Clinical prediction models for urinary incontinence

The pelvic floor is involved in urinary and fecal continence, support of the pelvic organs, sensory function of the pelvic organs and lower urinary tract, and sexual function in men and women. The present approach of pelvic floor dysfunction by the general practitioner or multidisciplinary hospital team strongly depends on the knowledge and preference of participating caregivers. This may result in suboptimal biased treatment. In order to improve treatment and to support physicians to make the suitable choice of treatment an objective multivariable prediction model can be of aid. For this purpose we are developing a multivariable prediction model for the diagnosis and the outcome probability of pelvic floor dysfunction treatments, the Rotterdam Pelvic Floor Outcome Calculator or the PREFOCUS. Furthermore, to improve diagnosis and treatment we have translated and validated multiple questionnaires that assess symptom burden and quality of life in bladder and pelvic health. These patient reported outcome measures (PROM’s) can be used in clinical practice to improve diagnosis and clinical decision making.