Pelvic organ prolapse refers to a pathological downward herniation of various pelvic organ structures into or through the perineum. It usually results from pelvic floor weakness by impairment of various ligaments, fasciae, and muscles that support the pelvic organs.
In its most severe form, it is termed procidentia 5.
The prolapse can include one or a combination of structures which comprise of:
urinary bladder - urinary bladder prolapse leading to a cystocele
-
bowel
small bowel - enterocele
Dynamic pelvic floor MRI and evacuation proctography can be used to evaluate pelvic organ prolapse, with the former enabling measurements to be made that can then allow grading of prolapse.
History and etymology
The word "prolapse" literally means 'fall out of place'.