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Table 2 Table to show initial diagnosis of perineal trauma and correct classification of perineal trauma in 79 women participating in case studies (2 of total cohort of 81 women had neuropathy and no tear), values are numbers (%) unless otherwise stated

From: The social, psychological, emotional morbidity and adjustment techniques for women with anal incontinence following Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injury: use of a word picture to identify a hidden syndrome

 

Perineal trauma (N = 79)

Classification at index birth

Classification following detailed examination

Degree of perineal traumaa

 1st degree

0

0

 2nd degree

25 (31.65 %)

0

 3rd degree:

41 (51.89 %)

48 (60.76 %)

  3a

4

6

  3b

20

18

  3c

17

24

 4th degree:

13 (16.46 %)

31 (39.24 %)

  1. aClassification:
  2. 1st degree – Injury to the perineal skin and/or vaginal mucosa
  3. 2nd degree – Injury to perineum involving perineal muscles but not involving the anal sphincter
  4. 3rd degree – Injury to perineum involving the anal sphincter complex:
  5. Grade 3a tear: Less than 50 % of external anal sphincter (EAS) thickness torn
  6. Grade 3b tear: More than 50 % of EAS thickness torn
  7. Grade 3c tear: Both EAS and internal anal sphincter (IAS) torn
  8. 4th degree – Injury to perineum involving the anal sphincter complex (EAS and IAS) and/or anorectal mucosa