International Journal of Clinical Case Reports, 2025, Vol.15, No.1, 34-43 http://medscipublisher.com/index.php/ijccr 41 preferences and quality of life considerations into treatment planning is essential to ensure that care is aligned with the patient's goals and expectations (Marcu et al., 2023). 9 Future Directions and Recommendations 9.1 Gaps in current research and clinical practice Current research on Pelvic Floor Dysfunction (PFD) following gynecological malignancy surgery highlights several gaps that need addressing. Despite the prevalence of PFDs in gynecologic cancer survivors, there is a lack of comprehensive studies that systematically evaluate these disorders across different cancer types and treatment modalities. For instance, while some studies have documented the prevalence of PFDs in cervical and uterine cancer survivors, there is limited data on ovarian and vulvar cancer survivors. Additionally, most existing studies are retrospective and rely heavily on patient-reported outcomes without incorporating objective clinical assessments, which limits the understanding of the full scope of PFDs. Furthermore, there is a need for prospective studies that not only assess the prevalence but also the progression and management of PFDs over time. In clinical practice, there is a significant gap in the integration of pelvic floor rehabilitation into standard care for gynecologic cancer survivors. Although pelvic floor muscle interventions have shown promise in improving sexual function and quality of life, they are not routinely offered as part of survivorship care plans. This gap is partly due to the lack of awareness and training among healthcare providers regarding the benefits of pelvic floor therapy and the absence of standardized protocols for its implementation. 9.2 Innovations in diagnostic tools and treatment strategies Innovations in diagnostic tools and treatment strategies are crucial for improving the management of PFDs in gynecologic cancer survivors. Recent advancements in pelvic floor muscle interventions, such as the use of biofeedback and multimodal physical therapy, have shown significant improvements in sexual function and reduction in pain during intercourse. These interventions, which combine education, manual therapy, and exercises, have been well-received by patients and demonstrate high feasibility and acceptability. Moreover, the development of non-invasive diagnostic tools, such as advanced imaging techniques, can enhance the early detection and monitoring of PFDs, allowing for timely interventions. The integration of these tools into routine clinical practice can facilitate a more comprehensive assessment of pelvic floor health and guide personalized treatment plans. Additionally, combining gynecologic cancer surgery with pelvic floor dysfunction repair has been shown to be safe and feasible, suggesting a potential strategy for addressing PFDs during initial cancer treatment. 9.3 Recommendations for multidisciplinary approaches and patient education A multidisciplinary approach is essential for the effective management of PFDs in gynecologic cancer survivors. Collaboration among oncologists, urogynecologists, physiotherapists, and mental health professionals can provide comprehensive care that addresses the physical, psychological, and social aspects of PFDs. This approach ensures that patients receive holistic care that not only focuses on cancer treatment but also on improving quality of life post-treatment. Patient education is another critical component. Educating patients about the potential side effects of cancer treatments, including PFDs, and the available management options can empower them to seek timely interventions and adhere to recommended therapies. Healthcare providers should incorporate discussions about sexual health and pelvic floor health into routine consultations, ensuring that patients feel comfortable addressing these issues. Additionally, developing educational materials and support groups can provide ongoing support and information to survivors, helping them navigate the challenges of survivorship. Acknowledgments The author thanks their colleague Mr Zhang from the research team for the assistance provided in the collection of literature and materials for this study, and thank two anonymous peer reviewers for their feedback on the manuscript.
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