Perineal body anatomy in living women: 3-dimensional analysis using thin-slice magnetic resonance imaging.
OBJECTIVE
The objective of the study was to describe a framework for visualizing the perineal body's complex anatomy using thin-slice magnetic resonance (MR) imaging.


METHODS
Two millimeter thick MR images were acquired in 11 women with normal pelvic support and no incontinence/prolapse symptoms. Anatomic structures were analyzed in axial, sagittal, and coronal slices. Three-dimensional (3-D) models were generated from these images.


RESULTS
Three distinct perineal body regions are visible on MR imaging: (1) a superficial region at the level of the vestibular bulb, (2) a midregion at the proximal end of the superficial transverse perineal muscle, and (3) a deep region at the level of the midurethra and puborectalis muscle. Structures are best visualized on axial scans, whereas craniocaudal relationships are appreciated on sagittal scans. The 3-D model further clarifies interrelationships.


CONCLUSIONS
Advances in MR technology allow visualization of perineal body anatomy in living women and development of 3-D models that enhance our understanding of its 3 different regions: superficial, mid, and deep.
Pelvic Floor Research Group and Division of Gynecology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
Kindra A
KA
Larson
Aisha
A
Yousuf
Christina
C
Lewicky-Gaupp
Dee E
DE
Fenner
John O L
JO
DeLancey
D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional / Q000379:methods*; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D008875:Middle Aged; D017773:Pelvic Floor / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D010502:Perineum / Q000033:anatomy & histology*