Pelvic floor muscle training in radical prostatectomy: a randomized controlled trial of the impacts on pelvic floor muscle function and urinary incontinence

BackgroundPelvic floor muscle training (PFM) training for post-prostatectomy incontinence (PPI) is an important rehabilitative approach, but the evidence base is still evolving. We developed a novel PFM training program focussed on activating fast and slow twitch muscle fibres. We hypothesized that this training, which commenced pre-operatively, would improve PFM function and reduce PPI, when compared to a control group.MethodsThis randomized trial allocated 97 men (637y, BMI=25.4, Gleason 7) undergoing radical prostatectomy (RP) to either a control group (n=47) performing low-volume rehabilitation, or an intervention group (n=50). Both interventions commenced 5weeks prior to surgery and continued for 12weeks post-RP. Participants were assessed pre-operatively and at 2, 6 and 12weeks post-RP using 24h pad weights, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite for Clinical Practice (EPIC-CP) and real time ultrasound (RTUS) measurements of PFM function.ResultsFollowing RP, participants in the control group demonstrated a slower return to continence and experienced significantly more leakage (p<0.05), measured by 24h pad weight, compared to the intervention group, suggesting an impact of the prehabilitation protocol. PFM function measures were enhanced following RP in the intervention group. Secondary measures (IPSS, EPIC-CP and RTUS PFM function tests) demonstrated improvement across all time points, with the intervention group displaying consistently lower "bothersome" scores.ConclusionsA pelvic floor muscle exercise program commenced prior to prostate surgery enhanced post-surgical measures of pelvic floor muscle function, reduced PPI and improved QoL outcomes related to incontinence.Trial registration The trial was registered in the Australia New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry and allocated as ACTRN12617001400358. The trial was registered on 4/10/2017 and this was a retrospective registration.