Neuropelveology is an emerging medical discipline focused on the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the pelvic nervous system. Founded by Professor Marc Possover, this field aims to address the complexities of pelvic nerve pathologies, which have often been overlooked in traditional medical practices.
Key Aspects of Neuropelveology
- Focus on Pelvic Nerves: Neuropelveology investigates injuries and dysfunctions of pelvic nerves, which can lead to various symptoms, including chronic pelvic pain, urinary dysfunction, and sexual dysfunction. It encompasses a detailed understanding of neuroanatomy and the interplay between pelvic organ function and neurological health.
- Innovative Diagnostic Approach: The discipline employs a systematic approach to diagnosing pelvic pain, distinguishing between visceral and somatic pain. This involves a thorough patient history, neurological examinations, and potentially advanced imaging or nerve blocks to identify the specific nerves involved in a patient’s symptoms.
- Surgical and Non-Surgical Treatments: Neuropelveology not only focuses on nerve-sparing surgical techniques but also explores non-surgical treatments such as targeted physical therapy, nerve blocks, and neurostimulation methods. This comprehensive approach allows for tailored treatment plans based on the individual patient’s needs.
- Applications: Conditions that can benefit from neuropelveology include deeply infiltrative endometriosis, pelvic nerve injuries, and neuropathic pelvic pain syndromes. The field has developed innovative procedures, such as laparoscopic implantation of neuroprostheses for chronic pelvic pain that does not respond to conventional treatments.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Neuropelveology encourages collaboration across various medical specialties, including gynaecology, urology, and gastroenterology, to improve patient outcomes in managing chronic pelvic pain and related disorders.
Neuropelveology represents a significant advancement in understanding and treating pelvic nerve conditions, providing a framework for better diagnosis and management of complex pelvic pain syndromes.