title: Translation of biomechanics research to urogynecology.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Pelvic floor (PF) dysfunctions represent a frequent and complex problem for women. The interaction between the vagina and its supportive structures, that are designed to support increases in abdominal pressure, can be considered a biomechanical system. Recent advances in imaging technology have improved the assessment of PF structures. The aim of this paper is to review the applications of biomechanics in urogynecology.
  
  
  METHODS
  The available literature on biomechanics research in urogynecology was reviewed.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Computational models have been demonstrated to be an effective tool to investigate the effects of vaginal delivery and PF dysfunctions. Biomechanical analysis of PF tissues provides a better understanding on PF dysfunctions etiology. These studies are also important for the development of synthetic prostheses utilized in PF surgery.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  An interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary collaborative research, involving bioengineers and clinicians, is crucial to improve clinical outcomes in patients with PF dysfunctions.
authors.affiliation: Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Avenida Professor Alfredo Balena 190, Santa Efigênia, Belo Horizonte, MG 30130-100, Brazil. agsilvaf@terra.com.br
authors.forename: Agnaldo Lopes
authors.initials: AL
authors.lastname: da Silva-Filho
authors.forename: Pedro A L S
authors.initials: PA
authors.lastname: Martins
authors.forename: Marco P
authors.initials: MP
authors.lastname: Parente
authors.forename: Cristina S
authors.initials: CS
authors.lastname: Saleme
authors.forename: Thuane
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Roza
authors.forename: Marcos
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Pinotti
authors.forename: Teresa
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Mascarenhas
authors.forename: Renato M
authors.initials: RM
authors.lastname: Natal Jorge
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D057005:Bioengineering; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D003198:Computer Simulation; D036861:Delivery, Obstetric / Q000009:adverse effects; D005260:Female; D006176:Gynecology; D006801:Humans; D008954:Models, Biological; D017773:Pelvic Floor / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000601:surgery*; D011247:Pregnancy; D019736:Prostheses and Implants; D051381:Rats; D057170:Translational Research, Biomedical; D014572:Urology; D014596:Uterine Prolapse / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery; D014621:Vagina / Q000503:physiopathology