Results of modified laparoscopically assisted neovaginoplasty in 18 patients with congenital absence of vagina

Abstract

Construction of a neovagina using pelvic peritoneum via a laparoscopically assisted approach was used in 18 patients with congenital absence of the vagina. A better operative procedure is reported, which was modified from our preliminary technique, and the results of treatment are evaluated. Pelvic peritoneum was used for construction of a vagina, replacing a laparotomy by a minimally invasive laparoscopic approach. During follow-up, the advantages of our procedures are: (i) minimal likelihood of 'poor take' or later contraction because an autograft peritoneal epithelial line is used; (ii) minimal short and long term care is required; (iii) the technique is simple in experienced hands and has all the well-recognized benefits of minimal invasive surgery; (iv) the average length of neovagina is adequate and patency and depth can be maintained with minimal dilatation; (v) the neovagina, with epithelial lining resembling that of a normal vagina, facilitates comfortable sexual intercourse; (vi) the procedure is unaccompanied by dyspareunia or scarring, which are frequently associated with other techniques; (vii) less emotional stress and better cosmetic and economic benefits are noted.