Using the Brink score to predict postpartum anal incontinence.

Objective: To evaluate whether antepartum pelvic floor muscle strength, as measured by the Brink scale, predicts postpartum anal incontinence.

Study Design: This prospective cohort study of primigravid women used validated questionnaires and standardized pelvic examinations to evaluate subjects during the third trimester and at 2 postpartum time points.

Results: Of the initial 129 subjects, 102 and 81 completed 2 week and 6 month postpartum visits.

Anatomic outcomes of vaginal mesh procedure (Prolift) compared with uterosacral ligament suspension and abdominal sacrocolpopexy for pelvic organ prolapse: a Fellows' Pelvic Research Network study.

Objective: The objective of the study was to compare apical support anatomic outcomes following vaginal mesh procedure (VMP) (Prolift) to uterosacral ligament suspension (USLS) and abdominal sacrocolpopexy (ASC).

Study Design: This multicenter, retrospective chart review compared apical anatomic success (stage 0 or 1 based on point C or D of the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification), level of vaginal apex (point C or D) 3-6 months after prolapse repair at 10 US centers between 2004 and 2007.

Results: VMP, USLS, and ASC were performed for 206, 231, and 305 subjects respectively.