickey V; Ghosh, Mimi; Fahey, John V; Ochsenbauer, Christina; Rossoll, Richard M; Wira, Charles R

2014-07-01

Whether the concentrations of antiviral proteins, and anti-HIV activity, within human vaginal secretions change across the menstrual cycle is unknown. Using a menstrual cup, vaginal secretions from pre-menopausal women were recovered at the proliferative (d6-8), mid-cycle (d13-15), and secretory (d21-23) stages of the menstrual cycle. Antiviral protein concentration was determined by ELISA, and anti-HIV activity assessed using the TZM-bl reporter cell line. CCL20, RANTES, elafin, HBD2, SDF-1α, and IL-8 levels were detectable in the secretions. Vaginal secretions had anti-HIV activity against specific clade B strains of HIV, with significant inhibition of IIIB and increased infectivity of transmitted/founder CH077.t. No significant differences in either antiviral protein concentration or anti-HIV activity with respect to menstrual cycle stage were measured, but marked differences were observed in both parameters over the course of the cycle between different women and in consecutive cycles from the same woman. The vagina contains a complement of antiviral proteins. The variation in anti-HIV activity demonstrates that immune protection in the vagina is not constant. Intra- and interindividual variations suggest that factors in addition to sex hormones influence antiviral protection. Lastly, the menstrual cup is a new model for recovering undiluted vaginal secretions from women throughout their reproductive life. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Comparison of placental alpha microglobulin-1 in vaginal fluid with intra-amniotic injection of indigo carmine for the diagnosis of rupture of membranes.

PubMed

Sosa, Claudio G; Herrera, Edward; Restrepo, Juan C; Strauss, Alexander; Alonso, Justo

2014-09-01

The purpose of this study was to compare the diagnostic performance of an immunoassay for placental alpha microglobulin-1 (PAMG-1) in vaginal fluid with the intra-amniotic instillation of indigo carmine for the diagnosis of membrane rupture in patients with an equivocal status. A prospective multi-site study was performed involving women reporting signs, symptoms, or complaints suggestive of rupture of membrane (ROM) between 21 and 42 weeks of gestation without obvious leakage of fluid from the cervical os during sterile speculum examination and without confirmation of ROM by traditional methods. A total of 140 patients were recruited with a prevalence of ROM of 19.3%. The PAMG-1 test had a sensitivity of 100.0% [confidence interval (CI) 0.87-1.0], specificity of 99.1% [(CI) 0.95-0.99], positive predictive value of 96.3% [(CI) 0.82-0.99], negative predictive value of 100.0% [(CI) 0.97-1.0], and ± likelihood ratios of 74.6 [(CI) 20.31-274.51] and 0.0 [(CI) 0.00-0.98]. The PAMG-1 immunoassay in vaginal fluid yielded results that were comparable to those of the instillation of indigo carmine into the amniotic cavity; therefore, we propose that PAMG-1 is a sensitive and specific test to assess ROM in patients with an equivocal diagnosis based on simple tests. This finding prompts consideration for the use of the noninvasive PAMG-1 test in situations where the use of the invasive dye test is not practical.

In vitro antagonistic effect of Lactobacillus on organisms associated with bacterial vaginosis.

PubMed

Strus, Magdalena; Malinowska, Magdalena; Heczko, Piotr B

2002-01-01

To assess antagonistic properties of Lactobacillus strains isolated from the vaginas of healthy women as compared to the most common bacterial agents related to vaginosis. Antagonistic activity of different Lactobacillus strains isolated from the vaginas of healthy women not treated for infections with an antibiotic for the previous three months was screened using an agar slab method. The activity was tested against test organisms associated with bacterial vaginosis and/or urinary tract infections: Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Streptococcus agalactiae, Escherichia coli, Gardnerella vaginalis, Peptostreptococcus anaerobius and Prevotella bivia. Many of the 146 Lactobacillus strains tested exerted apparent antagonistic activities against gram-positive aerobic cocci and gram-negative rods, such as S aureus and E coli, and a marked number of Lactobacillus strains inhibited facultative bacteria, such as Gardnerella vaginalis and the anaerobes P anaerobius and P bivia. Only a few lactobacilli were able to inhibit growth of E faecalis and S agalactiae. Indicator bacteria growth inhibition probably relies upon several different complementary mechanisms. The specific indicator bacteria species determines which mechanism predominates. Lactobacillus strains taken from normal vaginal flora demonstrated antagonistic activity against a variety of bacteria related to vaginal and urinary tract infections. The specific occurrence rates of active Lactobacillus strains are different, and this difference is dependent on the indicator bacteria species.

An education program about pelvic floor muscles improved women's knowledge but not pelvic floor muscle function, urinary incontinence or sexual function: a randomised trial.

PubMed

de Andrade, Roberta Leopoldino; Bø, Kari; Antonio, Flavia Ignácio; Driusso, Patricia; Mateus-Vasconcelos, Elaine Cristine Lemes; Ramos, Salvador; Julio, Monica Pitanguy; Ferreira, Cristine Homsi Jorge

2018-04-01

Does an educational program with instructions for performing 'the Knack' improve voluntary contraction of the pelvic floor muscles, reduce reports of urinary incontinence, improve sexual function, and promote women's knowledge of the pelvic floor muscles? Randomised, controlled trial with concealed allocation, intention-to-treat analysis and blinded assessors. Ninety-nine women from the local community. The experimental group (n=50) received one lecture per week for 4 weeks, and instructions for performing 'the Knack'. The control group (n=49) received no intervention. The primary outcome was maximum voluntary contraction of the pelvic floor muscles measured using manometry. Secondary outcomes were: ability to contract the pelvic floor muscles measured using vaginal palpation; severity of urinary incontinence measured by the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-SF) scored from 0 to 21; self-reported sexual function; and knowledge related to the pelvic floor. Outcomes were measured at baseline and after 4 weeks. The intervention did not significantly improve: maximum voluntary contraction (MD 2.7 cmH 2 O higher in the experimental group, 95% CI -0.5 to 5.9); ability to contract the pelvic floor muscles (RR 2.18, 95% CI 0.49 to 9.65); or self-reported severity of urinary incontinence (MD 1 point greater reduction in the experimental group, 95% CI -3 to 1). Sexual function did not significantly differ between groups, but very few of the women engaged in sexual activity during the study period. The educational program did, however, significantly increase women's knowledge related to the location, functions and dysfunctions of the pelvic floor muscles, and treatment options. Education and teaching women to perform 'the Knack' had no significant effect on voluntary contraction of the pelvic floor muscles, urinary incontinence or sexual function, but it promoted women's knowledge about the pelvic floor. Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials, RBR-95sxqv. [de Andrade RL, Bø K, Antonio FI, Driusso P, Mateus-Vasconcelos ECL, Ramos S, Julio MP, Ferreira CHJ (2018) An education program about pelvic floor muscles improved women's knowledge but not pelvic floor muscle function, urinary incontinence or sexual function: a randomised trial. Journal of Physiotherapy 64: 91-96]. Copyright © 2018 Australian Physiotherapy Association. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

[Treatment of Urinary incontinence associated with genital prolapse: Clinical practrice guidelines].

PubMed

Cortesse, A; Cardot, V; Basset, V; Le Normand, L; Donon, L

2016-07-01

Prolapse and urinary incontinence are frequently associated. Patente (or proven) stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is defined by a leakage of urine that occurs with coughing or Valsalva, in the absence of any prolapse reduction manipulation. Masked urinary incontinence results in leakage of urine occurring during reduction of prolapse during the clinical examination in a patient who does not describe incontinence symptoms at baseline. The purpose of this chapter is to consider on the issue of systematic support or not of urinary incontinence, patent or hidden, during the cure of pelvic organs prolapse by abdominal or vaginal approach. This work is based on an systematic review of the literature (PubMed, Medline, Cochrane Library, Cochrane database of systematic reviews, EMBASE) for meta-analyzes, randomized trials, registries, literature reviews, controlled studies and major not controlled studies, published on the subject. Its implementation has followed the methodology of the HAS on the recommendations for clinical practice, with a scientific argument (with the level of evidence, NP) and a recommendation grade (A, B, C, and professional agreement). In case of patent IUE, concomitant treatment of prolapse and SUI reduces the risk of postoperative SUI. However, the isolated treatment of prolapse can treat up to 30% of preoperative SUI. Concomitant treatment of SUI exposed to a specific overactive bladder and dysuria morbidity. The presence of a hidden IUE represents a risk of postoperative SUI, but there is no clinical or urodynamic test to predict individually the risk of postoperative SUI. Moreover, the isolated treatment of prolapse can treat up to 60% of the masked SUI. Concomitant treatment of the hidden IUE therefore exposes again to overtreatment and a specific overactive bladder and dysuria morbidity. In case of overt or hidden urinary incontinence, concomitant treatment of SUI and prolapse reduces the risk of postoperative SUI but exposes to a specific overactive bladder and dysuria morbidity (NP3). The isolated treatment of prolapse often allows itself to treat preoperative SUI. We can suggest not to treat SUI (whether patent or hidden) at the same time, providing that women are informed of the possibility of 2 stages surgery (Grade C). © 2016 Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. © 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. Tous droits réservés.

Vaginal sponge and spermicides

MedlinePlus

Birth control - over the counter; Contraceptives - over the counter; Family planning - vaginal sponge; Contraception - vaginal sponge ... preventing pregnancy as some other forms of birth control. However, using a spermicide or sponge is much ...

Outcomes following vaginal prolapse repair and mid urethral sling (OPUS) trial--design and methods.

PubMed

Wei, John; Nygaard, Ingrid; Richter, Holly; Brown, Morton; Barber, Matthew; Xiao Xu; Kenton, Kimberly; Nager, Charles; Schaffer, Joseph; Visco, Anthony; Weber, Anne

2009-04-01

The primary aims of this trial are to determine whether the use of a concomitant prophylactic anti-incontinence procedure may prevent stress urinary incontinence symptom development in women undergoing vaginal prolapse surgery and to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of this prophylactic approach. To present the rationale and design of a randomized controlled surgical trial (RCT), the Outcomes following vaginal Prolapse repair and mid Urethral Sling (OPUS) Trial highlighting the challenges in the design and implementation. The challenges of implementing this surgical trial combined with a cost-effectiveness study and patient preference group are discussed including the study design, ethical issues regarding use of sham incision, maintaining the masking of study staff, and pragmatic difficulties encountered in the collection of cost data. The trial is conducted by the NICHD-funded Pelvic Floor Disorders Network. The ongoing OPUS trial started enrollment in May 2007 with a planned accrual of 350. The use of sham incision was generally well accepted but the collection of cost data using conventional billing forms was found to potentially unmask key study personnel. This necessitated changes in the study forms and planned timing for collection of cost data. To date, the enrollment to the patient preference group has been lower than the limit established by the protocol suggesting a willingness on the part of women to participate in the randomization. Given the invasive nature of surgical intervention trials, potential participants may be reluctant to accept random assignment, potentially impacting generalizability. Findings from the OPUS trial will provide important information that will help surgeons to better counsel women on the benefits and risks of concomitant prophylactic anti-incontinence procedure at the time of vaginal surgery for prolapse. The implementation of the OPUS trial has necessitated that investigators consider ethical issues up front, remain flexible with regards to data collection and be constantly aware of unanticipated opportunities for unmasking. Future surgical trials should be aware of potential challenges in maintaining masking and collection of cost-related information.

Predicting obstetric anal sphincter injuries in a modern obstetric population.

PubMed

Meister, Melanie R L; Cahill, Alison G; Conner, Shayna N; Woolfolk, Candice L; Lowder, Jerry L

2016-09-01

Perineal lacerations are common at the time of vaginal delivery and may predispose patients to long-term pelvic floor disorders, such as urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. Obstetric anal sphincter injuries, which are the most severe form of perineal lacerations, result in disruption of the anal sphincter and, in some cases, the rectal mucosa during vaginal delivery. Long-term morbidity, including pain, pelvic floor disorders, fecal incontinence, and predisposition to recurrent injury at subsequent delivery may result. Despite several studies that have reported risk factors for obstetric anal sphincter injuries, no accurate risk prediction models have been developed. The purpose of this study was to identify risk factors and develop prediction models for perineal lacerations and obstetric anal sphincter injuries. This was a nested case control study within a retrospective cohort of consecutive term vaginal deliveries at 1 tertiary care facility from 2004-2008. Cases were patients with any perineal laceration that had been sustained during vaginal delivery; control subjects had no lacerations of any severity. Secondary analyses investigated obstetric anal sphincter injury (3rd- to 4(th)-degree laceration) vs no obstetric anal sphincter injury (0 to 2(nd)-degree laceration). Baseline characteristics were compared between groups with the use of the chi-square and Student t test. Adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated with the use of multivariable logistic regression. Prediction models were created and model performance was estimated with receiver-operator characteristic curve analysis. Receiver-operator characteristic curves were validated internally with the use of the bootstrap method to correct for bias within the model. Of the 5569 term vaginal deliveries that were recorded during the study period, complete laceration data were available in 5524 deliveries. There were 3382 perineal lacerations and 249 (4.5%) obstetric anal sphincter injuries. After adjusted analysis, significant predictors for laceration included nulliparity, non-black race, longer second stage, nonsmoking status, higher infant birthweight, and operative delivery. Private health insurance, labor induction, pushing duration, and regional anesthesia were not statistically significant in adjusted analyses. Significant risk factors for obstetric anal sphincter injury were similar to predictors for any laceration; nulliparity and operative vaginal delivery had the highest predictive value. Area under the curve for the predictive ability of the models was 0.70 for overall perineal laceration, and 0.83 for obstetric anal sphincter injury. When limited to primiparous patients, 1996 term vaginal deliveries were recorded. One hundred ninety-two women sustained an obstetric anal sphincter injury; 1796 women did not. After adjusted analysis, significant predictors for laceration included non-black race, age, obesity, and nonsmoking status. In secondary analyses, significant predictors for obstetric anal sphincter injury included non-black race, nonsmoking status, longer duration of pushing, operative vaginal delivery, and infant birthweight. Area under the curve for the predictive ability of the models was 0.60 for any laceration and 0.77 for obstetric anal sphincter injury. Significant risk factors for sustaining any laceration and obstetric anal sphincter injury during vaginal deliveries were identified. These results will help identify clinically at-risk patients and assist providers in counseling patients about modifications to decrease these risks. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Female stress urinary incontinence: standard techniques revisited and critical evaluation of innovative techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de Riese, Cornelia; de Riese, Werner T. W.

2003-06-01

Objectives: The treatment of female urinary incontinence (UI) is a growing health care concern in our aging society. Publications of recent innovations and modifications are creating expectations. This brief review provides some insight and structure regarding indications and expected outcomes for the different approaches. Materials: Data extraction is part of a Medline data base search, which was performed for "female stress incontinence" from 1960 until 2000. Additional literature search was performed to cover 2001 and 2002. Outcome data were extracted. Results: (1) INJECTION OF BULKING AGENTS (collagen, synthetic agents): The indication for mucosal coaptation was more clearly defined and in the majority of articles limited to ISD. (2) OPEN COLPOSUSPENSION (Burch, MMK): Best long-term results of all operative procedures, to date considered the gold standard. (3) LAPAROSCOPIC COLPOSUSPENSION (different modifications): Long-term success rates appear dependent on operator skills. There are few long-term data. (4) NEEDLE SUSPENSION: (Stamey, Pareyra and modifications): Initial results were equal to Burch with less morbidity, but long-term success rates are worse. (5) SLING PROCEDURES (autologous, synthetic, allogenic graft materials, different modes of support and anchoring, free tapes): The suburethral sling has traditionally been considered a procedure for those in whom suspension had failed and for those with severe ISD. The most current trend shows its use as a primary procedure for SUI. Long-term data beyond 5 years are insufficient. (6) EXTERNAL OCCLUSIVE DEVICES (vaginal sponges and pessaries, urethral insert): Both vaginal and urethral insert devices can be effective in selected patients. (7) IMPLANTABLE ARTEFICIAL URETHRAL SPHINCTERS: Modifications and improvements of the devices resulted in improved clinical results regarding durability and efficacy. CONCLUSION: (1) The Burch colposuspension is still considered the gold standard in the treatment of female genuine SUI. There is a trend for the suburethral sling to be used as the primary procedure for this indication. Early outcome data are encouraging. New concepts such as use of metalic bone anchors and allograft material as well as the Tension free Vaginal Tape are under investigation. (2) Standardization of diagnostic and therapeutic interventions is prerequisite for any meaningful research. Randomized controlled prospective studies are essential to provide objectives regarding risks and benefits of new procedures and materials.

[Anatomy of the levator ani muscle and implications for obstetrics and gynaecology].

PubMed

Nyangoh Timoh, K; Bessede, T; Zaitouna, M; Peschaud, F; Chevallier, J-M; Fauconnier, A; Benoit, G; Moszkowicz, D

2015-01-01

Pelvic floor disorders include urogenital and anorectal prolapse, urinary and faecal incontinence. These diseases affect 25% of patients. Most of time, treatment is primarily surgical with a high post-operative risk of recurrence, especially for pelvic organ prolapse. Vaginal delivery is the major risk factor for pelvic floor disorders through levator ani muscle injury or nerve damage. After vaginal delivery, 20% of patients experiment elevator ani trauma. These injuries are more common in case of instrumental delivery by forceps, prolonged second phase labor, increased neonatal head circumference and associated anal sphincter injuries. Moreover, 25% of patients have temporary perineal neuropathy. Recently, pelvic three-dimensional reconstructions from RMI data allowed a better understanding of detailed levator ani muscle morphology and gave birth to a clear new nomenclature describing this muscle complex to be developed. Radiologic and anatomic studies have allowed exploring levator ani innervation leading to speculate on the muscle and nerve damage mechanisms during delivery. We then reviewed the levator ani muscle anatomy and innervation to better understand pelvic floor dysfunction observed after vaginal delivery. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier SAS.

Covert use, vaginal lubrication, and sexual pleasure: a qualitative study of urban U.S. Women in a vaginal microbicide clinical trial.

PubMed

Hoffman, Susie; Morrow, Kate M; Mantell, Joanne E; Rosen, Rochelle K; Carballo-Diéguez, Alex; Gai, Fang

2010-06-01

Using data from a U.S. clinical safety trial of tenofovir gel, a candidate microbicide, we explored the intersection of sexual pleasure and vaginal lubrication to understand whether and under what circumstances women would use a microbicide gel covertly with primary partners. This study question emerged from acceptability research in diverse settings showing that even though future microbicides are extolled as a disease prevention method that women could use without disclosing to their partners, many women assert they would inform their primary partner. Participants (N = 84), stratified by HIV-status and sexual activity (active vs. abstinent), applied the gel intra-vaginally for 14 days. At completion, quantitative acceptability data were obtained via questionnaire (N = 79) and qualitative data via small group discussions (N = 15 groups, 40 women). Quantitatively, 71% preferred a microbicide that could not be noticed by a sex partner and 86% experienced greater vaginal lubrication with daily use. Based on our analysis of the qualitative data, we suggest that women's perception that their primary partners would notice a microbicide gel is a more important reason for their caution regarding covert use than may previously have been recognized. Our findings also showed that women's assessment of the possibility of discreet, if not covert, use was strongly related to their perception of how a microbicide's added vaginal lubrication would influence their own and their partner's pleasure, as well as their partner's experience of his sexual performance. A microbicide that increases pleasure for both partners could potentially be used without engendering opposition from primary partners.

Short-term complications associated with the use of transvaginal mesh in pelvic floor reconstructive surgery: Results from a multi-institutional prospectively maintained dataset.

PubMed

Caveney, Maxx; Haddad, Devin; Matthews, Catherine; Badlani, Gopal; Mirzazadeh, Majid

2017-11-01

Vaginal reconstructive surgery can be performed with or without mesh. We sought to determine comparative rates of perioperative complications of native tissue versus vaginal mesh repairs for pelvic organ prolapse. Using the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database, we concatenated surgical data from vaginal procedures for prolapse repair, including anterior and posterior colporrhaphy, paravaginal defect repair, enterocele repair, and vaginal colpopexy using Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) coding. We stratified this data by the modifier associated with mesh usage at the time of the procedure. We then compared 30-day perioperative outcomes, postoperative complications (bleeding, infection, etc), and readmission rates between women with and without mesh-based repairs. We identified 10 657 vaginal reconstructive procedures without mesh and 959 mesh-based repairs from 2009 through 2013. Patients undergoing mesh repair were more likely to experience at least one complication than native tissue repair (9.28% vs 6.15%, P < 0.001), with the overall complication rate also being higher in the mesh group (11.37% vs 9.39%, P = 0.03). Procedures with mesh had a higher rate of perioperative bleeding requiring transfusion than native tissue repair (2.3% vs 0.49%, P < 0.001), and organ surgical site infection (SSI) (0.52% vs 0.17%, P = 0.02). There were no significant differences in rates of readmission, superficial, or deep SSIs, pneumonia, urinary tract infection, sepsis, or renal failure. The use of vaginal mesh for pelvic organ prolapse repair appears to result in a higher rate of perioperative complications than native tissue repair. Patients undergoing these procedures should be counselled preoperatively concerning these risks. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Douching for perceived vaginal odor with no infectious cause of vaginitis: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Hassan, Sarmina; Chatwani, Ashwin; Brovender, Herman; Zane, Richard; Valaoras, Thomas; Sobel, Jack D

2011-04-01

To demonstrate the effectiveness of medical-grade stainless steel Water Works Douching Device for treating abnormal vaginal odor in comparison with a commercially available over-the-counter plastic douching device. In a multicenter study, 140 women with perceived vaginal odor with no vaginal infection were randomized to either Water Works or control group in a 1:1 ratio and were douched daily for 4 weeks. A visual analog scale (VAS) was used to assess the intensity of vaginal odor. Primary outcome included subject assessment of odor improvement and Nugent Gram stain score of vaginal secretions. Secondary outcome compared the efficacy and safety of Water Works with control douching device. Each patient underwent baseline, week 2, and week 4 visits. The final analytic sample consisted of 96 women. Success score at 4 weeks was 78% for the Water Works group and 38.5% for the control group. Mean VAS was significantly reduced, and Nugent and Lactobacillus scores were maintained in both groups. In the Water Works group, VAS was reduced from 7.3 ± 0.3 to 1.8 ± 0.6 (p < .001) after 4 weeks. In the control group, baseline versus 4 weeks VAS was 7.2 ± 0.3 and 3.4 ± 0.8 (p < .003). Women reported significant reduction of vaginal odor after douching with water for 4 weeks without any alteration of vaginal flora. The Water Works Douching Device was superior to over- the-counter device in reducing vaginal odor.

Influence of vestibulovaginal stenosis, pelvic bladder, and recessed vulva on response to treatment for clinical signs of lower urinary tract disease in dogs: 38 cases (1990-1999).

PubMed

Crawford, Jason T; Adams, William M

2002-10-01

To determine influence of vestibulovaginal stenosis, pelvic bladder, and recessed vulva on response to treatment for clinical signs of lower urinary tract disease in dogs. Retrospective study. 38 spayed female dogs. Medical records and client follow-up were reviewed for dogs evaluated via excretory urography because of clinical signs of lower urinary tract disease. Clinical signs, results of radiography, and response to surgical or medical treatment were analyzed. Clinical signs included urinary tract infection (n = 24), urinary incontinence (20), vaginitis (11), pollakiuria or stranguria (10), and perivulvar dermatitis (4). Vaginocystourethrographic findings included vestibulovaginal stenosis (n = 28), pelvic bladder (17), and ureteritis or pyelonephritis (4). Ten dogs had a vestibulovaginal ratio of < 0.20 (severe stenosis), 9 dogs had a ratio of 0.20 to 0.25 (moderate stenosis), 9 dogs had a ratio of 0.26 to 0.35 (mild stenosis), and 10 dogs had a ratio of > 0.35 (anatomically normal). Lower urinary tract infection, incontinence, and pelvic bladder were not associated with response to treatment for recessed vulva. Vestibulovaginal stenosis with a ratio < 0.20 was significantly associated negatively with response to treatment. Dogs without severe vestibulovaginal stenosis that received vulvoplasty for a recessed vulva responded well to treatment. Vestibulovaginal stenosis is likely an important factor in dogs with vestibulovaginal ratio < 0.20. Vaginectomy or resection and anastomosis should be considered in dogs with severe vestibulovaginal stenosis and signs of lower urinary tract disease.

Pelvic floor muscle training for female urinary incontinence: Does it work?

PubMed

Singh, Nilanjana; Rashid, Mumtaz; Bayliss, Lorna; Graham, Penny

2016-06-01

Supervised pelvic floor muscle training in patients of stress and mixed urinary incontinence has been recommended. Our aim was to assess the utilisation and effectiveness of our supervised pelvic floor muscle training service and assess the impact of incontinence scores before physiotherapy on the subsequent results of physiotherapy. All 271 patients referred to physiotherapy for symptoms of incontinence filled out the International Consultation on Incontinence Modular Questionnaire-Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms before starting treatment. Depending on pelvic floor muscle assessment, plans for exercises and follow up were made. If the strength of pelvic floor muscles was poor, electrical stimulation was offered. If awareness of the pelvic floor muscle contraction was poor, bio feedback was offered. Group sessions and vaginal cones were also used. Depending on the response to the treatment; patients were either discharged, referred to Urogynaecology clinic or continued physiotherapy. All patients who were discharged or referred for surgery were given a post treatment questionnaire to fill out. 79 (56 %) of 132 women with stress, 49 (51 %) of 98 with mixed and 27 (66 %) of 41 with urge incontinence reported successful control of symptoms (overall success 54 %). However, 65 % of women with incontinence scores of 0-5 before physiotherapy, 64 % with 6-10, 42 % with 11-15 and mere 28 % with 16-20 achieved success with physiotherapy. 27 (10 %) were lost to follow up. 1 in 2 women referred to physiotherapy for incontinence, achieved successful control of symptoms without the need for invasive investigations or surgery. However, poor incontinence scores before the start of physiotherapy is a poor prognostic indicator for success. 90 % women utilised the service.

Use of a percutaneously controlled hydraulic occluder for treatment of refractory urinary incontinence in three female cats.

PubMed

Wilson, Kendall E; Berent, Allyson C; Weisse, Chick W

2016-03-01

CASE DESCRIPTION 3 cats were referred for evaluation of chronic urinary incontinence. CLINICAL FINDINGS A presumptive diagnosis of urethral sphincter mechanism incompetence (USMI) was made in all 3 cats. Preoperatively, incontinence was mild in 1 cat (incontinence during sleep) and moderate to severe (incontinence while awake and at rest) in 2. Structural abnormalities noted during cystoscopy included urethrovestibular junction stenosis (n = 1), vaginal stenosis (1), short urethra (1), and intrapelvic bladder (1). TREATMENT AND OUTCOME All 3 cats were treated by means of implantation of an inflatable silicone hydraulic occluder (HO) via a ventral midline celiotomy. Immediately prior to HO implantation, patients underwent cystoscopy to detect any anatomic abnormalities and confirm the absence of ureteral ectopia. Following surgery, all 3 patients attained complete continence, needing 0 or 1 inflation of the device. Complications included cystoscopy-associated urethral tear (n = 1), constipation (1), stranguria (1), hematuria (2), and urinary tract infection (2). Device explantation was performed 14 weeks after surgery in 1 cat because of postoperative constipation. Constipation persisted and urinary incontinence recurred but was markedly improved following device removal in this cat (leakage of urine only when sleeping at follow-up 29 months after surgery [26 months after device explantation]). At the time of last follow-up, 2 of the 3 cats remained fully continent approximately 3 and 6 years after device implantation. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Findings suggested that implantation of an HO may be a safe and effective long-term treatment for some cats with USMI. Further studies are necessary to evaluate the potential for treatment-related complications and the long-term outcome.

Sacral electrical neuromodulation as an alternative treatment option for lower urinary tract dysfunction.

PubMed

Grünewald, Volker; Höfner, Klaus; Thon, Walter F.; Kuczyk, Markus A.; Jonas, Udo

1999-01-01

Temporary electrical stimulation using anal or vaginal electrodes and an external pulse generator has been a treatment modality for urinary urge incontinence for nearly three decades. In 1981 Tanagho and Schmidt introduced chronic electrical stimulation of the sacral spinal nerves using a permanently implanted sacral foramen electrode and a battery powered pulse generator for treatment of different kinds of lower urinary tract dysfunction, refractory to conservative treatment. At our department chronic unilateral electrical stimulation of the S3 sacral spinal nerve has been used for treatment of vesi-courethral dysfunction in 43 patients with a mean postoperative follow up of 43,6 months. Lasting symptomatic improvement by more than 50 % could be achieved in 13 of 18 patients with motor urge incontinence (72,2 %) and in 18 of the 21 patients with urinary retention (85,7 %). Implants offer a sustained therapeutic effect to treatment responders, which is not achieved by temporary neuromodulation. Chronic neuromodulation should be predominantly considered in patients with urinary retention. Furthermore in patients with motor urge incontinence, refusing temporary techniques or in those requiring too much effort to achieve a sustained clinical effect. Despite high initial costs chronic sacral neuromodulation is an economically reasonable treatment option in the long run, when comparing it to the more invasive remaining therapeutic alternatives.

Role of pelvic floor in lower urinary tract function.

PubMed

Chermansky, Christopher J; Moalli, Pamela A

2016-10-01

The pelvic floor plays an integral part in lower urinary tract storage and evacuation. Normal urine storage necessitates that continence be maintained with normal urethral closure and urethral support. The endopelvic fascia of the anterior vaginal wall, its connections to the arcus tendineous fascia pelvis (ATFP), and the medial portion of the levator ani muscles must remain intact to provide normal urethral support. Thus, normal pelvic floor function is required for urine storage. Normal urine evacuation involves a series of coordinated events, the first of which involves complete relaxation of the external urethral sphincter and levator ani muscles. Acquired dysfunction of these muscles will initially result in sensory urgency and detrusor overactivity; however, with time the acquired voiding dysfunction can result in intermittent urine flow and incomplete bladder emptying, progressing to urinary retention in severe cases. This review will start with a discussion of normal pelvic floor anatomy and function. Next various injuries to the pelvic floor will be reviewed. The dysfunctional pelvic floor will be covered subsequently, with a focus on levator ani spasticity and stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Finally, future research directions of the interaction between the pelvic floor and lower urinary tract function will be discussed. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Ureteric Embolization for Lower Urinary Tract Fistulae: Use of Two Amplatzer Vascular Plugs and N-Butyl Cyanoacrylate Employing the 'Sandwich' Technique

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Saad, Wael E. A., E-mail: ws6r@virginia.edu; Kalagher, S.; Turba, U. C.

2013-08-01

PurposeThis study describes and evaluated the effectiveness of occluding distal ureters in the clinical setting of urinary vaginal (vesicovaginal or enterovesicovaginal) fistulae utilizing a new technique which combines Amplatzer vascular plugs and N-butyl cyanoacrylate.MaterialsThis is a retrospective study (January 2007-December 2010) of patients with urinary-vaginal fistulae undergoing distal ureter embolization utilizing an Amplatzer- N-butyl cyanoacrylate-Amplatzer sandwich technique. An 8-12-mm type-I or type-II Amplatzer vascular plug was delivered using the sheath and deployed in the ureter distal to the pelvic brim. Instillation of 0.8-1.5 cc of N-butyl cyanoacrylate into ureter proximal to the Amplatzer plug was performed. This was followed bymore » another set of 8-12-mm type-I or type-II Amplatzer vascular plugs in a technique referred to as the 'sandwich technique.'ResultsFive ureters in three patients were occluded utilizing the above-described technique during the 4-year study period. Mean maximum size Amplatzer used per ureter was 10.8 mm (range, 8-12). One ureter required three Amplatzer plugs and the rest required two. Two patients (3 ureters) were clinically successful with complete resolution of symptoms in 36-48 h. The third patient (2 ureters) was partly successful and required a second Amplatzer- N-butyl cyanoacrylate sandwich technique embolization. The mean clinical follow-up was 11.3 months (range, 1.7-29.2).ConclusionsThe Amplatzer- N-butyl cyanoacrylate-Amplatzer sandwich technique for occluding the distal ureter is safe and effective with a quick (probably due to the N-butyl cyanoacrylate) and durable (probably due to the Amplatzer plugs) clinical response.« less

Effectiveness of Retropubic Tension-Free Vaginal Tape and Transobturator Inside-Out Tape Procedures in Women With Overactive Bladder and Stress Urinary Incontinence

PubMed Central

Han, Ji-Yeon; Choo, Myung-Soo; Lee, Young-Suk; Seo, Ju Tae; Kim, Jang Hwan; Kim, Young Ho

2013-01-01

Purpose We compared the effectiveness of the retropubic tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) and the transobturator inside-out tape (TVT-O) in treating symptoms of overactive bladder (OAB) in women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Methods Women with urodynamic SUI and OAB (mean urgency episodes ≥1 and frequency ≥8/24 hours on a 3-day voiding diary) were assigned to the TVT or TVT-O group. Preoperative measures were based on a urodynamic study, 3-day voiding diary, the Bristol Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms questionnaire (BFLUTSSF), and the urgency perception scale (UPS). At 12 postoperative months, the 3-day voiding diary, symptoms questionnaire, patient satisfaction, and standing stress test were assessed. The primary endpoint was change in the number of urgency episodes/24 hours from baseline to 12 months. Results In this group of 132 women, 42 received TVT and 90 received TVT-O. The mean urgency episodes/24 hours decreased from 6.3±5.5 to 1.6±3.2 in the TVT group and from 5.1±4.4 to 1.8±3.0 in the TVT-O group. The mean percent change was significantly greater after TVT than after TVT-O (73% vs. 60%, P=0.049). All subscales of BFLUTSSF and UPS were significantly improved using either method, with significantly greater improvement seen in the quality of life (QoL) domain after TVT (P=0.002). There were no significant differences in the cure and satisfaction rates between the two groups. Conclusions Intervention with the TVT or the TVT-O significantly improved symptoms of OAB in women with SUI and OAB. Urgency and QoL significantly improved after TVT compared with that after TVT-O. PMID:24143294

Imaging the urinary pathways in mice by liposomal indocyanine green.

PubMed

Portnoy, Emma; Nizri, Eran; Golenser, Jacob; Shmuel, Miriam; Magdassi, Shlomo; Eyal, Sara

2015-07-01

Intraoperative ureter identification can assist in the prevention of ureteral injury and consequently improve surgery outcomes. Our aim was to take advantage of the altered pharmacokinetics of liposomal indocyanine green (ICG), the only FDA-approved near-infrared (NIR) dye, for imaging of ureters during surgeries. ICG was passively adsorbed to liposomes. NIR whole mice body and isolated tissue imaging were used to study liposomal ICG properties vs. free ICG. In vivo, the urinary bladder could be clearly observed in most of the liposome-treated mice. Liposomal encapsulation of ICG enhanced ureteral emission up to 1.9 fold compared to free ICG (P<0.01). Increase in liposomal micropolarity and microviscosity and differential scanning calorimetry supported ICG localization within the liposomal bilayer. Our findings suggest that liposomal ICG could be utilized for ureteral imaging intra-operatively, thus potentially improving surgical outcomes. Iatrogenic ureteral injury is a serious complication of abdominal surgery and intra-operative recognition of the ureters is usually the best method of injury prevention. In this article, the authors developed liposomal indocyanine green, which could be excreted via the urinary system and investigated its in-vivo use in mice. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Uterine packing versus Foley's catheter for the treatment of postpartum hemorrhage secondary to bleeding tendency in low-resource setting: A four-year observational study.

PubMed

Rezk, Mohamed; Saleh, Said; Shaheen, Abdelhamid; Fakhry, Tamer

2017-11-01

To assess the effectiveness and safety of uterine packing versus Foley's catheter tamponade for controlling postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) secondary to bleeding tendency after vaginal delivery. This was a prospective observational study conducted on 92 patients with primary PPH due to bleeding tendency following vaginal delivery who were unresponsive to uterotonics and bimanual compression of the uterus. Patients were divided into two groups, Uterine packing group (n = 45) and Foley catheter group (n = 47). The primary outcome was the success rate of the procedure. Secondary outcome addressed the maternal complications. The use of uterine packing resulted in stoppage of active bleeding in 93.3% of cases compared to only 68.1% in the Foley's catheter group (p < 0.05). Although the rate of minor complications namely fever, pain and urinary complaints were higher in the uterine packing group, it does not reach to a significant difference when compared to the Foley's catheter (p > 0.05). Six cases who failed to Foley catheter tamponade underwent emergency hysterectomy with no cases in the uterine packing group. The use of uterine packing to arrest PPH is simple, quick and safe procedure to avoid further surgical interventions and to preserve the fertility in low-resource setting.

Bacterial vaginosis, vaginal flora patterns and vaginal hygiene practices in patients presenting with vaginal discharge syndrome in The Gambia, West Africa

PubMed Central

Demba, Edward; Morison, Linda; van der Loeff, Maarten Schim; Awasana, Akum A; Gooding, Euphemia; Bailey, Robin; Mayaud, Philippe; West, Beryl

2005-01-01

Background Bacterial vaginosis (BV) – a syndrome characterised by a shift in vaginal flora – appears to be particularly common in sub-Saharan Africa, but little is known of the pattern of vaginal flora associated with BV in Africa. We conducted a study aimed at determining the prevalence of BV and patterns of BV-associated vaginal micro-flora among women with vaginal discharge syndrome (VDS) in The Gambia, West Africa. Methods We enrolled 227 women with VDS from a large genito-urinary medicine clinic in Fajara, The Gambia. BV was diagnosed by the Nugent's score and Amsel's clinical criteria. Vaginal swabs were collected for T vaginalis and vaginal flora microscopy, and for Lactobacillus spp, aerobic organisms, Candida spp and BV-associated bacteria (Gardnerella vaginalis, anaerobic bacteria, and Mycoplasma spp) cultures; and cervical swabs were collected for N gonorrhoeae culture and C trachomatis PCR. Sera were tested for HIV-1 and HIV-2 antibodies. Sexual health history including details on sexual hygiene were obtained by standardised questionnaire. Results BV prevalence was 47.6% by Nugent's score and 30.8% by Amsel's clinical criteria. Lactobacillus spp were isolated in 37.8% of women, and 70% of the isolates were hydrogen-peroxide (H202)-producing strains. Prevalence of BV-associated bacteria were: G vaginalis 44.4%; Bacteroides 16.7%; Prevotella 15.2%; Peptostretococcus 1.5%; Mobiluncus 0%; other anaerobes 3.1%; and Mycoplasma hominis 21.4%. BV was positively associated with isolation of G vaginalis (odds-ratio [OR] 19.42, 95%CI 7.91 – 47.6) and anaerobes (P = 0.001 [OR] could not be calculated), but not with M hominis. BV was negatively associated with presence of Lactobacillus (OR 0.07, 95%CI 0.03 – 0.15), and H2O2-producing lactobacilli (OR 0.12, 95% CI 0.05 – 0.28). Presence of H2O2-producing lactobacilli was associated with significantly lower prevalence of G vaginalis, anaerobes and C trachomatis. HIV prevalence was 12.8%. Overall, there was no association between BV and HIV, and among micro-organisms associated with BV, only Bacteroides spp. and Prevotella spp. were associated with HIV. BV or vaginal flora patterns were not associated with any of the factors relating to sexual hygiene practices (vaginal douching, menstrual hygiene, female genital cutting). Conclusion In this population, BV prevalence was higher than in corresponding populations in industrialised countries, but the pattern of vaginal micro-flora associated with BV was similar. BV or vaginal flora patterns were not associated with HIV nor with any of the vaginal hygiene characteristics. PMID:15757510

[Comparison of pelvic floor muscle strength in competition-level athletes and untrained women].

PubMed

Ludviksdottir, Ingunn; Hardardottir, Hildur; Sigurdardottir, Thorgerdur; Ulfarsson, Gudmundur F

2018-01-01

Exercise can stress the pelvic floor muscles. Numerous women experience urinary incontinence while exercising or competing in sports. This study investigated pelvic floor muscle strength, urinary incontinence, and knowledge in contracting pelvic floor muscles among female athletes and untrained women. This was a prospective case-control study measuring pelvic floor muscle strength using vaginal pressure meas-urement. Participants answered questions regarding general health, urinary incontinence, and knowledge on pelvic floor muscles. Partici-pants were healthy nulliparous women aged 18-30 years, athletes and untrained women. The athletes had competed in their sport for at least three years; including handball, soccer, gymnastics, badminton, BootCamp and CrossFit. The women were comparable in age and height. The athletes (n=18) had a body mass index (BMI) of 22.8 kg/m² vs. 25 kg/m² for the untrained (n=16); p<0.05. The athletes trained on average 11.4 hours/week while the untrained women participated in some activity on average for 1.3 hours/week; p< 0.05. Mean pelvic floor strength was 45±2 hPa in the athletes vs. 43±4 hPa in the untrained; p=0.36 for whether the athletes were stronger. Of the athletes, 61.1% experienced urinary incontinence (n=11) compared with 12.5% of the untrained women (n=2); p<0.05. Incontinence usually occurred during high intensity exercise. The athletes were more knowledgeable about the pelvic floor muscles; p<0.05. There was not a significant difference in the strength of pelvic floor muscles of athletes and untrained women. This suggests that pelvic floor muscles are not strengthened during general training but require specific exercises. This holds especially for football, handball and sports with high physical intensity. Coaches need to pay special attention to training and strengthening women's pelvic floor muscles to reduce the occurrence of urinary incontinence.

Non-surgical management of recurrent urinary tract infections in women

PubMed Central

Bergamin, Paul A.

2017-01-01

One in three women will experience a clinically significant urinary tract infection (UTI) by age twenty-four and almost half will have at least one in their lifetime. Recurrent UTIs (rUTIs) are defined as having greater than two infections in a 6-month period, or three infections over twelve months, with complete resolution for at least two weeks. These may be due to relapse from incomplete treatment (persistence) or re-infection (new source). It may be difficult to distinguish between the two, where the same organism is cultured. There are several risk factors for rUTIs including an impairment of the body’s immune system and virulence factors. Reversible or treatable causes are sought and excluded in the patient’s initial review. Patient’s with rUTI are often complex and difficult to manage. The long-term management options in women are multimodal and should focus on prevention of relapse and recurrence. Behavioural factors include adequate hydration, care with sexual hygiene, reducing one’s body mass index (BMI) and post-void residual (PVR) volume. There are several non-antimicrobial options for rUTIs which have become a multi-billion-dollar business. Unfortunately, there are numerous studies which fail to show any major benefit or having conflicting data. Vaccines are currently being explored as a prevention strategy, delivered through injection, intra-nasal sprays, or vaginal suppositories, which are made from combinations of heat killed uro-pathogenic strains. There are no widely available vaccines at present due to limited clinical success. It is well established that appropriate antibiotic therapy results in higher rates of symptom relief and bacterial eradication in women with uncomplicated cystitis. There are several options for antimicrobial use which have been shown to be highly effective in reducing the risk of rUTI in women. The pain and discomfort of the UTI must be balanced with the cost and risk of developing resistance when using antimicrobials. Continuous prophylaxis, pre- and post-coital voiding, and self-starting are the three commonly accepted options for prophylaxis. The choice between these will depend upon patient preference, cultures and previous pattern of infection. Intra-vesical instillation of hyaluronic acid and chondroitin sulphate have been used for glycosaminoglycan (GAG) layer replenishment for many indications, including interstitial cystitis, overactive bladder syndrome, radiation cystitis and prevention of rUTI. At present, intra-vesical therapies are reserved for only those with the most unresponsive rUTIs. The principles of treating rUTI are to break the cycle and to treat any reversible causes. With our ever-expanding research knowledge, there are now many useful products that may be used for the successful treatment of rUTI. A management plan including a combination of a non-antimicrobial and selective antimicrobial regime for a minimum of six months should be considered. It is a prudent clinician that clearly defines this management plan, with reassurance of a finite period of therapy. PMID:28791233

Non-surgical management of recurrent urinary tract infections in women.

PubMed

Bergamin, Paul A; Kiosoglous, Anthony J

2017-07-01

One in three women will experience a clinically significant urinary tract infection (UTI) by age twenty-four and almost half will have at least one in their lifetime. Recurrent UTIs (rUTIs) are defined as having greater than two infections in a 6-month period, or three infections over twelve months, with complete resolution for at least two weeks. These may be due to relapse from incomplete treatment (persistence) or re-infection (new source). It may be difficult to distinguish between the two, where the same organism is cultured. There are several risk factors for rUTIs including an impairment of the body's immune system and virulence factors. Reversible or treatable causes are sought and excluded in the patient's initial review. Patient's with rUTI are often complex and difficult to manage. The long-term management options in women are multimodal and should focus on prevention of relapse and recurrence. Behavioural factors include adequate hydration, care with sexual hygiene, reducing one's body mass index (BMI) and post-void residual (PVR) volume. There are several non-antimicrobial options for rUTIs which have become a multi-billion-dollar business. Unfortunately, there are numerous studies which fail to show any major benefit or having conflicting data. Vaccines are currently being explored as a prevention strategy, delivered through injection, intra-nasal sprays, or vaginal suppositories, which are made from combinations of heat killed uro-pathogenic strains. There are no widely available vaccines at present due to limited clinical success. It is well established that appropriate antibiotic therapy results in higher rates of symptom relief and bacterial eradication in women with uncomplicated cystitis. There are several options for antimicrobial use which have been shown to be highly effective in reducing the risk of rUTI in women. The pain and discomfort of the UTI must be balanced with the cost and risk of developing resistance when using antimicrobials. Continuous prophylaxis, pre- and post-coital voiding, and self-starting are the three commonly accepted options for prophylaxis. The choice between these will depend upon patient preference, cultures and previous pattern of infection. Intra-vesical instillation of hyaluronic acid and chondroitin sulphate have been used for glycosaminoglycan (GAG) layer replenishment for many indications, including interstitial cystitis, overactive bladder syndrome, radiation cystitis and prevention of rUTI. At present, intra-vesical therapies are reserved for only those with the most unresponsive rUTIs. The principles of treating rUTI are to break the cycle and to treat any reversible causes. With our ever-expanding research knowledge, there are now many useful products that may be used for the successful treatment of rUTI. A management plan including a combination of a non-antimicrobial and selective antimicrobial regime for a minimum of six months should be considered. It is a prudent clinician that clearly defines this management plan, with reassurance of a finite period of therapy.

Two new mini-slings compared with transobturator tension-free vaginal tape for treatment of stress urinary incontinence: A 1-year follow-up randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Gaber, Mohamed E; Borg, Tamer; Samour, Hazem; Nawara, Mai; Reda, Ahmed

2016-12-01

The aim of this study was to compare the outcome of two single-incision mini-slings (the Contasure-Needleless [C-NDL] and the endopelvic free anchorage) with the standard midurethral transobturator tension-free vaginal tape (TVT-O) procedure. A double blind randomized controlled study was conducted at Ain Shams University Maternity Hospital from August 2014 until July 2015. A total of 209 patients were randomized into three groups. The first group underwent the TVT-O procedure, the second group underwent the endopelvic free anchorage procedure and the third group underwent the C-NDL procedure. Patients were followed up for 12 months in terms of subjective cure, objective cure, and complications rate. After 12 months of follow-up, there were no differences among the three groups in terms of objective cure rate, subjective cure rate, patient satisfaction, or incidence of complications (de novo urge, hemorrhage, infection, and mesh erosion). The C-NDL was associated with a shorter operative time (P < 0.001) and less blood loss (P = 0.021) than the standard TVT-O. The new single-incision mini-slings showed similar efficacy and patient acceptance to that of the standard TVT-O for up to 12 months postoperatively with no difference in the complications rate. The C-NDL is associated with shorter operative time and less blood loss. © 2016 Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

The role of nurses in the management of women with pelvic organ prolapse.

PubMed

Richardson, Karen; Hagen, Suzanne

Pelvic organ prolapse is a common female complaint, with 50% of women experiencing some degree of pelvic relaxation, although not all have any symptoms. Prolapse is found most commonly in the anterior vaginal walls. Posterior vaginal wall and apical prolapse are the other, less common, categories. There are a large number of potential risk factors, but increased age, parity and body mass index are most consistently reported. A variety of symptoms may be experienced, including a feeling of something coming down, pelvic heaviness, urinary, bowel and sexual dysfunction. Two main treatment options exist, conservative management (pessary or pelvic floor rehabilitation) or surgical repair, however the evidence-base for treatment is weak. The specialist nurse is well-placed to contribute to the initial assessment, management and ongoing support of women with prolapse.

The epidemiology of pelvic floor disorders and childbirth: an update

PubMed Central

Hallock, Jennifer L.; Handa, Victoria L.

2015-01-01

SYNOPSIS Using a life span model, this article presents new scientific findings regarding risk factors for pelvic floor disorders (PFDs), with a focus on the role of childbirth in the development of single or multiple co-existing PFDs. Phase I of the life span model includes predisposing factors such as genetic predisposition and race. Phase II of the model includes inciting factors such as obstetric events. Prolapse, urinary incontinence (UI) and fecal incontinence (FI) are more common among vaginally parous women, although the impact of vaginal delivery on risk of FI is less dramatic than for prolapse and UI. Finally, Phase III includes intervening factors such as age and obesity. Both age and obesity are associated with prevalence of PFDs. The prevention and treatment of obesity is an important component to PFD prevention. PMID:26880504

Postpartum pelvic floor muscle training and urinary incontinence: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Hilde, Gunvor; Stær-Jensen, Jette; Siafarikas, Franziska; Ellström Engh, Marie; Bø, Kari

2013-12-01

To evaluate whether postpartum pelvic floor muscle training decrease prevalence of any urinary incontinence (UI) in primiparous women with and without UI at inclusion (mixed population) and further to perform stratified analyses on women with and without major levator ani muscle defects. A two-armed assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial including primiparous women 6 weeks after vaginal delivery was conducted. Participants were stratified on major levator ani muscle defects, verified by transperineal ultrasonography, and thereafter randomly allocated to training or control. All participants were taught to contract the pelvic floor muscles. The control participants received no further intervention, whereas training participants attended a weekly supervised pelvic floor muscle training class and performed daily home exercise for 16 weeks. Primary outcome was self-reported UI analyzed by relative risk. We included 175 women, 55 with major levator ani muscle defects and 120 without. Prevalence of UI at baseline was 39.1% in the training group (n=87) and 50% among those in the control group (n=88). Fifteen women (8.6%) were lost to follow-up. At 6 months after delivery (postintervention), 34.5% and 38.6% reported UI in the training and control groups, respectively. Relative risk analysis of UI gave a nonsignificant effect size of 0.89 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.60-1.32). Results were similar for the stratum with and without major levator ani muscle defects, 0.89 (95% CI 0.51-1.56) and 0.90 (95% CI 0.53-1.52), respectively. Postpartum pelvic floor training did not decrease UI prevalence 6 months after delivery in primiparous women. Stratified analysis on women with and without major levator ani muscle defects showed similar nonsignificant results. ClinicalTrials.gov, www.clinicaltrials.gov, NCT01069484. : I.

Effect of Vaginal Hygiene Module to Attitudes and Behavior of Pathological Vaginal Discharge Prevention Among Female Adolescents in Slemanregency, Yogyakarta, Indonesia

PubMed Central

Sumarah, Sumarah; Widyasih, Hesty

2017-01-01

Objective: To determine the effect of vaginal hygiene module to attitudes and behavior of pathological vaginal discharge prevention in adolescent girls in Sleman Regency, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Materials and methods: This present study is a quasi experiment with pretest and post-test control group design. A total of 80 female students was selected randomly from two secondary schools at the study site and then distributed equally to control and experimental group. Only participants in the experimental group were given self-learning vaginal hygiene module to maintain vaginal cleanliness. A questionnaire was used as an instrument to measure the attitudes and behavior of vaginal discharge prevention. Paired and independent sample t-tests with significance level (p value) at 0.05 and Confidence Interval (CI) of 95%were employed to compare the mean difference. Results: There is a significant difference in the students’ attitude and practice of pathological vaginal discharge prevention between intervention and control group. The students who have been exposed to vaginal hygiene module for six months showed better attitudes and practice in pathological vaginal discharge prevention compared to their counterpart in control group who do not receive any module. Conclusion: The present study implied that vaginal hygiene module can be provided widely for female adolescents at their early puberty. District health officers may work closely with schools’ health promoter to reach the students and create a supportive environment for reproductive health discussion and forum in order to achieve better adolescents’ reproductive health status. PMID:29282418

Immunity in the Vagina (Part II): Anti-HIV Activity and Antiviral Content of Human Vaginal Secretions

PubMed Central

Patel, Mickey V.; Ghosh, Mimi; Fahey, John V.; Ochsenbauer, Christina; Rossoll, Richard M.; Wira, Charles R.

2015-01-01

Problem Whether the concentrations of antiviral proteins, and anti-HIV activity, within human vaginal secretions changes across the menstrual cycle is unknown. Method of Study Using a menstrual cup, vaginal secretions from premenopausal women were recovered at the proliferative (d6–8), mid-cycle (d13–15) and secretory (d21–23) stages of the menstrual cycle. Antiviral protein concentration was determined by ELISA, and anti-HIV activity assessed using the TZM-bl reporter cell line. Results CCL20, RANTES, elafin, HBD2, SDF-1α and IL-8 levels were detectable in the secretions. Vaginal secretions had anti-HIV activity against specific clade B strains of HIV, with significant inhibition of IIIB and increased infectivity of transmitted/founder CH077.t. No significant differences in either antiviral protein concentration or anti-HIV activity with respect to menstrual cycle stage were measured, but marked differences were observed in both parameters over the course of the cycle between different women, and in consecutive cycles from the same woman. Conclusion The vagina contains a complement of antiviral proteins. The variation in anti-HIV activity demonstrates that immune protection in the vagina is not constant. Intra- and inter-individual variations suggest that factors in addition to sex hormones influence antiviral protection. Lastly, the menstrual cup is a new model for recovering undiluted vaginal secretions from women throughout their reproductive life. PMID:24806967

Post-use assay of vaginal rings (VRs) as a potential measure of clinical trial adherence.

PubMed

Spence, Patrick; Nel, Annalene; van Niekerk, Neliëtte; Derrick, Tiffany; Wilder, Susan; Devlin, Bríd

2016-06-05

Adherence measurement for microbicide use within the clinical trial setting remains a challenge for the HIV prevention field. This paper describes an assay method used for determining residual dapivirine levels in post-use vaginal rings from clinical trials conducted with the Dapivirine Vaginal Matrix Ring-004 developed by the International Partnership for Microbicides to prevent male to female HIV transmission. Post-use assay results from three Ring-004 clinical trials showed that of the 25mg drug load, approximately 4mg of dapivirine is released from the matrix ring over a 28-day use period. Data obtained by both in vitro and in vivo studies indicate that dapivirine is released according to a diffusion mechanism, as determined by conformance of both data sets to the Higuchi equation. This, coupled with the low variability associated with batch production over two manufacturing sites and 20 batches of material, provides evidence that post-use ring analysis can contribute to the assessment of adherence to ring use. Limitations of this method include the potential of intra-participant and inter-participant variability and uncertainty associated with measuring the low amount of dapivirine actually released relative to the drug load. Therefore, residual drug levels should not serve as the only direct measurement for microbicide adherence in vaginal ring clinical trials but should preferably be used as part of a multi-pronged approach towards understanding and assessing adherence to vaginal ring use. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Recombinant polymorphic membrane protein D in combination with a novel, second-generation lipid adjuvant protects against intra-vaginal Chlamydia trachomatis infection in mice.

PubMed

Paes, Wayne; Brown, Naj; Brzozowski, Andrzej M; Coler, Rhea; Reed, Steve; Carter, Darrick; Bland, Martin; Kaye, Paul M; Lacey, Charles J N

2016-07-29

The development of a chlamydial vaccine that elicits protective mucosal immunity is of paramount importance in combatting the global spread of sexually transmitted Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) infections. While the identification and prioritization of chlamydial antigens is a crucial prerequisite for efficacious vaccine design, it is likely that novel adjuvant development and selection will also play a pivotal role in the translational potential of preclinical Ct vaccines. Although the molecular nature of the immuno-modulatory component is of primary importance, adjuvant formulation and delivery systems may also govern vaccine efficacy and potency. Our study provides the first preclinical evaluation of recombinant Ct polymorphic membrane protein D (rPmpD) in combination with three different formulations of a novel second-generation lipid adjuvant (SLA). SLA was rationally designed in silico by modification of glucopyranosyl lipid adjuvant (GLA), a TLR4 agonistic precursor molecule currently in Phase II clinical development. We demonstrate robust protection against intra-vaginal Ct challenge in mice, evidenced by significantly enhanced resistance to infection and reduction in mean bacterial load. Strikingly, protection was found to correlate with the presence of robust anti-rPmpD serum and cervico-vaginal IgG titres, even in the absence of adjuvant-induced Th1-type cellular immune responses elicited by each SLA formulation, and we further show that anti-rPmpD antibodies recognize Ct EBs. These findings highlight the utility of SLA and rational molecular design of adjuvants in preclinical Ct vaccine development, but also suggest an important role for anti-rPmpD antibodies in protection against urogenital Ct infection. Crown Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Obstructed hemivagina and ipsilateral renal anomaly: unusual cause of piocolpos. Report a case and review of literature ].

PubMed

Cortés-Contreras, Diana Karen; Juárez-Cruz, Patricio Manuel; Vázquez-Flores, José; Vázquez-Flores, Al David

2014-10-01

OHVIRA (Obstructed hemivagina and ipsilateral renal anomaly) by acronym and abbreviations in English or Herlyn Werner Wunderlich syndrome is a rare congenital malformation caused by an alteration in the Mullerian ducts and Wolffian Ducts. Which is characterized by a triad: uterus didelphys, obstructed and ipsilateral renal agenesis hemivagina still uncertain etiology. Patients are usually asymptomatic until menarche where the most common clinical presentation is pelvic pain, followed by a vaginal or abdominal mass, normal menstrual periods, infertility, and vaginal discharge rarely appears. The case of a female patient of 15 years, nubile with chronic fetid vaginal discharge, initially diagnosed and treated as pelvic inflammatory disease occurs, however because it is an exceptional condition with the background of the patient, by complementary studies were conducted where pelvic ultrasound revealed pyocolpos and absence of left kidney, uterus didelphys, blind hemivagina by other imaging studies, where we could integrate Herlyn-Werner-Wunderlich syndrome. In conclusion, abnormalities in the development of the Miillerian ducts are difficult to diagnose early, so you must have the embryological knowledge, conduct thorough clinical assessment and detailed picture in whom the coridition is suspected to identify malformations coexisting urinary tract and vaginal defects with the importance of preserving reproductive success through appropriate planning of surgical approach, given that the fertility rate in these patients is comparable to the average.

Clinical trial shows lasting function of a new moisturizing cream against vaginal dryness.

PubMed

Henneicke-von Zepelin, Hans-Heinrich; Williams, Ragna; Havemeister, Wiebke; Wigger-Alberti, Walter; Nolte, Klaus-Ulrich

2017-05-01

Vaginal dryness and associated symptoms may occur in women of any age and are a frequent burden after menopause. The North American Menopause Society recommends long-acting non-hormonal vaginal creams as first-line therapy. A new type of such creams was developed (Remifemin® FeuchtCreme in Austria and Germany). This hormone-free cream contains hamamelis virginiana distillate and well-established vaginal cream ingredients. We explored its physical function and tolerability in an open interventional clinical trial. 20 postmenopausal women (54 to 76 years, median 60) treated their vaginal dryness using this cream once daily for 7 days and reported about their symptoms before, 4 to 8 h after first and 14 to 22 h after last application. A physician assessed tolerability and local physical function. All patients completed the study. Local physical function significantly improved from dryness at baseline (mean 4.0 ± SD 1.8) to a normal moisture level, on average (6.3 ± 2.1 after first, 6.7 ± 2.1 after last application, p = 0.0001). Subjective assessment of a feeling vaginal dryness showed a significant improvement at both times (p = 0.0001). Onset and duration of feeling moisturized were reported to be 0 to 2 min and 11.3 ± 6.9 h after application. All women reported vaginal dryness at baseline. 55 and 80% of patients reported no dryness after first application and at the end of the investigation. The cream was seen at the application site for up to 21 h. Tolerability assessments did not reveal any relevant change over time. There were four adverse events in 4 patients, all not serious and of mild intensity: urinary urgency (2), diarrhoea (1) and mild spotting after first application (1). The latter was caused by the dry surface of the applicator and was avoided by moisturizing the surface of the applicator at subsequent applications. In conclusion, these study results indicate a well-tolerated and long-acting function of this new vaginal moisturizing cream. Further clinical research in more patients will follow.

[Study on reductive surgery for pelvic organ prolapse concomitant with anti-incontinence sling for treatment of occult stress urinary incontinence].

PubMed

Zhang, Xiaolong; Lu, Yongxian; Shen, Wenjie; Liu, Jingxia; Ge, Jing; Liu, Xin; Zhao, Ying; Niu, Ke; Zhang, Yinghui; Wang, Wenying; Qiu, Chengli

2014-06-01

To evaluate the clinical outcome of anti-incontinence sling in the treatment of occult stress urinary incontinence (OSUI) during reductive surgery for advanced pelvic organ prolapse (POP). From Jun. 2003 to Dec. 2012, 78 patients with OSUI underwent reductive surgery for advanced POP such as high uterosacral ligament suspension, sacrospinous ligament suspension and sacral colpopexy in the First Affiliated Hospital, General Hospital of People's Liberation Army. Among them, 41 patients received reductive surgery alone was enrolled in non-concomitant anti-incontinence group and the other 37 patients who underwent same surgery with tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) or tension-free vaginal tape-obturator technique (TVT-O) was in anti-incontinence group. The patient's demography, objective and subjective outcomes, as well as complications and injures were compared between the two groups. The pelvic organ prolapse quantitation (POP-Q) was used to evaluate the objective outcomes of POP. Urinary distress inventory (UDI-6) and incontinence impact questionnaire short form (IIQ-7) were used to evaluate the subjective outcomes of stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Compared with the non-concomitant anti-incontinence group, the objective outcomes of reductive surgery exhibited no significant differences (100%, 78/78), and only the operation time of anti-incontinence group slightly increased 16 minutes. The occurrence rate of postoperative SUI was 12% (5/41), 15% (6/41), 17% (7/41) respectively after the operation at 2-month, 6-month and 12-month follow up in the non-concomitant anti-incontinence group; and the occurrence rate of the anti-incontinence group was 3% (1/37), 3% (1/37), 3% (1/37); but none of patients in the two groups require further surgery for stress urinary incontinence. Mean score of UDI-6 and IIQ-7 in all the patients decreased significantly after operation at 2-month, 6-month and 12-month follow up (all P < 0.01). However, there was no statistic difference between the two groups (P > 0.05). It is still difficult to make decision for concomitant anti-incontinence procedure in those patients with OSUI, who are undergoing reductive surgery because of advanced POP. Whether the patients will benefit more from anti-incontinence sling depends largely on strict preoperative evaluation for the severity of SUI. The patients with severe SUI are supposed to benefit most from anti-incontinence sling. However, a two-step approach to correct the postoperative stress urinary incontinence is also reasonable.

Female Sexual Function Following Surgical Treatment of Stress Urinary Incontinence: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

PubMed

Bicudo-Fürst, Maria Cláudia; Borba Leite, Pedro Henrique; Araújo Glina, Felipe Placco; Baccaglini, Willy; de Carvalho Fürst, Rafael Vilhena; Bezerra, Carlos Alberto; Glina, Sidney

2018-04-01

The impact of surgery for stress urinary incontinence (SUI) on female sexual function has received attention in the medical literature, but not in a structured manner. To assess the most recent evidence on the impact of surgical management for female SUI on female sexual function. The review and meta-analysis of available articles published in Medline, Cochrane, LILACS, SCOPUS, Web of Science, CINHAL, and EMBASE included prospective randomized and non-randomized studies that assessed patients who underwent surgical treatment for UI through 2 validated questionnaires: the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire (PISQ-12) and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). The following terms were searched: (urinary incontinence OR female OR woman OR women) AND (suburethral slings OR transobturator tape* OR transobturator suburethral tape OR trans-obturator tape* OR urethral sling* OR midurethral sling* OR mid-urethral sling* OR "standard midurethral slings" OR tensionless vaginal tape* OR mini sling* OR Burch* OR "Burch colposuspension" OR "urologic surgical procedures" OR "tension-free vaginal tape" OR pubovaginal sling) AND (sexual behavior OR "Female Sexual Function Index" OR FSFI OR sexual function OR "Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire" OR PISQ-12). 1,043 articles were retrieved; 9 studies were included for qualitative analysis and 4 were included for meta-analysis. 25 articles were excluded because they used questionnaires other than the FSFI and PISQ-12. Meta-analysis of 2 studies composed of 411 women who underwent to retropubic and transobturator sling intervention and completed the PISQ-12 questionnaire showed an increase in sexual function of 2.40 points after transobturator compared with retropubic sling intervention (95% CI = -2.48 to -2.32; I 2  = 35%, P < .00001). However, 2 other studies composed of 183 women comparing the same techniques, but using the FSFI, did not show a statistically significant difference (95% CI = -1.77 to 3.78; I 2  = 0%, P = .48). The impact of UI surgery on sexual function is uncertain because of the imprecision of the effect and inconsistency among studies. Only limited evidence on the impact of the transobturator vs the retropubic sling was found. Bicudo-Fürst MC, Borba Leite PH, Araújo Glina FP, et al. Female Sexual Function Following Surgical Treatment of Stress Urinary Incontinence: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Sex Med Rev 2018;6:224-233. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Lifetime physical activity and female stress urinary incontinence.

PubMed

Nygaard, Ingrid E; Shaw, Janet M; Bardsley, Tyler; Egger, Marlene J

2015-07-01

We sought to estimate whether moderate/severe stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in middle-aged women is associated with overall lifetime physical activity (including leisure, household, outdoor, and occupational), as well as lifetime leisure (recreational), lifetime strenuous, and strenuous activity during the teen years. Recruitment for this case-control study was conducted in primary-care-level family medicine and gynecology clinics. A total of 1538 enrolled women ages 39-65 years underwent a Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification examination to assess vaginal support. Based on Incontinence Severity Index scores, cases had moderate/severe and controls had no/mild SUI. We excluded 349 with vaginal descent at/below the hymen (pelvic organ prolapse), 194 who did not return questionnaires, and 110 with insufficient activity data for analysis. In all, 213 cases were frequency matched 1:1 by age group to controls. Physical activity was measured using the Lifetime Physical Activity Questionnaire, in which women recall activity from menarche to present. We created separate multivariable logistic regression models for activity measures. SUI odds increased slightly with overall lifetime activity (odds ratio [OR], 1.20 per 70 additional metabolic equivalent of task-h/wk; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.02-1.41), and were not associated with lifetime strenuous activity (OR, 1.11; 95% CI, 0.99-1.25). In quintile analysis of lifetime leisure activity, which demonstrated a nonlinear pattern, all quintiles incurred about half the odds of SUI compared to reference (second quintile; P = .009). Greater strenuous activity in teen years modestly increased SUI odds (OR, 1.37 per 7 additional h/wk; 95% CI, 1.09-1.71); OR, 1.75; 95% CI, 1.15-2.66 in sensitivity analysis adjusting for measurement error. The predicted probability of SUI rose linearly in women exceeding 7.5 hours of strenuous activity/wk during teen years. Teen strenuous activity had a similar effect on SUI odds when adjusted for subsequent strenuous activity during ages 21-65 years. In middle-aged women, a slight increased odds of SUI was noted only after substantially increased overall lifetime physical activity. Increased lifetime leisure activity decreased and lifetime strenuous activity appeared unrelated to SUI odds. Greater strenuous activity during teen years modestly increased SUI odds. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Movement System Impairment-Guided Approach to the Physical Therapist Treatment of a Patient With Postpartum Pelvic Organ Prolapse and Mixed Urinary Incontinence: Case Report.

PubMed

Kurz, Jenny; Borello-France, Diane

2017-04-01

Women with postpartum pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and urinary incontinence are often treated by physical therapists specializing in women's health. Movement system impairments often coexist in this patient population. The purpose of this case report is to describe the physical therapist treatment of a woman with postpartum POP complicated by additional pelvic symptoms. A 31-year-old woman presented with postpartum POP, diastasis recti, urinary incontinence, and constipation. Movement system impairments were consistent with a physical therapist diagnosis of femoral adduction-medial rotation syndrome exacerbated by levator ani muscle weakness and incoordination and impaired intra-abdominal pressure regulation. Interventions, based on a movement system guided approach, included postural correction; pelvic-floor, abdominal, and hip muscle strengthening; functional training to correct identified movement faults; and patient education. Movement system impairment outcomes included: correction of femoral adduction-medial rotation and knee hyperextension during standing at rest, ambulation, and exercise; increased hip muscle strength; and effective regulation of intra-abdominal pressure (resolution of breath holding with the Valsalva maneuver) during all transitional movements and therapeutic exercise. The patient also demonstrated reductions in POP, urinary, and colorectal symptom severity that exceeded the minimal clinically important difference. Additionally, she demonstrated a reduction in diastasis rectus distance. A movement system impairment-guided approach led the physical therapist to consider impairments outside the pelvic floor that could have contributed to the patient's pelvic symptoms. Using this approach, the patient achieved resolution of musculoskeletal and movement impairments and reductions in POP, urinary and colorectal symptoms, and symptom-related distress. © 2016 American Physical Therapy Association

Does counsellor's attitude influence change in a request for a caesarean in women with fear of birth?

PubMed

Halvorsen, Lotta; Nerum, Hilde; Sørlie, Tore; Oian, Pål

2010-02-01

the attitudes of two counsellors towards women requesting a caesarean section due to fear of birth were identified. One emphasised the ability to overcome any emotional obstacle to vaginal birth ('coping attitude'), and the other emphasised that the ultimate choice of mode of birth was the womans' ('autonomy attitude'). Two research questions were asked: (1) What are the predictors of change in a wish for a caesarean and of vaginal birth in women with fear of birth? (2) Does a change from an 'autonomy attitude' to a 'coping attitude' increase the number of women who change their request for a caesarean and who give birth vaginally? the study population consisted of two samples of pregnant women with fear of birth and concurrent request for a caesarean, referred for crisis-oriented counselling at the antenatal clinic, University Hospital of North Norway between 2000-2002 (n=86) and 2004-2006 (n=107). Data were gathered from referral letters, counseling and antenatal, intra- and postpartum records. a coping attitude of the counsellor was positively associated with change in the request for a caesarean and with vaginal birth. A change from an autonomy attitude to a coping attitude was associated with a significant increase in the percentage of women who changed their desire for a caesarean from 77 to 93, and who had a vaginal birth from 42 to 81. a coping attitude was strongly associated with change in the desire for a caesarean and giving birth vaginally. A coping attitude can be learned through critical reflection and awareness of the counsellor's attitude, with measurable clinical results. Copyright 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Clinical efficacy of Viagra with behavior therapy against premature ejaculation].

PubMed

Tang, Wenhao; Ma, Lulin; Zhao, Lianming; Liu, Yuqing; Chen, Zhenwen

2004-05-01

To study the efficacy of Viagra combined with behavior therapy against premature ejaculation (PE). Sixty PE patients were divided into two groups randomly: control group (behavior therapy alone) and the group of Viagra combined with behavior therapy. Intra-vaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT) and the coitus satisfaction of the patient and the partner were recorded before and after treatment. The IELTs of the two groups were 0.80 +/- 0.20 and 0.73 +/- 0.24 minutes respectively before treatment, and 1.82 +/- 0.54 and 3.63 +/- 0.55 minutes respectively after treatment. As for IELT and satisfaction degree, Viagra produced better result than behavior therapy. During this clinical trial, Viagra combined with behavior therapy prolonged IELT, which suggests that Viagra may be helpful for the treatment of premature ejaculation.

Outcome of cervix uteri cancer patients: Clinical treatment results and toxicity profile in a retrospective study from Saudi Arabia.

PubMed

El Sayed, Mohamed E; Bahadur, Yasir A; Hassouna, Ashraf H; Fawzy, Ehab E; Nasr, Azza M; Sadiq, Bakr B; Dada, Reyad; Sait, Khalid H; Anfinan, Nisrin M

2017-10-01

This study evaluated the survival outcome, pattern of failure and prognostic factors in cervix uteri cancer patients. We reviewed the data of 60 patients with stages IB-IVA cancer who were treated between January 2004 and December 2010. Most patients (n = 50; 83%) had squamous cell carcinoma. Stage IIB was the most common presentation (n = 41; 68%). Forty-seven patients (78%) received Cisplatin concurrent with radiotherapy (CRT). The 2- and 4-year overall survival (OS) was 82% and 79%, respectively. Prolongation of the overall treatment time (OAT) for greater than 56 days, advanced stage and pretreatment hemoglobin (Hb) levels (<10 g/dL) negatively predicted OS (P = 0.039, P = 0.044 and P = 0.008, respectively). The 2- and 4-year disease-free survival (DFS) rates were 80% and 69%, respectively. Vaginal infiltration and brachytherapy (orthogonal versus CT-based planning) were significant factors for the prediction of relapse (P = 0.048 and P = 0.049, respectively). The 2- and 4-year loco-regional control (LRC) rates were 78% and 70%, respectively, and the distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS) rates were 82% and 79%, respectively. Vaginal infiltration was the only negative predictive factor for LRC (P = 0.045), and pathological tumor grade was the only factor indicative of distant metastases (P = 0.037). Grade 3 or 4 late rectal reactions were reported in two patients (3%), and no patients developed grade 3 or 4 urinary reactions. The treatment results in our cervix uteri cancer patients and the prognostic factors are comparable to those of previous reports. Orthogonal brachytherapy planning and vaginal infiltration negatively predicted relapse. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.

Magnetic resonance imaging in assessment of stress urinary incontinence in women: Parameters differentiating urethral hypermobility and intrinsic sphincter deficiency.

PubMed

Macura, Katarzyna Jadwiga; Thompson, Richard Eugene; Bluemke, David Alan; Genadry, Rene

2015-11-28

To define the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) parameters differentiating urethral hypermobility (UH) and intrinsic sphincter deficiency (ISD) in women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI). The static and dynamic MR images of 21 patients with SUI were correlated to urodynamic (UD) findings and compared to those of 10 continent controls. For the assessment of the urethra and integrity of the urethral support structures, we applied the high-resolution endocavitary MRI, such as intraurethral MRI, endovaginal or endorectal MRI. For the functional imaging of the urethral support, we performed dynamic MRI with the pelvic phased array coil. We assessed the following MRI parameters in both the patient and the volunteer groups: (1) urethral angle; (2) bladder neck descent; (3) status of the periurethral ligaments, (4) vaginal shape; (5) urethral sphincter integrity, length and muscle thickness at mid urethra; (6) bladder neck funneling; (7) status of the puborectalis muscle; (8) pubo-vaginal distance. UDs parameters were assessed in the patient study group as follows: (1) urethral mobility angle on Q-tip test; (2) Valsalva leak point pressure (VLPP) measured at 250 cc bladder volume; and (3) maximum urethral closure pressure (MUCP). The UH type of SUI was defined with the Q-tip test angle over 30 degrees, and VLPP pressure over 60 cm H2O. The ISD incontinence was defined with MUCP pressure below 20 cm H2O, and VLPP pressure less or equal to 60 cm H2O. We considered the associations between the MRI and clinical data and UDs using a variety of statistical tools to include linear regression, multivariate logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. All statistical analyses were performed using STATA version 9.0 (StataCorp LP, College Station, TX). In the incontinent group, 52% have history of vaginal delivery trauma as compared to none in control group (P < 0.001). There was no difference between the continent volunteers and incontinent patients in body habitus as assessed by the body mass index. Pubovaginal distance and periurethral ligament disruption are significantly associated with incontinence; periurethral ligament symmetricity reduces the odds of incontinence by 87%. Bladder neck funneling and length of the suprapubic urethral sphincter are significantly associated with the type of incontinence on UDs; funneling reduced the odds of pure UH by almost 95%; increasing suprapubic urethral sphincter length at rest is highly associated with UH. Both MRI variables result in a predictive model for UDs diagnosis (area under the ROC = 0.944). MRI may play an important role in assessing the contribution of hypermobility and sphincteric dysfunction to the SUI in women when considering treatment options.

Magnetic resonance imaging in assessment of stress urinary incontinence in women: Parameters differentiating urethral hypermobility and intrinsic sphincter deficiency

PubMed Central

Macura, Katarzyna Jadwiga; Thompson, Richard Eugene; Bluemke, David Alan; Genadry, Rene

2015-01-01

AIM: To define the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) parameters differentiating urethral hypermobility (UH) and intrinsic sphincter deficiency (ISD) in women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI). METHODS: The static and dynamic MR images of 21 patients with SUI were correlated to urodynamic (UD) findings and compared to those of 10 continent controls. For the assessment of the urethra and integrity of the urethral support structures, we applied the high-resolution endocavitary MRI, such as intraurethral MRI, endovaginal or endorectal MRI. For the functional imaging of the urethral support, we performed dynamic MRI with the pelvic phased array coil. We assessed the following MRI parameters in both the patient and the volunteer groups: (1) urethral angle; (2) bladder neck descent; (3) status of the periurethral ligaments, (4) vaginal shape; (5) urethral sphincter integrity, length and muscle thickness at mid urethra; (6) bladder neck funneling; (7) status of the puborectalis muscle; (8) pubo-vaginal distance. UDs parameters were assessed in the patient study group as follows: (1) urethral mobility angle on Q-tip test; (2) Valsalva leak point pressure (VLPP) measured at 250 cc bladder volume; and (3) maximum urethral closure pressure (MUCP). The UH type of SUI was defined with the Q-tip test angle over 30 degrees, and VLPP pressure over 60 cm H2O. The ISD incontinence was defined with MUCP pressure below 20 cm H2O, and VLPP pressure less or equal to 60 cm H2O. We considered the associations between the MRI and clinical data and UDs using a variety of statistical tools to include linear regression, multivariate logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. All statistical analyses were performed using STATA version 9.0 (StataCorp LP, College Station, TX). RESULTS: In the incontinent group, 52% have history of vaginal delivery trauma as compared to none in control group (P < 0.001). There was no difference between the continent volunteers and incontinent patients in body habitus as assessed by the body mass index. Pubovaginal distance and periurethral ligament disruption are significantly associated with incontinence; periurethral ligament symmetricity reduces the odds of incontinence by 87%. Bladder neck funneling and length of the suprapubic urethral sphincter are significantly associated with the type of incontinence on UDs; funneling reduced the odds of pure UH by almost 95%; increasing suprapubic urethral sphincter length at rest is highly associated with UH. Both MRI variables result in a predictive model for UDs diagnosis (area under the ROC = 0.944). CONCLUSION: MRI may play an important role in assessing the contribution of hypermobility and sphincteric dysfunction to the SUI in women when considering treatment options. PMID:26644825

Prevalence of urinary incontinence among women and analysis of potential risk factors in Germany and Denmark.

PubMed

Schreiber Pedersen, Louise; Lose, Gunnar; Høybye, Mette Terp; Elsner, Susanne; Waldmann, Annika; Rudnicki, Martin

2017-08-01

Urinary incontinence (UI) is a prevalent condition that interferes with women's health-related quality of life. Prevalence rates from earlier studies are wide-ranging, due to heterogeneity in methodology, definition of UI and the populations included. We aimed to determine the prevalence of UI and associated risk factors in Germany and Denmark using the same methodology, definition and population. A postal survey was conducted in two regions in Germany and Denmark, including 8000 women aged 18+ years. UI was defined as any complaint of involuntary loss of urine. The questionnaire contained socio-demographic questions and the International Consultation on Incontinence Modular Questionnaire Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICIQ-UI SF). The response rate in Germany and Denmark was 46.2 and 66.6% (p < 0.001) and the prevalence rate of UI was 48.3 and 46.4% (p = 0.188), respectively. Stress urinary incontinence dominated among younger women, and urgency urinary incontinence and mixed urinary incontinence among women 80+ years in Germany and Denmark, respectively. The subgroup of women with body mass index (BMI) ≥35 had the highest prevalence of UI (67.3%). The subgroup of women with BMI <35 were more likely to have stress urinary incontinence, and the subgroup of women with BMI ≥35 were more likely to have mixed urinary incontinence. UI was significantly associated with age as with BMI, vaginal delivery, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and having at least one co-morbidity. Prevalence rates in the two regions in Germany and Denmark were similar, despite significantly different response rates. This difference may reflect various attitudes towards answering a questionnaire, but the response rate on questions concerning UI seemed consistent. © 2017 Nordic Federation of Societies of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Urinary pregnandiol-3-glucuronide and estrone conjugates to creatinine ratios in early pregnancies complicated by vaginal bleeding.

PubMed

Davidson, B J

1986-10-01

There is no simple and rapid test available to predict the outcome of an early pregnancy complicated by vaginal bleeding. In this prospective study, 15 women with normal pregnancies collected a weekly urine sample between 6 and 13 weeks' gestation. A single random urine sample was obtained from 15 women with bleeding who continued to carry their child and 50 women who proceeded to have a spontaneous abortion (SAB). Pregnandiol-3-glucuronide (PDG) was determined with the use of enzyme-multiplied immunoassay technique (EMIT) and estrone conjugates (E1C) were measured by radioimmunoassay (RIA). The ratios of these metabolites to creatinine (C) were calculated. PDG/C ratios in normal women rose gradually from 6 weeks on. All women with bleeding during a normal pregnancy had ratios in the normal range, but 94% of women with a SAB had ratios below the normal range. The E1C/C ratio remained unchanged from 6 to 11 weeks and then rose rapidly. Until 11 weeks, there was no clear separation between the E1C/C ratios of the women with a SAB and the women with bleeding who continued their pregnancies. The prognosis of threatened abortion can be made by a urinary PDG/C ratio but not by an E1C/C ratio. EMIT is simple and quick and uses technology present in many laboratories.

Genito-Urinary Function and Quality of Life after Elective Totally Laparoscopic Sigmoidectomy after at Least One Episode of Complicated Diverticular Disease According to Two Different Vascular Approaches: the IMA Low Ligation or the IMA Preservation.

PubMed

Mari, Giulio; Crippa, Jacopo; Costanzi, Andrea; Mazzola, Michele; Magistro, Carmelo; Ferrari, Giovanni; Maggioni, Dario

2017-01-01

The arterial ligation during elective laparoscopic sigmoidectomy for diverticular disease can affect genito-urinary function injuring the superior hypogastric plexus, and can weaken the distal colonic stump arterial perfusion. Ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery distal to the left colic artery or the complete preservation of the inferior mesenteric artery can therefore be compared in terms of preservation of the descending sympathetic fibres running along the aorta to the rectum resulting in a different post operative genito urinary function. From January 2015 to March 2016, 66 patients underwent elective laparoscopic sigmoidectomy for diverticular disease among two enrolling hospitals. In one centre 35 patients underwent laparoscopic sigmoidectomy with the ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery distal to the left colic artery (low ligation). In the other centre 31 patient were operated on the same procedure with complete inferior mesenteric artery preservation (IMA preservation). There was no difference in terms of major complication occurred, first passage of stool and length of hospital stay between the two groups. Time of surgery was significantly shorter in LL group compared to IMA preserving group and intra operative blood loss was significantly lower in the LL group. There were no differences in the genito urinary function between the two group pre operatively, at 1 and 9 months post operatively. Genito urinary function did not significantly change across surgery in each groups. The low ligation and the IMA preserving vascular approach are safe end feasible techniques in elective laparoscopic sigmoidectomy for diverticular disease. They both prevent from genito-urinary post-operative disfunction and allow good post operative quality of life. The low ligation approach is related to shorter operative time and slower intra operative blood loss. Celsius.

[Analysis of obstetrical and gynaecological history of women with urinary stress incontinence].

PubMed

Sobański, Andrzej; Pozowski, Janusz; Poreba, Ryszard; Piwowarczyk, Magdalena; Pasierbek, Aneta

2004-01-01

Urinary leakage is a hygienic and social problem, that concerns women both in reproductive and perimenopausal age. It leads to a life deterioration, depression, and social isolation. Urinary stress incontinence (USI) is one of the most common-type of urine leakage. Characteristic symptom of this disorder there is involuntary leakage of urine during increased intra-abdominal pressure (cough, laugh, sneezing or physical work). There are many various predictive factors of urinary stress incontinence in a large number of publications. One of them, the most important, seems to be a gravidity and labor. 40-82% pregnant women complain of urinary leakage. The main aim of investigation was to determine obstetrical and gynaecological predictive factors of urinary stress incontinence. 53 women with diagnosed USI and qualified to TVT procedure have to fill in questionnaire with row questions about their obstetrical and gynaecological history. Our investigation revealed that significant influence on appearance of USI exert number of spontaneous labors, birth weight >3500 g, lack of substitute hormonal therapy during menopause and hard physical work in the past.

Urinary symptoms in adolescent females: STI or UTI?

PubMed

Huppert, Jill S; Biro, Frank; Lan, Dongmei; Mortensen, Joel E; Reed, Jennifer; Slap, Gail B

2007-05-01

To determine if urinary symptoms or urinary tract infections (UTI) were associated with sexually transmitted infections (STI) and which history, clinical, and laboratory findings could distinguish these infections in symptomatic women. A cross-sectional sample of 296 sexually active females aged 14-22 years attending a hospital-based teen health center or emergency department were recruited. Genitourinary symptoms, medical and sexual history, and urinalysis results were recorded. STI was defined as a vaginal swab positive for Trichomonas vaginalis or urine nucleic acid amplification test positive for Neisseria gonorrheae or Chlamydia trachomatis. A urine culture with >10,000 colonies of a single pathogen was considered a positive UTI. In the full sample, prevalence of UTI and STI were 17% and 33%, respectively. Neither urinary symptoms nor UTI was significantly associated with STI. Further analyses are reported for the 154 (51%) with urinary symptoms: Positive urine leukocytes, more than one partner in the last three months and history of STI predicted STI. Urinalysis results identified four groups: (1) Normal urinalysis-67% had no infection; (2) Positive nitrites or protein-55% had UTI; (3) Positive leukocytes or blood-62% had STI; and (4) Both nitrites/protein and leukocytes/blood positive-28% had STI and 65% had UTI. Those without a documented UTI were more likely to have trichomoniasis than those with a UTI, and 65% of those with sterile pyuria had STI, mainly trichomoniasis or gonorrhea. Adolescent females with urinary symptoms should be tested for both UTI and STIs. Urinalysis results may be helpful to direct initial therapy.

The dynamic changes of vaginal microecosystem in patients with recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis: a retrospective study of 800 patients.

PubMed

Yue, Xin-Ai; Chen, Ping; Tang, Yuanting; Wu, Xiuli; Hu, Zhengqiang

2015-12-01

Vaginal microecological environment is an important factor of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC). This study was undertaken to investigate dynamic changes of vaginal microecosystem in patients with RVVC. Four hundred patients with VVC and 400 healthy women of reproductive age who admitted to the hospital from January 2012 to December 2013 were evaluated retrospectively. Vaginal microecological factors were evaluated before and after treatment until no recurrence, including vaginal cleanliness, white blood cells, Lactobacillus, Lactobacillus classification, bacteria density, flora diversity, Nugent scores, etc. The grouping was done according to the recurrence of the disease. Every time after treatment, the relapsing patients were defined as case group and the cured patients without recurrence were defined as control group. The differences in the results between the case and the control groups were analyzed by t test. With the development of RVVC, the ages of all case groups were lower than the corresponding control groups. In different stages of the disease, the bacteria density of the case groups and their corresponding control groups had no significant difference (P > 0.05). Most of the microecological indicators of the first occurring group were significantly different (P < 0.05) from that of the control group. In the recurrence groups, only a few indicators were significantly different from the control groups. The values of all vaginal microecological indicators (except Lactobacillus) of all case groups were higher than that of the control groups. The values of Lactobacillus of all RVVC case groups were lower than that of the RVVC control groups. There were vaginal microecological imbalances in all developing stages of RVVC. As for vaginal flora, diverse sorts changed to normal Lactobacillus dominantly with the development of RVVC. In the first occurrence of RVVC, after antifungal treatment, Lactobacillus is suggested to be timely supplemented to restore vaginal microecological balance.

Is intra-bladder pressure measurement a reliable indicator for raised intra-abdominal pressure? A prospective comparative study.

PubMed

Al-Abassi, Abdulla Ahmed; Al Saadi, Azan Saleh; Ahmed, Faisal

2018-06-19

Intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) can be measured by several indirect methods; however, the urinary bladder is largely preferred. The aim of this study was to compare intra-bladder pressure (IBP) at different levels of IAPs and assess its reliability as an indirect method for IAP measurement. We compared IBP with IAP in twenty-one patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy under general anesthesia. Measurements were recorded at increasing levels of insufflation pressures to approximately 22 mmHg. Pearson's correlation coefficient was calculated to establish the relationship between the two pressure measurements and Bland-Altman analysis was used to assess the limits of agreement between the two methods of measurements. The urinary bladder pressures reflected well the pressures in the abdominal cavity. Pearson correlation coefficient showed a good correlation between the two measurement techniques (r = 0.966, p < 0.0001) and Bland-Altman analysis indicated that the 95% limits of agreement between the two methods ranged from - 2.83 to 2.64. This range is accepted both clinically and according to the recommendations of the World Society of Abdominal Compartment Syndrome (WSACS). Our study showed that IBP measurement is a simple, minimally invasive method that may reliably estimates IAP in patients placed in supine position. Measurements for pressures higher than 12 mmHg may be less reliable. When applied clinically, this should alert the clinician to take safety measures to avoid abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS).

Diagnosis and treatment of urinary tract infections across age groups.

PubMed

Chu, Christine M; Lowder, Jerry L

2018-01-02

Urinary tract infections are the most common outpatient infections, but predicting the probability of urinary tract infections through symptoms and test results can be complex. The most diagnostic symptoms of urinary tract infections include change in frequency, dysuria, urgency, and presence or absence of vaginal discharge, but urinary tract infections may present differently in older women. Dipstick urinalysis is popular for its availability and usefulness, but results must be interpreted in context of the patient's pretest probability based on symptoms and characteristics. In patients with a high probability of urinary tract infection based on symptoms, negative dipstick urinalysis does not rule out urinary tract infection. Nitrites are likely more sensitive and specific than other dipstick components for urinary tract infection, particularly in the elderly. Positive dipstick testing is likely specific for asymptomatic bacteriuria in pregnancy, but urine culture is still the test of choice. Microscopic urinalysis is likely comparable to dipstick urinalysis as a screening test. Bacteriuria is more specific and sensitive than pyuria for detecting urinary tract infection, even in older women and during pregnancy. Pyuria is commonly found in the absence of infection, particularly in older adults with lower urinary tract symptoms such as incontinence. Positive testing may increase the probability of urinary tract infection, but initiation of treatment should take into account risk of urinary tract infection based on symptoms as well. In cases in which the probability of urinary tract infection is moderate or unclear, urine culture should be performed. Urine culture is the gold standard for detection of urinary tract infection. However, asymptomatic bacteriuria is common, particularly in older women, and should not be treated with antibiotics. Conversely, in symptomatic women, even growth as low as 10 2 colony-forming unit/mL could reflect infection. Resistance is increasing to fluoroquinolones, beta-lactams, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Most uropathogens still display good sensitivity to nitrofurantoin. First-line treatments for urinary tract infection include nitrofurantoin, fosfomycin, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (when resistance levels are <20%). These antibiotics have minimal collateral damage and resistance. In pregnancy, beta-lactams, nitrofurantoin, fosfomycin, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole can be appropriate treatments. Interpreting the probability of urinary tract infection based on symptoms and testing allows for greater accuracy in diagnosis of urinary tract infection, decreasing overtreatment and encouraging antimicrobial stewardship. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Pelvic Floor Disorders 6 Months after Attempted Operative Vaginal Delivery According to the Fetal Head Station: A Prospective Cohort Study

PubMed Central

Ducarme, Guillaume; Hamel, Jean-François; Brun, Stéphanie; Madar, Hugo; Merlot, Benjamin; Sentilhes, Loïc

2016-01-01

Objective To evaluate the effect of the fetal head station at attempted operative vaginal delivery (aOVD), and specifically midpelvic or low aOVD, on urinary incontinence (UI), anal incontinence (AI), and perineal pain at 6 months. Design Prospective cohort study. Setting 1941 women with singleton term fetuses in vertex presentation with midpelvic or low aOVD between 2008 and 2013 in a tertiary care university hospital. Methods Symptoms of urinary incontinence (UI) using the Bristol Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms questionnaire, and symptoms of anal incontinence (AI) severity using Fecal Incontinence Severity Index (FISI) were assessed 6 months after aOVD. We measured the association between midpelvic or low aOVD and symptoms of UI, AI, and perineal pain at 6 months using multiple regression and adjusting for demographics, and risk factors of UI and AI, with adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Results The study included 907 women (46.7%) who responded to the questionnaire; 18.4% (167/907) had midpelvic aOVD, and 81.6% (740/907) low; and none of women with symptoms of UI (26.6%, and 22.4%, respectively; p = 0.31), AI (15.9%, and 21.8%; p = 0.09), the FISI score, and perineal pain (17.2%, and 12.7%; p = 0.14) differed significantly between groups. The same was true for stress, urge, and mixed-type UI, severe UI and difficulty voiding. Compared with low pelvic aOVD, the aORs for symptoms of UI in midpelvic aOVD were 0.70 (0.46–1.05) and AI 1.42 (0.85–2.39). Third- and fourth-degree tears were a major risk factor of symptoms of UI (aOR 3.08, 95% CI 1.35–7.00) and AI (aOR 3.47, 95% CI 1.43–8.39). Conclusion Neither symptoms of urinary nor anal incontinence differed at 6 months among women who had midpelvic and low pelvic aOVD. These findings are reassuring and need further studies at long-term to confirm these short-term data. PMID:27992558

Can we predict detrusor overactivity in women with lower urinary tract symptoms? The King's Detrusor Overactivity Score (KiDOS).

PubMed

Giarenis, Ilias; Musonda, Patrick; Mastoroudes, Heleni; Robinson, Dudley; Cardozo, Linda

2016-10-01

Traditionally, urodynamic studies (UDS) have been used to assess lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), but their routine use is now discouraged. While urodynamic stress incontinence is strongly associated with the symptom of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and a positive cough test, there is a weak relationship between symptoms of overactive bladder and detrusor overactivity (DO). The aim of our study was to develop a model to predict DO in women with LUTS. This prospective study included consecutive women with LUTS attending a urodynamic clinic. All women underwent a comprehensive clinical and urodynamic assessment. The effect of each variable on the odds of DO was estimated both by univariate analysis and adjusted analysis using logistic regression. 1006 women with LUTS were included in the study with 374 patients (37%) diagnosed with DO. The factors considered to be the best predictors of DO were urgency urinary incontinence, urge rating/void and parity (p-value<0.01). The absence of SUI, vaginal bulging and previous continence surgery were also good predictors of DO (p-value<0.01). We have created a prediction model for DO based on our best predictors. In our scoring system, presence of UUI scores 5; mean urge rating/void≥3 scores 3; parity≥2 scores 2; previous continence surgery scores -1; presence of SUI scores -1; and the complaint of vaginal bulging scores -1. If a criterion is absent, then the score is 0 and the total score can vary from a value of -3 to +10. The Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis for the overall cut-off points revealed an area under the curve of 0.748 (95%CI 0.741, 0.755). This model is able to predict DO more accurately than a symptomatic diagnosis alone, in women with LUTS. The introduction of this scoring system as a screening tool into clinical practice may reduce the need for expensive and invasive tests to diagnose DO, but cannot replace UDS completely. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

The influence of BMI, smoking, and age on vaginal erosions after synthetic mesh repair of pelvic organ prolapses. A multicenter study.

PubMed

Araco, Francesco; Gravante, Gianpiero; Sorge, Roberto; Overton, John; De Vita, Davide; Primicerio, Mario; Dati, Stefano; Araco, Placido; Piccione, Emilio

2009-01-01

To study the influence of body mass index (BMI), smoking, and age on the risk of vaginal erosions after mesh repair of pelvic prolapses. Retrospective study. Three university and community hospitals. Patients that underwent mesh correction of prolapses between 2002 and 2007. Excluded were those with stress urinary incontinence, ongoing clinical infections, with a complete antibiotic course in the last six months and with systemic diseases affecting tissue oxygenation. Revision of medical notes. Risk contributions for age, smoking, and BMI on the occurrence of vaginal erosions. Data were collected from 460 patients. Postoperative erosions were present in 7%. BMI greater than 30 conferred a 10.1-fold increase in the risk of developing erosions, smoking a 3.7-fold increase, and age greater than 60 years a 2.2-fold increase. A cut-off value of seven pack years was determined for smoking where the risk associated with light smokers was similar to that of non-smokers. BMI, smoking, and age are important risk factors for pelvic organ prolapse surgery. Our data could be used to stratify patients according to their risk so that preventative measures can be taken in high-risk patients.

Home exercises for pelvic floor in continent women one year after physical therapy treatment for urinary incontinence: an observational study.

PubMed

Krüger, Ana P; Luz, Soraia C T; Virtuoso, Janeisa F

2011-01-01

To describe the results of home exercise targeting the pelvic floor in continent women one year after the end of a physical therapy treatment for the following outcomes: functional assessment of the pelvic floor and urinary incontinence. This is an observational study that evaluated fifteen women one year after physical therapy treatment for Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI). The outcomes for this study were: situations of urinary loss, use of daily protection, practice of home exercises for the pelvic floor, functional assessment of the pelvic floor (FAPF) and patient satisfaction. We also investigated some confounding variables such as hormonal status, number of vaginal deliveries and previous history of episiotomy. One year after completion of physical therapy treatment, we observed that the FAPF median remained stable over time (Median=5, p=0.08). The presence of urinary incontinence was reported by 40% of women in the sample, however, was characterized as mild (i.e. not requiring the use of daily protection). There was also a significant association (p=0.001) between the completion of home exercises (twice or more per week) and the normal clinical status. Confounding variables, which could compromise the clinical status, showed no significant association with the outcomes (p≥0.05). Home exercises contributed to the maintenance of continence following a physical therapy treatment.

Characterization of Micrococcaceae strains isolated from the human urogenital tract by the conventional scheme and a micromethod.

PubMed

Baldellon, C; Mégraud, F

1985-03-01

Two hundred and twelve Micrococcaceae isolates were obtained from 82 men with nongonococcal urethritis, 24 women with vaginitis, and 54 girls with vulvovaginitis. Identification and biotyping of these strains were carried out by using the simplified scheme of Kloos and Schleifer (W. E. Kloos and K. H. Schleifer, J. Clin. Microbiol. 1:82-88, 1975) and the commercially available API Staph test (DMS Staph Trac). Staphylococcus epidermidis occurred in about half of these isolates. There was no statistical difference between the urethral and vaginal specimens, except for S. haemolyticus found primarily in males and for S. simulans and S. aureus found primarily in girls between the ages of 1 and 12 years. S. saprophyticus, a major cause of urinary tract infections in young women, was never isolated from the vagina, suggesting the probability of another reservoir.

Sonographic and MR features of puerperal uterine inversion.

PubMed

Thakur, Shruti; Sharma, Sanjiv; Jhobta, Anupam; Aggarwal, Neeti; Thakur, Charu S

2014-06-01

Puerperal uterine inversion is a rare and potentially life-threatening complication of a mismanaged third stage of labour. Early diagnosis is mandatory for proper management of the patient. Complete uterine inversion is a clinical diagnosis. However, incomplete uterine inversion is difficult to identify and warrants further workup. Sonographic evaluation, although a bedside procedure, may be confusing. The conspicuity of findings is much greater on MR examination than on ultrasound. Only a few diagnostic imaging findings in uterine inversion have been described in previous reports. We present the case of a 26-year-old woman who had a full-term vaginal delivery and presented after 20 days with acute urinary retention and mild vaginal bleeding. She was diagnosed as a case of neglected subacute incomplete uterine inversion. Both greyscale and Doppler sonographic and MR features of the case are described with an emphasis on better delineation of uterine and adnexal anatomy on MR imaging.

Asymptomatic bacteriuria in pregnancy: epidemiological, clinical and microbiological approach.

PubMed

Gebre-Selassie, S

1998-07-01

Asymptomatic urinary tract infection is a risk factor for fetal and maternal morbidity including development of pyelonephritis, premature labor and impaired intra-uterine development. In this study, 326 pregnant and 100 non-pregnant control women were screened for significant asymptomatic bacteriuria from April 8 to July 25, 1997 to gain insight into the prevalence rate, clinical characteristics of the disease and microbiological assessments of the causative agents. All the subjects were clinically identified to have no signs and symptoms of urinary tract infection (UTI). The age ranges of the study and control groups were between 15-40 years for both groups with mean of 25.1 and 25.3 years, respectively. Bacteriological screening of mid-stream urine (MSU) revealed that 24/326 (7%) and 3/100 (3%) were positive for asymptomatic bacteriuria in the study group and controls, respectively (P < 0.05). Further biochemical species identification showed that Escherichia coli was found in 11/24 (46%) followed by coagulase-negative staphylococci (CNS) in 8/24 (33%) and Citrobacter freundii in 2/24 (8%). Others found in smaller number included Staphylococcus aureus, Enterobacter cloacae and Proteus rettgeri in 1/24 (4%) each. Antimicrobial susceptibility test revealed that 10/11 (91%) of the E. coli isolates were resistant to ampicillin and amoxicillin and 10/11 (91%) of them sensitive to nitrofurantoin.

Maternal urinary tract infection: is it independently associated with adverse pregnancy outcome?

PubMed

Mazor-Dray, Efrat; Levy, Amalia; Schlaeffer, Francisc; Sheiner, Eyal

2009-02-01

This population-based study was aimed to determine whether there is an association between urinary tract infections (UTI) during pregnancy, among patients in whom antibiotic treatment was recommended, and maternal and perinatal outcome. A retrospective population-based study comparing all singleton pregnancies of patients with and without UTI was performed. Multiple logistic regression models were performed to control for confounders. Out of 199,093 deliveries, 2.3% (n = 4742) had UTI during pregnancy and delivery. Patients with UTI had significantly higher rates of intra-uterine growth restriction (IUGR), pre-eclampsia, caesarean deliveries (CD) and pre-term deliveries (either before 34 weeks or 37 weeks of gestation). Although controlling for possible confounders such as maternal age and parity, using multivariable analyses, the significant association between UTI and IUGR, pre-eclampsia, CD and preterm deliveries persisted. In contrast, no significant differences in 5-min Apgar scores less than 7 or perinatal mortality were noted between the groups (0.6% vs. 0.6%; p = 0.782, and 1.5% vs. 1.4%; p = 0.704, respectively). Maternal UTI is independently associated with pre-term delivery, pre-eclampsia, IUGR and CD. Nevertheless, it is not associated with increased rates of perinatal mortality compared with women without UTI.

SIMULTANEOUS URODYNAMIC AND ANORECTAL MANOMETRY STUDIES IN CHILDREN: INSIGHTS INTO THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE LOWER GASTROINTESTINAL AND LOWER URINARY TRACTS

PubMed Central

Ambartsumyan, Lusine; Siddiqui, Anees; Bauer, Stuart; Nurko, Samuel

2016-01-01

Background Children with urinary incontinence (UI) have associated functional constipation (FC) and fecal incontinence (FI). The physiology between lower urinary tract (LUT) and anorectum in children has not been elucidated. Aims Observe the effect of rectal distention (RD) on LUT function, and bladder filling and voiding on anorectal function. Methods Children with voiding dysfunction referred to Boston Children’s Hospital were prospectively enrolled for combined urodynamic (UDS) and anorectal manometry (ARM). Anorectal and urodynamic parameters were simultaneously measured. Patients underwent 2 micturition cycles, 1st with rectal balloon deflated and 2nd with it inflated (RD). LUT and anorectal parameters were compared between cycles. Key Results 10 children (7 UI, 4 recurrent UTIs, 9 FC ± FI) were enrolled. Post void residual (PVR) increased (p=0.02) with RD. No differences were observed in percent of bladder filling to expected bladder capacity, sensation, and bladder compliance with and without RD. Bladder and abdominal pressures increased at voiding with RD (p<0.05). Intra-anal pressures decreased at voiding (p<0.05), at 25% (p=0.03) and 50% (p=0.06) of total volume of bladder filling. Conclusions & Inferences The PVR volume increased with RD. Stool in the rectum does not alter filling cystometric capacity but decreases the bladder’s ability to empty predisposing patients with fecal retention to UI and UTIs. Bladder and abdominal pressures increased during voiding demonstrating a physiological correlate of dysfunctional voiding. Intra-anal pressures decreased during bladder filling and voiding. This is the first time intra-anal relaxation during bladder filling and voiding has been described. PMID:27214097

Prospective evaluation of unidirectional barbed suture for various indications in surgeon-controlled robotic reconstructive urologic surgery: Wake Forest University experience.

PubMed

Shah, Hemendra N; Nayyar, Rishi; Rajamahanty, Shrinivas; Hemal, Ashok K

2012-06-01

To evaluate the usage of unidirectional barbed suture and its related implications in various surgeon-controlled robotic reconstructive urologic surgeries. From March 2010 to March 2011, all patients undergoing various surgeon-controlled robotic reconstructive urologic surgeries utilizing barbed sutures were prospectively enrolled in this study. Type and number of procedure performed were noted. Intraoperative and peri-operative outcomes potentially related to suture technique and material were recorded. This study reports on 210 patients, in whom barbed suture was used during this period. These included partial nephrectomy (20), pyeloplasty (9), ureteric tailoring and reimplantation (1), closure of bladder after Nephroureterectomy with excision of bladder cuff (8), closure of vaginal cuff in female radical cystectomy (12), partial cystectomy (1), radical prostatectomy (152), simple prostatectomy (2), vesicovaginal fistula repair (3), sacrocolpopexy (1), and hernia repair (1). We encountered 5 instances (2.38%) of tissue cut through possibly attributable to the use of barbed suture and 4 instances of misplacement of suture occurred, of these two required a new suture, whereas retrograde pull back of suture and needle was performed in 2 cases. No instance of slip back/loosening of suture was noted once it was tightened. At mean follow-up of 6.8 (1-14 months) months, we did not encounter any complications of urinary leakage, stone formation or fistula or any clinical evidence of urinary tract obstruction due to the use of barbed suture. Use of unidirectional barbed suture is safe, feasible, and efficient at short-term follow-up for reconstructive part of urological procedures.

Dynamic MRI confirms support of the mid-urethra by TVT and TVT-O surgery for stress incontinence.

PubMed

Rinne, Kirsi; Kainulainen, Sakari; Aukee, Sinikka; Heinonen, Seppo; Nilsson, Carl G

2011-06-01

To study changes in mid-urethral function with dynamic MRI in stress urinary incontinent women undergoing either tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) or TVT-obturator sling operations. Prospective clinical study. University hospital. Forty-two parous women with stress urinary incontinence recruited to dynamic magnetic resonance imaging before and after mid-urethral sling surgery. Control group of 16 healthy women. Dynamic magnetic resonance imaging at rest, during pelvic floor muscle contraction, coughing and voiding with a bladder volume of 200-300 ml. X- and Y- coordinates were used to determine the location of the mid-urethra during these activities. Changes in mid-urethral position after TVT and TVT-obturator operations during the different activities. Postoperatively the women could elevate their mid-urethra by pelvic floor muscle contraction significantly higher than before the operation (p<0.05). Despite a different support angle between the TVT and the TVT-O mid-urethral slings, we could not see any differences in the movement patterns. Mid-urethral slings support the mid-urethra and restrict downward movement during different activities. Movement patterns are similar after TVT and TVT-O operations. © 2011 The Authors Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica© 2011 Nordic Federation of Societies of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Cranberry juice capsules and urinary tract infection post surgery: Results of a randomized trial

PubMed Central

Foxman, Betsy; Cronenwett, Ms. Anna E.W.; Spino, Cathie; Berger, Mitchell B.; Morgan, Daniel M.

2015-01-01

Objective The risk of urinary tract infection (UTI) among women undergoing elective gynecologic surgery where a catheter is placed is high: 10 to 64% following catheter removal. We conducted the first randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of the therapeutic efficacy of cranberry juice capsules in preventing UTI post surgery. Study Design We recruited patients from a single hospital between August 2011 and January 2013. Eligible participants were undergoing elective gynecologic surgery that did not involve a fistula repair or vaginal mesh removal. 160 patients were randomized and received two cranberry juice capsules two times a day, equivalent to two 8-ounce servings of cranberry juice, for 6 weeks after surgery, or matching placebo. The primary endpoint was the proportion of participants who experienced clinically-diagnosed and treated UTI with or without positive urine culture. Kaplan-Meier plots and logrank tests compared the two treatment groups. Results The occurrence of UTI was significantly lower in the cranberry treatment group compared to the placebo group (15/80 (19%) versus 30/80 (38%); OR=0.38; 95% CI: 0.19, 0.79; p=0.008). After adjustment for known confounders, including frequency of intermittent self-catheterization in the post- operative period, the protective effects of cranberry remained (OR=0.42; 95% CI: 0.18, 0.94). There were no treatment differences in the incidence of adverse events; including gastrointestinal upset (56% vs. 61% for cranberry vs. placebo). Conclusions Among women undergoing elective benign gynecologic surgery involving urinary catheterization, use of cranberry extract tablets during the postoperative period reduced the rate of UTI by half. PMID:25882919

Pelvic Organ Prolapse---Vaginal and Laparoscopic Mesh: The Evidence.

PubMed

Richter, Lee A; Sokol, Andrew I

2016-03-01

This report summarizes the current literature on abdominal, laparoscopic, and transvaginal mesh for the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse. This article reviews objective and subjective cure rates as well as complications associated with synthetic mesh use for pelvic organ prolapse repair. The focus is on the latest literature that provides evidence for when synthetic mesh use is most appropriate. The use of mesh for the repair of urinary incontinence is not reviewed in this article. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Sexual outcome after pelvic reconstructive surgery].

PubMed

Fatton, B; Savary, D; Velemir, L; Amblard, J; Accoceberry, M; Jacquetin, B

2009-02-01

Sexual well-being is an important parameter of women's health and quality of live. Sexual disorders may occur in women with pelvic organ prolapse and/or stress urinary incontinence and also after pelvic reconstructive surgery. Sexual dysfunction after POP or SUI surgery has been poorly documented but new condition specific questionnaires have been developed to help us to better evaluate such consequences. This paper reports available data and highlights more specifically consequences of surgery with mesh reinforcement which is, currently, an important issue particularly when performing by vaginal approach.

Cranberry Products Inhibit Adherence of P-Fimbriated Escherichia Coli to Primary Cultured Bladder and Vaginal Epithelial Cells

PubMed Central

Gupta, K.; Chou, M. Y.; Howell, A.; Wobbe, C.; Grady, R.; Stapleton, A. E.

2011-01-01

Purpose Cranberry proanthocyanidins have been identified as possible inhibitors of Escherichia coli adherence to uroepithelial cells. However, little is known about the dose range of this effect. Furthermore, it has not been studied directly in the urogenital system. To address these issues we tested the effect of a cranberry powder and proanthocyanidin extract on adherence of a P-fimbriated uropathogenic E. coli isolate to 2 new urogenital model systems, namely primary cultured bladder epithelial cells and vaginal epithelial cells. Materials and Methods E. coli IA2 was pre-incubated with a commercially available cranberry powder (9 mg proanthocyanidin per gm) or with increasing concentrations of proanthocyanidin extract. Adherence of E. coli IA2 to primary cultured bladder epithelial cells or vaginal epithelial cells was measured before and after exposure to these products. Results Cranberry powder decreased mean adherence of E. coli IA2 to vaginal epithelial cells from 18.6 to 1.8 bacteria per cell (p <0.001). Mean adherence of E. coli to primary cultured bladder epithelial cells was decreased by exposure to 50 μg/ml proanthocyanidin extract from 6.9 to 1.6 bacteria per cell (p <0.001). Inhibition of adherence of E. coli by proanthocyanidin extract occurred in linear, dose dependent fashion over a proanthocyanidin concentration range of 75 to 5 μg/ml. Conclusions Cranberry products can inhibit E. coli adherence to biologically relevant model systems of primary cultured bladder and vaginal epithelial cells. This effect occurs in a dose dependent relationship. These findings provide further mechanistic evidence and biological plausibility for the role of cranberry products for preventing urinary tract infection. PMID:17509358

Effects of mesh-related complications in vaginal surgery on quality of life.

PubMed

Kowalik, Claudia R; Lakeman, Mariëlle M E; de Kraker, Alyde T; Roovers, Jan Paul W R

2018-06-16

Vaginal mesh surgery is subject of debate due to the impact of mesh-related complications on patient's lives. Not all of these complications are symptomatic. Restoration of the anatomy and improvement of pelvic floor function as a result may counter the experienced discomfort related to adverse events. We hypothesized that health-related quality of life (HR-QoL) is comparable in women after vaginal mesh surgery regardless of the presence or absence of a mesh-specific complication. This was a cross-sectional study of 128 women who had vaginal mesh surgery in a Dutch university hospital between 2007 and 2012. HR-QoL was measured in women with and without mesh complications using standardized QoL questionnaires Urogenital Distress Inventory-6 (UDI-6), Incontinence Impact Questionnaire (IIQ), Defecation Distress Inventory (DDI), and Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Function Questionnaire (PISQ-12). Complications were scored according to the International Urogynecological Association (IUGA) complication classification. Comparisons between groups were performed with Student's t test and analysis of variance (ANOVA) test. In 29 (23%) women, a mesh-related complication occurred. The domain scores of the UDI-6, DDI, IIQ, and PISQ showed no statistically significant differences between women with and without a mesh-related complication. A post hoc analysis showed similar HR-QoL for those in whom the complication had been resolved and those with persistent symptoms of the complication. Mesh surgery imposes specific complications. When counseling patients about the potential adverse events related to vaginal mesh surgery, it is important to inform them that mesh-related complications do not negatively affect QoL related to micturition, defecation, and sexual functioning.

Vulvar Vestibulitis—A Complex Clinical Entity

PubMed Central

Kessler, Alan; Leonard, Garrick H.; Witkin, Steven S.

1996-01-01

Objective: This study aims to determine the pathophysiology of vulvar vestibulitis and to evaluate currently used treatment options. Methods: Two hundred twenty women with vulvar vestibulitis were seen between October 1987 and March 1995. Every patient had vulvar pain when they attempted intercourse, 75% had excessive vaginal discharge, 36.4% had constant or recurring vulvar burning, and 10.9% had symptoms suggestive of cystitis. All were cultured for the presence of Candida albicans. One hundred sixty-one (73.2%) were also tested for vaginal IgE and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2); 72 (32.7%) had a vulvar biopsy performed as well. Results: A wide range of variants were noted: 53 (24.1%) had a human papilloma virus (HPV) infection, 25 (11.4%) had a Candida vulvovaginitis, 43 (19.5%) had a vaginal allergy, 15 (6.8%) had vaginal PGE2 present, 14 (6.4%) had elevated urinary oxalate excretion, and 29 (13.2%) had a variety of diagnosed variants. In 81 (36.8%) no underlying diagnosis was made. This understates the numbers and varieties of vulvar vaginal diagnoses, for not all patients received a vaginal fluid analysis, a vulvar biopsy, or a 24 h urine screen for oxalates. A variety of medical and operative interventions was used. Symptoms were relieved in 65.9% of patients. The degree of sueeess varied. Successful outcomes were achieved in 14.3% of patients using a low oxalate diet and calcium citrate supplementation, 16% with anti-Candida treatment, 48.1% with antihistamines, 77% with vulvar injection of interferon, 83% with operative removal of inflamed vulvar tissue, and a posterior colporrhaphy used to cover the cutaneous defect. Conclusions: The diagnosis of vulvar vestibulitis is easy to make. An etiology for this chronic condition will not be achieved in every patient. A majority of patients can get relief by a variety of medical and operative interventions. PMID:18476106

Determining the optimal pelvic floor muscle training regimen for women with stress urinary incontinence.

PubMed

Dumoulin, Chantale; Glazener, Cathryn; Jenkinson, David

2011-06-01

Pelvic floor muscle (PFM) training has received Level-A evidence rating in the treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in women, based on meta-analysis of numerous randomized control trials (RCTs) and is recommended in many published guidelines. However, the actual regimen of PFM training used varies widely in these RCTs. Hence, to date, the optimal PFM training regimen for achieving continence remains unknown and the following questions persist: how often should women attend PFM training sessions and how many contractions should they perform for maximal effect? Is a regimen of strengthening exercises better than a motor control strategy or functional retraining? Is it better to administer a PFM training regimen to an individual or are group sessions equally effective, or better? Which is better, PFM training by itself or in combination with biofeedback, neuromuscular electrical stimulation, and/or vaginal cones? Should we use improvement or cure as the ultimate outcome to determine which regimen is the best? The questions are endless. As a starting point in our endeavour to identify optimal PFM training regimens, the aim of this study is (a) to review the present evidence in terms of the effectiveness of different PFM training regimens in women with SUI and (b) to discuss the current literature on PFM dysfunction in SUI women, including the up-to-date evidence on skeletal muscle training theory and other factors known to impact on women's participation in and adherence to PFM training. Copyright © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Quantification of pelvic floor muscle strength in female urinary incontinence: A systematic review and comparison of contemporary methodologies.

PubMed

Deegan, Emily G; Stothers, Lynn; Kavanagh, Alex; Macnab, Andrew J

2018-01-01

There remains no gold standard for quantification of voluntary pelvic floor muscle (PFM) strength, despite international guidelines that recommend PFM assessment in females with urinary incontinence (UI). Methods currently reported for quantification of skeletal muscle strength across disciplines are systematically reviewed and their relevance for clinical and academic use related to the pelvic floor are described. A systematic review via Medline, PubMed, CINHAL, and the Cochrane database using key terms for pelvic floor anatomy and function were cross referenced with skeletal muscle strength quantification from 1946 to 2016. Full text peer-reviewed articles in English having female subjects with incontinence were identified. Each study was analyzed for use of controls, type of methodology as direct or indirect measures, benefits, and limitations of the technique. A total of 1586 articles were identified of which 50 met the inclusion criteria. Nine methodologies of determining PFM strength were described including: digital palpation, perineometer, dynamometry, EMG, vaginal cones, ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging, urine stream interruption test, and the Colpexin pull test. Thirty-two percent lacked a control group. Technical refinements in both direct and indirect instrumentation for PFM strength measurement are allowing for sensitivity. However, the most common methods of quantification remain digital palpation and perineometry; techniques that pose limitations and yield subjective or indirect measures of muscular strength. Dynamometry has potential as an accurate and sensitive tool, but is limited by inability to assess PFM strength during dynamic movements. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Location and Dynamics of the Immunodominant CD8 T Cell Response to SIVΔnef Immunization and SIVmac251 Vaginal Challenge

PubMed Central

Sasikala-Appukuttan, Arun K.; Kim, Hyeon O.; Kinzel, Nikilyn J.; Hong, Jung Joo; Smith, Anthony J.; Wagstaff, Reece; Reilly, Cavan; Piatak, Michael; Lifson, Jeffrey D.; Reeves, R. Keith; Johnson, R. Paul; Haase, Ashley T.; Skinner, Pamela J.

2013-01-01

Live-attenuated SIV vaccines (LAVs) have been the most effective to date in preventing or partially controlling infection by wild-type SIV in non-human primate models of HIV-1 transmission to women acting by mechanisms of protection that are not well understood. To gain insights into mechanisms of protection by LAVs that could aid development of effective vaccines to prevent HIV-1 transmission to women, we used in situ tetramer staining to determine whether increased densities or changes in the local distribution of SIV-specific CD8 T cells correlated with the maturation of SIVΔnef vaccine-induced protection prior to and after intra-vaginal challenge with wild-type SIVmac251. We evaluated the immunodominant Mamu-A1*001:01/Gag (CM9) and Mamu-A1*001:01/Tat (SL8) epitope response in genital and lymphoid tissues, and found that tetramer+ cells were present at all time points examined. In the cervical vaginal tissues, most tetramer+ cells were distributed diffusely throughout the lamina propria or co-localized with other CD8 T cells within lymphoid aggregates. The distribution and densities of the tetramer+ cells at the portal of entry did not correlate with the maturation of protection or change after challenge. Given these findings, we discuss the possibility that changes in other aspects of the immune system, including the quality of the resident population of virus-specific effector CD8 T cells could contribute to maturation of protection, as well as the potential for vaccine strategies that further increase the size and quality of this effector population to prevent HIV-1 transmission. PMID:24349100

Perioperative complications and early follow-up with 100 TVT-SECUR procedures.

PubMed

Neuman, Menahem

2008-01-01

Our objective was to evaluate the complications and early follow-up of the tension-free vaginal tape (TVT)-SECUR, a new minimally invasive anti-incontinence operative procedure. A prospective, observational, and consecutive patient series was conducted. Perioperative and 12-month postoperative data were prospectively collected for the first 50 patients against the next consecutive 50 patients, among which TVT-SECUR specific surgical measurements were adopted (Canadian Task Force classification 2). In private hospital operative theatres, the TVT-SECUR operation was performed. Patients with urodynamically proved stress urinary incontinence were enrolled in this study after detailed informed consent was given. The TVT-SECUR, in the hammock shape to mimic the TVT-obturator placement, yet with no skin incisions, required neither bladder catheterization nor intraoperative diagnostic cystoscopy. The clinical and surgical data of 100 consecutive patients with TVT-SECUR were collected prospectively. Two patients had urinary obstructions and needed surgical tape-tension relief. One patient had a 50 mL paravesical self-remitting hematoma. At the first-month postoperative follow-up appointment, the objective therapeutic failure rate for the TVT-SECUR procedure among the 50 patients was 20.0% (10 patients). But when the tape was placed close to the urethra with no space allowed in between, the failure rate in the second patient group went down to 8.0% (4 patients); yet no further postoperative bladder outlet obstruction was diagnosed. Four (8.0%) patients in the first group had vaginal wall penetration with the inserters, requiring withdrawal, reinsertion, and vaginal wall repair. This was avoided with the second patient group by facilitating the inserters' introduction by widening the submucosal tunnel to 12 mm. Six (12.0%) other patients in the first group needed postoperative trimming of a vaginally extruded tape segment, performed in the office with satisfactory results. This problem was addressed later by making the submucosal dissection deeper to avoid intimate proximity of the tape with the vaginal mucosa. Consequently the tape protrusion rate was reduced to 8% (4 patients). Five (10.0%) patients in the first group had unintended tape removal at the time of inserter removal, necessitating the use of a second TVT-SECUR. This was addressed by meticulous detachment of the inserter before its withdrawal, after which no further unintended tape displacements were recorded. No clinical signs for bowel, bladder, or urethral injuries; intraoperative bleeding; or postoperative infections were evident. Telephone interview at the end of 12 months postoperatively was completed with 44 (88.0%) of the first patient group and 46 (92%) of the second patient group. In all, 39 (88.6%) and 43 (93.5%) of the telephone-interviewed patients of the first and second groups, respectively, reported objective urinary continence. The TVT-SECUR, a new midurethral sling, was associated with early safety and efficacy problems. These were identified and rectified, to make the TVT-SECUR a safe and effective anti-incontinence procedure. Operative complications associated with the TVT, such as bladder penetration and postoperative outlet obstruction, and TVT-obturator complications, such as postoperative thigh pain and bladder outlet obstruction, may be reduced with the TVT-SECUR. The first 100 operations' cumulative data analysis yielded some insights, including the necessity of meticulous and proper dissection before placement of the tape and the need for applying minimal extra tension to the tape. However, long-term comparative data collection will be required to draw solid conclusions regarding the appropriate position of this operative technique within the spectrum of anti-incontinence operations.

Evaluation of Vaginal Drug Levels and Safety of a Locally Administered Glycerol Monolaurate Cream in Rhesus Macaques.

PubMed

Kirtane, Ameya R; Rothenberger, Meghan K; Frieberg, Abby; Nephew, Karla; Schultz-Darken, Nancy; Schmidt, Thomas; Reimann, Thomas; Haase, Ashley T; Panyam, Jayanth

2017-07-01

The human immunodeficiency virus epidemic affects millions of people worldwide. As women are more vulnerable to infection, female-controlled interventions can help control the spread of the disease significantly. Glycerol monolaurate (GML), an inexpensive and safe compound, has been shown to protect against simian immunodeficiency virus infection when applied vaginally. However, on account of its low aqueous solubility, fabrication of high-dose formulations of GML has proven difficult. We describe the development of a vaginal cream that could be loaded with up to 35% GML. Vaginal drug levels and safety of 3 formulations containing increasing concentrations of GML (5%w/w, 15%w/w, and 35%w/w) were tested in rhesus macaques after vaginal administration. GML concentration in the vaginal tissue increased as the drug concentration in the cream increased, with 35% GML cream resulting in tissue concentration of ∼0.5 mg/g, albeit with high interindividual variability. Compared with the vehicle control, none of the GML creams had any significant effect on the vaginal flora and cytokine (macrophage inflammatory protein 3α and interleukin 8) levels, suggesting that high-dose GML formulations do not induce local adverse effects. In summary, we describe the development of a highly loaded vaginal cream of GML, and vaginal drug levels and safety after local administration in macaques. Copyright © 2017 American Pharmacists Association®. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Association between group A beta-haemolytic streptococci and vulvovaginitis in adult women: a case-control study.

PubMed

Bruins, M J; Damoiseaux, R A M J; Ruijs, G J H M

2009-08-01

Guidelines for the management of vaginal discharge mention Candida albicans, Trichomonas vaginalis, bacterial vaginosis, Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae as causes and do not recommend full microbiological culture. The role of non-group B beta-haemolytic streptococci in vaginal cultures is unclear, except for group A streptococci that are known to cause vulvovaginitis in children. In a case-control study, we investigated the association between non-group B beta-haemolytic streptococci and vulvovaginitis in adult women. Cases were women with recurrent vaginal discharge from whom a sample was cultured. Controls were asymptomatic women who consented to submitting a vaginal swab. Group A streptococci were isolated from 49 (4.9%) of 1,010 cases and not from the 206 controls (P < 0.01). Isolation rates of group C, F and G streptococci were low and did not differ statistically between cases and controls. Group A beta-haemolytic streptococci are associated with vaginal discharge in adult women. The other non-group B streptococci require more study. For the adequate management of vaginal discharge, culturing is necessary if initial treatment fails. Guidelines should be amended according to these results.

Near infrared imaging to identify sentinel lymph nodes in invasive urinary bladder cancer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Knapp, Deborah W.; Adams, Larry G.; Niles, Jacqueline D.; Lucroy, Michael D.; Ramos-Vara, Jose; Bonney, Patty L.; deGortari, Amalia E.; Frangioni, John V.

2006-02-01

Approximately 12,000 people are diagnosed with invasive transitional cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder (InvTCC) each year in the United States. Surgical removal of the bladder (cystectomy) and regional lymph node dissection are considered frontline therapy. Cystectomy causes extensive acute morbidity, and 50% of patients with InvTCC have occult metastases at the time of diagnosis. Better staging procedures for InvTCC are greatly needed. This study was performed to evaluate an intra-operative near infrared fluorescence imaging (NIRF) system (Frangioni laboratory) for identifying sentinel lymph nodes draining InvTCC. NIRF imaging was used to map lymph node drainage from specific quadrants of the urinary bladder in normal dogs and pigs, and to map lymph node drainage from naturally-occurring InvTCC in pet dogs where the disease closely mimics the human condition. Briefly, during surgery NIR fluorophores (human serum albumen-fluorophore complex, or quantum dots) were injected directly into the bladder wall, and fluorescence observed in lymphatics and regional nodes. Conditions studied to optimize the procedure including: type of fluorophore, depth of injection, volume of fluorophore injected, and degree of bladder distention at the time of injection. Optimal imaging occurred with very superficial injection of the fluorophore in the serosal surface of the moderately distended bladder. Considerable variability was noted from dog to dog in the pattern of lymph node drainage. NIR fluorescence was noted in lymph nodes with metastases in dogs with InvTCC. In conclusion, intra-operative NIRF imaging is a promising approach to improve sentinel lymph node mapping in invasive urinary bladder cancer.

Risk factors related to asymptomatic bacteriuria in pregnant women.

PubMed

Kovavisarach, Ekachai; Vichaipruck, Maytina; Kanjarahareutai, Suwattana

2009-05-01

To determine the risk factors related to asymptomatic bacteriuria (ABU) in pregnant women. Three hundred and sixty asymptomatic pregnant women who attended their first antenatal appointment at Rajavithi Hospital from August 1 and October 31 2005 were enrolled. Those with symptoms of urinary tract infection within one month, those who had been prescribed antibiotics during the previous seven days, and those with medical or obstetric complications, vaginal bleeding, and history of urinary tract disease were excluded. Urine specimens were collected by clean-catched midstream urine technique for culture. Several risk factors related to ABU and obstetric and demographic characteristics were recorded. The prevalence of ABU in pregnant women was 10.0%. The significant risk factors related to ABU in pregnancy was lower education level < or = grade 6 (p < 0.05) with 2.17-time risk of ABU compared with higher education level > grade 6. Maternal and gestational age, occupation, monthly income, gravidity, previous history of urinary tract infection and anemia were not statistically associated with ABU. Lower education level (< or = grade 6) should be the only significant risk factor related to ABU in Thai pregnant women under limited sample size.

Flushing of the vagina and the prepuce-a cause for contaminated urine cultures in children.

PubMed

Tullus, Kjell; Hooman, Nakysa; Easty, Marina

2017-01-01

An uncontaminated urine culture is a prerequisite for the diagnosis of a urinary tract infection. However, this may be difficult to obtain in small children. We have studied the frequency of ballooning of the prepuce in non-circumcised boys and vaginal reflux in girls during voiding as a possible cause of contaminated urine cultures. All micturating cystourethrograms (MCUG) performed in our institution over the last 5 years in children aged 0-15 years were reviewed retrospectively for ballooning of the foreskin or vaginal reflux as a potential source of bacterial contamination. The voiding pictures were routinely done with the catheter present for the first voiding cycle and then removed on the second void. A total of 526 children (77.4 % boys, 22.6 % girls) were eligible for the study. Ballooning of the foreskin was identified on the micturition pictures of 115 (38 %) boys, with the frequency significantly higher in boys aged <12 months [odds ratio (OR) 4.1; 95 % confidence interval (CI) 2.1-7.3)] and boys with vesicoureteral reflux (OR 1.6; 95 % CI 1.06-2.4). Seventeen girls (14.3 %) showed vaginal reflux. No correlation with age or vesicoureteral reflux was found in the girls. Ballooning of the prepuce or vaginal reflux was seen on a fluoroscopic MCUG in a large proportion of children during their voiding. This normal phenomenon might cause contaminated urine cultures when the urine is obtained by bag or clean catch.

The Rationale for Probiotics in Female Urogenital Healthcare

PubMed Central

Reid, Gregor; Burton, Jeremy; Devillard, Estelle

2004-01-01

Urogenital infections are a major reason that women visit their family physician and are referred to gastroenterology, gynecology, urology, and infectious disease specialists. The association between abnormal vaginal microbiota and increased risk for sexually transmitted infections, bladder and vaginal infections per se, and a higher rate of preterm labor indicate the need to better understand and manage urogenital health. The concept of probiotics arose from the realization that humans are inhabited with microbes from birth and that these organisms play a role in preventing disease. Defined as “live microorganisms, which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host,” probiotic strains have already been shown to effectively prevent diarrhea and to hold potential in preventing and treating tonsillitis, caries, renal calculi, and respiratory infections. This review provides a rationale for the use of probiotics in maintaining female vaginal and bladder health and as a treatment option for recurrent bacterial vaginosis, urinary tract infection, yeast vaginitis, and sexually transmitted infections. We consider only probiotic strains that fulfill the United Nations/World Health Organization Guidelines for Probiotics in being fully characterized and clinically documented through scientific investigations describing known or presumed mechanisms of action. Although medical practitioners as yet are unable to access these probiotic strains, an awareness of recent and ongoing research for probiotics is important, as results are encouraging. The concept of probiotic therapy is familiar to many consumers and although it has historically lacked credibility in the medical community, perceptions are changing. PMID:15208560

[Comparison of the efficacy and safety between TVT-O and TVT-O with biofeedback pelvic floor electrical stimulation on female stress urinary incontinence].

PubMed

Min, Ling; Zhao, Xia

2015-01-01

To compare the efficacy and safety between tension-free vaginal tape obturator technique (TVT-O) and TVT-O with biofeedback pelvic floor electrical stimulation on the therapy of female stress urinary incontinence. In this prospective study, 120 female patients of female stress urinary incontinence were enrolled from January 2012 to December 2013. The patients were randomly assigned to two groups, 60 in group A received TVT-O alone, while 60 in group B not only received TVT-O but also received biofeedback pelvic floor electrical stimulation. All the patients were followed up for 12 months to assess the efficacy and safety of the two procedures. Subjective indices [total volume of urine (TV), the total frequency of urination (TOV), the total leakage of urine events (TL), urinary incontinence related quality of life questionnaire (I-QOL), International Advisory Committee on urinary incontinence urinary incontinence questionnaire short form scale (ICI-Q-SF)] and objective indices [Valsalva leak point pressure (VLPP), maximum flow rate (MFR), residual urine volume (RUV),pad test] were analyzed. Overall, the cure rate was 75% at 1 year follow-up for group A and 88.33% for group B (P<0.05). The effective rate was 16.67% for group A and 10% for group B (P<0.05). The ineffective rate was 8.33% for group A and 1.67% for group B (P<0.05). TV, I-QOL, ICI-Q-SF, VLPP and pad test in group B were superior to group A (P<0.05). Pelvic floor electrical stimulation biofeedback therapy could improve the curative effects of TVT-O on the treatment of female stress urinary incontinence.

Diverse Vaginal Microbiomes in Reproductive-Age Women with Vulvovaginal Candidiasis

PubMed Central

Liu, Mu-Biao; Xu, Su-Rong; He, Yan; Deng, Guan-Hua; Sheng, Hua-Fang; Huang, Xue-Mei; Ouyang, Cai-Yan; Zhou, Hong-Wei

2013-01-01

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is one of the most prevalent vaginal infectious diseases, and there are controversial reports regarding the diversity of the associated vaginal microbiota. We determined the vaginal microbial community in patients with VVC, bacterial vaginosis (BV), and mixed infection of VVC and BV using Illumina sequencing of 16S rRNA tags. Our results revealed for the first time the highly variable patterns of the vaginal microbiome from VVC patients. In general, the alpha-diversity results of species richness and evenness showed the following order: normal control < VVC only < mixed BV and VVC infection < BV only. The beta-diversity comparison of community structures also showed an intermediate composition of VVC between the control and BV samples. A detailed comparison showed that, although the control and BV communities had typical patterns, the vaginal microbiota of VVC is complex. The mixed BV and VVC infection group showed a unique pattern, with a relatively higher abundance of Lactobacillus than the BV group and higher abundance of Prevotella, Gardnerella, and Atopobium than the normal control. In contrast, the VVC-only group could not be described by any single profile, ranging from a community structure similar to the normal control (predominated with Lactobacillus) to BV-like community structures (abundant with Gardnerella and Atopobium). Treatment of VVC resulted in inconsistent changes of the vaginal microbiota, with four BV/VVC samples recovering to a higher Lactobacillus level, whereas many VVC-only patients did not. These results will be useful for future studies on the role of vaginal microbiota in VVC and related infectious diseases. PMID:24265786

Diverse vaginal microbiomes in reproductive-age women with vulvovaginal candidiasis.

PubMed

Liu, Mu-Biao; Xu, Su-Rong; He, Yan; Deng, Guan-Hua; Sheng, Hua-Fang; Huang, Xue-Mei; Ouyang, Cai-Yan; Zhou, Hong-Wei

2013-01-01

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is one of the most prevalent vaginal infectious diseases, and there are controversial reports regarding the diversity of the associated vaginal microbiota. We determined the vaginal microbial community in patients with VVC, bacterial vaginosis (BV), and mixed infection of VVC and BV using Illumina sequencing of 16S rRNA tags. Our results revealed for the first time the highly variable patterns of the vaginal microbiome from VVC patients. In general, the alpha-diversity results of species richness and evenness showed the following order: normal control < VVC only < mixed BV and VVC infection < BV only. The beta-diversity comparison of community structures also showed an intermediate composition of VVC between the control and BV samples. A detailed comparison showed that, although the control and BV communities had typical patterns, the vaginal microbiota of VVC is complex. The mixed BV and VVC infection group showed a unique pattern, with a relatively higher abundance of Lactobacillus than the BV group and higher abundance of Prevotella, Gardnerella, and Atopobium than the normal control. In contrast, the VVC-only group could not be described by any single profile, ranging from a community structure similar to the normal control (predominated with Lactobacillus) to BV-like community structures (abundant with Gardnerella and Atopobium). Treatment of VVC resulted in inconsistent changes of the vaginal microbiota, with four BV/VVC samples recovering to a higher Lactobacillus level, whereas many VVC-only patients did not. These results will be useful for future studies on the role of vaginal microbiota in VVC and related infectious diseases.

Urinary catecholamines, plasma insulin and environmental factors in relation to body fat distribution.

PubMed

Leonetti, D L; Bergstrom, R W; Shuman, W P; Wahl, P W; Jenner, D A; Harrison, G A; Fujimoto, W Y

1991-05-01

The relationship of body fat distribution to insulin and the catecholamines, hormones that affect lipolysis differentially by fat site, was examined within an environmental context, including factors of medication use, physical activity, dietary intake, educational attainment, and age. Four cross-sectional body fat areas (cm2) were determined by three computed tomography (CT) scans (subcutaneous chest fat at the level of the nipples, subcutaneous and intra-abdominal fat at the level of the umbilicus, and subcutaneous left mid-thigh fat) in 191 second-generation Japanese-American men aged 45-74 years. The site-specific fat measurements were first examined in relation to use of beta-adrenergic antagonists, then to fasting plasma insulin and C-peptide levels and to urinary epinephrine and norepinephrine levels from a 24-h urine collection made during usual daily activities. Greater fat stores in the intra-abdominal area, even after adjustment for body mass index (BMI, weight/height2) and presence of coronary heart disease, were found to be related to use of beta-adrenergic antagonists. In men taking no adrenergic antagonists (n = 157), after adjustment for BMI, truncal fat measurements of the chest (partial r = -0.16, P less than 0.05) and intra-abdominal area (partial r = -0.21, P less than 0.05) were found to be inversely related to epinephrine, and intra-abdominal fat (partial r = 0.25, P less than 0.01) alone was directly related to fasting plasma insulin. With respect to other environmental variables, the significant inverse relationship of intra-abdominal fat (adjusted for BMI) with physical activity (partial r = -0.17, P less than 0.05) and the significant difference in intra-abdominal fat by educational attainment (college 102.3 +/- 5.7 vs no college 115.7 +/- 6.1 cm2, P = 0.03) became non-significant with adjustment, using multiple regression analysis, for insulin in the case of physical activity and epinephrine in the case of educational attainment. Thus, intra-abdominal fat showed a unique set of relationships to metabolic parameters which could be further related to certain environmental variables.

Perineal massage in labour and prevention of perineal trauma: randomised controlled trial

PubMed Central

Stamp, Georgina; Kruzins, Gillian; Crowther, Caroline

2001-01-01

Objective To determine the effects of perineal massage in the second stage of labour on perineal outcomes. Design Randomised controlled trial. Participants At 36 weeks' gestation, women expecting normal birth of a singleton were asked to join the study. Women became eligible to be randomised in labour if they progressed to full dilatation of the cervix or 8 cm or more if nulliparous or 5 cm or more if multiparous. 1340 were randomised into the trial. Intervention Massage and stretching of the perineum during the second stage of labour with a water soluble lubricant. Main outcome measures Primary outcomes: rates of intact perineum, episiotomies, and first, second, third, and fourth degree tears. Secondary outcomes: pain at three and 10 days postpartum and pain, dyspareunia, resumption of sexual intercourse, and urinary and faecal incontinence and urgency three months postpartum. Results Rates of intact perineums, first and second degree tears, and episiotomies were similar in the massage and the control groups. There were fewer third degree tears in the massage group (12 (1.7%) v 23 (3.6%); absolute risk 2.11, relative risk 0.45; 95% confidence interval 0.23 to 0.93, P<0.04), though the trial was underpowered to measure this rarer outcome. Groups did not differ in any of the secondary outcomes at the three assessment points. Conclusions The practice of perineal massage in labour does not increase the likelihood of an intact perineum or reduce the risk of pain, dyspareunia, or urinary and faecal problems. What is already known on this topicPerineal trauma during vaginal birth and its sequelae, including urinary and faecal incontinence, dyspareunia, and persistent pain, have a negative impact on the sexuality, self esteem, and quality of life of countless women each yearPerineal massage conducted antenatally has some benefit in reducing the risk of perineal traumaPerineal massage in the second stage of labour has been promoted and practised without sound evidence of its effectivenessWhat this study addsPerineal massage in the second stage of labour did not have any effect on the likelihood of an intact perineum, perineal trauma, pain, or subsequent sexual, urinary or faecal outcomes but was not harmfulThe results support midwives in following their usual practice while taking account of the preferences of individual women PMID:11375230

What do Cochrane systematic reviews say about non-surgical interventions for urinary incontinence in women?

PubMed

Costa, Anderson Adriano Leal Freitas da; Vasconcellos, Igor Martins; Pacheco, Rafael Leite; Bella, Zsuzsanna Ilona Katalin de Jármy Di; Riera, Rachel

2018-01-01

Urinary incontinence is a highly prevalent condition that impacts self-esteem and overall quality of life. Many non-surgical treatment options are available, ranging from pharmacological approaches to pelvic exercises. We aimed to summarize the available evidence regarding these non-surgical interventions. Review of systematic reviews, conducted in the Discipline of Evidence-Based Medicine, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (EPM-UNIFESP). A sensitive search was conducted to identify all Cochrane systematic reviews that fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Titles and abstracts were screened by two authors. We included 20 Cochrane systematic reviews: 4 assessing methods of vesical training, 3 evaluating pharmacological interventions, 4 studying pelvic floor muscle training approaches and 9 aimed at other alternatives (such as urethral injections, weighted vaginal cone use, acupuncture, biostimulation and radiofrequency therapy). The reviews found that the evidence regarding the benefits of these diverse interventions ranged in quality from low to high. This review included 20 Cochrane systematic reviews that provided evidence (of diverse quality) for non-pharmacological interventions for patients with urinary incontinence. Moderate to high quality of evidence was found favoring the use of pelvic floor muscle training among women with urinary incontinence. To establish solid conclusions for all the other comparisons, further studies of good methodological quality are needed.

Severe postpartum haemorrhage after vaginal delivery: a statistical process control chart to report seven years of continuous quality improvement.

PubMed

Dupont, Corinne; Occelli, Pauline; Deneux-Tharaux, Catherine; Touzet, Sandrine; Duclos, Antoine; Bouvier-Colle, Marie-Hélène; Rudigoz, René-Charles; Huissoud, Cyril

2014-07-01

Severe postpartum haemorrhage after vaginal delivery: a statistical process control chart to report seven years of continuous quality improvement To use statistical process control charts to describe trends in the prevalence of severe postpartum haemorrhage after vaginal delivery. This assessment was performed 7 years after we initiated a continuous quality improvement programme that began with regular criteria-based audits Observational descriptive study, in a French maternity unit in the Rhône-Alpes region. Quarterly clinical audit meetings to analyse all cases of severe postpartum haemorrhage after vaginal delivery and provide feedback on quality of care with statistical process control tools. The primary outcomes were the prevalence of severe PPH after vaginal delivery and its quarterly monitoring with a control chart. The secondary outcomes included the global quality of care for women with severe postpartum haemorrhage, including the performance rate of each recommended procedure. Differences in these variables between 2005 and 2012 were tested. From 2005 to 2012, the prevalence of severe postpartum haemorrhage declined significantly, from 1.2% to 0.6% of vaginal deliveries (p<0.001). Since 2010, the quarterly rate of severe PPH has not exceeded the upper control limits, that is, been out of statistical control. The proportion of cases that were managed consistently with the guidelines increased for all of their main components. Implementation of continuous quality improvement efforts began seven years ago and used, among other tools, statistical process control charts. During this period, the prevalence of severe postpartum haemorrhage after vaginal delivery has been reduced by 50%. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effects of Antiproteinuric Intervention on Elevated Connective Tissue Growth Factor (CTGF/CCN-2) Plasma and Urine Levels in Nondiabetic Nephropathy

PubMed Central

Slagman, Maartje C.J.; Nguyen, Tri Q.; Waanders, Femke; Vogt, Liffert; Hemmelder, Marc H.; Goldschmeding, Roel; Navis, Gerjan

2011-01-01

Summary Background and objectives Connective Tissue Growth Factor (CTGF/CCN-2) is a key player in fibrosis. Plasma CTGF levels predict end-stage renal disease and mortality in diabetic chronic kidney disease (CKD), supporting roles in intra- and extrarenal fibrosis. Few data are available on CTGF in nondiabetic CKD. We investigated CTGF levels and effects of antiproteinuric interventions in nondiabetic proteinuric CKD. Design, setting, participants, & measurements In a crossover randomized controlled trial, 33 nondiabetic CKD patients (3.2 [2.5 to 4.0] g/24 h proteinuria) were treated during 6-week periods with placebo, ARB (100 mg/d losartan), and ARB plus diuretics (100 mg/d losartan plus 25 mg/d hydrochlorothiazide) combined with consecutively regular and low sodium diets (193 ± 62 versus 93 ± 52 mmol Na+/d). Results CTGF was elevated in plasma (464 [387 to 556] pmol/L) and urine (205 [135 to 311] pmol/24 h) of patients compared with healthy controls (n = 21; 96 [86 to 108] pmol/L and 73 [55 to 98] pmol/24 h). Urinary CTGF was lowered by antiproteinuric intervention, in proportion to the reduction of proteinuria, with normalization during triple therapy (CTGF 99 [67 to 146] in CKD versus 73 [55 to 98] pmol/24 h in controls). In contrast, plasma CTGF was not affected. Conclusions Urinary and plasma CTGF are elevated in nondiabetic CKD. Only urinary CTGF is normalized by antiproteinuric intervention, consistent with amelioration of tubular dysfunction. The lack of effect on plasma CTGF suggests that its driving force might be independent of proteinuria and that short-term antiproteinuric interventions are not sufficient to correct the systemic profibrotic state in CKD. PMID:21784839

[Etiology of bacterial vaginosis (non-specific vaginitis)].

PubMed

Lefèvre, J C; Jean, M; Averous, S; Viraben, R; Blanc, C; Bauriaud, R; Lareng, M B

1985-01-01

56 women who were diagnosed bioclinically as having a bacterial vaginal infection were studied, as were 35 women as a control group. The study was a semi-quantitative analysis of the vaginal bacterial flora, both aerobic and anaerobic. It shows that Gardnerella vaginalis and anaerobic bacteria such as Peptococcus, Peptostreptococcus, Bacteroïdes, Veillonella and Mobiluncus were associated in a statistically significant way with bacterial vaginitis. On the other hand Lactobacilli were less frequently found (p less than 0.001) than in the control group of women. The way in which the microbial flora is changed has been observed during attacks of vaginitis and is discussed, as is the importance of making the diagnosis and of treating this syndrome.

Comparison of Effectiveness between Tension-Free Vaginal Tape (TVT) and Trans-Obturator Tape (TOT) in Patients with Stress Urinary Incontinence and Intrinsic Sphincter Deficiency

PubMed Central

Kim, Hyeong Gon; Park, Hyoung Keun; Paick, Sung Hyun; Choi, Woo Suk

2016-01-01

Background The aim of this study was to compare the two types of mid-urethral slings for stress urinary incontinence (SUI) with intrinsic sphincter deficiency (ISD). Methods This retrospective study included patients who underwent tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) procedure or transobturator tape (TOT) procedure by a single surgeon for SUI with ISD, defined as Valsalva leak point pressure (VLPP) < 60 cmH2O in a urodynamic study. Cases of neurogenic bladder, previous SUI surgery, and concomitant cystocele repair were excluded. The primary outcome was treatment success at 12 months, defined by self-reported absence of symptoms, no leakage episodes recorded, and no retreatment. Results Among the 157 women who were included in the final analysis, 105 patients received TVT and 52 patients received TOT. Age, underlying diseases, Stamey grade, cystocele grade, and presence of urge incontinence were not significantly different between the two groups. Urodynamic parameters including maximal urethral closing pressure, detrusor overactivity, VLPP, urethral hypermobility (Q-tip ≥ 30°), were also comparable between the two groups. Success rate was significantly higher in the TVT group than in the TOT group (95.2% vs. 82.7%, p = 0.009). On multivariate analysis, only TOT surgery (OR = 3.922, 95%CI = 1.223–12.582, p = 0.022) was a risk factor for failure following surgical treatment. Conclusion TVT is more effective than TOT in treatment of female SUI with ISD. PMID:27228092

Comparison of Effectiveness between Tension-Free Vaginal Tape (TVT) and Trans-Obturator Tape (TOT) in Patients with Stress Urinary Incontinence and Intrinsic Sphincter Deficiency.

PubMed

Kim, Hyeong Gon; Park, Hyoung Keun; Paick, Sung Hyun; Choi, Woo Suk

2016-01-01

The aim of this study was to compare the two types of mid-urethral slings for stress urinary incontinence (SUI) with intrinsic sphincter deficiency (ISD). This retrospective study included patients who underwent tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) procedure or transobturator tape (TOT) procedure by a single surgeon for SUI with ISD, defined as Valsalva leak point pressure (VLPP) < 60 cmH2O in a urodynamic study. Cases of neurogenic bladder, previous SUI surgery, and concomitant cystocele repair were excluded. The primary outcome was treatment success at 12 months, defined by self-reported absence of symptoms, no leakage episodes recorded, and no retreatment. Among the 157 women who were included in the final analysis, 105 patients received TVT and 52 patients received TOT. Age, underlying diseases, Stamey grade, cystocele grade, and presence of urge incontinence were not significantly different between the two groups. Urodynamic parameters including maximal urethral closing pressure, detrusor overactivity, VLPP, urethral hypermobility (Q-tip ≥ 30°), were also comparable between the two groups. Success rate was significantly higher in the TVT group than in the TOT group (95.2% vs. 82.7%, p = 0.009). On multivariate analysis, only TOT surgery (OR = 3.922, 95%CI = 1.223-12.582, p = 0.022) was a risk factor for failure following surgical treatment. TVT is more effective than TOT in treatment of female SUI with ISD.

Outcome of the use of tension-free vaginal tape in women with mixed urinary incontinence, previous failed surgery, or low valsalva pressure.

PubMed

Abdel-Hady, El-Said; Constantine, Glyn

2005-02-01

To assess the safety and efficacy of the use of tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in women with mixed incontinence, previous failed incontinence surgery or low valsalva leak point pressure (VLPP). Six hundred and fifty-eight women with SUI underwent the TVT procedure. These included women with mixed stress and urge incontinence (n=128), previous surgery for SUI (n=118), low VLPP (n=80), and those over 70 years old (n=68). The procedure was carried out under spinal anesthetic and operative and immediate postoperative data was collected for all women. Six-month follow-up data was available on 454 women, with the first 300 women completing a quality of life (QOL) questionnaire before and after surgery. The overall subjective cure rate at 6 months was 91%, with 8% of women reporting significant (>50%) improvement in their symptoms. Subgroups with a body mass index > 30, age > 70 years, coexisting instability, previous failed surgery, and low VLPP showed cure rates of 81-89%. QOL improvements for all groups were highly significant. Significant complications included voiding difficulties in 29 women (4.4%), retropubic hematomas in four (0.6%), and thromboembolic episodes in three (0.5%). The simplicity and high efficacy of the TVT makes it the first choice for the treatment of women with SUI, including those with more complex problems or coexisting risk factors.

Vesicovaginal fistula repair with rectus abdominus myofascial interposition flap.

PubMed

Reynolds, W Stuart; Gottlieb, Lawrence J; Lucioni, Alvaro; Rapp, David E; Song, David H; Bales, Gregory T

2008-06-01

Complex, recurrent vesicovaginal fistulas (VVFs) can be very challenging to repair and often require interposition of nonirradiated, well-vascularized tissue between the urinary system and vagina. We report our experience using a rectus abdominus myofascial (RAM) interposition flap for VVF repair. A retrospective analysis was performed to identify patients who had undergone VVF repair with RAM interposition. Data were collected focusing on preoperative patient characteristics, etiology of VVF, intraoperative parameters, including surgical techniques, and postoperative patient outcomes. We used a RAM interposition flap for VVF repair in 5 patients. All VVFs had developed postoperatively; no patient had received radiotherapy. VVF developed after total abdominal hysterectomy (TAH) or radical cystectomy in 3 and 2 cases, respectively. Both cases of VVF after radical cystectomy occurred in conjunction with orthotopic diversion (neobladder-vaginal fistula). In 3 patients with post-TAH VVF, a total of five previous failed repairs were attempted before RAM interposition. In 1 patient with a neobladder-vaginal fistula, who had received adjuvant chemotherapy, RAM interposition failed, and the patient ultimately required cutaneous urinary diversion after two subsequent failed attempts at repair (68 months of follow-up). The remaining 4 patients (80%) had no evidence of recurrent VVF or voiding abnormalities at a mean follow-up of 19 months (range 8 to 32). Rectus abdominus muscle can be a successful interposition flap during repair of complex, recurrent VVF. In our experience, this has been successful in most cases, particularly in younger patients with nonmalignant processes.

The impact of oral probiotics on vaginal Group B Streptococcal colonisation rates in pregnant women: A pilot randomised control study.

PubMed

Olsen, Paula; Williamson, Moira; Traynor, Victoria; Georgiou, Chris

2018-02-01

To perform a pilot project to determine if this research design was appropriate to explore potential causal relationships between oral probiotic use and vaginal Group B Streptococcal (GBS) colonisation rates in pregnant women. Thirty-four GBS-positive women at 36 weeks pregnant were recruited. The participants were randomly allocated to the control group, who received standard antenatal care, or to the intervention group, who received standard antenatal care and a daily oral dose of probiotics for three weeks or until they gave birth. A vaginal GBS swab was collected three weeks post consent or during labour. No significant difference was found in vaginal GBS rates between the control and intervention groups. Only seven of 21 women in the intervention group completed the entire 21days of probiotics. A subgroup analysis, including only those who had completed 14days or more of probiotics (n=16), also showed no significant difference in vaginal GBS when compared to the control. The findings did show significantly more vaginal commensals in the probiotics group (p=0.048). Five possible reasons for the lack of significant results are: the length of the intervention was too short; the dosage of the probiotics was too low; the wrong strains of probiotics were used; the sample size was inadequate; or oral probiotics are ineffective in impacting vaginal GBS. The finding of a significant increase of vaginal commensals in women who completed 14days or more of probiotics supports the potential of probiotics to impact vaginal GBS in pregnancy. Copyright © 2017 Australian College of Midwives. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Force-length relationship in the pelvic floor muscles under transverse vaginal distension: a method study in healthy women.

PubMed

Verelst, M; Leivseth, G

2004-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether there is a relationship between changes in the diameter of the urogenital hiatus and force developed in pelvic floor musculature. In addition, we wanted to examine the reliability of the method that measures force development in the pelvic floor in the transverse direction of the urogenital hiatus. Passive and total force in the pelvic floor was measured with an intra-vaginal device in 20 healthy parous volunteers. The measurements were done with a consecutively increasing diameter in the transverse plane of the urogenital hiatus. The procedure was repeated with a few days interval. The measurements show an increase in force with an increasing device-diameter. The results are reliable at all the diameters tested, estimated by the within-subject day-to-day variability which was non-significant. The 40 mm diameter device is most favourable, estimated by Bland Altman plots of the test-retest measurements. Force development in pelvic floor muscles increased as a function of vaginal diameter when measured in the frontal plane. The measurements were reliable at all the different diameters chosen. 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Glucose in vaginal secretions before and after oral glucose tolerance testing in women with and without recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis.

PubMed

Ehrström, Sophia; Yu, Anna; Rylander, Eva

2006-12-01

To measure the change of glucose in vaginal secretions during glucose tolerance testing in women with recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis and in healthy control subjects. Thirty-eight women with recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis and 45 healthy, age-matched controls completed a health questionnaire regarding general and gynecologic health and food and alcohol habits. They all underwent an oral glucose tolerance test and a vaginal examination. Vaginal secretion was collected from the proximal part of the vagina. Glucose in plasma and in vaginal secretions were measured at fasting and after 2 hours and analyzed with the hexokinase method. A sample size analysis showed that the number of subjects included in the study was sufficient for a beta value of 0.80, at the significance level of alpha=.05, at a difference in glucose in vaginal secretions of 30% after oral glucose tolerance test. In healthy women, the median level of glucose in vaginal secretions was 5.2 mM before and 3.7 mM after oral glucose tolerance test, and plasma glucose was 5.0 mM before and 5.8 mM after oral glucose tolerance test. No significant difference was seen regarding change of glucose level in vaginal secretions and plasma glucose after testing, compared with before oral glucose tolerance testing. There were no differences between women with recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis and control subjects regarding change in glucose level in vaginal secretions or in plasma during oral glucose tolerance test. II-2.

Surgeon-tailored polypropylene mesh as a tension-free vaginal tape-obturator versus original TVT-O for the treatment of female stress urinary incontinence: a long-term comparative study.

PubMed

ElSheemy, Mohammed S; Fathy, Hesham; Hussein, Hussein A; Elsergany, Ragheb; Hussein, Eman A

2015-10-01

The objective of the study was to compare the safety and efficacy of surgeon-tailored polypropylene mesh (STM) through tension-free vaginal tape-obturator (TVT-O) versus original TVT-O in the treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) aiming to decrease the cost of treatment. This is important in developing countries due to limited health care resources. A retrospective cohort study was done at the Urology and Gynecology Departments (dual-center), Cairo University from May 2007 to June 2010. Women evaluated by cough stress test, Stress and Urge Incontinence and Quality of Life Questionnaire (SUIQQ), maximum flow rate (Qmax), and abdominal leak point pressure (ALPP) with follow-up for at least 48 months were included. Patients with post-void residual urine > 100 ml, bladder capacity < 300 ml, or impaired compliance were excluded. The effect of different factors on outcome was compared between both groups pre- and postoperatively using the paired t, Wilcoxon signed rank, McNemar, chi-square, Fisher's exact, independent t, or Mann-Whitney tests. STM and TVT-O were inserted in 79 and 66 women, respectively. Intrinsic sphincter deficiency, ALPP, previous surgeries, associated urgency, urgency urinary incontinence (UUI), and prolapse were comparable in both groups. Operative duration was longer in STM by 10 min. No significant difference was found between both groups in complications (p = 0.462), cure (p = 0.654), and different indices of SUIQQ. In STM, 74 (93 %) were cured and 3 (4 %) improved, while SUI persisted in 2 (2 %) patients. In TVT-O, 59 (89 %) were cured and 4 (6 %) improved, while failure was detected in 3 (4 %) patients. The 5-year outcome is comparable between STM and TVT-O. Furthermore, STM is more economical due to our resterilizable modified helical passers and the cheap polypropylene mesh.

Pelvic Floor 3D Ultrasound of Women with a TVT, TVT-O, or TVT-S for Stress Urinary Incontinence at the Three-year Follow-up.

PubMed

Rodrigues, Claudinei A; Bianchi-Ferraro, Ana Maria H M; Zucchi, Eliana Viana Monteiro; Sartori, Marair G F; Girão, Manoel J B C; Jarmy-Di Bella, Zsuzsanna I K

2017-09-01

Objective  Using three-dimensional ultrasound (3D-US), we aimed to compare the tape position and the angle formed by the sling arms in different techniques of mid-urethral sling insertion for the surgical treatment of stress urinary incontinence, three years after surgery. In addition, we examined the correlations between the US findings and the clinical late postoperative results. Methods  A prospective cross-sectional cohort study of 170 patients who underwent a sling procedure between May 2009 and December 2011 was performed. The final sample, with US images of sufficient quality, included 26 retropubic slings (tension-free vaginal tape, TVT), 42 transobturator slings (tension-free vaginal tape-obturator, TVT-O), and 37 single-incision slings (tension-free vaginal tape-Secur, TVT-S). The images (at rest, during the Valsalva maneuver, and during pelvic floor contraction) were analyzed offline by 2 different observers blinded against the surgical and urinary continence status. Group comparisons were performed using the Student t -test, the chi-squared and the Kruskal-Wallis tests, and analyses of variance with Tukey multiple comparisons. Results  Differences among the groups were found in the mean angle of the tape arms (TVT = 119.94°, TVT-O = 141.93°, TVT-S = 121.06°; p  < 0.001) and in the distance between the bladder neck and the tape at rest (TVT = 1.65 cm, TVT-O = 1.93 cm, TVT-S = 1.95 cm; p  = 0.010). The global objective cure rate was of 87.8% (TVT = 88.5%, TVT-O = 90.5%, TVT-S = 83.8%; p  = 0.701). The overall subjective cure rate was of 83.8% (TVT = 88.5%, TVT-O = 88.5% and TVT-S = 78.4%; p  = 0.514). The slings were located in the mid-urethra in 85.7% of the patients (TVT = 100%, TVT-O = 73.8%, TVT-S = 89.2%; p  = 0.001), with a more distal location associated with obesity (distal: 66.7% obese; mid-urethra: 34% obese; p  = 0.003). Urgency-related symptoms were observed in 23.8% of the patients (TVT = 30.8%, TVT-O = 21.4%, TVT-S = 21.6%; p  = 0.630). Conclusions  The angle formed by the arms of the sling tape was more obtuse for the transobturator slings compared with the angles for the retropubic or single-incision slings. Retropubic slings were more frequently located in the mid-urethra compared with the other slings, regardless of obesity. However, the analyzed sonographic measures did not correlate with the urinary symptoms three years after the surgery. Thieme Revinter Publicações Ltda Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Preventive and therapeutic administration of an indigenous Lactobacillus sp. strain against Proteus mirabilis ascending urinary tract infection in a mouse model.

PubMed

Fraga, Martín; Scavone, Paola; Zunino, Pablo

2005-07-01

Probiotics are increasingly being considered as non-pharmaceutical and safe potential alternatives for the treatment and prevention of a variety of pathologies including urinary tract infections. These are the most common infections in medical practice and are frequently treated with antibiotics, which have generated an intense selective pressure over bacterial populations. Proteus mirabilis is a common cause of urinary tract infections in catheterised patients and people with abnormalities of the urinary tract. In this work we isolated, identified and characterised an indigenous Lactobacillus murinus strain (LbO2) from the vaginal tract of a female mouse. In vitro characterisation of LbO2 included acid and bile salts tolerance, growth in urine, adherence to uroepithelial cells and in vitro antimicrobial activity. The selected strain showed interesting properties, suitable for its use as a probiotic. The ability of LbO2 to prevent and even treat ascending P. mirabilis urinary tract infection was assessed using an experimental model in the mouse. Kidney and bladder P. mirabilis counts were significantly lower in mice preventively treated with the probiotic than in non-treated mice. When LbO2 was used for therapeutic treatment, bladder counts of treated mice were significantly lower although no significant differences were detected in P. mirabilis kidney colonisation of treated and non-treated animals. These results are encouraging and prompt further research related to probiotic strains and the basis of their effects for their use in human and animal health.

Transvaginal prolapse repair with or without the addition of a midurethral sling in women with genital prolapse and stress urinary incontinence: a randomised trial.

PubMed

van der Ploeg, J M; Oude Rengerink, K; van der Steen, A; van Leeuwen, J H S; Stekelenburg, J; Bongers, M Y; Weemhoff, M; Mol, B W; van der Vaart, C H; Roovers, J-P W R

2015-06-01

To compare transvaginal prolapse repair combined with midurethral sling (MUS) versus prolapse repair only. Multi-centre randomised trial. Fourteen teaching hospitals in the Netherlands. Women with symptomatic stage two or greater pelvic organ prolapse (POP), and subjective or objective stress urinary incontinence (SUI) without prolapse reduction. Women were randomly assigned to undergo vaginal prolapse repair with or without MUS. Analysis was according to intention to treat. The primary outcome at 12 months' follow-up was the absence of urinary incontinence (UI) assessed with the Urogenital Distress Inventory and treatment for SUI or overactive bladder. Secondary outcomes included complications. One hundred and thirty-four women were analysed at 12 months' follow-up (63 in MUS and 71 in control group). More women in the MUS group reported the absence of UI and SUI; respectively 62% versus 30% UI (relative risk [RR] 2.09; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.39-3.15) and 78% versus 39% SUI (RR 1.97; 95% CI 1.44-2.71). Fewer women underwent treatment for postoperative SUI in the MUS group (10% versus 37%; RR 0.26; 95% CI 0.11-0.59). In the control group, 12 women (17%) underwent MUS after prolapse surgery versus none in the MUS group. Severe complications were more common in the MUS group, but the difference was not statistically significant (16% versus 6%; RR 2.82; 95% CI 0.93-8.54). Women with prolapse and co-existing SUI are less likely to have SUI after transvaginal prolapse repair with MUS compared with prolapse repair only. However, only 17% of the women undergoing POP surgery needed additional MUS. A well-informed decision balancing risks and benefits of both strategies should be tailored to individual women. © 2015 Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.

Controlled release of insulin-like growth factor 1 enhances urethral sphincter function and histological structure in the treatment of female stress urinary incontinence in a rat model.

PubMed

Yan, Hao; Zhong, Liren; Jiang, Yaodong; Yang, Jian; Deng, Junhong; Wei, Shicheng; Opara, Emmanuel; Atala, Anthony; Mao, Xiangming; Damaser, Margot S; Zhang, Yuanyuan

2018-02-01

To determine the effects of controlled release of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) from alginate-poly-L-ornithine-gelatine (A-PLO-G) microbeads on external urethral sphincter (EUS) tissue regeneration in a rat model of stress urinary incontinence (SUI), as SUI diminishes the quality of life of millions, particularly women who have delivered vaginally, which can injure the urethral sphincter. Despite several well-established treatments for SUI, growth factor therapy might provide an alternative to promote urethral sphincter repair. In all, 44 female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomised into four groups: vaginal distension (VD) followed by periurethral injection of IGF-1-A-PLO-G microbeads (VD + IGF-1 microbeads; 1 × 10 4 microbeads/1 mL normal saline); VD + empty microbeads; VD + saline; or sham-VD + saline (sham). Urethral function (leak-point pressure, LPP) was significantly lesser 1 week after VD + saline [mean (sem) 23.9 (1.3) cmH 2 O] or VD + empty microbeads [mean (sem) 21.7 (0.8) cmH 2 O) compared to the sham group [mean (sem) 44.4 (3.4) cmH 2 O; P < 0.05), indicating that the microbeads themselves do not create a bulking or obstructive effect in the urethra. The LPP was significantly higher 1 week after VD + IGF-1 microbeads [mean (sem) 28.4 (1.2) cmH 2 O] compared to VD + empty microbeads (P < 0.05), and was not significantly different from the LPP in sham rats, demonstrating an initiation of a reparative effect even at 1 week after VD. Histological analysis showed well-organised skeletal muscle fibres and vascular development in the EUS at 1 week after VD + IGF-1 microbeads, compared to substantial muscle fibre attenuation and disorganisation, and less vascular formation at 1 week after VD + saline or VD + empty microbeads. Periurethral administration of IGF-1-A-PLO-G microbeads facilitates recovery from SUI by promoting skeletal myogenesis and revascularisation. This therapy is promising, but detailed and longer term studies in animal models and humans are needed. © 2017 The Authors BJU International © 2017 BJU International Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Mathematical model of microbicidal flow dynamics and optimization of rheological properties for intra-vaginal drug delivery: Role of tissue mechanics and fluid rheology.

PubMed

Anwar, Md Rajib; Camarda, Kyle V; Kieweg, Sarah L

2015-06-25

Topically applied microbicide gels can provide a self-administered and effective strategy to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs). We have investigated the interplay between vaginal tissue elasticity and the yield-stress of non-Newtonian fluids during microbicide deployment. We have developed a mathematical model of tissue deformation driven spreading of microbicidal gels based on thin film lubrication approximation and demonstrated the effect of tissue elasticity and fluid yield-stress on the spreading dynamics. Our results show that both elasticity of tissue and yield-stress rheology of gel are strong determinants of the coating behavior. An optimization framework has been demonstrated which leverages the flow dynamics of yield-stress fluid during deployment to maximize retention while reaching target coating length for a given tissue elasticity. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Diversity and composition of vaginal microbiota of pregnant women at risk for transmitting Group B Streptococcus treated with intrapartum penicillin.

PubMed

Roesch, Luiz Fernando Wurdig; Silveira, Rita C; Corso, Andréa L; Dobbler, Priscila Thiago; Mai, Volker; Rojas, Bruna S; Laureano, Álvaro M; Procianoy, Renato S

2017-01-01

Administering intravenous antibiotics during labor to women at risk for transmitting Group B Streptococcus (GBS) can prevent infections in newborns. However, the impact of intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis on mothers' microbial community composition is largely unknown. We compared vaginal microbial composition in pregnant women experiencing preterm birth at ≤ 32 weeks gestation that received intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis with that in controls. Microbiota in vaginal swabs collected shortly before delivery from GBS positive women that received penicillin intravenously during labor or after premature rupture of membranes was compared to controls. Microbiota was analyzed by 16S rRNA sequencing using the PGM Ion Torrent to determine the effects of penicillin use during hospitalization and GBS status on its composition. Penicillin administration was associated with an altered vaginal microbial community composition characterized by increased microbial diversity. Lactobacillus sp. contributed only 13.1% of the total community in the women that received penicillin compared to 88.1% in the controls. Streptococcus sp. were present in higher abundance in GBS positive woman compared to controls, with 60% of the total vaginal microbiota in severe cases identified as Streptococcus sp. Vaginal communities of healthy pregnant women were dominated by Lactobacillus sp. and contained low diversity, while Group B Streptococcus positive women receiving intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis had a modified vaginal microbiota composition with low abundance of Lactobacillus but higher microbial diversity.

Reproductive tract infections in rural women from the highlands, jungle, and coastal regions of Peru.

PubMed Central

García, Patricia J.; Chavez, Susana; Feringa, Barbara; Chiappe, Marina; Li, Weili; Jansen, Kathrin U.; Cárcamo, César; Holmes, King K.

2004-01-01

OBJECTIVE: To define the prevalences and manifestations of reproductive tract infections (RTIs) in rural Peruvian women. METHODS: During 1997-98, we visited 18 rural districts in coastal, highlands, and jungle regions of Peru. We administered standardized questionnaires and pelvic examinations to members of women's community-based organizations; and collected vaginal fluid for pH, amine odour, Gram stain, microscopy, and culture for Trichomonas vaginalis; cervical specimens for Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae; human papilloma virus (HPV) by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays, and blood for syphilis serology. FINDINGS: The 754 participants averaged 36.9 years of age and 1.7 sex partners ever; 77% reported symptoms indicative of RTIs; 51% and 26% reported their symptoms spontaneously or only with specific questioning, respectively. Symptoms reported spontaneously included abnormal vaginal discharge (29.3% and 22.9%, respectively). One or more RTIs, found in 70.4% of participants, included bacterial vaginosis (43.7%), trichomoniasis (16.5%), vulvovaginal candidiasis (4.5%), chlamydial infection (6.8%), gonorrhoea (1.2%), syphilis seropositivity (1.7%), cervical HPV infection (4.9%), and genital warts or ulcers (2.8%). Of 715 adequate Pap smears, 7 revealed cancer, 4 high-grade squamous intra-epithelial lesions (SIL) and 15 low-grade SIL. Clinical algorithms had very low sensitivity and predictive values for cervical infection, but over half the women with symptoms of malodorous vaginal discharge, signs of abnormal vaginal discharge, or both, had bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis. CONCLUSION: Overall, 77% of women had symptoms indicative of RTIs, and 70% had objective evidence of one or more RTIs. Women with selected symptoms and signs of vaginal infection could benefit from standard metronidazole therapy. PMID:15508193

Effects of intravaginal lactic acid bacteria on bovine endometrium: Implications in uterine health.

PubMed

Genís, Sandra; Bach, Àlex; Arís, Anna

2017-05-01

Infection and inflammation of the endometrium after calving compromise uterine health, contributing to decreased reproductive efficiency in dairy cows. Twenty multiparous cows were distributed in two groups and treated intra-vaginally with a combination of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) composed by Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Pedioccocus acidilactici, and Lactobacillus reuteri, or with a sterile carrier (CON) twice per week during 3 wk. At the slaughterhouse, vaginal and endometrial swabs were taken for E. coli and Lactobacillus quantification. Endometriums were collected and cut forming explants that were analyzed for the expression of 10 genes related to innate immunity and infection or submitted to an ex vivo inflammation model. In the ex vivo experiment, explants were infected with E. coli or inflammated by treating them with IL-1β and also E. coli. The secretion of IL-8, IL-1β, and IL-6 was evaluated by ELISA in the supernatants of the ex vivo cultures. Lactobacillus counts did not differ between endometria of LAB and CON cows, although E. coli vaginal counts tended to be lower in LAB than in CON cows. The expression of B-defensins and MUC1, indicators of infected uterus, was down-regulated in explants of LAB-treated cows. No differences were observed between LAB and CON explants in the ex vivo inflammation experiment. These results indicate that the vaginal application of the LAB combination used herein was unable to reach the endometrium and regulating the innate immunity at uterine level when applied into the vagina; however, it may be capable of modulating the pathogenic environment in the vaginal tract. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing 17α-hydroxyprogesterone caproate and vaginal progesterone for the prevention of recurrent spontaneous preterm delivery.

PubMed

Oler, Elizabeth; Eke, Ahizechukwu C; Hesson, Ashley

2017-07-01

Vaginal progesterone and 17α-hydroxyprogesterone (17α-OHP) are both used to prevent preterm delivery in women who have experienced spontaneous preterm delivery (SPTD) previously. Randomized trial data of the comparative effectiveness of these interventions have been mixed. To compare the efficacy of intramuscular 17α-OHP and vaginal progesterone in the prevention of recurrent SPTD. Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, African Journals Online, Embase, Google Scholar, ISI Web of Science, LILACS, CINAHL, PubMed, and registers of ongoing trials were searched using keywords related to 17α-OHP, vaginal progesterone, and preterm delivery. Randomized controlled trials published between January 1, 1966, and November 30, 2016, comparing 17α-OHP and vaginal progesterone for the prevention of recurrent SPTD during singleton pregnancies were included. Study data were extracted and meta-analyses were performed when outcomes were comparable. The meta-analyses included data from three randomized trials. Lower rates of SPTD before 34 weeks (relative risk 0.71, 95% confidence interval 0.53-0.95) and before 32 weeks (relative risk 0.62, 95% confidence interval 0.40-0.94) of pregnancy were observed among patients treated with vaginal progesterone. Vaginal progesterone and 17α-OHP were comparable for the prevention of recurrent SPTD in singleton pregnancies; vaginal progesterone could be superior. © 2017 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics.

The effect of "breathable" panty liners on the female lower genital tract.

PubMed

Giraldo, Paulo C; Amaral, Rose L G; Juliato, Cássia; Eleutério, José; Brolazo, Eliane; Gonçalves, Ana K S

2011-10-01

To evaluate whether the use of "breathable" panty liners (BPLs) alters the normal vaginal flora, increases the incidence of bacterial vaginosis and/or vaginal candidiasis, or causes vulvar irritation. A randomized controlled trial assessed the vaginal ecosystem of women without complaints of vaginal discharge. The study group (n=53) wore BPLs for 10-12 hours each day for 75 consecutive days, whereas the control group (n=54) wore only their usual underwear. At each of 6 visits during 3 menstrual cycles, participants underwent gynecologic examination with colposcopic evaluation and pH measurement, in addition to assessment of vaginal microbial flora, intensity of inflammatory processes, and presence of vaginal candidiasis/bacterial vaginosis in Gram-stained smears. After 75 consecutive days of BPL use, 40/44 (90.9%) and 42/44 (95.5%) women reported no complaints of vaginal discharge or vulvar itching/burning, respectively. There was no significant difference between the study group and the control group with regard to positive vaginal fungus cultures (5/44 [11.4%] vs 8/50 [16.0%]; P=0.7848) or bacterial vaginosis (3/44 [6.8%] vs 2/50 [4.0%]; P=0.7974) at the end of the study period. After 75 days of BPL use, there was no significant increase in vulvovaginal candidiasis, bacterial vaginosis, vulvovaginal irritation, or vulvovaginal inflammation. Copyright © 2011 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Vaginal foreign body mimicking cervical cancer in postmenopausal woman - case study.

PubMed

Ciebiera, Michał; Słabuszewska-Jóźwiak, Aneta; Ledowicz, Witold; Jakiel, Grzegorz

2015-09-01

We present a case report of a 73-year-old, postmenopausal woman with detailed history of breast cancer and oncology treatment including tamoxifen therapy. She presented at the clinic of gynecology and obstetrics with recurrent inflammation of the urinary and genital tract and suspicion of a cervical mass. She also presented occasional abdominal complaints and malodorous vaginal discharge. These symptoms were observed in the patient for several years. Before hospitalization she received many kinds of empirical, antimicrobial treatment such as chlorquinaldol, metronidazole, nifuratel, and nystatin. She did not receive further guidance from doctors about the causes of ailments and further diagnostic and treatment capabilities. In our clinic a detailed diagnostic process including ultrasound transvaginal examination and a minisurgical procedure revealed the presence of a vaginal foreign body (which turned out to be a plastic, shampoo bottle cap) surrounded by a mass of inflamed tissue mimicking a cervical tumor. All symptoms and complaints subsided after surgical removal of the foreign body and antibacterial therapy with metronidazole and cefuroxime. Our study draws attention to the need of thorough gynecological care including prophylaxis, especially in the case of complaints of an intimate nature. Even trivial, frequently occurring disorders can be dangerous and require proper and responsible doctor's supervision and management through the healing process.

Vaginal foreign body mimicking cervical cancer in postmenopausal woman – case study

PubMed Central

Słabuszewska-Jóźwiak, Aneta; Ledowicz, Witold; Jakiel, Grzegorz

2015-01-01

We present a case report of a 73-year-old, postmenopausal woman with detailed history of breast cancer and oncology treatment including tamoxifen therapy. She presented at the clinic of gynecology and obstetrics with recurrent inflammation of the urinary and genital tract and suspicion of a cervical mass. She also presented occasional abdominal complaints and malodorous vaginal discharge. These symptoms were observed in the patient for several years. Before hospitalization she received many kinds of empirical, antimicrobial treatment such as chlorquinaldol, metronidazole, nifuratel, and nystatin. She did not receive further guidance from doctors about the causes of ailments and further diagnostic and treatment capabilities. In our clinic a detailed diagnostic process including ultrasound transvaginal examination and a minisurgical procedure revealed the presence of a vaginal foreign body (which turned out to be a plastic, shampoo bottle cap) surrounded by a mass of inflamed tissue mimicking a cervical tumor. All symptoms and complaints subsided after surgical removal of the foreign body and antibacterial therapy with metronidazole and cefuroxime. Our study draws attention to the need of thorough gynecological care including prophylaxis, especially in the case of complaints of an intimate nature. Even trivial, frequently occurring disorders can be dangerous and require proper and responsible doctor's supervision and management through the healing process. PMID:26528112

Uncommon Human Urinary Tract Myiasis Due to Psychoda Sp. Larvae, Kashan, Iran: A Case Report.

PubMed

Rasti, Sima; Dehghani, Rouhullah; Khaledi, Hassan Naeimi; Takhtfiroozeh, Sayed Mahdi; Chimehi, Elahe

2016-01-01

Contamination of human and animal body tissues with flies' larvae and diptera cause myiasis. A 26 yr old female patient refers to Kashan Shahid Beheshti Hospital, central Iran because of urogenital infection, pain in the right part of stomach, smelly and reddish vaginal discharge and frequent urination. In the first checking, urine sample was taken. In the sample, active and alive larvae were seen. The live samples were taken to the Environmental Health Department Lab of Kashan University of Medical Sciences in clean glass jars. In the morphological survey, Psychoda sp larvae were identified. In Iran, this study is the first report of this species of larva that causes urinary myiasis. This fly larva is not carnivore or bloodsucker and feeds on bacterial agents. Observance of personal hygiene especially during defecation and urination is essential to prevent contamination of this type of myiasis.

Proteus mirabilis and Urinary Tract Infections

PubMed Central

Schaffer, Jessica N.; Pearson, Melanie M.

2015-01-01

Proteus mirabilis is a Gram-negative bacterium which is well-known for its ability to robustly swarm across surfaces in a striking bulls’-eye pattern. Clinically, this organism is most frequently a pathogen of the urinary tract, particularly in patients undergoing long-term catheterization. This review covers P. mirabilis with a focus on urinary tract infections (UTI), including disease models, vaccine development efforts, and clinical perspectives. Flagella-mediated motility, both swimming and swarming, is a central facet of this organism. The regulation of this complex process and its contribution to virulence is discussed, along with the type VI-secretion system-dependent intra-strain competition which occurs during swarming. P. mirabilis uses a diverse set of virulence factors to access and colonize the host urinary tract, including urease and stone formation, fimbriae and other adhesins, iron and zinc acquisition, proteases and toxins, biofilm formation, and regulation of pathogenesis. While significant advances in this field have been made, challenges remain to combatting complicated UTI and deciphering P. mirabilis pathogenesis. PMID:26542036

Proteus mirabilis and Urinary Tract Infections.

PubMed

Schaffer, Jessica N; Pearson, Melanie M

2015-10-01

Proteus mirabilis is a Gram-negative bacterium and is well known for its ability to robustly swarm across surfaces in a striking bulls'-eye pattern. Clinically, this organism is most frequently a pathogen of the urinary tract, particularly in patients undergoing long-term catheterization. This review covers P. mirabilis with a focus on urinary tract infections (UTI), including disease models, vaccine development efforts, and clinical perspectives. Flagella-mediated motility, both swimming and swarming, is a central facet of this organism. The regulation of this complex process and its contribution to virulence is discussed, along with the type VI-secretion system-dependent intra-strain competition, which occurs during swarming. P. mirabilis uses a diverse set of virulence factors to access and colonize the host urinary tract, including urease and stone formation, fimbriae and other adhesins, iron and zinc acquisition, proteases and toxins, biofilm formation, and regulation of pathogenesis. While significant advances in this field have been made, challenges remain to combatting complicated UTI and deciphering P. mirabilis pathogenesis.

Instrumental delivery: clinical practice guidelines from the French College of Gynaecologists and Obstetricians.

PubMed

Vayssière, Christophe; Beucher, Gael; Dupuis, Olivier; Feraud, Olivia; Simon-Toulza, Caroline; Sentilhes, Loïc; Meunier, Emmanuelle; Parant, Olivier; Schmitz, Thomas; Riethmuller, Didier; Baud, Olivier; Galley-Raulin, Fabienne; Diemunsch, Pierre; Pierre, Fabrice; Schaal, Jean-Patrick; Fournié, Alain; Oury, Jean François

2011-11-01

Routine use of a partograph is associated with a reduction in the use of forceps, but is not associated with a reduction in the use of vacuum extraction (Level A). Early artificial rupture of the membranes, associated with oxytocin perfusion, does not reduce the number of operative vaginal deliveries (Level A), but does increase the rate of fetal heart rate abnormalities (Level B). Early correction of lack of progress in dilatation by oxytocin perfusion can reduce the number of operative vaginal deliveries (Level B). The use of low-concentration epidural infusions of bupivacaine potentiated by morphinomimetics reduces the number of operative interventions compared with larger doses (Level A). Placement of an epidural before 3-cm dilatation does not increase the number of operative vaginal deliveries (Level A). Posterior positions of the fetus result in more operative vaginal deliveries (Level B). Manual rotation of the fetus from a posterior position to an anterior position may reduce the number of operative deliveries (Level C). Walking during labour is not associated with a reduction in the number of operative vaginal deliveries (Level A). Continuous support of the parturient by a midwife or partner/family member during labour reduces the number of operative vaginal deliveries (Level A). Under epidural analgesia, delayed pushing (2h after full dilatation) reduces the number of difficult operative vaginal deliveries (Level A). Ultrasound is recommended if there is any clinical doubt about the presentation of the fetus (Level B). The available scientific data are insufficient to contra-indicate attempted midoperative delivery (professional consensus). The duration of the operative intervention is slightly shorter with forceps than with a vacuum extractor (Level C). Nonetheless, the urgency of operative delivery is not a reason to choose one instrument over another (professional consensus). The cup-shaped vacuum extractor seems to be the instrument of choice for operative deliveries of fetuses in a cephalic transverse position, and may also be preferred for fetuses in a posterior position (professional consensus). Vacuum extraction deliveries fail more often than forceps deliveries (Level B). Overall, immediate maternal complications are more common for forceps deliveries than vacuum extraction deliveries (Level B). Compared with forceps, operative vaginal delivery using a vacuum extractor appears to reduce the number of episiotomies (Level B), first- and second-degree perineal lesions, and damage to the anal sphincter (Level B). Among the long-term complications, the rate of urinary incontinence is similar following forceps, vacuum extraction and spontaneous vaginal deliveries (Level B). Anal incontinence is more common following forceps delivery (Level B). Persistent anal incontinence has a similar prevalence regardless of the mode of delivery (caesarean or vaginal, instrumental or non-instrumental), suggesting the involvement of other factors (Level B). Rates of immediate neonatal mortality and morbidity are similar for forceps and vacuum extraction deliveries (Level B). It appears that difficult instrumental delivery may lead to psychological sequelae that may result in a decision not to have more children (Level C). The rates of neonatal convulsions, intracranial haemorrhage and jaundice do not differ between forceps and vacuum extraction deliveries (Levels B and C). Rapid sequence induction with a Sellick manoeuvre (pressure to the cricoid cartilage) and tracheal intubation with a balloon catheter is recommended for any general anaesthesia (Level B). Training must ensure that obstetricians can identify indications and contra-indications, choose the appropriate instrument, use the instruments correctly, and know the principles of quality control applied to operative vaginal delivery. Nowadays, traditional training can be accompanied by simulations. Training should be individualized and extended for some students. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Visual improvements in vaginal mucosa correlate with symptoms of VVA: data from a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

PubMed

Simon, James A; Archer, David F; Kagan, Risa; Bernick, Brian; Graham, Shelli; Constantine, Ginger D; Mirkin, Sebastian

2017-09-01

To evaluate the response of the vaginal mucosa with TX-004HR and its correlation with vulvar and vaginal atrophy (VVA) symptoms, and whether visual examination is a useful measure for assessing VVA. REJOICE was a 12-week, phase 3, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of a vaginal, muco-adhesive, 17β-estradiol softgel capsule (TX-004HR 4, 10, and 25 μg) in postmenopausal women with VVA and moderate-to-severe dyspareunia. Treatments were self-administered vaginally once per day for 2 weeks, then twice per week for 10 weeks. The vagina was visually examined at baseline and at weeks 2, 6, 8, and 12; changes were evaluated using a 4-item scale for vaginal color, vaginal epithelial integrity, vaginal epithelial surface thickness, and vaginal secretions. Significant improvements were observed with all three TX-004HR doses versus placebo in vaginal color (least square mean score changes of -0.96 to -1.06 for TX-004HR doses vs -0.60 for placebo at week 12), epithelial integrity (-0.97 to -1.07 vs -0.60), epithelial surface thickness (-0.94 to -1.03 vs -0.61), and secretions (-1.01 to -1.06 vs -0.64) (P < 0.001 for all comparisons at all time points). Both Pearson's correlations and logistic regression receiver-operating characteristic curve analyses significantly correlated the sum of the individual visual assessment scores with dyspareunia (P < 0.0001) and vaginal dryness (P < 0.0001) at 12 weeks. Greater improvements in the vaginal mucosa of postmenopausal women with VVA and moderate-to-severe dyspareunia were observed with TX-004HR versus placebo, and vaginal mucosa assessment scores correlated with vaginal symptoms of dyspareunia and dryness. Visual vaginal assessment by healthcare professionals is a useful measure for diagnosing VVA and assessing response to treatment.

Vaginal rings for delivery of HIV microbicides

PubMed Central

Malcolm, R Karl; Fetherston, Susan M; McCoy, Clare F; Boyd, Peter; Major, Ian

2012-01-01

Following the successful development of long-acting steroid-releasing vaginal ring devices for the treatment of menopausal symptoms and contraception, there is now considerable interest in applying similar devices to the controlled release of microbicides against HIV. In this review article, the vaginal ring concept is first considered within the wider context of the early advances in controlled-release technology, before describing the various types of ring device available today. The remainder of the article highlights the key developments in HIV microbicide-releasing vaginal rings, with a particular focus on the dapivirine ring that is presently in late-stage clinical testing. PMID:23204872

Vaginal rings for delivery of HIV microbicides.

PubMed

Malcolm, R Karl; Fetherston, Susan M; McCoy, Clare F; Boyd, Peter; Major, Ian

2012-01-01

Following the successful development of long-acting steroid-releasing vaginal ring devices for the treatment of menopausal symptoms and contraception, there is now considerable interest in applying similar devices to the controlled release of microbicides against HIV. In this review article, the vaginal ring concept is first considered within the wider context of the early advances in controlled-release technology, before describing the various types of ring device available today. The remainder of the article highlights the key developments in HIV microbicide-releasing vaginal rings, with a particular focus on the dapivirine ring that is presently in late-stage clinical testing.

Pattern of clustering of menopausal problems: A study with a Bengali Hindu ethnic group.

PubMed

Dasgupta, Doyel; Pal, Baidyanath; Ray, Subha

2016-01-01

We attempted to find out how menopausal problems cluster with each other. The study was conducted among a group of women belonging to a Bengali-speaking Hindu ethnic group of West Bengal, a state located in Eastern India. We recruited 1,400 participants for the study. Information on sociodemographic aspects and menopausal problems were collected from these participants with the help of a pretested questionnaire. Results of cluster analysis showed that vasomotor, vaginal, and urinary problems cluster together, separately from physical and psychosomatic problems.

Impact of Hydroxychloroquine-Loaded Polyurethane Intravaginal Rings on Lactobacilli

PubMed Central

Traore, Yannick Leandre; Chen, Yufei; Bernier, Anne-Marie

2015-01-01

The use of polymeric devices for controlled sustained delivery of drugs is a promising approach for the prevention of HIV-1 infection. Unfortunately, certain microbicides, when topically applied vaginally, may be cytotoxic to vaginal epithelial cells and the protective microflora present within the female genital tract. In this study, we evaluated the impact of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ)-loaded, reservoir-type, polyurethane intravaginal rings (IVRs) on the growth of Lactobacillus crispatus and Lactobacillus jensenii and on the viability of vaginal and ectocervical epithelial cells. The IVRs were fabricated using hot-melt injection molding and were capable of providing controlled release of HCQ for 24 days, with mean daily release rates of 17.01 ± 3.6 μg/ml in sodium acetate buffer (pH 4) and 29.45 ± 4.84 μg/ml in MRS broth (pH 6.2). Drug-free IVRs and the released HCQ had no significant effects on bacterial growth or the viability of vaginal or ectocervical epithelial cells. Furthermore, there was no significant impact on the integrity of vaginal epithelial cell monolayers, in comparison with controls, as measured by transepithelial electrical resistance. Overall, this is the first study to evaluate the effects of HCQ-loaded IVRs on the growth of vaginal flora and the integrity of vaginal epithelial cell monolayers. PMID:26416871

Cranberry juice capsules and urinary tract infection after surgery: results of a randomized trial.

PubMed

Foxman, Betsy; Cronenwett, Anna E W; Spino, Cathie; Berger, Mitchell B; Morgan, Daniel M

2015-08-01

The risk of urinary tract infection (UTI) among women undergoing elective gynecological surgery during which a catheter is placed is high: 10-64% following catheter removal. We conducted the first randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of the therapeutic efficacy of cranberry juice capsules in preventing UTI after surgery. We recruited patients from a single hospital between August 2011 and January 2013. Eligible participants were undergoing elective gynecological surgery that did not involve a fistula repair or vaginal mesh removal. One hundred sixty patients were randomized and received 2 cranberry juice capsules 2 times a day, equivalent to 2 8 ounce servings of cranberry juice, for 6 weeks after surgery or matching placebo. The primary endpoint was the proportion of participants who experienced clinically diagnosed and treated UTI with or without positive urine culture. Kaplan-Meier plots and log rank tests compared the 2 treatment groups. The occurrence of UTI was significantly lower in the cranberry treatment group compared with the placebo group (15 of 80 [19%] vs 30 of 80 [38%]; odds ratio, 0.38; 95% confidence interval, 0.19-0.79; P = .008). After adjustment for known confounders, including the frequency of intermittent self-catheterization in the postoperative period, the protective effects of cranberry remained (odds ratio, 0.42; 95% confidence interval, 0.18-0.94). There were no treatment differences in the incidence of adverse events, including gastrointestinal upset (56% vs 61% for cranberry vs placebo). Among women undergoing elective benign gynecological surgery involving urinary catheterization, the use of cranberry extract capsules during the postoperative period reduced the rate of UTI by half. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Determination of urinary levels of leukotriene B(4) using ad highly specific and sensitive methodology based on automatic MEPS combined with UHPLC-PDA analysis.

PubMed

Perestrelo, Rosa; Silva, Catarina L; Câmara, José S

2015-11-01

Leukotriene B4 (LTB4) is a potent mediator of inflammation and plays a key function in the pathophysiology of chronic asthma. Detectable urinary levels of LTB4, arises from the activation of leukotriene pathways. In this study an ultra-fast, selective and sensitive analytical method based on semi-automatic microextraction by packed sorbents (MEPS) technique, using a new digitally controlled syringe (eVol®) combined with ultra-high pressure liquid chromatography (UHPLC), is proposed for the measurement of urinary LTB4 (U-LTB4) levels in a group of asthmatic patients (APs) and healthy controls (CTRL). Important parameters affecting MEPS performance, namely sorbent type, number of extraction cycles (extract-discard) and elution volume, were evaluated. The optimal experimental conditions among those investigated for the quantification of U-LTB4 in urine samples were as follows: porous graphitic carbon sorbent (PGC), 10 extractions cycle (10×250 μL of sample) and LTB4 elution with 100 μL of acetonitrile. The UHPLC optimum conditions resulted in a mobile phase consisting of 95% (v/v) of acid aqueous solution (v/v), and acetonitrile 5% (v/v); flow rate of 500 µL/min, and a column temperature of 37±0.1 °C. Under optimized conditions the proposed method exhibit good selectivity and sensitivity LOD (0.37 ng/mL) and LOQ (1.22 ng/mL). The recovery ranging from 86.4 to 101.1% for LTB4, with relative standard deviations (% RSD) no larger than 5%. In addition, the method also afforded good results in terms of linearity (r(2)>0.995) within the established concentration range, with a residual deviation for each calibration point below 6%, and intra- and inter-day repeatability in urine samples with RSD values lower than 4 and 5%, respectively. The application of the method to urine samples revealed a tendency towards the increased urinary LTB4 levels in APs (5.42±0.17 ng/mL) when compared to those of CTRL group (from ND to 1.9 ng/mL). Urinary measurement of LTB4 may be an interesting and non-invasive option to assess control of asthma. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A large primary vaginal calculus in a woman with paraplegia.

PubMed

Avsar, Ayse Filiz; Keskin, Huseyin Levent; Catma, Tuba; Kaya, Basak; Sivaslioglu, Ahmet Akın

2013-01-01

The study aimed to report a primary vaginal stone, an extremely rare entity, without vesicovaginal fistula in a woman with disability. We describe the case of a large primary vaginal calculus in a 22-year-old woman with paraplegia, which, surprisingly, was not diagnosed until she was examined under general anesthesia during a preparation for laparoscopy for an adnexal mass. The stone had not been identified by physical examination with the patient in a recumbent position or by transabdominal ultrasonography and pelvic tomography during the preoperative preparation. Vaginoscopy was not performed because the vagina was completely filled with the mass. As a result of its size and hard consistency, a right-sided episiotomy was performed and a 136-g stone was removed using ring forceps. A vesicovaginal fistula was excluded. There was no evidence of a foreign body or other nidus on the cut section of the stone, and it was determined to be composed of 100% struvite (ammonium magnesium phosphate). Culture of urine obtained via catheter showed Escherichia coli. After the surgical removal of the calculus without complications, a program of intermittent catheterization was started. The follow-up period was uneventful, and the patient was symptom free at 6 months after the operation. We postulate that the calculus formed as a consequence of urinary contamination of the vagina in association with incontinence and prolonged maintenance in a recumbent posture. This report is important because it highlights that, although vaginal stones are very rare, their possibility should be considered in the differential diagnosis of individuals with long-term paraplegia.

Routine antibiotic prophylaxis after normal vaginal birth for reducing maternal infectious morbidity.

PubMed

Bonet, Mercedes; Ota, Erika; Chibueze, Chioma E; Oladapo, Olufemi T

2017-11-13

Infectious morbidities contribute to considerable maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality, including women at no apparent increased risk of infection. To reduce the incidence of infections, antibiotics are often administered to women after uncomplicated childbirth, particularly in settings where women are at higher risk of puerperal infectious morbidities. To assess whether routine administration of prophylactic antibiotics to women after normal (uncomplicated) vaginal birth, compared with placebo or no antibiotic prophylaxis, reduces postpartum maternal infectious morbidities and improves outcomes. We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (31 August 2017), LILACS, ClinicalTrials.gov, the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) (22 August 2017) and reference lists of retrieved studies. We planned to include randomised or quasi-randomised trials evaluating the use of prophylactic antibiotics versus placebo or no antibiotic prophylaxis. Trials using a cluster-randomised design would have been eligible for inclusion, but we found none.In future updates of this review, we will include studies published in abstract form only, provided sufficient information is available to assess risks of bias. We will consider excluded abstracts for inclusion once the full publication is available, or the authors provide more information.Trials using a cross-over design are not eligible for inclusion in this review. Two review authors conducted independent assessment of trials for inclusion and risks of bias. They independently extracted data and checked them for accuracy, resolving differences in assessments by discussion. They evaluated methodological quality using standard Cochrane criteria and the GRADE approach.We present the summaries as risk ratios (RRs) and mean difference (MDs) using fixed- or random-effect models. For one primary outcome we found considerable heterogeneity and interaction. We explored further using subgroup analysis to investigate the effects of the randomisation unit. All review authors discussed and interpreted the results. One randomised controlled trial (RCT) and two quasi-RCTs contributed data on 1779 women who had uncomplicated vaginal births, comparing different antibiotic regimens with placebo or no treatment. The included trials took place in the 1960s (one trial) and 1990s (two trials). The trials were conducted in France, the USA and Brazil. Antibiotics administered included: oral sulphamethoxypyridazine or chloramphenicol for three to five days, and intravenous amoxicillin and clavulanic acid in a single dose one hour after birth. We rated most of the domains for risk of bias as high risk, with the exception of reporting bias and other potential bias.The quality of evidence ranged from low to very low, based on the GRADE quality assessment, given very serious design limitations of the included studies, few events and wide confidence intervals (CIs) of effect estimates.We found a decrease in the risk of endometritis (RR 0.28, 95% CI 0.09 to 0.83, two trials, 1364 women,very low quality). However, one trial reported zero events for this outcome and we rate the evidence as very low quality. There was little or no difference between groups for the risk of urinary tract infection (RR 0.25, 95% CI 0.05 to 1.19, two trials, 1706 women,low quality), wound infection after episiotomy (reported as wound dehiscence in the included trials) (RR 0.78, 95% CI 0.31 to 1.96, two trials, 1364 women, very low quality) and length of maternal hospital stay in days (MD -0.15, 95% CI -0.31 to 0.01, one trial, 1291 women, very low quality). Cost of care in US dollar equivalent was 2½ times higher in the control group compared to the group receiving antibiotics prophylaxis (USD 3600: USD 9000, one trial, 1291 women). There were few or no differences between treated and control groups for adverse effects of antibiotics (skin rash) reported in one woman in each of the two trials (RR 3.03, 95% CI 0.32 to 28.95, two trials, 1706 women, very low quality). The incidence of severe maternal infectious morbidity, antimicrobial resistance or women's satisfaction with care were not addressed by any of the included studies. Routine administration of antibiotics may reduce the risk of endometritis after uncomplicated vaginal birth. The small number and nature of the trials limit the interpretation of the evidence for application in practice, particularly in settings where women may be at higher risk of developing endometritis. The use of antibiotics did not reduce the incidence of urinary tract infections, wound infection or the length of maternal hospital stay. Antibiotics are not a substitute for infection prevention and control measures around the time of childbirth and the postpartum period. The decision to routinely administer prophylactic antibiotics after normal vaginal births needs to be balanced by patient features, childbirth setting and provider experience, including considerations of the contribution of indiscriminate use of antibiotics to raising antimicrobial resistance. Well-designed and high-powered randomised controlled trials would help to evaluate the added value of routine antibiotic administration as a measure to prevent maternal infections after normal vaginal delivery.

Immune activation and suppression by group B streptococcus in a murine model of urinary tract infection.

PubMed

Kline, Kimberly A; Schwartz, Drew J; Lewis, Warren G; Hultgren, Scott J; Lewis, Amanda L

2011-09-01

Group B streptococcus (GBS) is a common commensal of the gastrointestinal and vaginal mucosa and a leading cause of serious infections in newborns, the elderly, and immunocompromised populations. GBS also causes infections of the urinary tract. However, little is known about host responses to GBS urinary tract infection (UTI) or GBS virulence factors that participate in UTI. Here we describe a novel murine model of GBS UTI that may explain some features of GBS urinary tract association in the human host. We observed high titers and heightened histological signs of inflammation and leukocyte recruitment in the GBS-infected kidney. However, extensive inflammation and leukocyte recruitment were not observed in the bladder, suggesting that GBS may suppress bladder inflammation during cystitis. Acute GBS infection induced the localized expression of proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-1α (IL-1α), macrophage inflammatory protein-1α (MIP-1α), MIP-1β, and IL-9, as well as IL-10, more commonly considered an anti-inflammatory cytokine. Using isogenic GBS strains with different capsule structures, we show that capsular sialic acid residues contribute to GBS urinary tract pathogenesis, while high levels of sialic acid O-acetylation attenuate GBS pathogenesis in the setting of UTI, particularly in direct competition experiments. In vitro studies demonstrated that GBS sialic acids participate in the suppression of murine polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) bactericidal activities, in addition to reducing levels of IL-1α, tumor necrosis factor alpha, IL-1β, MIP-1α, and KC produced by PMNs. These studies define several basic molecular and cellular events characterizing GBS UTI in an animal model, showing that GBS participates simultaneously in the activation and suppression of host immune responses in the urinary tract.

Complications and Outcomes of Pregnancy and Cesarean Delivery in Women With Neuropathic Bladder and Lower Urinary Tract Reconstruction.

PubMed

Roth, Joshua D; Casey, Jessica T; Whittam, Benjamin M; Szymanski, Konrad M; Kaefer, Martin; Rink, Richard C; Schubert, Frank P; Cain, Mark P; Misseri, Rosalia

2018-04-01

To determine the outcomes of pregnancy and cesarean delivery (CD) in women with neuropathic bladder (NB) and pediatric lower urinary tract reconstruction (LUTR) as these women often have normal fertility and may become pregnant. We reviewed consecutive patients with NB due to spinal dysraphism who underwent LUTR, became pregnant, and had a CD at our institution from July 2001 to June 2016. We collected data on demographics, hydronephrosis, symptomatic urinary tract infection, continence, and catheterization during pregnancy. CD data included gestational age, abdominal or uterine incisions, and complications. We identified 18 pregnancies in 11 women. Fifteen live newborns were delivered via CD (53.3% term births). Thirteen of 15 patients (86.7%) developed new (10) or worsening (3) hydronephrosis. Six of 13 patients (46.2%) underwent nephrostomy tube placement. Eight of 15 patients (53.3%) developed difficulty catheterizing (66.7% via native urethra, 44.4% via catheterizable channel); 50.0% of patients required an indwelling catheter. Five of 15 patients (33.3%) developed urinary incontinence during pregnancy. Ten of 15 patients (66.7%) had a urinary tract infection (30.0% febrile). A urologist was present for all CDs: 5 were scheduled, 10 occurred emergently. Complications occurred in 40.0% (5 cystotomies, 1 bowel deserosalization, 1 vaginal laceration). All cystotomies occurred during emergent CD. Three patients (20.0%) developed urinary fistulae after emergent CD. Women with NB and LUTR have high rates of complications during pregnancy and CD, despite routine involvement of urologists. Women with prolonged labor, previous CD, or those with a history of noncompliance developed the worst complications. Based on our experience, a urologist should always be present and participate in the CD. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

TVT compared with TVT-O and TOT: results from the Norwegian National Incontinence Registry.

PubMed

Dyrkorn, Ole A; Kulseng-Hanssen, Sigurd; Sandvik, Leiv

2010-11-01

The aim of this study is to compare the outcome and complication rates of the tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) operations with the transobturator vaginal tape (TVT-O and TOT) operations in the treatment of urinary stress incontinence. This is a multicenter, prospective cohort study. Preoperative and postoperative assessments included a validated Stress and Urge Incontinence Questionnaire, a 24-h pad test, and a standardized stress test. The study included 5,942 women--4,281 women had a TVT operation and 731 and 373 women had TVT-O and TOT operations, respectively. Median follow-up time was 8 months. Women in the TVT group had less leakage during stress test and fewer subjective stress incontinence symptoms, and were more satisfied with the operation compared with the women in TVT-O and TOT groups, but more complications were reported after TVT operation. The TVT operation is more efficient than TVT-O and TOT operations in treating stress incontinent women.

Management of surgically hypogonadal patients unable to take sex hormone replacement therapy.

PubMed

Nieman, Lynnette K

2003-06-01

Lifestyle changes in diet, exercise and the environment may help to prevent or ameliorate hot flashes and low bone density in men and women after surgical castration. Conventional medications, including megestrol acetate, SSRIs or clonidine, may improve hot flashes but may have limiting side effects. Some complementary and alternative approaches, including black cohosh, vitamin E, and soy products, work as well as placebo to decrease hot flashes and may be helpful, because they have low toxicity. Acupuncture and neurontin are promising but must be studied further. With regards to the prevention of osteoporosis and fractures in men and women, bisphosphonates are the most potent of the currently available agents; calcitonin is less effective. PTH has a large beneficial effect but is not yet available and is less well studied. In women, continued sexual intercourse and use of vaginal lubricants and moisturizers help to minimize symptoms of vaginal atrophy but do not ameliorate urinary symptoms. Low dose local estrogen treatment is a promising approach for the latter complaints.

Urogenital infections in women: can probiotics help?

PubMed Central

Reid, G; Bruce, A

2003-01-01

Urogenital infections not caused by sexual transmission, namely yeast vaginitis, bacterial vaginosis, and urinary tract infection remain a major medical problem in terms of the number of women afflicted each year. Although antimicrobial therapy is generally effective at eradicating these infections, there is still a high incidence of recurrence. The patient's quality of life is affected and many women become frustrated by the cycle of repeated antimicrobial agents whose effectiveness is diminishing due to increasing development of microbial resistance. There is good clinical evidence to show that the intestinal and urogenital microbial flora have a central role in maintaining both the health and wellbeing of humans. Furthermore, the use of "good bacteria" to replace or augment bacterial populations is gradually achieving scientific acceptance. This application is termed probiotics: "live micro-organisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host". The role of the intestinal, vaginal, and urethral flora and probiotics in urogenital health will be the focus of this review. PMID:12954951

Obstructing urethral calculus in a woman revealed to be the cause of chronic pelvic pain.

PubMed

Thomas, J S; Crew, J

2012-10-01

Urethral calculi are extremely rarely reported in Caucasian females and are usually associated with an anatomical abnormality such as a diverticulum or a stricture. Ureteric calculi can move to become lodged in the urethra, although this is rare in women because of their short urethral length. We present a case of a 55-year-old woman presenting with urinary retention secondary to an obstructing upper tract calculus that had moved into the urethra. Four years previously, the patient had been diagnosed with chronic pelvic pain following a primary posterior vaginal wall repair. Following treatment of the obstructing calculus, her symptoms of pelvic pain completely resolved. We report a very unusual case that highlights the importance of investigating chronic pelvic pain. This patient's symptom of vaginal pain, though highly localized, was caused by pathology elsewhere in the pelvis. Alternative diagnoses should be sought for such patients and investigation performed to detect any nonvisible hematuria.

Modulation of male mouse genital sniff, attack, and mount behaviors by urogenital substances from estrous females.

PubMed

Weinhold, L L; Ingersoll, D W

1988-09-01

The modulation of attacks, genital sniffs, and mounts in male SJL/J mice by ovarian-dependent urogenital substances in the urine voided by estrous females was examined. Urogenital substances were applied onto the external urogenital areas of ovariectomized mice. When compared with urine voided by estrous females, which stimulated genital sniffing, mounting, and reduced aggression, bladder urine was ineffective. Genital sniffing and mounting was stimulated by estradiol-17 beta, vaginal fluids, and preputial extract. Aggression was reduced by estradiol-17 beta, urethral catheterized urine, and vaginal fluids. Preputialectomy reduced, but did not eliminate, urinary stimulation of genital sniffing and mounting. Preputial extract stimulated aggression. Urogenital substances from ovariectomized females were ineffective in reducing attacks and stimulating genital sniffs and mounts. It was concluded that the ovarian-dependent chemosignals in the urine voided by estrous females are contributed by the urethra, vagina, and preputial gland, perhaps in part through the excretion of unconjugated estrogens.

Diversity and composition of vaginal microbiota of pregnant women at risk for transmitting Group B Streptococcus treated with intrapartum penicillin

PubMed Central

Roesch, Luiz Fernando Wurdig; Silveira, Rita C.; Corso, Andréa L.; Dobbler, Priscila Thiago; Mai, Volker; Rojas, Bruna S.; Laureano, Álvaro M.; Procianoy, Renato S.

2017-01-01

Background Administering intravenous antibiotics during labor to women at risk for transmitting Group B Streptococcus (GBS) can prevent infections in newborns. However, the impact of intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis on mothers’ microbial community composition is largely unknown. We compared vaginal microbial composition in pregnant women experiencing preterm birth at ≤ 32 weeks gestation that received intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis with that in controls. Methods Microbiota in vaginal swabs collected shortly before delivery from GBS positive women that received penicillin intravenously during labor or after premature rupture of membranes was compared to controls. Microbiota was analyzed by 16S rRNA sequencing using the PGM Ion Torrent to determine the effects of penicillin use during hospitalization and GBS status on its composition. Results Penicillin administration was associated with an altered vaginal microbial community composition characterized by increased microbial diversity. Lactobacillus sp. contributed only 13.1% of the total community in the women that received penicillin compared to 88.1% in the controls. Streptococcus sp. were present in higher abundance in GBS positive woman compared to controls, with 60% of the total vaginal microbiota in severe cases identified as Streptococcus sp. Conclusions Vaginal communities of healthy pregnant women were dominated by Lactobacillus sp. and contained low diversity, while Group B Streptococcus positive women receiving intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis had a modified vaginal microbiota composition with low abundance of Lactobacillus but higher microbial diversity. PMID:28178310

Triggered Urine Interleukin-6 Correlates to Severity of Symptoms in Nonfebrile Lower Urinary Tract Infections.

PubMed

Sundén, Fredrik; Butler, Daniel; Wullt, Björn

2017-07-01

Objective diagnosis of symptomatic urinary tract infections in patients prone to asymptomatic bacteriuria is compromised by local host responses that are already present and the positive urine culture. We investigated interleukin-6 as a biomarker for nonfebrile urinary tract infection severity and diagnostic thresholds for interleukin-6 and 8, and neutrophils to differentiate between asymptomatic bacteriuria and urinary tract infection. Patients with residual urine and neurogenic bladders due to spinal lesions included in a long-term Escherichia coli 83972 asymptomatic bacteriuria inoculation trial were monitored for 2 years. Symptom scoring and urine sampling to estimate interleukin-6 and 8, and neutrophils were performed regularly monthly and at urinary tract infection episodes. Patients were followed in the complete study for a mean of 19 months (range 10 to 27) and those with asymptomatic bacteriuria with E. coli 83972 were followed a mean of 11 months (range 4 to 19). A total of 37 nonfebrile urinary tract infection episodes with complete data on interleukin-6 and 8, neutrophils and symptom scoring were documented. Interleukin-6 was the only marker that persistently increased during urinary tract infection compared to asymptomatic bacteriuria in pooled and paired intra-individual comparisons (p <0.05). Interleukin-6 above the threshold (greater than 25 ng/l) correlated to more severe urinary tract infection symptoms (p <0.05). The sensitivity and specificity of all biomarkers were poor/moderate when differentiating asymptomatic bacteriuria vs all urinary tract infection episodes. However, in urinary tract infections with worse symptoms interleukin-6 and neutrophils demonstrated equal good/excellent outcomes. Triggered interleukin-6 correlated to urinary tract infection symptom severity and demonstrated a promising differential diagnostic capacity to discriminate urinary tract infection from asymptomatic bacteriuria. Future studies should explore interleukin-6 as a biomarker of urinary tract infection severity and assess the treatment indication in nonfebrile urinary tract infections. Copyright © 2017 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

X-ray kinematics analysis of vaginal scent marking in female Syrian hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus)

PubMed Central

Been, Laura E.; Bauman, Jay M.; Petrulis, Aras; Chang, Young-Hui

2012-01-01

Vaginal marking is a stereotyped scent marking behavior in female Syrian hamsters used to attract male hamsters for mating. Although the modulation of vaginal marking by hormones and odors is well understood, the motor control of this proceptive reproductive behavior remains unknown. Therefore, we used x-ray videography to visualize individual bone movements during vaginal marking. Kinematic analyses revealed several consistent motor patterns of vaginal marking. Despite exhibiting a diversity of trial-to-trial non-marking behaviors (e.g. locomotor stepping), we found that lowering and raising the pelvis consistently corresponded with coordinated flexion and extension cycles of the hip, knee, and tail, suggesting that these movements are fundamental to vaginal marking behavior. Surprisingly, we observed only small changes in the angles of the pelvic and sacral regions, suggesting previous reports of pelvic rotation during vaginal marking may need to be reconsidered. From these kinematic data, we inferred that vaginal marking is primarily due to the actions of hip and knee extensor muscles of the trailing leg working against gravity to support the weight of the animal as it controls the descent of the pelvis to the ground. The cutaneous trunci muscle likely mediates the characteristic flexion of the tail. Interestingly, this tail movement occurred on the same time scale as the joint kinematics suggesting possible synergistic recruitment of these muscle groups. These data therefore provide new targets for future studies examining the peripheral control of female reproductive behaviors. PMID:22138441

Intra- and inter-rater reliability of digital image analysis for skin color measurement

PubMed Central

Sommers, Marilyn; Beacham, Barbara; Baker, Rachel; Fargo, Jamison

2013-01-01

Background We determined the intra- and inter-rater reliability of data from digital image color analysis between an expert and novice analyst. Methods Following training, the expert and novice independently analyzed 210 randomly ordered images. Both analysts used Adobe® Photoshop lasso or color sampler tools based on the type of image file. After color correction with Pictocolor® in camera software, they recorded L*a*b* (L*=light/dark; a*=red/green; b*=yellow/blue) color values for all skin sites. We computed intra-rater and inter-rater agreement within anatomical region, color value (L*, a*, b*), and technique (lasso, color sampler) using a series of one-way intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs). Results Results of ICCs for intra-rater agreement showed high levels of internal consistency reliability within each rater for the lasso technique (ICC ≥ 0.99) and somewhat lower, yet acceptable, level of agreement for the color sampler technique (ICC = 0.91 for expert, ICC = 0.81 for novice). Skin L*, skin b*, and labia L* values reached the highest level of agreement (ICC ≥ 0.92) and skin a*, labia b*, and vaginal wall b* were the lowest (ICC ≥ 0.64). Conclusion Data from novice analysts can achieve high levels of agreement with data from expert analysts with training and the use of a detailed, standard protocol. PMID:23551208

Intra- and inter-rater reliability of digital image analysis for skin color measurement.

PubMed

Sommers, Marilyn; Beacham, Barbara; Baker, Rachel; Fargo, Jamison

2013-11-01

We determined the intra- and inter-rater reliability of data from digital image color analysis between an expert and novice analyst. Following training, the expert and novice independently analyzed 210 randomly ordered images. Both analysts used Adobe(®) Photoshop lasso or color sampler tools based on the type of image file. After color correction with Pictocolor(®) in camera software, they recorded L*a*b* (L*=light/dark; a*=red/green; b*=yellow/blue) color values for all skin sites. We computed intra-rater and inter-rater agreement within anatomical region, color value (L*, a*, b*), and technique (lasso, color sampler) using a series of one-way intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs). Results of ICCs for intra-rater agreement showed high levels of internal consistency reliability within each rater for the lasso technique (ICC ≥ 0.99) and somewhat lower, yet acceptable, level of agreement for the color sampler technique (ICC = 0.91 for expert, ICC = 0.81 for novice). Skin L*, skin b*, and labia L* values reached the highest level of agreement (ICC ≥ 0.92) and skin a*, labia b*, and vaginal wall b* were the lowest (ICC ≥ 0.64). Data from novice analysts can achieve high levels of agreement with data from expert analysts with training and the use of a detailed, standard protocol. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Assessment of female sexual function among women with pelvic organ prolapse or urinary incontinence via an Arabic validated short-form sexual questionnaire.

PubMed

Shaaban, Mohamed M; Abdelwahab, Hassan A; Ahmed, Magdy R; Shalaby, Essam

2014-01-01

To assess female sexual function among women with pelvic organ prolapse or urinary incontinence via an Arabic, validated, short-form sexual questionnaire (PISQ-12). The present study was conducted among women attending Suez Canal University Hospital, Ismailia, Egypt, between September 2009 and August 2011. In the pilot study, 42 women completed the final version of the Arabic PISQ-12 at recruitment and then 2 weeks later, and the data were compared to evaluate reliability and internal consistency. The formal comparative study included 154 premenopausal sexually active women: 80 control women, and 74 women with some degree of pelvic prolapse with or without stress incontinence. All participants had a vaginal examination and completed the questionnaire. The main outcome measures were the mean questionnaire scores within its 3 domains (behavioral, physical, and partner-related). The test-retest reliability and internal consistency of the Arabic PISQ-12 were excellent. Validity was approved by an expert panel. The case group had a significantly lower mean total questionnaire score (31.07 ± 4.2 vs 34.7 ± 6.2; P<0.05) but a higher partner-related score (9.0 ± 2.4 vs 8.4 ± 2.5; P<0.05). The Arabic version of PISQ-12 was shown to be an effective and objective method of evaluating sexual function among patients with pelvic organ prolapse. © 2013.

Progesterone for Luteal Phase Support in In Vitro Fertilization: Comparison of Vaginal and Rectal Pessaries to Vaginal Capsules: A Randomized Controlled Study

PubMed Central

Khrouf, Mohamed; Slimani, Soufiene; Khrouf, Myriam Razgallah; Braham, Marouen; Bouyahia, Maha; Berjeb, Khadija Kacem; Chaabane, Hanene Elloumi; Merdassi, Ghaya; Kaffel, Aida Zahaf; Zhioua, Amel; Zhioua, Fethi

2016-01-01

BACKGROUND In IVF, Luteal phase support is usually performed using vaginal progesterone. A part of patients using this route reports being uncomfortable with this route. We tried to study whether the rectal route could be an effective alternative and associated with less discomfort. PATIENTS AND METHODS A prospective randomized controlled study. All patient were eligible for IVF treatment for infertility. After oocyte pickup, 186 patients were allocated to one the following protocols for luteal phase support: (i) rectal pessaries group: natural progesterone pessaries administered rectally 200 mg three times a day, (ii) vaginal pessaries group: natural progesterone pessaries administered vaginally 200 mg three times a day), and (iii) vaginal capsules group: natural micronized progesterone capsules administered vaginally 200 mg three times a day. On the day of pregnancy test, patients were asked to fill in a questionnaire conducted by an investigator in order to assess the tolerability and side effects of the LPS treatment taken. The primary endpoint was the occurrence of perineal irritation. RESULTS Fifty eight patients were assigned to the rectal pessaries group, 68 patients to the vaginal pessaries group, and 60 patients to the vaginal capsules group. All patients adhered to their allocated treatment. Implantation and clinical pregnancy rates per transfer did not differ between the three groups. Perineal irritation, which was our primary endpoint, was the same for all the three groups (respectively 1.7 % versus 5.9 % versus 11.7%). Regarding the other side effects, more patients experienced constipation and flatulence with the rectal route, whereas more patients reported vaginal discharge in the vaginal capsules group. CONCLUSION Rectal administration for luteal phase support is effective and well accepted alternative to vaginal route. PMID:28096703

Progesterone for Luteal Phase Support in In Vitro Fertilization: Comparison of Vaginal and Rectal Pessaries to Vaginal Capsules: A Randomized Controlled Study.

PubMed

Khrouf, Mohamed; Slimani, Soufiene; Khrouf, Myriam Razgallah; Braham, Marouen; Bouyahia, Maha; Berjeb, Khadija Kacem; Chaabane, Hanene Elloumi; Merdassi, Ghaya; Kaffel, Aida Zahaf; Zhioua, Amel; Zhioua, Fethi

2016-01-01

In IVF, Luteal phase support is usually performed using vaginal progesterone. A part of patients using this route reports being uncomfortable with this route. We tried to study whether the rectal route could be an effective alternative and associated with less discomfort. A prospective randomized controlled study. All patient were eligible for IVF treatment for infertility. After oocyte pickup, 186 patients were allocated to one the following protocols for luteal phase support: (i) rectal pessaries group: natural progesterone pessaries administered rectally 200 mg three times a day, (ii) vaginal pessaries group: natural progesterone pessaries administered vaginally 200 mg three times a day), and (iii) vaginal capsules group: natural micronized progesterone capsules administered vaginally 200 mg three times a day. On the day of pregnancy test, patients were asked to fill in a questionnaire conducted by an investigator in order to assess the tolerability and side effects of the LPS treatment taken. The primary endpoint was the occurrence of perineal irritation. Fifty eight patients were assigned to the rectal pessaries group, 68 patients to the vaginal pessaries group, and 60 patients to the vaginal capsules group. All patients adhered to their allocated treatment. Implantation and clinical pregnancy rates per transfer did not differ between the three groups. Perineal irritation, which was our primary endpoint, was the same for all the three groups (respectively 1.7 % versus 5.9 % versus 11.7%). Regarding the other side effects, more patients experienced constipation and flatulence with the rectal route, whereas more patients reported vaginal discharge in the vaginal capsules group. Rectal administration for luteal phase support is effective and well accepted alternative to vaginal route.

Effects of sea buckthorn oil intake on vaginal atrophy in postmenopausal women: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.

PubMed

Larmo, Petra S; Yang, Baoru; Hyssälä, Juha; Kallio, Heikki P; Erkkola, Risto

2014-11-01

Vaginal atrophy, the thinning and drying of vaginal mucosa, is associated with menopause. The standard estrogen treatment is not suitable for all women. To investigate the effects of oral sea buckthorn (SB) oil supplementation on vaginal atrophy. A total of 116 postmenopausal women experiencing symptoms of vaginal dryness, itching or burning were randomized to this placebo-controlled, double-blind study. Ninety-eight participants completed the intervention of three months, during which they consumed 3g of SB or placebo oil daily. At the beginning and end, factors of vaginal health were scored by a gynecologist, vaginal pH and moisture were measured and vaginal health index was calculated. Symptoms of atrophy and menopause were evaluated at study visits and by daily logbooks. Serum samples were collected for the analysis of circulating lipids, liver enzymes and C-reactive protein. Compared to placebo, there was a significantly better rate of improvement in the integrity of vaginal epithelium in the SB group when both compliant and noncompliant participants were included (odds ratio (OR)=3.1, 95% CI 1.11-8.95). A beneficial trend was observed when only the compliant participants were included (OR=2.9; 95% CI 0.99-8.35). There was a tendency (P=0.08) toward better improvement of vaginal health index from baseline to the end in the SB group [(0.8 (SD 2.8)] compared to placebo [-0.1 (SD 2.0)]. SB oil showed beneficial effects on vaginal health, indicating it is a potential alternative for mucosal integrity for those women not able to use estrogen treatment for vaginal atrophy. Copyright © 2014 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Pelvic floor muscle training added to another active treatment versus the same active treatment alone for urinary incontinence in women.

PubMed

Ayeleke, Reuben Olugbenga; Hay-Smith, E Jean C; Omar, Muhammad Imran

2015-11-03

Pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) is a first-line conservative treatment for urinary incontinence in women. Other active treatments include: physical therapies (e.g. vaginal cones); behavioural therapies (e.g. bladder training); electrical or magnetic stimulation; mechanical devices (e.g. continence pessaries); drug therapies (e.g. anticholinergics (solifenacin, oxybutynin, etc.) and duloxetine); and surgical interventions including sling procedures and colposuspension. This systematic review evaluated the effects of adding PFMT to any other active treatment for urinary incontinence in women To compare the effects of pelvic floor muscle training combined with another active treatment versus the same active treatment alone in the management of women with urinary incontinence. We searched the Cochrane Incontinence Group Specialised Register, which contains trials identified from the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, MEDLINE in process, ClinicalTrials.gov, WHO ICTRP and handsearching of journals and conference proceedings (searched 5 May 2015), and CINAHL (January 1982 to 6 May 2015), and the reference lists of relevant articles. We included randomised or quasi-randomised trials with two or more arms, of women with clinical or urodynamic evidence of stress urinary incontinence, urgency urinary incontinence or mixed urinary incontinence. One arm of the trial included PFMT added to another active treatment; the other arm included the same active treatment alone. Two review authors independently assessed trials for eligibility and methodological quality and resolved any disagreement by discussion or consultation with a third party. We extracted and processed data in accordance with the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. Other potential sources of bias we incorporated into the 'Risk of bias' tables were ethical approval, conflict of interest and funding source. Thirteen trials met the inclusion criteria, comprising women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI), urgency urinary incontinence (UUI) or mixed urinary incontinence (MUI); they compared PFMT added to another active treatment (585 women) with the same active treatment alone (579 women). The pre-specified comparisons were reported by single trials, except bladder training, which was reported by two trials, and electrical stimulation, which was reported by three trials. However, only two of the three trials reporting electrical stimulation could be pooled, as one of the trials did not report any relevant data. We considered the included trials to be at unclear risk of bias for most of the domains, predominantly due to the lack of adequate information in a number of trials. This affected our rating of the quality of evidence. The majority of the trials did not report the primary outcomes specified in the review (cure or improvement, quality of life) or measured the outcomes in different ways. Effect estimates from small, single trials across a number of comparisons were indeterminate for key outcomes relating to symptoms, and we rated the quality of evidence, using the GRADE approach, as either low or very low. More women reported cure or improvement of incontinence in two trials comparing PFMT added to electrical stimulation to electrical stimulation alone, in women with SUI, but this was not statistically significant (9/26 (35%) versus 5/30 (17%); risk ratio (RR) 2.06, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.79 to 5.38). We judged the quality of the evidence to be very low. There was moderate-quality evidence from a single trial investigating women with SUI, UUI or MUI that a higher proportion of women who received a combination of PFMT and heat and steam generating sheet reported a cure compared to those who received the sheet alone: 19/37 (51%) versus 8/37 (22%) with a RR of 2.38, 95% CI 1.19 to 4.73). More women reported cure or improvement of incontinence in another trial comparing PFMT added to vaginal cones to vaginal cones alone, but this was not statistically significant (14/15 (93%) versus 14/19 (75%); RR 1.27, 95% CI 0.94 to 1.71). We judged the quality of the evidence to be very low. Only one trial evaluating PFMT when added to drug therapy provided information about adverse events (RR 0.84, 95% CI 0.45 to 1.60; very low-quality evidence).With regard to condition-specific quality of life, there were no statistically significant differences between women (with SUI, UUI or MUI) who received PFMT added to bladder training and those who received bladder training alone at three months after treatment, on either the Incontinence Impact Questionnaire-Revised scale (mean difference (MD) -5.90, 95% CI -35.53 to 23.73) or on the Urogenital Distress Inventory scale (MD -18.90, 95% CI -37.92 to 0.12). A similar pattern of results was observed between women with SUI who received PFMT plus either a continence pessary or duloxetine and those who received the continence pessary or duloxetine alone. In all these comparisons, the quality of the evidence for the reported critical outcomes ranged from moderate to very low. This systematic review found insufficient evidence to state whether or not there were additional effects by adding PFMT to other active treatments when compared with the same active treatment alone for urinary incontinence (SUI, UUI or MUI) in women. These results should be interpreted with caution as most of the comparisons were investigated in small, single trials. None of the trials in this review were large enough to provide reliable evidence. Also, none of the included trials reported data on adverse events associated with the PFMT regimen, thereby making it very difficult to evaluate the safety of PFMT.

Anogenital warts and other HPV-associated anogenital lesions in the HIV-positive patient: a systematic review and meta-analysis of the efficacy and safety of interventions assessed in controlled clinical trials.

PubMed

Werner, Ricardo Niklas; Westfechtel, Lukas; Dressler, Corinna; Nast, Alexander

2017-12-01

Anogenital warts (AGW, condylomata acuminata) and intraepithelial neoplasia (IEN) do not only impact health and social well-being, they are also associated with considerable costs for the healthcare systems. Immunocompromised and HIV-positive patients carry the highest epidemiological burden of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and comprise a population specifically susceptible to treatment failures and recurrences. This systematic review aimed at identifying and appraising the available evidence from controlled studies of interventions for the treatment of AGW and IEN in immunocompromised patients. We conducted a comprehensive literature search. The Cochrane Collaboration's tool was used to assess risk of bias in included studies. Our confidence in the (pooled) effect-estimates was evaluated according to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach. All evaluations were based on data independently extracted by two review authors. Nine randomised controlled trials and two controlled studies were eligible, investigating external AGW, intra-anal and/or vaginal warts, and intra-anal and/or perianal IEN. The identified studies assessed imiquimod, cidofovir, fluorouracil, electrocautery, systemic interferon-α and interferon-β, and the combination of intralesional interferon-α and podophyllin. Four studies combined an ablational intervention with either imiquimod, cidofovir, intralesional or systemic interferon-α. One study investigated an experimental therapeutic vaccination (HPV 16 E7) at different concentrations. The quality of the evidence ranged from 'very low' to 'moderate' and was limited by the often small samples. Evidence was available for the efficacy of electrocautery for intra-anal IEN, and imiquimod cream for external AGW. Some further interventions should be subjected to investigations in larger samples. No data on some interventions established for the treatment of AGW in immunocompetent patients such as podophyllotoxin, sinecatechins, laser ablation or trichloroacetate were available. Future trials should address these gaps and include relevant patient-reported outcomes such as health-related quality of life. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

The management of mixed urinary incontinence in women.

PubMed

Welk, Blayne; Baverstock, Richard J

2017-06-01

Mixed urinary incontinence is a common diagnosis among women with urinary leakage and is often present in women who are unable to characterize their incontinence. Research and optimized clinical treatment of these patients is limited by the challenges in objectively defining and stratifying this population. The evaluation of these patients should follow the same general principles as any assessment of any women with incontinence; however, it is essential to define whether urge or stress incontinence is the predominant symptom. Urodynamics (UDS) may be helpful in this regard and may help predict surgical outcomes. Behavioural therapy, weight loss, and pelvic floor muscle therapy are usually appropriate initial management strategies. In postmenopausal women, vaginal estrogen can be considered, and in women with equal parts stress and urge incontinence or urge-predominant mixed incontinence, a trial of anticholinergics or beta-3 agonists is appropriate. In women with stress-predominant or equal parts stress and urge incontinence, stress incontinence surgery can be considered, with the caveat that outcomes are generally worse among women with more severe levels of urgency, success rates may not be as durable, and a significant proportion of women may need additional medical therapy.

Diagnosis and treatment of ectopic pregnancy.

PubMed

Epee-Bekima, Mathias; Overton, Caroline

2013-03-01

The most common site of localisation of an ectopic pregnancy is the fallopian tube. Rarely an ectopic pregnancy can be found in the ovary, a caesarean section scar, the abdomen or the cervix. Risk factors are previous ectopic pregnancy, PID, endometriosis, previous pelvic surgery, the presence of a coil and infertility. However, a third of women with an ectopic pregnancy have no known risk factors. NICE recommends a low threshold for offering a pregnancy test to women of childbearing age when they attend the surgery. Symptoms and signs appear when the tube starts to tear. When the tube ruptures, the woman will quickly become unwell and haemodynamically unstable because of rapid intra-abdominal blood loss. The most common symptoms of ectopic pregnancy are pelvic or abdominal pain, amenorrhoea, missed period or abnormal period and vaginal bleeding. A positive diagnosis of a urinary tract infection or gastroenteritis does not exclude an ectopic pregnancy. Signs of suspected ectopic pregnancy include pelvic, abdominal, adnexal or cervical motion tenderness, rebound tenderness and abdominal distension. Women who are haemodynamically unstable, or in whom there is significant concern about the degree of pain or bleeding, should be referred directly to A&E, irrespective of the result of the pregnancy test. Stable patients with bleeding who have pain or a pregnancy of six weeks gestation or more or a pregnancy of uncertain gestation should be referred immediately to an early pregnancy assessment (EPA) service, or out-of-hours gynaecology service if the EPA service is not available. Diagnosis is confirmed by transvaginal ultrasound scan to identify the location of the pregnancy.

Differential expression of lactic acid isomers, extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer, and matrix metalloproteinase-8 in vaginal fluid from women with vaginal disorders.

PubMed

Beghini, J; Linhares, I M; Giraldo, P C; Ledger, W J; Witkin, S S

2015-11-01

Do metabolites in vaginal samples vary between women with different vaginal disorders. Cross-sectional study. Campinas, Brazil. Seventy-seven women (39.9%) with no vaginal disorder, 52 women (26.9%) with vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), 43 women (22.3%) with bacterial vaginosis (BV), and 21 women (10.9%) with cytolytic vaginosis (CTV). Concentrations of D- and L-lactic acid, extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer (EMMPRIN), and matrix metalloproteinase-8 (MMP-8), and the influence of Candida albicans on EMMPRIN production by cultured vaginal epithelial cells, were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Associations were determined by the Mann-Whitney U-test and by Spearman's rank correlation test. Metabolite levels and their correlation with diagnoses. Vaginal concentrations of D- and L-lactic acid were reduced from control levels in BV (P < 0.0001); L-lactic acid levels were elevated in CTV (P = 0.0116). EMMPRIN and MMP-8 concentrations were elevated in VVC (P < 0.0001). EMMPRIN and L-lactic acid concentrations (P ≤ 0.008), but not EMMPRIN and D-lactic acid, were correlated in all groups. EMMPRIN also increased in proportion with the ratio of L- to D-lactic acid in controls and in women with BV (P ≤ 0.009). Concentrations of EMMPRIN and MMP-8 were correlated in controls and women with VVC (P ≤ 0.0002). Candida albicans induced EMMPRIN release from vaginal epithelial cells. Vaginal secretions from women with BV are deficient in D- and L-lactic acid, women with VVC have elevated EMMPRIN and MMP-8 levels, and women with CTV have elevated L-lactic acid levels. These deviations may contribute to the clinical signs, symptoms, and sequelae that are characteristic of these disorders. © 2014 Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.

Species-specific prevalence of vaginal candidiasis among patients with diabetes mellitus and its relation to their glycaemic status.

PubMed

Goswami, R; Dadhwal, V; Tejaswi, S; Datta, K; Paul, A; Haricharan, R N; Banerjee, U; Kochupillai, N P

2000-09-01

Non- C. albicans Candida species are increasingly being recognized as the cause of vulvo-vaginal candidiasis. These species are often less susceptible to antifungal agents. Patients with diabetes mellitus are at risk for vulvo-vaginal candidasis. We assessed the species-specific prevalence rate and risk of candidiasis in patients with diabetes mellitus and healthy controls. Genital tract examination, direct microscopy and fungal cultures of discharge collected by high vaginal swab were undertaken among 78 consecutive patients with diabetes mellitus (mean (+/-sd) age 32+/-12 years and body mass index (BMI) 22.3+/-5.5kg/m(2)) and 88 age- and BMI-matched healthy females. Glycaemic control in the diabetic cohort was assessed by measuring total glycosylated haemoglobin. Candida species were isolated in 36 of 78 (46%) subjects with diabetes mellitus and in 21 of 88 (23%) healthy subjects (Chi-squared 9.11, P=0.0025). The predominant Candida species isolated in diabetics with vulvo-vaginal candidiasis were Candida glabrata (39%), C. albicans (26%) and C. tropicalis (17%). In contrast, in the control group, C. albicans, C. glabrata and C. hemulonii comprised 30% each, with none having C. tropicalis infection (for C. tropicalis: diabetic vs. control; 17% vs. nil, P=0. 05). Among the diabetic group, subjects with vulvo-vaginal candidiasis had significantly higher mean HbA1 when compared to those who had no such infection (12.8+/-2.6% vs. 9.7+/-1.7% respectively, P=0.001). The overall accuracy of direct microscopy and clinical examination for predicting vulvo-vaginal candidiasis was only 77% and 51%, respectively, in the diabetic group, and 83% and 65% in the control group. Patients with diabetes mellitus had a high prevalence rate (46%) of vulvo-vaginal candidiasis with relative risk of 2.45. The non- C. albicans species such as C. glabrata and C. tropicalis were the predominant species isolated among them. There seems to be a significant link between hyperglycaemia and vulvo-vaginal candidiasis. Copyright 2000 The British Infection Society.

Characterisation of probiotic properties in human vaginal lactobacilli strains

PubMed Central

Hütt, Pirje; Lapp, Eleri; Štšepetova, Jelena; Smidt, Imbi; Taelma, Heleri; Borovkova, Natalja; Oopkaup, Helen; Ahelik, Ave; Rööp, Tiiu; Hoidmets, Dagmar; Samuel, Külli; Salumets, Andres; Mändar, Reet

2016-01-01

Background Vaginal lactobacilli offer protection against recurrent urinary infections, bacterial vaginosis, and vaginal candidiasis. Objective To characterise the isolated vaginal lactobacilli strains for their probiotic properties and to compare their probiotic potential. Methods The Lactobacillus strains were isolated from vaginal samples by conventional culturing and identified by sequencing of the 16S rDNA fragment. Several functional properties were detected (production of hydrogen peroxide and lactic acid; antagonistic activity against Escherichia coli, Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, and Gardnerella vaginalis; auto-aggregation and adhesiveness) as well as safety (haemolytic activity, antibiotic susceptibility, presence of transferrable resistance genes). Results A total of 135 vaginal lactobacilli strains of three species, Lactobacillus crispatus (56%), Lactobacillus jensenii (26%), and Lactobacillus gasseri (18%) were characterised using several functional and safety tests. Most of L. crispatus (89%) and L. jensenii (86%) strains produced H2O2. The best lactic acid producers were L. gasseri (18.2±2.2 mg/ml) compared to L. crispatus (15.6±2.8 mg/ml) and L. jensenii (11.6±2.6 mg/ml) (p<0.0001; p<0.0001, respectively). L. crispatus strains showed significantly higher anti-E. coli activity compared to L. jensenii. L. gasseri strains expressed significantly lower anticandidal activity compared to L. crispatus and L. jensenii (p<0.0001). There was no significant difference between the species in antagonistic activity against G. vaginalis. Nearly a third of the strains were able to auto-aggregate while all the tested strains showed a good ability to adhere to HeLa cells. None of the tested lactobacilli caused haemolysis. Although phenotypical resistance was not found to ampicillin, chloramphenicol, erythromycin, gentamycin, tetracycline, and vancomycin, the erm(B), tet(M), and tet(K) were detected in some strains. All strains were resistant to metronidazole, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, and kanamycin. Conclusions Our study revealed that the production of different antimicrobial metabolites is highly strain-specific and that the metabolites are not correlated with each other. L. crispatus displays better antagonistic activity against E. coli and Candida spp. than L. gasseri and L. jensenii; therefore; a potential probiotic candidate could be found among L. crispatus strains. PMID:27527701

Determination of Antibacterial and Technological Properties of Vaginal Lactobacilli for Their Potential Application in Dairy Products

PubMed Central

Siroli, Lorenzo; Patrignani, Francesca; Serrazanetti, Diana I.; Parolin, Carola; Ñahui Palomino, Rogers A.; Vitali, Beatrice; Lanciotti, Rosalba

2017-01-01

Functional foods could differently affect human health in relation to the gender. Recent studies have highlighted the anti-Candida and anti-Chlamydia activities of some Lactobacillus strains isolated from the vagina of healthy women. Considering these important beneficial activities on women's health, the preparation of functional food containing active vaginal lactobacilli can represent a great scientific challenge for the female gender. In this context, the aim of this work was to study some functional and technological properties of 17 vaginal strains belonging to the species Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus gasseri, and Lactobacillus vaginalis in the perspective to include them in dairy products. The antagonistic activities against the pathogenic and spoilage species associated to food products and against the principal etiological agents of the genitourinary tract infections were evaluated. Moreover, the vaginal lactobacilli were characterized for their antibiotic resistance, and for their fermentation kinetics and viability during the refrigerated storage in milk. Finally, the volatile molecule profiles of the obtained fermented milks were determined. The results showed that several strains, mainly belonging to the species Lactobacillus crispatus, exhibited a significant antagonistic activity against spoilage and pathogenic microorganisms of food interest, as well as against urogenital pathogens. All the vaginal lactobacilli showed antimicrobial activity against strains belonging to the foodborne pathogenic species Listeria monocytogenes, Listeria innocua, Eenterococcus faecalis and Escherichia coli. In addition, most of the Lactobacillus strains were active toward the main pathogens responsible of vaginal and urinary tract infections including Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecium, Gardnerella vaginalis, and Proteus mirabilis. The antimicrobial activity can be attributed to the high production of organic acids. The fermentation kinetics in milk indicated the unsuitability of these lactobacilli as fermentation starters for the industrial production of dairy products. However, some strains, belonging to the species Lactobacillus crispatus and Lactobacillus gasseri, maintained a high viability in pasteurized milk at 4°C for over a month, showing their potential application as adjunct cultures for the production of female gender foods. These data represent a first step for the set-up of a new functional dairy product, directed to the women well-being, contributing also to innovate the dairy sector. PMID:28223974

Vaginal douching and racial/ethnic disparities in phthalates exposures among reproductive-aged women: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2001-2004.

PubMed

Branch, Francesca; Woodruff, Tracey J; Mitro, Susanna D; Zota, Ami R

2015-07-15

Diethyl phthalate (DEP) and di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP) are industrial chemicals found in consumer products that may increase risk of adverse health effects. Although use of personal care/beauty products is known to contribute to phthalate exposure, no prior study has examined feminine hygiene products as a potential phthalate source. In this study, we evaluate whether vaginal douching and other feminine hygiene products increase exposure to phthalates among US reproductive-aged women. We conducted a cross-sectional study on 739 women (aged 20-49) from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2001-2004 to examine the association between self-reported use of feminine hygiene products (tampons, sanitary napkins, vaginal douches, feminine spray, feminine powder, and feminine wipes/towelettes) with urinary concentrations of monoethyl phthalate (MEP) and mono-n-butyl phthalate (MnBP), metabolites of DEP and DnBP, respectively. A greater proportion of black women than white and Mexican American women reported use of vaginal douches, feminine spray, feminine powder, and wipes/towelettes in the past month whereas white women were more likely than other racial/ethnic groups to report use of tampons (p < 0.05). Douching in the past month was associated with higher concentrations of MEP but not MnBP. No other feminine hygiene product was significantly associated with either MEP or MnBP. We observed a dose-response relationship between douching frequency and MEP concentrations (p(trend) < 0.0001); frequent users (≥2 times/month) had 152.2% (95% confidence intervals (CI): (68.2%, 278.3%)) higher MEP concentrations than non-users. We also examined whether vaginal douching mediates the relationship between race/ethnicity and phthalates exposures. Black women had 48.4% (95% CI: 16.8%, 88.6%; p = 0.0002) higher MEP levels than white women. Adjustment for douching attenuated this difference to 26.4% (95% CI:-0.9%, 61.2%; p = 0.06). Mediation effects of douching were statistically significant for black-white differences (z = 3.71, p < 0.001) but not for differences between Mexican Americans and whites (z = 1.80, p = 0.07). Vaginal douching may increase exposure to DEP and contribute to racial/ethnic disparities in DEP exposure. The presence of environmental chemicals in vaginal douches warrants further examination.

Pelvic fracture urethral injuries in girls.

PubMed

Podestá, M L; Jordan, G H

2001-05-01

Injuries to the female urethra associated with pelvic fracture are uncommon. They may vary from urethral contusion to partial or circumferential rupture. When disruption has occurred at the level of the proximal urethra, it is usually complete and often associated with vaginal laceration. We retrospectively reviewed the records of a series of girls with pelvic fracture urethral stricture and present surgical treatment to restore urethral continuity and the outcome. Between 1984 and 1997, 8 girls 4 to 16 years old (median age 9.6) with urethral injuries associated with pelvic fracture were treated at our institutions. Immediate therapy involved suprapubic cystostomy in 4 cases, urethral catheter alignment and simultaneous suprapubic cystostomy in 3, and primary suturing of the urethra, bladder neck and vagina in 1. Delayed 1-stage anastomotic repair was performed in 1 patient with urethral avulsion at the level of the bladder neck and in 5 with a proximal urethral distraction defect, while a neourethra was constructed from the anterior vaginal wall in a 2-stage procedure in 1 with mid urethral avulsion. Concomitant vaginal rupture in 7 cases was treated at delayed urethral reconstruction in 5 and by primary repair in 2. The surgical approach was retropubic in 3 cases, vaginal-retropubic in 1 and vaginal-transpubic in 4. Associated injuries included rectal injury in 3 girls and bladder neck laceration in 4. Overall postoperative followup was 6 months to 6.3 years (median 3 years). Urethral obliteration developed in all patients treated with suprapubic cystostomy and simultaneous urethral realignment. The stricture-free rate for 1-stage anastomotic repair and substitution urethroplasty was 100%. In 1 girl complete urinary incontinence developed, while another has mild stress incontinence. Retrospectively the 2 incontinent girls had had an associated bladder neck injury at the initial trauma. Two recurrent vaginal strictures were treated successfully with additional transpositions of lateral labial flaps. This study emphasizes that combined vaginal-partial transpubic access is a reliable approach for resolving complex obliterative urethral strictures and associated urethrovaginal fistulas or severe bladder neck damage after traumatic pelvic fracture injury in female pediatric patients. Although our experience with the initial management of these injuries is limited, we advocate early cystostomy drainage and deferred surgical reconstruction when life threatening clinical conditions are present or extensive traumatized tissue in the affected area precludes immediate ideal surgical repair.

Evaluation of Cytokines in Endocervical Secretion and Vaginal pH from Women with Bacterial Vaginosis or Human Papillomavirus

PubMed Central

Campos, Ana Claudia Camargo; Murta, Eddie Fernando Candido; Michelin, Márcia Antoniazi; Reis, Cleomenes

2012-01-01

Objective. To verify the relationship between vaginal pH and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and to measure cytokine levels in endocervical secretions of women with bacterial vaginosis (BV) or HPV. Methods. 173 women (16–48 years old) were enrolled and divided into groups: BV, HPV, and controls. Microbiological culture and vaginal pH were measured. HPV detect by PCR, and cytokines by ELISA (IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, TNF-α, and IFN-γ cytokines). Results. Of 173 women, 60 were control group (34.7%) and 113 were distributed in HPV (n=36, 20.8%), BV (n=36, 20.8%), vaginitis (n=30, 17.3%) and, BV and HPV-associated groups (n=11, 6.4%). Vaginal pH > 4.5 was related with HPV infection. IL-2 and IL-12 were increased in BV and HPV groups, and IL-6 (only BV group), compared to control group. IL-12 and IFN-γ were higher in HPV than BV group. Conclusion. The increase of vaginal pH was associated with HPV infection; BV and HPV groups had a Th1 cytokines immune response. PMID:22550593

Fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy boost for gynecologic tumors: An alternative to brachytherapy?

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Molla, Meritxell; Escude, Lluis D.; Nouet, Philippe

2005-05-01

Purpose: A brachytherapy (BT) boost to the vaginal vault is considered standard treatment for many endometrial or cervical cancers. We aimed to challenge this treatment standard by using stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) with a linac-based micromultileaf collimator technique. Methods and Materials: Since January 2002, 16 patients with either endometrial (9) or cervical (7) cancer have been treated with a final boost to the areas at higher risk for relapse. In 14 patients, the target volume included the vaginal vault, the upper vagina, the parametria, or (if not operated) the uterus (clinical target volume [CTV]). In 2 patients with local relapse, themore » CTV was the tumor in the vaginal stump. Margins of 6-10 mm were added to the CTV to define the planning target volume (PTV). Hypofractionated dynamic-arc or intensity-modulated radiotherapy techniques were used. Postoperative treatment was delivered in 12 patients (2 x 7 Gy to the PTV with a 4-7-day interval between fractions). In the 4 nonoperated patients, a dose of 4 Gy/fraction in 5 fractions with 2 to 3 days' interval was delivered. Patients were immobilized in a customized vacuum body cast and optimally repositioned with an infrared-guided system developed for extracranial SRT. To further optimize daily repositioning and target immobilization, an inflated rectal balloon was used during each treatment fraction. In 10 patients, CT resimulation was performed before the last boost fraction to assess for repositioning reproducibility via CT-to-CT registration and to estimate PTV safety margins around the CTV. Finally, a comparative treatment planning study between BT and SRT was performed in 2 patients with an operated endometrial Stage I cancer. Results: No patient developed severe acute urinary or low-intestinal toxicity. No patient developed urinary late effects (>6 months). One patient with a vaginal relapse previously irradiated to the pelvic region presented with Grade 3 rectal bleeding 18 months after retreatment. A second patient known to suffer from irritable bowel syndrome presented with Grade 1 abdominal pain after treatment. The estimated PTV margins around the CTV were 9-10 mm with infrared marker registration. External SRT succeeded in improving dose homogeneity to the PTV and in reducing the maximum dose to the rectum, when compared to BT. Conclusion: These results suggest that the use of external SRT to deliver a final boost to the areas at higher risk for relapse in endometrial or cervical cancer is feasible, well tolerated, and may well be considered an acceptable alternative to BT.« less

The Absence of N-Acetyl-D-glucosamine Causes Attenuation of Virulence of Candida albicans upon Interaction with Vaginal Epithelial Cells In Vitro

PubMed Central

Manczinger, Máté; Bocsik, Alexandra; Kocsis, Gabriella F.; Vörös, Andrea; Hegedűs, Zoltán; Marton, Annamária; Vízler, Csaba; Tubak, Vilmos; Deli, Mária; Kemény, Lajos; Nagy, István; Lakatos, Lóránt

2015-01-01

To better understand the molecular events underlying vulvovaginal candidiasis, we established an in vitro system. Immortalized vaginal epithelial cells were infected with live, yeast form C. albicans and C. albicans cultured in the same medium without vaginal epithelial cells were used as control. In both cases a yeast to hyphae transition was robustly induced. Whole transcriptome sequencing was used to identify specific gene expression changes in C. albicans. Numerous genes leading to a yeast to hyphae transition and hyphae specific genes were upregulated in the control hyphae and the hyphae in response to vaginal epithelial cells. Strikingly, the GlcNAc pathway was exclusively triggered by vaginal epithelial cells. Functional analysis in our in vitro system revealed that the GlcNAc biosynthesis is involved in the adherence to, and the ability to kill, vaginal epithelial cells in vitro, thus indicating the key role for this pathway in the virulence of C. albicans upon vulvovaginal candidiasis. PMID:26366412

Patterns of cetacean vaginal folds yield insights into functionality

PubMed Central

Orbach, Dara N.; Marshall, Christopher D.; Mesnick, Sarah L.; Würsig, Bernd

2017-01-01

Complex foldings of the vaginal wall are unique to some cetaceans and artiodactyls and are of unknown function(s). The patterns of vaginal length and cumulative vaginal fold length were assessed in relation to body length and to each other in a phylogenetic context to derive insights into functionality. The reproductive tracts of 59 female cetaceans (20 species, 6 families) were dissected. Phylogenetically-controlled reduced major axis regressions were used to establish a scaling trend for the female genitalia of cetaceans. An unparalleled level of vaginal diversity within a mammalian order was found. Vaginal folds varied in number and size across species, and vaginal fold length was positively allometric with body length. Vaginal length was not a significant predictor of vaginal fold length. Functional hypotheses regarding the role of vaginal folds and the potential selection pressures that could lead to evolution of these structures are discussed. Vaginal folds may present physical barriers, which obscure the pathway of seawater and/or sperm travelling through the vagina. This study contributes broad insights to the evolution of reproductive morphology and aquatic adaptations and lays the foundation for future functional morphology analyses. PMID:28362830

Transvaginal retropubic sling systems: efficacy and patient acceptability

PubMed Central

Moldovan, Christina P; Marinone, Michelle E; Staack, Andrea

2015-01-01

Stress urinary incontinence is a common, disabling, and costly medical problem that affects approximately 50% of women with urinary incontinence. Suburethral retropubic slings have been developed as a minimally invasive and effective surgical option, and they have been used as a first-line treatment for stress urinary incontinence since 1995. However, complications including vaginal extrusion, erosion, pain, bleeding, infections, lower urinary tract symptoms, urinary retention, and incontinence have been reported with use of the slings. Several companies manufacture sling kits, and the sling kits vary with regard to the composition of the mesh and introducer needle. The aim of this review was to determine which sling kit was most effective for patients, had minimal reported side effects, and was best accepted by patients and surgeons. In a review of the literature, it was found that a total of 38 studies were published between 1995 and 2014 that reported on eight tension-free retropubic sling kits: SPARC, RetroArc, Align, Advantage, Lynx, Desara, Supris, and Gynecare TVT. The Gynecare TVT was the most cited sling kit; the second most cited was the SPARC. This review provides a summary of the studies that have examined positive and negative outcomes of the retropubic tension-free suburethral sling procedure using various sling kits. Overall, the results of the literature review indicated that data from comparisons of the available sling kits are insufficient to make an evidenced-based recommendation. Therefore, the decision regarding which sling kit is appropriate to use in surgery is determined by the medical provider’s preference, training, and past experience, and not by the patient. PMID:25733928

Evaluation of cystoscopic-guided laser ablation of intramural ectopic ureters in female dogs.

PubMed

Berent, Allyson C; Weisse, Chick; Mayhew, Philipp D; Todd, Kimberly; Wright, Monika; Bagley, Demetrius

2012-03-15

To describe and evaluate the short- and long-term outcomes in female dogs after cystoscopic-guided laser ablation of ectopic ureters (CLA-EU). Prospective case series. 32 incontinent female dogs with intramural ectopic ureters. A diagnosis of intramural ectopic ureters was made via cystoscopy and fluoroscopy in all patients. Transurethral CLA-EU (via diode laser [n = 27] or Holmium:yttrium aluminum garnet laser [3]) was performed to relocate the ectopic ureteral orifice cranially into the urinary bladder. All vaginal anomalies were treated with the laser concurrently. Follow-up evaluation was standardized and included urinary continence scoring, serial bacteriologic culture of urine samples, and a follow-up cystoscopy 6 to 8 weeks after CLA-EU. Ectopic ureteral orifices of all dogs were initially located in the urethra. Eighteen of 30 dogs had bilateral ectopic ureters, and 12 had unilateral ectopic ureters. All dogs had other concurrent urinary anomalies. At the time of last follow-up (median, 2.7 years after CLA-EU, [range, 12 to 62 months]), 14 of 30 (47%) dogs did not require any additional treatments following CLA-EU to maintain urinary continence. For the 16 residually incontinent dogs, the addition of medical management, transurethral bulking-agent injection, or placement of a hydraulic occluder was effective in 3, 2, and 4 dogs, respectively, improving the overall urinary continence rate to 77% (23/30 dogs). One dog had evidence of polypoid cystitis at the neoureteral orifice 6 weeks after CLA-EU that was resolved at 3 months. CLA-EU provided an effective, safe, and minimally invasive alternative to surgery for intramural ectopic ureters in female dogs.

[Atypical urothelial cells (AUC): A Bethesda-derived wording applicable to urinary cytopathology].

PubMed

Piaton, Eric; Advenier, Anne-Sophie; Benaïm, Gilles; Petrucci, Myriam Decaussin; Lechevallier, Florence Mege; Ruffion, Alain

2011-02-01

To investigate (1) whether sparse nuclear atypias involving deep urothelial cells have a diagnostic or prognostic value in urinary cytology, and (2) whether the terms atypical urothelial cells "of undetermined significance" (AUC-US) or "cannot exclude high grade" (AUC-H) might be used to standardize urinary cytology reports. Atypical urothelial cells (AUC) were defined as deep cells with nuclear abnormalities (increased N/C ratio, eccentric nucleus, hyperchromatism and/or irregular shape) in small number not allowing their categorization as malignant, high grade. We studied 435 urinary samples from 126 patients with AUC at any step of their clinical history, followed up over a 10-year period (1999-2009). Every case was compared with histopathology within 6 months and to long term follow-up including cystoscopy and histopathology combined. A total of 183 AUC was recorded. AUC were associated with negative, benign or low grade histological results in 36 of 106 cases (33.9 %) within 6 months, but a high grade was simultaneously documented in 70 cases (66 %). AUC preceded high-grade lesions in 66 cases (36.1 % of all AUC) in a mean interval of 10.5±12.0 months. Overall, AUC were associated with or predictive of high-grade lesions in 135 cases (73.8 %). AUC have a diagnostic and prognostic value. Applying the terms AUC-US and AUC-H to urinary cytopathology reports would allow, as for the Bethesda system for cervical or vaginal cytologic diagnoses, better appreciation of the risk of progression to high grade tumours in cases with atypias. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

[The possibility of antepartal prevention of episiotomy and perineal tears during delivery].

PubMed

Bohatá, P; Dostálek, L

To determine the effect of antepartal methods on the prevention of birth injuries in primiparous women. Retrospective study. Nemocnice Český Krumlov, a.s. Between February 2014 and November 2015 were 315 primiparous women questioned after a vaginal delivery on the use of methods of birth injury prevention (vaginal dilatators EPI-NO and Aniball, perineal massage, natural methods - raspberry-leaf tea or linseed). Consecutively, the rates of intact perineum, perineal tears and episiotomies among respective methods were compared with the control group using no preventive method. The effects of the methods were tested on the occurrence of spontaneous or vaginal operative delivery. There was a significantly higher number of women with intact perineum after the use of vaginal dilatators (43.1% vs.14.1% in control group (p < 0.001). We also found a significant reduction of episiotomies in this group (29.3% vs. 57.7%, p < 0.001). There was no significant effect of perineal massage, raspberry-leaf tea or linseed on perineum injury prevention. A lower occurrence of vaginal operative delivery was also confirmed in the group of women using vaginal dilatators (p = 0.02). Significant benefit of the use of the antepartal vaginal dilatators in the reduction of birth injuries was shown as well as of the occurrence of vaginal operative delivery.

The TVT Worldwide Observational Registry for Long-Term Data: safety and efficacy of suburethral sling insertion approaches for stress urinary incontinence in women.

PubMed

Tincello, Douglas G; Botha, Theunis; Grier, Douglas; Jones, Peter; Subramanian, Dhinagar; Urquhart, Colin; Kirkemo, Aaron; Khandwala, Salil

2011-12-01

We examined the clinical effectiveness of a single incision sling in women with stress urinary incontinence and obtained comparative perioperative and postoperative data on retropubic and transobturator slings. Women who underwent a cough stress test were treated with surgery using a single incision, retropubic or obturator sling (Gynecare® TVT SECUR™, TVT™ or TVT Obturator System, respectively) with the choice of sling based on surgeon preference. Objective cure was assessed by the standing cough stress test at 1 year. Subjective outcomes were assessed by the Incontinence Quality of Life Questionnaire and EQ-5D™. Perioperative data and return to normal activity were recorded. Of the 1,398 women who underwent surgery there were postoperative data on 1,334, including 32.8%, 17.8% and 49.4% who received a tension free vaginal tape, obturator tension free vaginal tape and SECUR, respectively. After obturator tension free vaginal tape surgery fewer women had a positive cough stress test than after TVT and SECUR surgery (4 of 110 or 3.6% vs 24 of 187 or 12.8% and 59 of 374 or 15.8%, respectively). Incontinence Quality of Life Questionnaire effect size was 1.87, 1.42 and 1.56, respectively, indicating a large treatment effect. Using our Incontinence Quality of Life Questionnaire response definition 85.4%, 79.0% and 85.2% of the TVT, TVT outside-in obturator system and SECUR cohorts, respectively, were treatment responders (p = 0.11).The SECUR cohort had the shortest operative time, the lowest proportion of women who required an overnight stay and the most women who underwent surgery under local anesthesia. Median time to return to employment, housework, sex life and hobbies was most rapid for SECUR. This registry demonstrates the high effectiveness of all 3 approaches. The single incision sling appeared to have objective and subjective efficacy similar to that of the retropubic sling and it can be performed under local anesthesia in an office environment. Copyright © 2011 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Vaccination with the Secreted Glycoprotein G of Herpes Simplex Virus 2 Induces Protective Immunity after Genital Infection.

PubMed

Önnheim, Karin; Ekblad, Maria; Görander, Staffan; Bergström, Tomas; Liljeqvist, Jan-Åke

2016-04-22

Herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2) infects the genital mucosa and establishes a life-long infection in sensory ganglia. After primary infection HSV-2 may reactivate causing recurrent genital ulcerations. HSV-2 infection is prevalent, and globally more than 400 million individuals are infected. As clinical trials have failed to show protection against HSV-2 infection, new vaccine candidates are warranted. The secreted glycoprotein G (sgG-2) of HSV-2 was evaluated as a prophylactic vaccine in mice using two different immunization and adjuvant protocols. The protocol with three intramuscular immunizations combining sgG-2 with cytosine-phosphate-guanine dinucleotide (CpG) motifs and alum induced almost complete protection from genital and systemic disease after intra-vaginal challenge with HSV-2. Robust immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody titers were detected with no neutralization activity. Purified splenic CD4+ T cells proliferated and produced interferon-γ (IFN-γ) when re-stimulated with the antigen in vitro. sgG-2 + adjuvant intra-muscularly immunized mice showed a significant reduction of infectious HSV-2 and increased IFN-γ levels in vaginal washes. The HSV-2 DNA copy numbers were significantly reduced in dorsal root ganglia, spinal cord, and in serum at day six or day 21 post challenge. We show that a sgG-2 based vaccine is highly effective and can be considered as a novel candidate in the development of a prophylactic vaccine against HSV-2 infection.

Does the vaginal microbiota play a role in the development of cervical cancer?

PubMed Central

Kyrgiou, Maria; Mitra, Anita; Moscicki, Anna-Barbara

2016-01-01

Persistent infection with oncogenic Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is necessary but not sufficient for the development of cervical cancer. The factors promoting persistence as well those triggering carcinogenetic pathways are incompletely understood. Rapidly evolving evidence indicates that the vaginal microbiome (VM) may play a functional role (both protective and harmful) in the acquisition and persistence of HPV, and subsequent development of cervical cancer. The first studies examining the vaginal microbiome and the presence of an HPV infection using next generation sequencing techniques (NGS) identified higher microbial diversity in HPV-positive as opposed to HPV-negative women. Furthermore, there appears to be a temporal relationship between the VM and HPV infection in that specific community state types (CSTs) may be correlated with a higher chance of progression or regression of the infection. Studies describing the VM in women with pre-invasive disease (squamous intra-epithelial neoplasia – SIL) consistently demonstrate a dysbiosis in women with the more severe disease. Although it is plausible that the composition of the VM may influence the host innate immune response, susceptibility to infection and the development of cervical disease, the studies to date do not prove causality. Future studies should explore the causal link between the VM and the clinical outcome in longitudinal samples from existing biobanks. PMID:27477083

Use of Concomitant Stress Incontinence Surgery at Time of Pelvic Organ Prolapse Surgery Since Release of the 2011 Notification on Serious Complications Associated with Transvaginal Mesh.

PubMed

Drain, Alice; Khan, Aqsa; Ohmann, Erin L; Brucker, Benjamin M; Smilen, Scott; Rosenblum, Nirit; Nitti, Victor W

2017-04-01

There is controversy regarding the performance of concomitant anti-incontinence procedures at the time of pelvic organ prolapse repair. Data support improvement in stress urinary incontinence with a concomitant sling but increased adverse events. We assessed trends in preoperative stress urinary incontinence evaluation, concomitant anti-incontinence procedure at pelvic organ prolapse surgery and postoperative anti-incontinence procedures at our institution before and after the 2011 FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) Public Health Notification pertaining to vaginal mesh. We retrospectively reviewed the records of patients who underwent pelvic organ prolapse surgery from 2009 to 2015. Preoperative workup included assessment of subjective stress urinary incontinence and/or evaluation for leakage with reduction of pelvic organ prolapse on physical examination, urodynamics or a pessary trial. The percentages of concomitant and postoperative anti-incontinence procedures were compared before and after the 2011 FDA notification. A total of 775 women underwent pelvic organ prolapse repair. The percentage of anti-incontinence procedures at pelvic organ prolapse repair decreased from 54.8% to 38.0% after the FDA notification (p = 0.002) while the incidence of preoperative objective stress urinary incontinence on examination, urodynamics and pessary trials remained constant. The incidence of postoperative anti-incontinence procedures within 1 year of the index surgery remained low. We found a decrease in the incidence of concomitant anti-incontinence procedures at the time of pelvic organ prolapse repair following the 2011 FDA notification despite no significant decline in subjective stress urinary incontinence or demonstrable stress urinary incontinence on preoperative evaluation. Further analysis is warranted to assess the impact of the FDA notification on treatment patterns in women with pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence. Copyright © 2017 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Association of high-risk sexual behaviour with diversity of the vaginal microbiota and abundance of Lactobacillus

PubMed Central

Wessels, Jocelyn M.; Lajoie, Julie; Vitali, Danielle; Omollo, Kenneth; Kimani, Joshua; Oyugi, Julius; Cheruiyot, Juliana; Kimani, Makubo; Mungai, John N.; Akolo, Maureen; Stearns, Jennifer C.; Surette, Michael G.; Fowke, Keith R.

2017-01-01

Objective To compare the vaginal microbiota of women engaged in high-risk sexual behaviour (sex work) with women who are not engaged in high-risk sexual behaviour. Diverse vaginal microbiota, low in Lactobacillus species, like those in bacterial vaginosis (BV), are associated with increased prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) acquisition. Although high-risk sexual behaviour increases risk for STIs, the vaginal microbiota of sex workers is understudied. Methods A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted comparing vaginal microbiota of women who are not engaged in sex work (non-sex worker controls, NSW, N = 19) and women engaged in sex work (female sex workers, FSW, N = 48), using Illumina sequencing (16S rRNA, V3 region). Results Bacterial richness and diversity were significantly less in controls, than FSW. Controls were more likely to have Lactobacillus as the most abundant genus (58% vs. 17%; P = 0.002) and composition of their vaginal microbiota differed from FSW (PERMANOVA, P = 0.001). Six microbiota clusters were detected, including a high diversity cluster with three sub-clusters, and 55% of women with low Nugent Scores fell within this cluster. High diversity was observed by 16S sequencing in FSW, regardless of Nugent Scores, suggesting that Nugent Score may not be capable of capturing the diversity present in the FSW vaginal microbiota. Conclusions High-risk sexual behaviour is associated with diversity of the vaginal microbiota and lack of Lactobacillus. These factors could contribute to increased risk of STIs and HIV in women engaged in high-risk sexual behaviour. PMID:29095928

Association of high-risk sexual behaviour with diversity of the vaginal microbiota and abundance of Lactobacillus.

PubMed

Wessels, Jocelyn M; Lajoie, Julie; Vitali, Danielle; Omollo, Kenneth; Kimani, Joshua; Oyugi, Julius; Cheruiyot, Juliana; Kimani, Makubo; Mungai, John N; Akolo, Maureen; Stearns, Jennifer C; Surette, Michael G; Fowke, Keith R; Kaushic, Charu

2017-01-01

To compare the vaginal microbiota of women engaged in high-risk sexual behaviour (sex work) with women who are not engaged in high-risk sexual behaviour. Diverse vaginal microbiota, low in Lactobacillus species, like those in bacterial vaginosis (BV), are associated with increased prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) acquisition. Although high-risk sexual behaviour increases risk for STIs, the vaginal microbiota of sex workers is understudied. A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted comparing vaginal microbiota of women who are not engaged in sex work (non-sex worker controls, NSW, N = 19) and women engaged in sex work (female sex workers, FSW, N = 48), using Illumina sequencing (16S rRNA, V3 region). Bacterial richness and diversity were significantly less in controls, than FSW. Controls were more likely to have Lactobacillus as the most abundant genus (58% vs. 17%; P = 0.002) and composition of their vaginal microbiota differed from FSW (PERMANOVA, P = 0.001). Six microbiota clusters were detected, including a high diversity cluster with three sub-clusters, and 55% of women with low Nugent Scores fell within this cluster. High diversity was observed by 16S sequencing in FSW, regardless of Nugent Scores, suggesting that Nugent Score may not be capable of capturing the diversity present in the FSW vaginal microbiota. High-risk sexual behaviour is associated with diversity of the vaginal microbiota and lack of Lactobacillus. These factors could contribute to increased risk of STIs and HIV in women engaged in high-risk sexual behaviour.

Different values of urinary fractionated metanephrines after unilateral adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma according to time intervals after surgery.

PubMed

Cho, Yoon Y; Kim, Young N; Kim, Jung-Han; Jeong, Byong C; Lee, Soo-Youn; Kim, Jae H

2017-01-01

Background After adrenalectomy, urinary fractionated metanephrine concentrations are expected to be reduced. However, there are few studies suggesting cut-offs for adrenalectomy patients. Methods Urinary metanephrine and normetanephrine concentrations in adrenalectomy patients and two controls were compared and hormonal concentrations were evaluated via time intervals after surgery. Results The median urinary metanephrine level after unilateral adrenalectomy was lower than that of the non-pheochromocytoma controls but comparable to healthy controls. Urinary normetanephrine concentrations did not differ between adrenalectomy patients and non-pheochromocytoma controls, although both group had levels higher than those of healthy controls. The median urinary normetanephrine level in the immediate postoperative period was higher than in the later period. Conclusions Urinary metanephrine concentrations were lower after adrenalectomy, but urinary normetanephrine concentrations were not changed compared with the non-pheochromocytoma controls. However, urinary normetanephrine concentrations in the patient group were higher than levels in the heathy controls.

Dietary supplementation with probiotics during late pregnancy: outcome on vaginal microbiota and cytokine secretion.

PubMed

Vitali, Beatrice; Cruciani, Federica; Baldassarre, Maria Elisabetta; Capursi, Teresa; Spisni, Enzo; Valerii, Maria Chiara; Candela, Marco; Turroni, Silvia; Brigidi, Patrizia

2012-10-18

The vaginal microbiota of healthy women consists of a wide variety of anaerobic and aerobic bacterial genera and species dominated by the genus Lactobacillus. The activity of lactobacilli helps to maintain the natural healthy balance of the vaginal microbiota. This role is particularly important during pregnancy because vaginal dismicrobism is one of the most important mechanisms for preterm birth and perinatal complications. In the present study, we characterized the impact of a dietary supplementation with the probiotic VSL#3, a mixture of Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium and Streptococcus strains, on the vaginal microbiota and immunological profiles of healthy women during late pregnancy. An association between the oral intake of the probiotic VSL#3 and changes in the composition of the vaginal microbiota of pregnant women was revealed by PCR-DGGE population profiling. Despite no significant changes were found in the amounts of the principal vaginal bacterial populations in women administered with VSL#3, qPCR results suggested a potential role of the probiotic product in counteracting the decrease of Bifidobacterium and the increase of Atopobium, that occurred in control women during late pregnancy. The modulation of the vaginal microbiota was associated with significant changes in some vaginal cytokines. In particular, the decrease of the anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-4 and IL-10 was observed only in control women but not in women supplemented with VSL#3. In addition, the probiotic consumption induced the decrease of the pro-inflammatory chemokine Eotaxin, suggesting a potential anti-inflammatory effect on the vaginal immunity. Dietary supplementation with the probiotic VSL#3 during the last trimester of pregnancy was associated to a modulation of the vaginal microbiota and cytokine secretion, with potential implications in preventing preterm birth. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01367470.

Cross-linked xenogenic collagen implantation in the sheep model for vaginal surgery.

PubMed

Endo, Masayuki; Urbankova, Iva; Vlacil, Jaromir; Sengupta, Siddarth; Deprest, Thomas; Klosterhalfen, Bernd; Feola, Andrew; Deprest, Jan

The properties of meshes used in reconstructive surgery affect the host response and biomechanical characteristics of the grafted tissue. Whereas durable synthetics induce a chronic inflammation, biological grafts are usually considered as more biocompatible. The location of implantation is another determinant of the host response: the vagina is a different environment with specific function and anatomy. Herein, we evaluated a cross-linked acellular collagen matrix (ACM), pretreated by the anti-calcification procedure ADAPT® in a sheep model for vaginal surgery. Ten sheep were implanted with a cross-linked ACM, and six controls were implanted with a polypropylene (PP; 56 g/m 2 ) control. One implant was inserted in the lower rectovaginal septum, and one was used for abdominal wall defect reconstruction. Grafts were removed after 180 days; all graft-related complications were recorded, and explants underwent bi-axial tensiometry and contractility testing. Half of ACM-implanted animals had palpable induration in the vaginal implantation area, two of these also on the abdominal implant. One animal had a vaginal exposure. Vaginal ACMs were 63 % less stiff compared to abdominal ACM explants ( p  = 0.01) but comparable to vaginal PP explants. Seven anterior vaginal ACM explants showed areas of graft degradation on histology. There was no overall difference in vaginal contractility. Considering histologic degradation in the anterior vaginal implant as representative for the host, posterior ACM explants of animals with degradation had a 60 % reduced contractility as compared to PP ( p  = 0.048). Three abdominal implants showed histologic degradation; those were more compliant than non-degraded implants. Vaginal implantation with ACM was associated with graft-related complications (GRCs) and biomechanical properties comparable to PP. Partially degraded ACM had a decreased vaginal contractility.

Risk of recurrence, subsequent mode of birth and morbidity for women who experienced severe perineal trauma in a first birth in New South Wales between 2000 –2008: a population based data linkage study

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Severe perineal trauma occurs in 0.5-10% of vaginal births and can result in significant morbidity including pain, dyspareunia and faecal incontinence. The aim of this study is to determine the risk of recurrence, subsequent mode of birth and morbidity for women who experienced severe perineal trauma during their first birth in New South Wales (NSW) between 2000 – 2008. Method All singleton births recorded in the NSW Midwives Data Collection between 2000–2008 (n=510,006) linked to Admitted Patient Data were analysed. Determination of morbidity was based upon readmission to hospital within a 12 month time period following birth for a surgical procedure falling within four categories: 1. Vaginal repair, 2. Fistula repair, 3. Faecal and urinary incontinence repair, and 4. Rectal/anal repair. Women who experienced severe perineal trauma during their first birth were compared to women who did not. Results 2,784 (1.6%) primiparous women experienced severe perineal trauma during this period. Primiparous women experiencing severe perineal trauma were less likely to have a subsequent birth (56% vs 53%) compared to those not who did not (OR 0.9; CI 0.81-0.99), however there was no difference in the subsequent rate of elective caesarean section (OR 1.2; 0.95-1.54), vaginal birth (including instrumental birth) (OR 1.0; CI 0.81-1.17) or normal vaginal birth (excluding instrumental birth) (OR 1.0; CI 0.85-1.17). Women were no more likely to have a severe perineal tear in the second birth if they experienced this in the first (OR 0.9; CI 0.67-1.34). Women who had a severe perineal tear in their first birth were significantly more likely to have an ‘associated surgical procedure’ within the ≤12 months following birth (vaginal repair following primary repair, rectal/anal repair following primary repair, fistula repair and urinary/faecal incontinence repair) (OR 7.6; CI 6.21-9.22). Women who gave birth in a private hospital compared to a public hospital were more likely to have an ‘associated surgical procedure’ in the 12 months following the birth (OR 1.8; CI 1.54-1.97), regardless of parity, birth type and perineal status. Conclusion Primiparous women who experience severe perineal trauma are less likely to have a subsequent baby, more likely to have a related surgical procedure in the 12 months following the birth and no more likely to have an operative birth or another severe perineal tear in a subsequent birth. Women giving birth in a private hospital are more likely to have an associated surgical procedure in the 12 months following birth. PMID:23565655

Does the Vaginal Flora Modify When a Synthetic Mesh is Used for Genital Prolapse Repair in Postmenopausal Women? A Pilot, Randomized Controlled Study.

PubMed

de Castro, Edilson Benedito; Brito, Luiz Gustavo Oliveria; Giraldo, Paulo César; Teatin Juliato, Cássia Raquel

2018-01-10

The vaginal flora from postmenopausal women with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is different from younger women. We hypothesized that the decision of a surgical route using a mesh would modify the vaginal flora. The purpose of this study was to analyze the vaginal flora from postmenopausal women that were submitted to abdominal sacrocervicopexy or vaginal sacrospinous fixation. A pilot, randomized controlled study with 50 women aged 55 to 75 years (n = 25; abdominal sacrocervicopexy + subtotal hysterectomy; n = 25 vaginal sacrospinous fixation + vaginal hysterectomy) was performed. A polyvinylidene mesh was used in both arms. The vaginal content analysis was collected before and 60 days after the surgery. The type of flora, the presence of lactobacilli/leukocytes, and the Nugent criteria were analyzed. Most of the women were white (80%), with at least 1 comorbidity (69.9%), did not present sexual activity (60%), and presented advanced stage 4 POP. Two thirds of women presented a type 3 flora, and half of them did not present lactobacilli (48.3%). About the Nugent criteria, 51.7% presented normal flora, 46.6% found altered flora, and 1.7% had bacterial vaginosis. There were no differences about the type of flora (P = 1), number of lactobacilli (P = 0.9187), Nugent criteria (P = 0.4235), inflammation (P = 0.1018), and bacterial vaginosis (P = 0.64) before and after surgery in both groups. In this pilot study, the use of synthetic mesh by vaginal or abdominal route did not affect the vaginal flora in postmenopausal women operated on by POP surgery.

Preoperative Belladonna and Opium Suppository for Ureteral Stent Pain: A Randomized, Double-blinded, Placebo-controlled Study

PubMed Central

Lee, Franklin C.; Holt, Sarah K.; Hsi, Ryan S.; Haynes, Brandon M.; Harper, Jonathan D.

2017-01-01

OBJECTIVE To investigate whether the use of a belladonna and opium (B&O) rectal suppository administered immediately before ureteroscopy (URS) and stent placement could reduce stent-related discomfort. METHODS A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study was performed from August 2013 to December 2014. Seventy-one subjects were enrolled and randomized to receive a B&O (15 mg/30 mg) or a placebo suppository after induction of general anesthesia immediately before URS and stent placement. Baseline urinary symptoms were assessed using the American Urological Association Symptom Score (AUASS). The Ureteral Stent Symptom Questionnaire and AUASS were completed on postoperative days (POD) 1, 3, and after stent removal. Analgesic use intra-operatively, in the recovery unit, and at home was recorded. RESULTS Of the 71 subjects, 65 had treatment for ureteral (41%) and renal (61%) calculi, 4 for renal urothelial carcinoma, and 2 were excluded for no stent placed. By POD3, the B&O group reported a higher mean global quality of life (QOL) score (P = .04), a better mean quality of work score (P = .05), and less pain with urination (P = .03). The B&O group reported an improved AUASS QOL when comparing POD1 with post-stent removal (P = .04). There was no difference in analgesic use among groups (P = .67). There were no episodes of urinary retention. Age was associated with unplanned emergency visits (P <.00) and “high-pain” measure (P = .02) CONCLUSION B&O suppository administered preoperatively improved QOL measures and reduced urinary-related pain after URS with stent. Younger age was associated with severe stent pain and unplanned hospital visits. PMID:27658661

Quantitative studies on the vaginal flora of asymptomatic women and patients with vaginitis and vaginosis.

PubMed

Hammann, R; Kronibus, A; Lang, N; Werner, H

1987-07-01

Vaginal washings of 22 patients with vaginitis, 11 with vaginosis, and 12 healthy subjects were investigated quantitatively and qualitatively for aerobic and anaerobic bacteria and yeasts. Gardnerella vaginalis was recovered from 9 of the vaginitis patients, 7 of the vaginosis patients, and 4 of the asymptomatic subjects. Obligate anaerobes were found in 11 of the vaginitis patients, 4 of the vaginosis patients, and none of the control subjects. Bacteroides bivius was the anaerobe most frequently isolated from symptomatic subjects. Anaerobic vibrios were recovered twice from symptomatic subjects. The counts for Gardnerella vaginalis and anaerobes when present were generally very high. The most frequent aerobes were beta-hemolytic streptococci (group B) and staphylococci.

Non-ablative hyperthermic mesenchymal regeneration: a proposed mechanism of action based on the Vivev model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vos, Jeffrey A.; Livengood, Ryan H.; Jessop, Morris; Coad, James E.

2011-03-01

Novel non-ablative hyperthermic medical devices are currently being developed, in association with cryogen surface cooling, to rejuvenate tissues without collagen scarring. These devices have been designed to remodel skin, manage urinary stress incontinence, and more recently, treat vaginal laxity. In contrast to the thermal injury and reparative healing associated with higher energy ablation systems, these lower energy non-ablative systems are designed to subtly modify the collagen, stimulate the fibroblasts, and maintain a functional tissue architecture that subsequently promotes tissue rejuvenation and restoration. While these devices have primarily relied on clinical outcome questionnaires and satisfaction surveys to establish efficacy, a physiologic explanation for the induced tissue changes and tightening has not been well documented. Recent histology studies, using the Viveve ovine vaginal treatment model, have identified changes that propose both a mechanism of action and a tissue remodeling timeline for such non-ablative hyperthermic devices. The Viveve model results are consistent with subtle connective tissue changes leading to fibroblast stimulation and subsequent collagen replacement and augmentation. Unlike tissue ablation devices that cause thermal necrosis, these non-ablative devices renew the targeted tissue without dense collagenous scarring over a period of 3 or more months. The spectrum of histologic findings, as illustrated in the Viveve ovine vaginal model, further support the previously documented safety and efficacy profiles for low-dose non-ablative hyperthermic devices that rejuvenate and tighten submucosal tissues.

Evaluation of the vaginal flora in pregnant women receiving opioid maintenance therapy: a matched case-control study.

PubMed

Farr, Alex; Kiss, Herbert; Hagmann, Michael; Holzer, Iris; Kueronya, Verena; Husslein, Peter W; Petricevic, Ljubomir

2016-08-05

Vaginal infections are a risk factor for preterm delivery. In this study, we sought to evaluate the vaginal flora of pregnant women receiving opioid maintenance therapy (OMT) in comparison to non-dependent, non-maintained controls. A total of 3763 women with singleton pregnancies who underwent routine screening for asymptomatic vaginal infections between 10 + 0 and 16 + 0 gestational weeks were examined. Vaginal smears were Gram-stained, and microscopically evaluated for bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis, and trichomoniasis. In a retrospective manner, data of 132 women receiving OMT (cases) were matched for age, ethnicity, parity, education, previous preterm delivery, and smoking status to the data of 3631 controls. The vaginal flora at antenatal screening served as the primary outcome measure. Secondary outcome measures were gestational age and birth weight. In the OMT group, 62/132 (47 %) pregnant women received methadone, 39/132 (29.5 %) buprenorphine, and 31/132 (23.5 %) slow-release oral morphine. Normal or intermediate flora was found in 72/132 OMT women (54.5 %) and 2865/3631 controls [78.9 %; OR 0.49 (95 % CI, 0.33-0.71); p < 0.001]. Candidiasis occurred more frequently in OMT women than in controls [OR 2.11 (95 % CI, 1.26-3.27); p < 0.001]. Findings were inconclusive regarding bacterial vaginosis (± candidiasis) and trichomoniasis. Compared to infants of the control group, those of women with OMT had a lower mean birth weight [MD -165.3 g (95 % CI, -283.6 to -46.9); p = 0.006]. Pregnant women with OMT are at risk for asymptomatic vaginal infections. As recurrent candidiasis is associated with preterm delivery, the vulnerability of this patient population should lead to consequent antenatal infection screening at early gestation.