Anatomy and nerve supply of the pelvic floor

In order to guarantee urinary and fecal continence as well as correct pelvic statics,the perfect neuroanatomical integrity of the pelvic floor muscles is mandatory. As Dickinsonstated: “There is no considerable muscle in the body whose form and function aremore difficult to understand than those of the levator ani, and about which such nebulousimpressions prevail”. Clinical implications of pelvic floor anatomy and nerve supply are evident:a denervation of this muscle group and the consequent muscle dysfunction could resultin urinary and/or fecal incontinence, as well as pelvic organ prolapse.