An international continence society (ICS) report on the terminology for female pelvic floor fistulas

Document Type

Article

Department

Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Abstract

Introduction: The terminology for female pelvic floor fistulas (PFF) needs to be defined and organized in a clinically based consensus Report.
Methods: This Report combines the input of members of the International Continence Society (ICS) assisted at intervals by external referees. Appropriate core clinical categories and a sub-classification were developed to give a coding to definitions. An extensive process of 19 rounds of internal and external review was involved to examine each definition, with decision-making by collective opinion (consensus).
Results: A terminology report for female PFF, encompassing 416 (188 NEW) separate definitions, has been developed. It is clinically based with the most common diagnoses defined. Clarity and user-friendliness have been key aims to make it interpretable by practitioners and trainees in different specialty groups involved in female pelvic floor dysfunction and PFF. Female-specific imaging (ultrasound, radiology, and magnetic resonance imaging) and conservative and surgical PFF managements as well as appropriate figures have been included to supplement and clarify the text. Interval (5-10 years) review is anticipated to keep the document updated and as widely acceptable as possible.
Conclusion: A consensus-based terminology report for female PFF has been produced to aid clinical practice and research.

Publication (Name of Journal)

Neurourology and Urodynamics

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