Definition of normal female pelvic floor anatomy using ultrasonographic techniques.

Urogynecology deals with anatomic and physiologic defects of the female pelvic floor, including urinary and anal incontinence. Ultrasonographic investigation of the female pelvic floor may be helpful in diagnosis and management of both symptom complexes. To interpret pelvic floor ultrasound studies, normal parameters are necessary. Ten asymptomatic control subjects were studied for internal and external anal closing pressures, anal-rectal angles, puborectalis muscle movement, position of urethral egress, and amount and direction of urethrovesical junction mobility. Means and standard deviations for each parameter were obtained. Comparison to studies performed during the same time interval on patients symptomatic for urinary or anal incontinence is discussed.