Finite element modeling of maximum stress in pelvic floor structures during the head expulsion (FINESSE) study

Several studies have assessed birth-related deformations of the levator ani muscle (LAM) and perineum on models that depicted these elements in isolation. The main aim this study was to develop a complex female pelvic floor computational model using finite element method evaluate points timing maximum stress at LAM relation birth process. A three-dimensional created used simulate vaginal based data from previously described real-life MRI scans. We developed three models: (LAM without perineum); B (perineum LAM); C (a combined with both structures). achieved when vertex 9 cm below ischial spines measured 37.3 MPa 88.7 C. occurred time distension by suboocipito-frontal diameter reached 86.7 119.6 C, respectively, while posterior fourchette caused suboccipito-bregmatic 36.9 for 39.8 Including perineal structures simulation affects level LAM. seems occur head is lower than anticipated.