Using transvaginal ultrasound to identify the pudendal nerve
Characterization of the Pudendal Nerve with Transvaginal Ultrasonography
This study is testing if using transvaginal ultrasound can help doctors see the pudendal nerve better to make nerve blocks more effective for patients having pelvic floor surgeries.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 24 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | University of Virginia Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | radiation |
| Locations | 1 site (Charlottesville, Virginia) |
| Trial ID | NCT06021782 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This feasibility study aims to determine if transvaginal ultrasonography can successfully visualize the pudendal nerve, which is crucial for performing pudendal nerve blocks. Currently, these blocks are often done using blind techniques, leading to variable success rates. The study will include patients scheduled for transvaginal ultrasound or pelvic floor surgeries at the University of Virginia. By utilizing existing ultrasound technology, the researchers hope to improve the accuracy and effectiveness of pudendal nerve blocks.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are English-speaking adults over 18 years old who are scheduled for transvaginal ultrasound or pelvic floor surgery.
Not a fit: Patients who refuse to participate or are not undergoing relevant procedures will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance the effectiveness of pudendal nerve blocks, leading to better pain management during obstetric and gynecological procedures.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been attempts to visualize the pudendal nerve using other methods, this specific approach with transvaginal ultrasound is novel and has not been previously tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Scheduled to undergo transvaginal ultrasound at the Fetal Care Center (FCC) or Gynecology clinic * Patients undergoing pelvic floor surgery at either the Main OR or outpatient surgery center at UVA will be included. This includes surgeries performed by surgeons in the Department of OBGYN, Division of Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, and includes surgeries for repair of prolapse, urinary incontinence, fistula, urethral diverticulum, or other pelvic floor issues. * \>18 years age * English-speaking Exclusion Criteria: • Refusal to participate
Where this trial is running
Charlottesville, Virginia
- University of Virginia — Charlottesville, Virginia, United States (Recruiting)
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.