Physical Therapy Assistant Practice Exam

A grade 3 cystocele diagnosis in a patient relates to the displacement of which organ?

1. Uterus

2. Bladder

3. Rectum

4. Small intestine

The correct answer is: Bladder

A grade 3 cystocele specifically refers to the protrusion of the bladder into the anterior wall of the vagina due to weakened pelvic support structures. This condition occurs when the connective tissue and muscles that hold the bladder in place become weakened, leading to an abnormal position of the bladder. In cases of a grade 3 cystocele, the displacement is significant enough that the bladder may bulge into the vaginal canal, which can cause various symptoms such as pelvic pressure, urinary incontinence, and discomfort. Other organs, such as the uterus, rectum, and small intestine, can also experience issues related to pelvic support (such as uterine prolapse or rectocele), but they are not involved in a cystocele diagnosis. Hence, the identification of the bladder as the affected organ is critical to understanding this medical condition.