NBME Form 11 Practice Test

A cystocele is best described as which of the following?

Protrusion of the bladder through the anterior vaginal wall causing urinary incontinence. Protrusion of the uterus into the vagina. Rectal prolapse. Prolapse of the small intestine into vaginal canal.

Correct Answer:

Protrusion of the bladder through the anterior vaginal wall causing urinary incontinence.

Explanation:

A cystocele occurs when the bladder herniates into the anterior vaginal wall, usually due to weakening of the pelvic floor. This can manifest as a vaginal bulge and often leads to urinary symptoms such as leakage with increased abdominal pressure (stress incontinence). This is different from a uterine prolapse, where the uterus itself protrudes into the vaginal canal; a rectal prolapse involves prolapse of the rectum through the vaginal opening or anal canal; and an enterocele refers to prolapse of the small intestine into the vaginal canal, typically into the posterior vaginal wall. Therefore, the description matching a cystocele is the bladder protruding through the anterior vaginal wall with possible urinary incontinence.

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