Role of fibulin-5 insufficiency and prolapse progression on murine vaginal biomechanical function.

The vagina plays a critical role in supporting the pelvic organs and loss of support leads to pelvic organ prolapse. It is unknown what microstructural changes influence prolapse progression nor how decreased elastic fibers contributes to vaginal remodeling and smooth muscle contractility. The objective for this study was to evaluate the effect of fibulin-5 haploinsufficiency, and deficiency with progressive prolapse on the biaxial contractile and biomechanical function of the murine vagina.

Investigation of Murine Vaginal Creep Response to Altered Mechanical Loads.

The vagina is a viscoelastic fibromuscular organ that provides support to the pelvic organs. The viscoelastic properties of the vagina are understudied but may be critical for pelvic stability. Most studies evaluate vaginal viscoelasticity under a single uniaxial load; however, the vagina is subjected to dynamic multiaxial loading in the body.

Pelvic Organ Prolapse: A Review of In Vitro Testing of Pelvic Support Mechanisms.

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) affects a significant portion of the female population, impacting quality of life and often requiring intervention. The exact cause of prolapse is unknown. We review some of the current research that focuses on defining the elements involved in POP, with a focus on in vitro testing.

Botulinum Toxin A: A Review of Potential Uses in Treatment of Female Urogenital and Pelvic Floor Disorders.

Botulinum toxin is an injectable neuromodulator that inhibits transmission between peripheral nerve endings and muscle fibers, resulting in muscle paralysis. Botulinum toxin type A is the most common form of botulinum toxin used in clinical practice. In this review, we examine the mechanism of action, formulations, common clinical use in the genital-urinary tract, and potential clinical use in pelvic floor disorders of botulinum toxin type A.