Current Concepts in Evaluation and Testing of Posterior Pelvic Floor Disorders

The evaluation and testing of conditions attributed to the posterior compartment of the pelvic floor is an important component in the management of patients presenting with fecal incontinence, constipation, and anal pain. In recent years, numerous advances in radiological and physiological investigatory techniques have become available to the clinician. This can enable the underlying pathogenesis of the condition to be determined, which in turn can aid diagnosis and guide medical, behavioral, and surgical treatment. This review looks at current concepts and advances in the evaluation and testing of posterior pelvic floor disorders. (C) 2010 Published by Elsevier Inc.