Update in pudendal nerve entrapment syndrome: an approach anatomic-surgical, diagnostic and therapeutic

Introduction: The syndrome of pudendal nerve entrapment (SANP) is widely unknown and often misdiagnosed or confused with other diseases. It was first described by Amarenco in 1987. The classic clinical manifestation is pudendal neuralgia, a neuropathic pain in the genital area. Objectives: To make known its existence to the urology professionals through a systematic review of existing literature and its potential for diagnosis and treatment. Materials and methods: We performed a literature search through the database Pubmed using the terms Pudendal nerve, Pudendal nerve entrapment syndrome, Pelvic floor neuropathic pain, Pelvic floor myofascial syndrome, Pudendal nerve decompression. Also, selected works in English, Spanish and French, also reviewing the articles relate this work. Results: We develop the highlights of the syndrome: anatomy, etiology, pathophysiology, clinical diagnosis, ecodoppler of internal pudendal artery, electrophysiological studies, diagnostic criteria, medical therapy, physical therapy treatments and surgery. Conclusion: It is an uncommon cause of pain in the pelvic floor and greatly affects quality of life of patients. Today, we have diagnostic and therapeutic tools that allow us to treat this disabling syndrome with good results. (C) 2010 AEU. Published by Elsevier Espana, S.L. All rights reserved.