Objective
To evaluate the influence of bladder neck opening on SUI, using validated questionnaires and functional ultrasound analysis, and to determine the effectiveness of therapy with functional magnetic stimulation (FMS) and radiofrequency in women with SUI.
This pilot study included 300 women with an average age of 47 years. The validated ICIQ-SF questionnaire was administered (Spanish version), and a functional translabial ultrasound (H.P Dietz measurements) evaluation was performed before treatment. Patients underwent 12 therapy sessions 2 times per week consisting of 20 minutes of intracavitary radiofrequency with a temperature sensor (41°C), followed by 28 minutes of 3 TESLA FMS using a specific SUI program two applicators simultaneously, one in the sacral area and the other on the pelvic floor. After the 12 sessions, patients were re-evaluated with questionnaires and functional ultrasound.
Significant improvements were observed in urinary incontinence parameters compared to baseline (p 0.05). The average ICIQ-SF score decreased from 15 to 5, reflecting a considerable improvement in patients’ quality of life. After 4 sessions, a significant improvement in voiding frequency and bladder satisfaction was observed (p 0.05). After the eighth session, the King’s Health Questionnaire results confirmed a clinically significant reduction in daily activity limitations. Incontinence severity scores, according to the Sandvik scale, decreased from 9 (high severity) to 2 (mild severity) after 12 treatment sessions. Additionally, the overall quality of life score improved significantly during the observation period (p = 0.00003).
Combined FMS and radiofrequency therapy significantly improved stress urinary incontinence and the quality of life in patients. Follow-up evaluations will be conducted at 6 months and 1 year to assess the long-term sustainability of the results.
This is a very exciting project in which we hope to inspire more physiotherapist colleagues to explore and adopt new technologies in clinical practice. We are focused on how we are working in Costa Rica to improve the quality of life for patients globally who suffer from urinary incontinence, a condition we consider a "silent pandemic." The results of this project could be applied to physiotherapy by offering innovative treatment approaches, improving condition management, and creating new educational opportunities for professionals. Additionally, this project could influence health policies by highlighting the importance of addressing this issue from an integral and technological perspective.
pelvic floor
technology
