Physioterapeutical intervention in the post-operative McIndoe vaginoplasty in women with vaginal agenesy

• Grant number: 12/14277-1
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: November 01, 2012
• End date: April 30, 2015
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy
• Principal Investigator: Marair Gracio Ferreira Sartori
• Grantee: Marair Gracio Ferreira Sartori
• Host Institution: Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM). Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP). Campus São Paulo. São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated researchers: Christine Ploger ; Claudia Cristina Takano Novoa ; Liliana Stupp ; Vanessa Rodrigues Apfel

Abstract

Abnormalities in the development of the reproductive organs can cause congenital absence of the vagina, widely known as vaginal agenesis (Breech, Laufer, 2011). Surgical treatment aims the reconstruction and formation of a neovagina, allowing the patient to have satisfactory sexual intercourse. The pelvic floor muscles (PFM) has an important function on sexual activity. Physical therapy works directly in the rehabilitation of these muscles and several studies have shown improvement in sexual activity (Bo et al, 2000; Morkvedet al, 2007; Citak et al, 2010). However, no studies were found that included physical therapy in the treatment of these women. This study aims to evaluate the effects of physical therapy intervention before and after neovaginoplasty of McIndoe procedure in women with vaginal agenesis. It will include 25 women with vaginal agenesis who submit to physical therapy after neovaginoplasty. The evaluation of the MAP will consist of the following: 4D ultrasonography, dynamometry, surface electromyography and digital palpation. Moreover, it will assess the impact on quality of life (by Whoqol-bref questionnaire) and sexual function (by FSFI questionnaire). The physical therapy treatment will include 10 sessions of techniques of sensory integration and motor learning, followed by three months of home PFM training. At the end of treatment, the evaluation procedures will be reinvested and will be made up at 1, 3 and 6 months of physical therapy intervention. (AU)