title: Magnetic resonance imaging of pelvic floor dysfunction.
abstract: Pelvic floor dysfunction is largely a complex problem of multiparous and postmenopausal women and is associated with pelvic floor or organ descent. Physical examination can underestimate the extent of the dysfunction and misdiagnose the disorders. Functional magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is emerging as a promising tool to evaluate the dynamics of the pelvic floor and use for surgical triage and operative planning. This article reviews the anatomy and pathology of pelvic floor dysfunction, typical imaging findings, and the current role of functional MR imaging.
authors.affiliation: Department of Radiology, University of Washington, Box 359728, 325 9th Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104-2499, USA. Electronic address: neerajl@uw.edu.
authors.forename: Neeraj
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Lalwani
authors.forename: Mariam
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Moshiri
authors.forename: Jean H
authors.initials: JH
authors.lastname: Lee
authors.forename: Puneet
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Bhargava
authors.forename: Manjiri K
authors.initials: MK
authors.lastname: Dighe
mesh_terms: D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D017773:Pelvic Floor / Q000473:pathology*; D059952:Pelvic Floor Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis*
keywords: Anismus; Constipation; Cystocele; Descending perineal syndrome; Incontinence; MR defecography; Pelvic floor dysfunction; Rectocele