Quantifying Pelvic Floor Muscle Recovery After Robotic-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy: Insights from Electromyography and Perineometer Readings
Abstract:
Introduction: Robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (RRP) is an advanced treatment for localized prostate cancer, but postoperative urinary incontinence remains a concern, affecting quality of life. This study aims to objectively quantify pelvic floor muscle (PFM) recovery after RRP using electromyography (EMG) and perineometer measurements.
Materials and Methods: A prospective study was conducted on 48 men who underwent RRP between October 2022 and October 2023. Participants performed pelvic floor exercises pre- and post-surgery. EMG and perineometer assessments were taken preoperatively, at catheter removal, and three months postoperatively. Manual muscle testing (MMT) and statistical analysis, including Mc Nemar-Bowker and Friedman tests, were used to assess changes over time.
Results: At three months post-RRP, significant improvements (p<0.05) in MMT, perineometer quick contraction, contraction hold, and resting penile tone were observed. EMG revealed an initial decline in muscle activity, followed by a marked recovery at 3 months follow up. Significant decline in anal ring muscle activity were also noted.
Conclusion: EMG and perineometer readings demonstrated significant PFM recovery post-RRP, highlighting the effectiveness of pelvic floor exercises. Developing objective metrics for PFM recovery could improve postoperative care and guide rehabilitation protocols. Further research is necessary to validate these findings across larger cohorts.
