ABSTRACT
The evaluation of pelvic floor disorders, including incontinence of urine or feces, pelvic organ prolapse, voiding dysfunction, pain syndromes, and sexual dysfunction, depends on a thorough history and detailed physical examination as well as accurate, objective information obtained by imaging of the pelvis and its contents. Historically, imaging techniques in both gynecology and urology have relied upon noninvasive modalities such as transabdominal and transvaginal ultrasound or more invasive modalities such as defecography, endoanal ultrasound, and cystography (Table 10.1). Each of these techniques boasts its diagnostic advantages; however, none provides comprehensive information about pelvic and vaginal organ anatomy as well as dynamic function of the pelvic floor. The development of functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) directed at pelvic organ anatomy, pelvic organ prolapse, and pelvic floor function as a dynamic modality has revolutionized the evaluation and objective quantification of female pelvic disorders. Functional cine-MRI has become a well-accepted method of imaging both pelvic contents and pelvic floor function.1 This chapter reviews the technique of functional pelvic MRI, indications for its use, current supporting literature, and future directions.
