Elastographic Assessment of Suburethral Tissue in Continent and Incontinent Women

Strain elastography (SE) is a parametric imaging modality that assesses tissue deformation in response to externally applied pressure, providing qualitative and semi-quantitative information on tissue elasticity and mechanical properties. Unlike conventional 2D ultrasound, SE enables the objective evaluation of paraurethral tissue stiffness, which may play a role in the pathophysiology of stress urinary incontinence (SUI). SE will be performed on three predefined paraurethral regions to assess pelvic floor elasticity and biomechanical characteristics. A standardized protocol will be implemented to ensure high reproducibility, with controlled probe compression and precisely defined regions of interest. SE may improve the diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic decision-making for SUI by identifying differences in tissue compliance among affected women.