Pelvic Floor Training and Quality of Life After Prostatectomy: A Scoping Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.30886/Abstract
Objective: To map the health-related quality of life of men undergoing prostatectomy who perform pelvic floor muscle training. Method: A scoping review conducted according to JBI and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines, registered with the Open Science Framework (OSF), with systematic searches in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, LILACS, and the JBI repository, as well as grey literature. Studies were included, without restriction on design or language, that assessed quality of life using validated instruments. Results: Seventeen studies published between 2008 and 2024 were included. Training, when applied pre- and/or postoperatively, showed benefits in the recovery of urinary continence, sexual function, and mental health, resulting in improved quality of life, especially when initiated early. The most frequently used assessment instruments were the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire – Short Form, King's Health Questionnaire, Incontinence Impact Questionnaire, Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite for Clinical Practice, and Incontinence Quality of Life Instrument. Conclusion: Training appears to be a promising intervention to mitigate the adverse effects of prostatectomy on quality of life, although methodological standardization and the development of consistent protocols are needed to ensure reproducibility and enhance clinical applicability.
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