Pelvic floor muscle function assessment by transabdominal ultrasound in men with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms.

Abstract

ABSTRACT Aim and Background The study aims to describe the pelvic floor muscle function (PFMF) in men with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS), measured by Transabdominal Ultrasound (TAUS) in Motion-mode (M-Mode). This non-invasive technique could be favorable to invasive anal techniques. Pathophysiology of LUTS is multifactorial; an association is hypothesized between severity of LUTS and PFMF. Methods A cross-sectional study in men with LUTS assessed PFMF by measuring displacement of the bladder base with TAUS in M-mode. International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) measured severity of LUTS. Results Mean PFM contraction in 26 elderly men was 6.2 mm (SD 3.12) and relaxation was 6.12 mm (SD 2.96). Correlation r between contraction and relaxation was 0.936, p = 0.000. Median IPSS was 14.5 points (IQR 9.5 - 21.0). Four participants were excluded because of incorrect performance of the test. Association between contraction and IPSS was not significant. Conclusion TAUS in M-mode is a quick and well-tolerated method in which 87% of men with moderate LUTS showed a measurable PFM contraction and an equally large relaxation. Association between pelvic floor muscle function and the severity of LUTS was not significant in this population of elderly men with moderate LUTS. Clinical Relevance TAUS can easily be used in men with LUTS as part of the assessment of PFMF and possibly for feedback, especially when more invasive methods are contraindicated. Results may also be applicable for defecation disorders with dysfunction of levator ani. Associations with symptoms should be investigated in larger studies with comorbidities included.